Costa Navarino: Luxury with a conscience

For nature-loving explorers itching to take time away from their sun loungers, the resort’s e-bikes are brimming with the promise of adventure. The route to the sands of Voidokilia Beach – voted one of the best in the world by The Times – includes a stop at one of the oldest recorded olive trees in the world where it continues to blossom and produce after 17 centuries. A fitting symbol for a region that so deeply cares for its nature and landscape.

The beach’s iconic, history-steeped white crescent takes its nickname ‘ox-belly’, from its distinctive curved shape. Yet local lore also tells of its poetic alternative name, ‘the bay of music’, inspired by an ancient Greek myth celebrating peace and brotherhood between Hermes and Apollo. Standing there, captivated by the bay’s charm, it’s easy to imagine the soft, distant melodies of the lyre Hermes gifted to Apollo as an apology for hiding his oxen – an instrument originally crafted from the shell of a sea turtle, which, remarkably, still nests on these shores today.

Embrace the relaxed Greek pace and linger like a local, as there’s much more to see here. Up in the hills lies the medieval fortress ruins of Palaiokastro (Old Navarino Castle), with extraordinary blanket views of the entire bay, Ionian Sea, and the adjacent Gialova Lagoon. Actively supported by the resort, the wetland protects hundreds of bird species and serves as a crucial stop for migratory birds, it is also one of the only places in Europe where the African chameleon can be found. A haven for flamingo lovers, spring is the best time to admire these graceful, ballerina-like birds in their natural habitat.

Perched on the Messenian cliffside in the quaint village of Gialova lies a traditional home where an authentic village cooking class awaits. Upon arrival, the balcony commands instant attention with its incredible view of the horizon’s spectacular postcard-worthy sunset, while the details of the charming, time-honoured décor reveals the home’s character.

Aprons are donned, and it’s time to prepare cherished inherited recipes – spinach pie, salads and fresh pasta – all under the watchful eye of the two gracious hosts, Anna & Loula, who seem able to craft the recipes in their sleep. After the final sprinkle of Greek charm, guests gather to enjoy the fruits of their labour, complemented by dishes prepared earlier and a generous pouring of local wine. The evening concludes with a spot of Greek dancing, keeping the spirit (and digestion) joyfully flowing.

Perched on a platform of natural wooden plinths, with incredible views of the crystal-clear Ionian Sea, lies the Instagram-able, bucket-list-worthy Barbouni beach restaurant. Superb seafood, the catch of the day, and local signature delicacies are served up amid true pinch-me-moments and effortless luxury, as rippling fabric ribbons and native rattan lampshades dance in the wind overhead, echoing the captivating waves of the sea.

True to Costa Navarino’s ethos, preserving the local environment and ecosystem comes first here. No offer (however lucrative), has ever persuaded the restaurant to welcome evening guests as the precious loggerhead sea turtles nest quietly and undisturbed on the beach.