The 2027 Insider ’s Guide to Europe’s
No 1 Golf Resort…
Costa Navarino, south-west Greece
In just a few years, Costa Navarino has moved to the prime spot on the European golf resort rankings, turning Greece from a golfing no -zone to a must-go destination. In fact, Conde Nasta, World Golf Awards, IAGTO and others all rate Costa Navarino as the best- of-the-best.
Costa Navarino is where luxury meets the thrill of top - quality golf and 4,500 years of history in south-west Greece.
In fact, with hotels like the Mandarin Oriental, The Romanos, The Westin and W and four courses in Europe’s Top 150, it’s hard to find another venue with so much to offer but so easy to get to. And that’s before we even think about the coastal scenery, the astonishing choice of UNESCO sites to explore and the charm of the local towns.
With over 40 dining venues covering tastes from three continents, and facilities to impress everyone in the party, Costa Navarino offers an extraordinary experience for golf enthusiasts and families. Here is our 2027 pricing guideline to Costa Navarino – I have two warnings for you (1) Costa Navarino is seriously addictive (2) The prices do increase the later you leave to make the booking so book early to get the best discounts, availability and teetimes. With our great relationships at the resort, you won’t find better like-forlike prices plus we’re ATOL and AITO Protected and you don’t have to pay the balance of your holiday until just four weeks before departure. Turn to page 27 for our example package prices.
Read on or speak to Morgan on 0207 8701258 to discuss your perfect holiday or email info@golfholidaysbymorgan.com
Luxurious Accommodations
The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort
Indulge in opulence at The Romanos, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication. The Romanos has the most serene and upscale atmosphere with slightly larger bedrooms and a beautiful décor palette. It’s the hotel of choice for couples.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWgLae3XbYw&list=PL-UUtRkXSxjJdRy3fM2E88_8JJMRutB9m
The resort boasts world- class amenities, including the award-winning Anazoe Spa, providing rejuvenating treatments inspired by ancient Greek practices. Delight your palate at Eleon, the signature restaurant offering a fusion of Greek and international cuisine, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Bedrooms start at 43m2, up to the incredible 630m2 three -bedroom Royal Villas.
I would suggest The Romanos as being most suitable for couples and small groups of mature golfers.
• Number of Bedrooms: The Romanos features 321 luxurious rooms and suites.
The Westin Resort Costa Navarino
For a livelier feel, choose The Westin Resort. Freshly renovated in 2026, The Westin is closest to the amazing facilities for the children but is also the best choice for groups. The Westin is, at a two -minute walk, the nearest of the hotels to the resort’s main village and has the sportiest “vibe”. It’s also the largest. Bedrooms start at 39m2 up to 70m2. As with all of the hotels at Costa Navarino, you can choose a bedroom with its own plunge pool.
Number of Bedrooms: The Westin Resort offers 425 well-appointed rooms and suites.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnYsV7zzd7U&list=PL-UUtRkXSxjLGlDryWKaFc-lVeh9IXG4A
W Costa Navarino
Opened in 2022 and for adults and children aged 12 or more, The W is the most contemporary/trendy in design and also the closest hotel to Navarino Agora which I class as the second village of the resort – visit the shops, artisan craft stores, delicatessens and cafes as well as the virtual reality arcade and outdoor cinema. It’s where the 21st Century meets Messinia! Beach vibe and fun and I recommend the W for groups and those looking for a younger environment.
Already included in the Conde Nast “Top 50 Best Resorts in the World”, there are 226 bedrooms, suites and villas (all furnished with stone and wood materials). Bedroom sizes range from 40m2 to 127m2 threebedroom villas with private pools. The W Wet Deck is something I’ve seen a few times around the world and it always puts a spring in my step – it’s where a huge pool, bar, sun lounges and entertainment come together to make for fun in the sun.
• Number of Bedrooms: 226 bedrooms
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x1Y-pRo59c
The smallest and most zen of all the four hotels but small is very beautiful and there’s every service you’ll want on-site. Overlooking The Bay golf course, I’m not sure if many golfers will want to stay at the Mandarin Oriental for two reasons (1) You won’t want to leave the hotel (2) Most golfers like to be around other golfers. View the Mandarin Oriental as a fabulous retreat to unwind, relax, treat yourself and perhaps play a little golf. The other three hotels are a more realistic base for a golf holiday.
