Troon Golf & Travel - January 2011

Evidence of the Navarino commitment to excellence is that the main coastal road which used to run across this land has been diverted, leaving the finest possible land for the course. In time, it is hoped that there may be four or even more golf courses here.

The fact that this area has been shaped by 4,500 years of history is not lost on its owners and has been incorporated into every aspect of the development. According to managing director Achilles Constantakopoulos, whose father bought the land from more than 1,000 different owners, “This is not a mega resort, but a series of carefully planned projects with respect for the environment. We want to get the locals involved and make sure visitors get an authentic Greek experience."

This honest and generous ambition to celebrate and share the heritage and natural beauty of the area is evident everywhere a visitor turns, including the accommodations. The first phases of the project were completed in summer 2010 with the opening of two superb hotels.

The Romanos, a Luxury Collection resort, features 321 rooms and suites set amidst olive groves overlooking the Ionian Sea. Each lavishly appointed guestroom has its own private terrace and infinity pool and each features unobstructed sea and sunset views.

All tastes are catered for with culinary delights ranging from far Eastern to Italian and from a

Greek taverna to self-cook family barbecue areas. Guests can unwind in chill-out bars or simply take in the wonderful views from atmospheric seating areas around fire pits.

The Westin Resort is larger with 445 rooms and a little more family orientated with four restaurants serving Moroccan, international and local cuisine, along with an American diner and a poolside grill. The Spa and Thalassotherapy Centre offers specialty treatments based on Asian and ancient Greek methods. Between the two is an authentic-looking but brand new village center which features entertainment and shopping venues, an open-air cinema, a traditional Greek amphitheatre and a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants.

Nearby, the pristine coastline with its dreamy, sandy beaches gives way to virgin lagoons, extensive olive groves, waterfalls and a wealth of flora and fauna.

It is rare to find somewhere that so successfully balances the demands and satisfactions of its guests with the protection of the environment, the prosperity and welfare of the local population and the desire to share the story of its rich heritage. Costa Navarino wants its visitors to be a part of its story and successfully does everything that it can to make that the case.

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