The Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, Peloponnese, Greece
This may be the last word in deluxe resorts but the ancient world’s culture is nearby: The Palace of Nestor; and UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Olympia, Mystras, and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius.
Situated on a kilometre of sandy beach overlooking the Ionian Sea, the neoclassical Romanos, A Luxury Collection Resort, has 288 rooms and 33 suites and villas set among acres of lush gardens. A neutral palette allows the extravagant details to shine here: exquisite linen, luxurious furnishings, fabulous marble bathrooms and, in some rooms and suites, plunge and private infinity pools.
Of the myriad multi-ethnic eateries, two stand out: daLuigi, where excellent Italian food meets the fun of traditional Greek outdoor cinema, and Flame, the sun-drenched clubhouse terrace of the Bernhard Langer-designed championship golf course, not least for its panoramic views of the imposing old castle of Pylos (Paleokastro) and surrounding areas. There’s a magnificent spa; 12 tennis courts at the Mouratoglou Tennis Centre; paddle, pickleball and squash courts, canoeing, hiking, climbing, mountain biking; and two innovative kids' clubs: Cocoon (for 4-month- to 3-year-olds) and Sandcastle (4-12-year-olds) with cheerful staff: perfect for a combination of family fun and luxurious relaxation.