• Number of Bedrooms: 99 Suites & 48 Pool Villas
Championship Golf Courses
With four top - quality courses ranging from on your doorstep to eight miles from your preferred hotel, your golfing agenda is sorted. There are free transfers between the hotels and courses every 20 minutes and the green fees include buggy and practice. Plus the welcoming Caddie Masters expertly guide you from your welcome to your departure.
Resort Transfers
The Romanos and Westin are adjacent to the Dunes Golf Club and the main village, The W and Mandarin Oriental are adjacent to the Bay Golf Club and the Agora village. The Olympic and The Hills golf course are a few minutes’ drive inland on a hilltop venue. Wherever you stay, eat and want to go, there are free resort shuttles. And the service gets even better for golfers with your clubs automatically being cleaned and sent on to your next golfing venue. It’s super smooth.
The Dunes Course (Yardage: 4,671 - 6,581 yards)
Designed by Bernhard Langer, The Dunes Course unfolds against a backdrop of rolling hills and expansive sea views. Offering a challenge to golfers of all levels, this 18-hole course is an unforgettable golfing experience. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the course, complemented by strategic bunkers and undulating greens. I find The Dunes to be the most difficult of all four because of the devilish greens but it keeps on tempting me back. Great fun and with a beautiful clubhouse overlooking the 18th.
The Dunes Video
The Bay Course (Yardage: 5,131 - 7,180 yards)
A masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones II, The Bay Course provides a scenic journey through olive groves and along the bay. With subtle bunker placement, some raised and undulating greens, it's a golfer's paradise set against a brilliant landscape. Each hole offers a unique challenge. Play sensibly and you can make some easy pars and some of the par fives are not too long. Be greedy and you’ll come a cropper, particularly when trying to be too clever on your approaches to the raised greens! The clubhouse is smaller than the others but still terrific.
The Bay Video
The Olympic Course (Yardage: 5,157 - 7,002 yards)
Voted as the World’s Best New Golf Development in 2020, the Olympic and Hills were both designed by Jose Maria Olazabal. Located on a hilltop a few minutes’ drive from the hotels, the two courses, practice facilities and beautiful clubhouse do make for a perfect set-up. The Olympic boasts huge and egoboosting fairways but well-protected greens. It’s a course where you can score well as it’s the least technically demanding of the four courses. And it’s also, in my opinion, the one with the best views.
Olympic Video
The Hills Course (Yardage: 4,757 - 6,908 yards)
The Hills is strategic and is a mix of long and short holes so you need to grab the opportunities when you can. The par threes are gorgeous. Set mostly within the outline of The Olympic course, it’s relatively short and starts off quietly with some great holes around the turn. Make sure your approach shots are on target as the fluffy Bermuda fringes do take some getting used to.
The Hills is all about playing clever without needing too much force – pretty much identical to how Olazabal played in his prime. I enjoy The Hills and it goes to make a quality quartet of golfing treats.
Video
The Hills
The Beaches
Each hotel has a private beach…. And I would suggest you make the trip to the Gialova Lagoon with its crystal- clear waters and sandy beaches and home to a huge array of birdlife.
Gialova Lagoon
The Anazoe Spa
Located next to The Romanos and Westin, the Anazoe Spa hosts 21 treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor areas, Thalassotherapy and floating pools and all sorts of ice, water and heat rooms. You can also treat yourself to ancient olive oil remedies under 1000-year- old olive trees The W has a boutique spa and the Mandarin Oriental maintains the brands name for worldwide spa renown.
Being Green/Environment
At the heart of Costa Navarino’s philosophy lies a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility, aiming at a sustainable tourism development in harmony with the natural environment and local communities of Messinia. As part of its strong commitment to the sustainable tourism development and operation, Costa Navarino has achieved a 80% reduction on the destination’s emissions for 2022, in comparison to 2019 figures. The programme includes landscape preservation, biodiversity, waste and water and energy management, bioclimatic architecture and education and research.
