Travel to Costa Navarino

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Costa Navarino, Continental Greece

Costa Navarino is situated in the far south-west of the Peloponnese. This is a wild region where olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with pretty little picturesque villages that have been attracting Greek holidaymakers for decades. Since spring 2010, a major tourist project has been in process, led by the Greek company Temes. This company has invested huge sums of money to revitalise tourism in this area, and it isn't just some haphazard development - quite the opposite in fact! Temes is actually looking to develop luxury tourism here in order to allow even the most demanding of travellers to discover the region's attributes. Starwood has already placed a bet on the destination and rumour has it that the first Banyan Tree in Europe will soon open its doors here. The exceptional golf course, luxury hotels, idyllic beach and remains of Mediterranean civilisations won't leave any visitors indifferent. This little corner of paradise promises to become one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Costa Navarino is a spot that has not been subjected to the negative aspects of tourism; its picturesque villages are very well-preserved and boast cultural, historical and natural attractions.
Those involved in the tourism industry are aware of the importance the environment holds and the projects which have been created here are respectful of it.
The natural environment is emphasised and will suit fans of hiking and eco-tourism.

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Costa Navarino is relatively isolated and not very well serviced. A car is essential for discovering the area.

Visit Costa Navarino

To see

The Kalamari Falls are a great opportunity for a pleasant stroll through a tropical forest. The caves of Anargyri, which conceal the chapel dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian in the Messinia mountains, present the opportunity to discover part of the heritage built by the Anargy Christians (literally 'those without money'). The island of Sfaktriria in the middle of the bay is simply magnificent; the legend goes that pregnant women who swim under its natural arch will give birth to a baby boy. Today it is home to British, French and Russian monuments that commemorate the help these countries gave Greece during the Battle of Navarino. With its magnificent crystal-clear waters and golden sand beaches, Giolava lagoon presents the ideal spot for some meditation. It is also home to the Frankish Paleokastro castle which dates back to the 13th century.

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To do

Costa Navarino is the ideal place to combine active tourism and relaxation. Those who love the sea can go on boat trips, participate in wind sports like kite-surfing or learn how to sail. Hiking or biking enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that there is a wide range of trails available. Swimming, yachting, fishing, scuba diving and snorkelling are also possible, or for those with less energy to spare, the beaches are great for getting some rest and relaxation, with their sand and clear waters giving them an almost tropical look.

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To think about

Protect yourself from the sun and keep yourself hydrated! Greek summers are incredibly hot and it's not rare to see tourists walking around like lobsters or looking ill because they forgot their sunscreen or a bottle of water!

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To avoid

Don't forget about the region's heritage, one the Greeks are very attached to; it offers a great way to mix in with Greek holidaymakers. Try to speak a little bit of Greek if you can, as English is not the official language here even if most of the people working in the tourist sector can speak it. 'Kalisto' and 'efralisto' are two essential words (hello and thank you).

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To try

The Greeks enjoy fine gourmet cuisine, and the mix of more refined Mediterranean flavours in particular is a real culinary delight. Instead of limiting yourself to the traditional Moussaka, you should definitely have a taste of some of the less-pronounceable dishes - you won't be disappointed!

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To bring back

You can't go to Greece without bringing back some virgin olive oil! You'll have no problem finding the farms where it is sold, as they really are everywhere. Another speciality is the "sweet spoon", which is available in many different flavours: olive, melon, lemon, orange. A sweet spoon is a kind of bitter jam that can be enjoyed both before and after dinner. With Greek beekeepers holding the secret to creating thousands of varieties, honey is another of Greece's delicacies. Finally, those who love a good wine will be very interested to know that this region is home to large expanses of vineyards, constituting the perfect opportunity to bring back a good bottle or two.

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