Travel

This 5* hidden Greek gem offers the ultimate luxury eco escape 

The pool view at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

As Greece continues to remain open to double-vaccinated visitors, and double-vaxxed Brits now travel there without needing to quarantine on return, a whole new world of Greece’s beautiful islands and sandy resorts have become totally bookable for late summer getaways.

While many will be booking trips to Mykonos and Santorini, there are also some incredible under the radar regions to discover, which are just as gorgeous and certain to be less crowded. 

The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino pool
The stunning pool at The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino

The perfect example? Costa Navarino, the 5* travel destination in Messinia, on the under-the-radar Greek Peloponnese peninsula, where sustainability is at the heart of its luxury offerings.

The Ambassador villa at The Romanos, Costa Navarino
The Ambassador villa at The Romanos, Costa Navarino

Boasting both luxury hotels and high-end private freehold residences inspired by nature, as well as the elegant Anazoe Spa, extensive dining options, and signature golf courses, the beachfront locale offers a wealth of enriching activities for visitors, deep-rooted in traditional Messinian culture and family-friendly activities. This is a high-end Mediterranean destination well worth your attention for your dream post-pandemic escape. 

Steeped in culture: The Castle Of Methoni at Costa Navarino

As if travel being open again wasn’t enough of a reason to visit the hidden gem in 2021, this is also landmark year for Greece, as the country will be celebrating the 200-year anniversary of the Greek Revolution. Peloponnese itself is the birthplace of the revolt, so naturally, Costa Navarino in particular is set to be steeped in authentic cultural experiences to mark the occasion. 

Among the exciting goings on in the region is Morias 21 – a collection of immersive events honouring the landmark bi-centennial anniversary taking place across Morias right now. The huge celebration will span art, nature, food and key historical sites, complete with immersive experiences which bring to life key moments from the region’s history – and where better to discover them in the Peloponnese peninsula, the birthplace of the revolt? 

Fine dining at Kooc restaurant, Costa Navarino
Fine dining at Kooc restaurant, Costa Navarino

Rich international culture is something we’ve certainly hungered for over the past 18 months – and so one of the highlights we’re particularly excited about around Costa Navarino right now to honour the occasion is its in gastronomy. The foodie experiences on offer for guests to help bring the special anniversary to life, available now, include authentic Messinian cooking classes, along with curated menus and events across its 21 restaurants, bars and lounges. 

The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino lobby
Exquisite interiors in the lobby of The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino

As for where to stay at the under-the-radar destination, discerning travellers have a choice of two luxury five-star hotels, The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino. Both escapes offer a choice of accommodation as stunning as the nature which surrounds them – providing luxe poolside settings and decadent suites and villas for the perfect post-exploration retreat.

For more information on visiting Greece’s Costa Navarino, head to costanavarino.com

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