One thing that always strikes me about the resort is its huge emphasis on local employment and authenticity. In fact, the estimated contribution to the local economy is measured in billions of dollars and local staff are always more welcoming than those “bought in” at some other destinations around the world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTQqxCecH4A
Dining
Indulge your palate with a culinary voyage at Costa Navarino, where over 40 dining venues.
The Dine Around features restaurants across the Westin, Romanos and W. Only A la carte dining is available at the Mandarin Oriental. Here’s the link to the restaurant overview and then introduction to just a few of them.
Dining Venues
The “village square” at The Westin and Romanos
• Barbouni: Located at Navarino Bay, Barbouni is a seafood haven where the freshest catches from the Ionian Sea are expertly prepared to delight your taste buds. Enjoy the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean in a relaxed seaside setting.
• Flame: Nestled in Navarino Dunes, Flame is a culinary destination that brings Mediterranean flavours to life. The diverse menu showcases the finest local produce, offering a culinary journey that satisfies every palate.
• Eleon: Situated at The Romanos, Eleon is the epitome of fine dining. With panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, this signature restaurant offers a fusion of Greek and international cuisine, creating a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and memorable.
• Onuki Asian Restaurant: At The Westin Resort, Onuki Asian Restaurant transports you to the heart of Asia. Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse flavours of Asian cuisine, expertly crafted with a contemporary twist.
The Agora dining and crafts centre
• Armyra by Papaioannou: A culinary jewel at Navarino Dunes, Armyra by Papaioannou specializes in Greek seafood. Savor the freshest catches while enjoying stunning views of the sea.
• Morias Restaurant: Immerse yourself in local flavours at Morias Restaurant, located at The Romanos. This dining gem offers a diverse menu inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the region.
• The Diner: A casual yet vibrant spot at Navarino Dunes, The Diner caters to diverse tastes with its international menu. Perfect for a relaxed meal with family or friends.
• Taverna: Experience traditional Greek hospitality at Taverna, where authentic dishes are prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This charming venue at The Westin Resort is a celebration of Greek culinary traditions.
• Souvlakerie: Located at Navarino Dunes, Souvlakerie is a haven for lovers of Greek street food. Indulge in mouthwatering souvlaki and gyros, prepared with a modern twist.
• Da Luigi: For lovers of Italian cuisine, Da Luigi at Navarino Dunes is a culinary delight. Enjoy classic Italian dishes in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• Kafenio & Deli: Unwind at Kafenio & Deli, a charming venue offering Greek coffee, pastries, and deli items. Located at Navarino Dunes, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely break.
• The White Olive: A gastronomic journey awaits at The White Olive, situated at The Westin Resort. This fine- dining restaurant showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary flair.
• Driftwood: Revel in the beachfront atmosphere at Driftwood, located at Navarino Dunes. This vibrant restaurant offers a casual setting with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Inbi Asian Fusion: Experience the fusion of Asian flavours at Inbi Asian Fusion, located at The Romanos. With a menu inspired by diverse Asian cuisines, it's a culinary adventure for the senses.
• Dine by the Pool: At Navarino Dunes, indulge in a poolside culinary experience. From refreshing salads to grilled specialties, Dine by the Pool offers a relaxed setting with impeccable service.
• Flavors of the Peloponnese: Delight in the regional specialties of the Peloponnese at this unique dining venue. Located at The Westin Resort, it's a culinary exploration of local ingredients and traditions.
• Nargile Lounge: Unwind in a stylish setting at Nargile Lounge, located at The Romanos. This elegant lounge offers a curated selection of beverages, making it the perfect spot for an evening rendezvous.
Leisure Facilities and Activities
Unwind beyond the golf course with a plethora of leisure options. From rejuvenating spa treatments to guided cultural excursions including Olive Oil Tasting, Astronomy Nights and Philosophy Talks, there's something for everyone. Families can enjoy supervised kids' activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all. The resort offers state- of-the-art fitness centres, swimming pools, and tennis courts, providing opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Water Sports and Activities
For those seeking adventure, Costa Navarino offers an array of water sports, from paddleboarding along the coast to sailing in the crystal- clear waters. Dive into an aquatic playground and discover the thrill of the Ionian Sea. Experience windsurfing, kayaking, and explore the vibrant marine life with guided snorkelling tours. The resorts provide top -notch facilities and experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable water sports experience for guests of all ages.
