Luxurious Accommodations at Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino: Relaxation Redefined - "Leisurely pursuits seldom feel as satisfying as they do at this exquisite establishment"
In the heart of the Peloponnese, overlooking the historically significant Navarino Bay, the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino recently opened its doors, marking the first Mandarin Oriental property in Greece. This idyllic location, with its sapphire waters set among small islands and framed by olive groves, offers a tranquil and elegant atmosphere.
The hotel's design and experiences are deeply rooted in local heritage, history, and mythology. Ninety-nine rooms and suites nestle on a hillside, providing seclusion and privacy while offering stunning views of Navarino Bay. The spa and thematic decor showcase references to the region's rich history, making a stay at the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino an immersive experience.
The hotel caters to families, with amenities such as a kids' club for children as young as three months and a teen lounge. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including beach bonfires, mini-Olympics, cooking classes, and horse riding, ensuring there's something for everyone.
The victory of the allies in the Battle of Navarino Bay is commemorated in the hotel's Three Admirals Bar, a nod to the historically significant bay that was the setting for the last naval battle fought entirely with sailing ships between Ottoman forces and a combined British, French, and Russian fleet in 1827.
The Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino's surroundings are not just picturesque; they also place guests in close proximity to numerous cultural and historical sites. The archaeological site of Mycenae, with its well-preserved remains, is just 40 minutes away. Mycenae, the inspiration for Homer's epic poems, dominated the Mediterranean from the 16th to 12th century BC and is home to the Lion Gate, Treasury of Atreus, and Cyclopean Walls, among the best-preserved historical sites in Greece.
The town of Pylos, home to the Palace of Nestor with its bright frescoes, is also nearby. Guests can wander along the golf course, which offers beautiful views of hills and pine trees, or relax by the pools at the beach club, where a pizza chef trained in Tokyo prepares the most wonderful pizzas.
During their stay, Rachel and the author enjoyed relaxing, absorbing the sun, food, and wines. They sampled various local olive oils, finding each one unique in color and taste. The author even had the pleasure of sipping a mojito while lounging in a cabana overlooking the bay of Navarino.
Despite a rainy event that required a move indoors, the hotel staff handled the situation efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience for guests. The Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, with its understated luxury, deep-rooted Greek history, and natural beauty, offers a blend of cultural richness, family-friendly facilities, and a tranquil, elegant environment. Excellence, indeed, is truly international today.
The hotel is approximately an hour's drive from Kalamata or three hours from Athens, making it an accessible yet secluded getaway for those seeking a unique blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty.
- For a truly immersive experience, guests can explore the hotel's home-and-garden design, which incorporates references to the region's rich history and mythology.
- The hotel's dining options offer opportunities to try diverse food-and-drink experiences, such as local olive oils and pizza prepared by a chef trained in Tokyo.
- For travellers seeking adventure, the hotel's nearby locations offer opportunities for cultural-travel experiences, such as visiting the archaeological site of Mycenae, a historical site that dominated the Mediterranean during the 16th to 12th century BC.
- To maximize budget, travellers could opt for budget-travel arrangements and stay at the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, which offers a unique blend of luxury, local culture, and natural beauty, while being an accessible yet secluded getaway.
