The Greek resort you need to know about

Messinia lies between rolling dunes and ancient olive groves, a magical corner of the Peloponnese shaped by 4,500 years of history which remains relatively undiscovered by travellers, who flock instead to Greece’s higher profile holiday hotspots. But those who do venture here find a world-class destination that is redefining what it means to be a resort.

Once the rumoured playground of the gods – myths tell of Hermes, Apollo and Athena all visiting its golden shores – Costa Navarino has grown to encompass several five-star hotels and private residences, four golf courses, indulging spas, a multitude of restaurants and an impressive array of sporting and cultural activities. Crucially, all are sustainably managed to the highest environmental standards. Add to this its proximity to historical marvels and glorious beaches, and it’s no wonder that Costa Navarino is a favourite with those in the know.

Little wonder that the iconic W brand was drawn to this brilliant destination, opening W Costa Navarino in 2022 and marking the group’s debut in Greece. It earned a coveted place on Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Hot List and was also the only European resort named among the Top 50 Best Resorts in the World at the Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. Fittingly for this modern-luxe hotelier, W Costa Navarino is a masterclass in design that conveys a strong sense of place. Built in the traditional Messinian fashion and with elegant, neutral interiors that showcase local materials – stone, wood and reeds – the hotel blends seamlessly into the beautiful landscape.

The accommodation sets the tone, with chic swim-up rooms, airy suites with private pools and wow-factor villas providing the last word in luxury. The new Agora Suites, meanwhile, offer a totally different experience, allowing guests to mingle with locals at the lively marketplace while still enjoying the privacy of their suite. The resort’s beachfront location overlooking the Ionian Sea invites relaxation, but the hotel also stays true to Costa Navarino’s ethos by encouraging guests to experience the Messinian lifestyle for themselves, whether that’s cooking and singing with women from a local village, fishing for your supper on the lagoon, exploring Byzantine churches and mediaeval castles or swimming in the gin-clear waters of hidden coves.

Of course, it wouldn’t be W if it didn’t have a playful side, and you’ll find plenty to entertain and enchant at the various eating and drinking spaces around the hotel. Start your day at Platia, modelled on a Greek square, where a coffee shop, deli, bakery and cooking stations offer breakfast served any way you like it. W Lounge caters for everything from morning coffees to late-night cocktails, while Between offers a chilled poolside vibe for sundowners. Parelia is a convivial beach hangout where you can feast on Mediterranean food and delicious wines while you soak up the coastal panorama. To really let your hair down, head to Wet Deck for DJs, art, live music, fashion and more.

Guests at W can also take advantage of all the restaurants and bars elsewhere in Costa Navarino – from Spanish tapas to steaks, plus plenty of spectacular Greek fare – which means you never need to eat at the same place twice.

You can also now visit the newly opened Navarino Agora right next to the hotel, a buzzing marketplace where hotel guests and locals meet to dine, shop and be entertained. There’s always something happening to get guests closer to local culture and traditions, plus an open-air cinema for enjoying movies under the stars.

The hotel welcomes guests aged 12 and over, with something to do for all ages, including four golf courses, Europe’s first Mouratoglou Tennis Centre, yachting, sailing, water sports, hiking and biking.

That said, no one will bat an eyelid if you prefer a more laid-back holiday – W prides itself on its “whatever/whenever” philosophy, after all. The Away Spa and Fit gym and pool are specially designed for those looking to rebalance mind and body with everything from meditation and yoga to reviving facials and revitalising massages. From there, you can drift down to the beach for another glorious sunset over the sweeping bay and feel completely at peace. This little corner of the Peloponnese has everything you could ever wish for.

Book your luxury W Costa Navarino getaway with British Airways Holidays at ba.com/w-costanavarino

Booking with British Airways Holidays offers peace of mind, with ATOL protection (5985) and a 24-hour holiday helpline to help manage any issues while you’re away. Flexible payment options mean you can secure your holiday with a deposit from just £75 per person and spread the balance, paying in as many instalments as you like*.

_{*T&Cs apply. Deposit balance due four weeks in advance for short-haul travel}