Costa Navarino / The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort

Not just a pretty face, this eco-conscious and socially committed property encourages its guests to get to grips with the area’s rich treasures, both natural and cultural.

Stretching out along the Ionian Sea and close to the iconic, white-crescent of Voidokilia beach – this glossier of two upmarket hotels on an expansive resort is a place to revel in the great outdoors. With everything from cycling in the nature reserve, to farm-to-table experiences picking ingredients for al fresco lunches from the kitchen garden.

It’s also perfect for those who hanker to embrace local life and gain a deeper understanding of Mediterranean culture in all its manifestations. Come for cookery classes with local ladies, cheese tasting and making, wine masterclasses, lessons in traditional Messinian embroidery, and even astronomy nights, mythological storytelling, and philosophy walks led by classical scholars. This may not be one for devotees of intimate properties, but the extraordinary cultural offerings and facilities is sure to convert them – think 12 tempting restaurants including a taverna and a souvlakeri, plus a vast spa.

Travel notes:

• 321 rooms, suites and villas, some with private infinity pools
• Village square, Agora, is the central hub with restaurants, shopping, entertainment, amphitheatre and open-air cinema
• 2 championship golf courses
• Anazoe Spa is a labyrinth of thalassotherapy chambers, ice grottos, herbal saunas and steam rooms
• Holder of several awards for responsible tourism