Water Sports Pricing:
• Paddleboarding: £25 per hour
• Sailing: £50 per session
• Windsurfing: £40 per hour
• Kayaking: £30 per hour
• Guided Snorkelling Tours: £35 per person
Families
There are a few resorts in Europe and slightly further afield with fantastic activities and facilities for children and Costa Navarino sits with the very best. There’s an Aqua Park, the Cocoon Care Centre (from 4 months to 3 years old), Sandcastle Kids Club (from 4 to 12 years old, Division 16 for teenagers and a huge choice of organised activities. It’s a holiday where everyone in the family can be as busy or as relaxed as they want to be.
Explore the resort's nature trails with the whole family, immersing yourselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The experienced staff ensures that every child has a memorable and enjoyable stay. Discover the joy of family-friendly vacations at Costa Navarino, where every moment is crafted for the perfect family escape.
The Mouratoglou Tennis Centre
For tennis and padel enthusiasts, Costa Navarino boasts a state- of-the -art facility that caters to players of all levels. The academy features 17 courts, including clay and hard surfaces, providing the perfect setting for an exhilarating match or professional coaching sessions. Mouratoglou is known as “the coach” on the ATP tour and his students include Coco Gauff and Stefanos Tsitsipas so the quality of teaching is superb. There are sometimes more tennis players than golfers at the resort and it makes for a sporty and lighthearted atmosphere.
Tennis Academy Pricing:
• Court Rental (per hour): €20
• Professional Coaching Session (1 hour): £30
Other activities
Biking, yachting, water sports, hiking, climbing, basketball, football…Costa Navarino really has everything any sports person could wish for.
Hire top - of-the-range mountain bikes or go one step further and kit yourself out at the Road Cycling Huerzeler Bicycle Station. If you prefer two legs to two wheels, there are carefully designed hiking tours and, for those with a penchant for drama, the island of Proti is ideal for rock climbing.
History and Scenery of the Region
Costa Navarino is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Messinia region, a land rich in history and blessed with breathtaking scenery. The resort's surroundings are dotted with ancient olive groves, rolling hills, and pristine beaches that stretch along the Ionian Sea. Explore the remnants of ancient civilizations, including the Palace of Nestor, an archaeological marvel that provides a glimpse into the Mycenaean era. In fact, there are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the area and 19 historical monuments.
The region's history is intertwined with tales of gods and heroes, creating a captivating atmosphere that envelops Costa Navarino. Take a journey through time as you discover historical sites, such as the ancient city of Messene, where ancient walls, theatres, and sanctuaries stand as testament to the region's storied past.
Tourist Information about Local Towns
Immerse yourself in the charm of the local towns near Costa Navarino, each offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The town of Pylos, with its quaint harbour and Venetian castle, invites you to stroll through cobbled streets and savour the local cuisine in traditional tavernas.
Kalamata, known for its huge and meaty olives, is a vibrant city where history meets contemporary culture. Explore the vibrant central market, visit historical landmarks like the Kalamata Castle, and indulge in the flavours of the region at local eateries.
Venture further to Methoni and Koroni, coastal towns that boast medieval castles and crystal- clear waters. These charming destinations provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks, cultural explorations, and moments of relaxation by the sea.
Messene
Pylos
Detailed Weather for Each Month of the Year
Costa Navarino enjoys a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather throughout the year. Each season brings its own unique charm, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts and families alike.
• January to March: Mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C offer a tranquil atmosphere for cultural explorations and outdoor activities. Rainfall is infrequent, allowing for enjoyable golf rounds.
• April to June: Spring brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 25°C, creating an ideal environment for outdoor pursuits. The blooming landscapes and extended daylight hours provide a picturesque backdrop for golf and leisure activities.
• July to September: Summer welcomes temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C, perfect for sunfilled days on the golf course and water sports adventures. The clear skies and warm evenings enhance the overall experience.
