COSTA NAVARINO is a destination home to several distinct sites featuring five-star hotels, (Mandarin Oriental opens very soon), private residences, four signature golf courses, and many year-round activities. Located in the picturesque southwest Peloponnese region and a short road trip from Athens—Costa Navarino is a vacation paradise for couples, friends and families alike.
The white Grecian sun is shining as I arrive at Navarino Dunes. Navarino Dunes is home to two properties, The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino. I am able to take full advantage of the recently opened Navarino Agora, an open-air marketplace concept highlighting local art and culture, with its plethora of restaurants, children’s facilities, shops and daily entertainment for Costa Navarino’s discerning guests.
I’m staying at The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, but along with all the other guests, I have access to facilities across the entire resort. My suite boasts a balcony with a view of the deep blue ocean and a well-manicured cliff-side golf course. The washroom is spacious and features both a tub and a walk-in shower.
The Romanos Resort hotel room
My first morning at The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, begins with a relaxed breakfast at the Pero restaurant buffet. Alongside a vast array of sweet and savoury dishes, there’s a mimosa bar, fresh pastries, cheeses, cold meats and selection of fruit, topped with a choice of five flavours of local honey.
Pero is one of the many incredible eateries on the property in addition to the beachfront Barbouni Bar. It’s where I enjoy a lazy lunch (while soaking up a breathtaking view of the deep blue) of freshly caught seafood accompanied by a selection of Greek wines and cocktails.
View from a suite at The Romanos Resort
There are plenty of activities available at Costa Navarino to fill the days. For children, there is a waterpark, karaoke rooms, bowling alley, escape room and, in the coming months, an all-new NBA Basketball School, which I was lucky enough to experience.
In partnership with the NBA, The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino launched the first-ever European hotel Basketball School where kids can improve their Basketball skills under the friendly guidance of former NBA coaches.
NBA Academy at The Romanos Resort
There’s just as much fun to be had for us adults. Following a guided bike tour to the secluded and breathtaking Navarino Bay, I treat myself to a personalised massage at the Anazoe Spa, where the facilities are mindfully curated and beautifully designed.
The next day, after a quick breakfast, dust off my old tennis dress for a lesson before making the most of the adventurous water sports in the afternoon. Perfect for adults and children alike, there’s nothing quite as giggle-inducing as being pulled on an inflated raft behind a speed boat.
Scenic bike tour available to guests of Costa Navarino
Costa Navarino’s philosophy is driven by a genuine desire to preserve the natural beauty and heritage of Messinia, from replanting the pre-existing olive trees in the region, to being mindful of the flora grown. Navarino Pet Community is another fantastic initiative guests can visit when staying at one of the destination’s properties, located in the wider region of Messinia it is designed to rehabilitate and rehome stray animals.
Fitness and wellness activities available to guests of Costa Navarino
on my final evening, I dine at the newly opened Piqantro Restaurant located on top of a hill overlooking the coastline. The tapas and paella are scrumptious, and accompanied by the sunset view, it makes for a memory of a lifetime.
Costa Navarino knows how to spoil a guest of any age, and you leave with a full belly, a smile on your face and memories that will outlast your new tan, for the unlucky few.
Rates start from £1,325.57 based on two people sharing a
Deluxe Guest room with a garden view at The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, for a five night stay, based on travel from Monday 16 October – Friday 20 October. More information: https://www.costanavarino.com/romanos-resort/
by Jamison Kent