There’s no shortage of places to visit on Europe's Mediterranean coast, but no one can deny the unique nature of Greek destinations.
We’ve explored the whitewashed buildings, awe-inspiring rock formations, and unforgettable beaches of some of Greece’s best vacation islands, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see on the mainland.
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Messinia (also known as Messenia), Peloponnese, in the south-western part of the mainland, is a place that should be on your radar. While better known for produce such as olives, figs, and raisins, it is transforming into a great place for tourism.
This part of Greece offers remarkable beaches (some would argue they are among the best in the Mediterranean), Venetian castles in Pylos, Koroni, and Kalamata, charming hilltop villages, and Costa Navarino, a rapidly developing resort area. Beyond all that, Messinia is drawing attention for a particular reason.
Movie buffs know that one of the most anticipated summer movies this year is Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Key locations in the production, such as King Nestor’s palace, were shot in Messinia. If you’re looking forward to seeing the movie, or simply happen to love the 'set jetting' travel trend, perhaps a vacation close to one of the filming locations isn’t a bad idea.
The Costa Navarino part of Messinia is a resort area that upholds high social responsibility and environmental standards. It offers world-class experiences through four 5-star resorts from some of the best hospitality brands. These include Mandarin Oriental, W (one of Marriott’s luxury brands), and Westin (a premium Marriott brand).
The area has more than 40 eateries to enjoy delightful Mediterranean cuisine (plus other European flavors) and four signature golf courses. These courses have earned it the title of the World’s Best Golf Venue by World Golf Awards. The most prominent of these is the Dunes Course, designed by Bernard Langer. It offers players sublime views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rivers in the area.
When you add the scenery, the 4,000 sq m Anazoe Spa, and the variety of sports and cultural activities, you have a recipe for a remarkable vacation. Guests get an opportunity to create their own unique Greek Odyssey as they enjoy the region’s natural beauty and history, while not being far from their luxury resort.
Of course, no resort is complete without a good dose of retail therapy. Costa Navarino has a collection of boutiques and gift stores across the properties where guests can pick up everything from jewelry and beachwear to unique souvenirs.
If you want more than a 5-star hotel experience, or happen to have a large party of travel companions, that’s where The Residences at Costa Navarino comes in. The villa rentals here give you that extra-special touch.
The Villa Rental Collection is in its third year of existence. It offers resort-level amenities along with the extra space and privacy that come with villa living. What could be better than your own private space in a paradise like this one?
Located in the 130-hectare Navarino Dunes area, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Messinia, the rentals offer an elevated experience. Greek design studios, ISV, and K-Studio designed the villas with input from the owners. While each one has its own character, there is a common theme at play.
The designs blend contemporary and old-world styles in a way that creates a seamless, eclectic theme while maintaining an aura of simple elegance. If all that doesn’t impress you, perhaps the private stretch of The Dunes Beach or the panoramic views offered by some of the villas will seal the deal.
Two of the best options include Villa Santova, offering beachfront bliss and great outdoor spaces, and Southwand House, which occupies one of the highest elevations on Navarino Dunes. That elevation gives the property the advantage of remarkable views many of the others can't match.
Wondering if you may miss room service? Worry not. Each villa offers a variety of on-demand services, including a dedicated concierge, private chefs, private trainer, spa treatments, and housekeeping. Basically, everything to make you feel you never left home and more.
After selling out last summer, there’s every likelihood that the same will happen this year, so it may not be a bad idea to reserve your villa as soon as you can. Nightly rates start at € 1.434 for a 3-bedroom villa (low season).