• October to December: Autumn brings a mild climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. It's a delightful season for golf, surrounded by the changing colours of the landscape. Occasional rainfall adds to the charm of the region.
Whether you prefer the vibrant hues of spring, the warmth of summer, the mild days of autumn, or the crispness of winter, Costa Navarino invites you to experience its beauty year-round.
Costa Navarino is conveniently located a scenic drive away from Kalamata International Airport. The approximately 50-kilometer journey takes around 45 minutes. There are direct flights from Gatwick, Birmingham, Stansted and Manchester to Kalamata Airport. Once there, it’s refreshingly simple and quick – my record is 20 minutes from touchdown to getting into my hire car complete with suitcase and golf clubs.
Most of my clients prefer that I arrange a Meet & Greet and private transfers to the resort for them – after all, there are resort shuttles from everywhere to everywhere and you can also hire a car on a daily basis from the hotels. If you want to explore on a regular basis and perhaps try some of the restaurants in the local towns and along the coast, then I can book a hire car for the duration of your holiday.
Direct flights from the UK start in April and finish in late October. During the shoulder season, you can still fly into Athens from where it is a three-hour transfer. I can also arrange a few nights in the capital before a private transfer or hire car takes you to your golfing treat.
The Westin and Romanos “village”
Example Itineraries
All our holidays can be tailor-made to suit regarding room types, golfers or non-golfers, number of nights, travel and dining arrangements etc.
The package prices below exclude flights but we can advise and book these for you and protect them with our ATOL Licence.
2027 Special Packages
• Meet & Greet at Kalamata Airport
• Private return airport transfers in a Mercedes Minivan/bus/coach
• Seven nights’ bed & breakfast in a Deluxe Garden/Partial Seaview twin/double bedrooms at Westin & Romanos and Deluxe Bay View/Partial Seaview twin/double bedrooms at W
• Five rounds of golf including buggy, practice and transfers (four rounds between June 2 and September 11)
• Free Room Upgrade to Group Leader for bookings of 8 or more
• AITO or ATOL Protection
• Morgan’s Holiday App for everyone in the party
Date
Feb 26-Mar 24 2027 £1385/£1335/£1315
Mar 25-Apr 23
Apr 24-Jun 1
Jun 2-Jun 20
Jun 21-Jul 2 & Aug 30-
Sep 11
Jul 3-Jul 30 & Aug 22-29
Jul 31-Aug 21
Sep 12-Oct 2
Oct 3-Oct 30
Oct 31-Nov 6
Nov 7-Nov 11
Book by Oct 31 2026
Book by Nov 30 2026
Book by Apr 30 2027
£1799/£1749/£1729 £1799/£1749/£1729
£2190/£2140/£2120
£1880/£1830/£1810
£2190/£2140/£2120
£2495/£2445/£2425
£1799/£1749/£1729
£1799/£1749/£1729
£1855/£1805/£1785
£2425/£2375/£2355 £2410/£2360/£2340
£1965/£1915/£1895 £2019/£1969/£1949
£2425/£2375/£2355
£2410/£2360/£2340
£2815/32765/£2745 £2745/£2695/£2675
£1825/£1775/£1755 £1855/£1805/£1785
£1799/£1749/£1729 £1855/£1805/£1785
£1599/£1549/£1529 n/a n/a
£1385/£1335/£1315 n/a n/a
1. Free Room Upgrade to Garden View Infinity bedroom (private plunge pool at Westin & Romanos) and Premier Infinity Swim-up bedroom at W for the Group Leader for bookings of 8 or more people
2. For holidays between June 2 & September 12, prices are only valid until the resort finalises its 2027 rates for these dates so book early to avoid the price increase
3. Holidays between June 2 & September 11 only include four rounds of golf
4. We are privileged to have four types of rates at Costa Navarino – Preferred Partner, FIT, Wholeseller and Travel Agency. The prices above are based on Preferred Partner rates which are the best. The resort will offer a certain number of rooms at these best rates, then move up to FIT, then Wholeseller etc. depending on availability. Our advice is to book early and make sure you get the very best rates possible and the nicest tee-times
5. Holidays starting in one season and ending in another are calculated using the mean
6. Five night with four rounds packages also available
