The Westin Resort Costa Navarino – Peloponnese, Greece
Consistently voted not only one of the best hotels in Greece, but in the whole of Europe, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is one of our favourite family destinations. It’s set in a staggeringly beautiful and remote location on the pristine coastline of Messinia on the Peloponnese, a region steeped in history and mythology, and a relatively unknown part of Greece.
Its low-rise architecture and authentic design fit naturally into the surroundings, creating a village feel, with cobbled streets, tavernas and large open spaces filled with olive groves. All of this and just steps away from a crescent-shaped bay and a golden beach by the Ionian Sea. The facilities are first class, with something for every member of the family, and the vast choice of restaurants will keep gourmets very happy indeed. A stay here most definitely feels like a lifestyle rather than a holiday.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
As there is something for children of all ages - a true family vibe.Style:
Contemporary Greek village living.Location:
Rurally located in unspoilt & sun-drenched olive groves & vineyards right on the southwest coast of the Peloponnese.Rooms:
445 rooms & suites.Swimming:
2 outdoor pools, heated indoor pool, Aqua Park & there is a sandy beach.Children:
Extremely family friendly. They won’t want to come home!Accessibility:
There is good accessibility for those with reduced mobility.Open From:
February - November.rooms
Cool and comfortable, each and every room and suite has its own terrace or balcony and comes with either a king-size or two queen-size beds and a sofa bed that can be made up for a child. The beds are so comfortable, they’ve even got their own “Heavenly” trademark and the bathrooms are luxuriously spacious. Some of the rooms and suites look out over the pools, beautifully kept gardens and olive groves, some have a glimpse of the sea, and others face directly towards the glittering Ionian. You’ll also find many interconnecting possibilities, giving different options for families.
food
With so many restaurants – eleven in total – and with such a range of delicious Greek and international cuisine on offer, you really are spoilt for choice. Local flavours are very much celebrated, and we love the choice of local-style restaurants, from street food at Souvlakerie to taverna-style dining at KOOC where traditional Messinian dishes are served. The catch of the day becomes a gastronomic experience at Armyra. Exceptional sushi can be found at Onuki and the subtle flavours of Lebanon are served at Nargile.
Da Luigi is renowned for its dishes from all over Italy, not to forget its pizzas and steak lovers can eat at Flame, with cuts coming from local producers. The breezy Barbouni, right on the beach is the perfect place for lunch, then try a sundowner on the golf course at Ted’s Lounge. There’s even an eatery dedicated to the resort’s younger guests. Division 16 serves excellent burgers and mocktails, and comes with a photo booth, a bowling alley and an escape room! If you’re after something a bit quieter, private dining can easily be arranged.
activities
If you bring a book, it’s likely you won’t finish it – there is just so much on offer at Costa Navarino. The long, secluded beach is one of the biggest draws here, with its calm and shallow waters. The resort has two pools, both with their own bar for cooling drinks and light lunches.
The four 18-hole golf courses come with a first-class pedigree – one being designed by Bernhard Langer, a second by Robert Trent Jones II, and the other two by two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup legend José Marίa Olazábal, which will keep the keenest of golfers very happy indeed. There are also 12 tennis courts, with professional coaching available for the entire family. Being right on the beach, the water sports facilities are excellent. Beginners can learn to kitesurf, windsurf, and there’s coaching available for every level upwards. For a more sedate pursuit, there’s kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as beach yoga. Located in W Costa Navarino (complimentary shuttle bus is available). The resort has a climbing wall, complete with a team of instructors; there’s a bowling alley and a basketball court, and an indoor karaoke room. A stay here should not be without an excursion or two to explore this beautiful part of Greece – all of which can be organised by the resort. And if you’re after a bit of relaxation and “me” time, head for the pampering Anazoe Spa for a treatment based on ancient practices. Now, where did you put that book?
family
It’s hard to know where to start – there is so much for families at Navarino Dunes, Costa Navarino, both young and old. All the accommodation is very family-friendly and the resort has a programme of activities for children and two innovative kids clubs – Cocoon (for four months to 3 years old) and Sandcastle (4-12 years old). There are also babysitting facilities for babies and toddlers (both at an additional cost), as well as a kids’ playground.
And then, of course, is the Aqua Park, with its 3 water slides (for those over 120cm in height) and pools! The latest addition is the vibrant Division 16 youth hub for kids eleven+. Nearly all the activities have children in mind, and they can take golf or tennis lessons or learn to surf.
sustainability
It was with an eye on the local environment that Costa Navarino was built. It sits sympathetically in its historic landscape, blending in with the surroundings. Much of the produce is grown on-site or locally sourced, the gardens are only planted with indigenous flora and there are water reservoirs to catch the rainfall. The beaches along this part of the coast are famous for their loggerhead turtles, and the resort has put special measures in place to ensure they are protected when they come ashore to lay their eggs.
Location
Near Romanos, Peloponnese, Greece
On the stunningly beautiful southwest coast of the Peloponnese, 40 minutes from Kalamata & 3 hours from Athens. The hotel is rurally located in unspoilt & sun-drenched olive groves & vineyards right on the coast.
