Messenia, February 23, 2026 – Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rated Resort and Spa, reopens on 31 March 2026, unveiling a season inspired by a profound journey of becoming.
Inspired by Homer’s Odyssey — a journey defined not by distance, but by transformation —Costa Navarino invites guests into an experience where the Homeric journeys and Messenian heritage are brought to life. Set within this destination that is steeped in ancient narratives, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino evokes the timeless idea of the journey as transformation and becomes a place where return feels meaningful and renewal is intentional.
Guests are invited to experience a “becoming” shaped by roots, routes and renewal, woven throughout the resort’s gastronomy, wellness and local experiences, and honouring the journey of the place, its people and its guests through moments of craftsmanship and purpose.
Reflecting this spirit of evolution, the resort introduces a refined programme of distinctive culinary, wine, mixology and wellness experiences inspired by the Messenian landscape.
Throughout the season, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will welcome Michelin-starred chefs, renowned wine houses, acclaimed mixologists and world-class wellness experts, hosting events dedicated to international gastronomy and holistic wellbeing.
FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE 5-Star Spa rating
Reflecting a steadfast commitment to excellence, the resort is proud to celebrate its latest distinction from Forbes Travel Guide, with The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino receiving the prestigious 5-Star rating. This landmark achievement distinguishes the Spa as a premier sanctuary for metamorphosis, a space dedicated to each guest’s own journey of self-discovery and inner evolution.
With both the resort and its wellness sanctuary now officially recognised as 5-Star entities, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino continues to set the benchmark for holistic well-being and refined hospitality in the Mediterranean.
AHEAD Awards
Recently recognised at the global AHEAD Awards for both Landscaping & Outdoor Spaces and Resort design, the resort stands out for its seamless integration into the landscape, where over 2,700 preserved olive trees frame architecture that blends naturally with the land.
A sanctuary for wellness and longevity: The journey of Metamorphosis
A holistic approach to longevity and mindfulness defines the season, embracing wellness as a transformative journey. A curated programme of collaborations with internationally recognised experts unfolds within the serene natural beauty of Messenia.
A highlight is the exclusive four-night ‘Step into Self’ retreat (7–11 May) led by Taryn Toomey, founder of The Class, alongside Ally Bogard — a guided experience designed to foster meaningful reconnection and renewal.
This path to wellbeing is complemented by world-class facilities, including the expanded Mouratoglou Tennis Center, Moraitis Watersports Costa Navarino, and the destination’s acclaimed golf courses, all supporting both physical vitality and mental balance.
Haute cuisine takes centre stage: The journey of Genesis
The culinary narrative enters a new chapter of Genesis, returning to the origin of flavour, where land, seasonality and craftsmanship shape every creation.
Within the elegant setting of The Private Kitchen, the resort will host three 3-Michelin-starred chefs Frédéric Anton of Le Pré Catelan, Julien Royer of Odette and Arnaud Lallement of L’Assiette Champenoise. Meanwhile, Oliviera will showcase the distinctive flavours of renowned Greek chefs Lefteris Lazarou and Sotiris Evaggelou, bringing to life a culinary journey of transformation rooted in local heritage.
The spirit of creation extends to Tahir, which will be melding the distinctive flavours of the Middle East and Italy, and will feature a special Château d’Esclans showcase during a signature Sunday BBQ.
At the same time, Italian culinary master Daniele Cason continues his culinary journey at Pizza Sapienza by Daniele Cason.
Delightful fine drinking: The journey of Ambrosia
Complementing the gastronomic agenda, the season unfolds as a modern ritual, a refined celebration of wine, spirits, and shared moments.
For the first time, the resort is proud to present a curated evening dedicated to Château Margaux, while the season will also feature exclusive wine moments with prestigious producers including Champagne Henri Giraud, Château Angélus, Maison Joseph Drouhin and T-OINOS.
In the world of mixology, guests can look forward to standout nights at Three Admirals, as Line Athens, currently ranked No. 8 on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, brings its distinctive approach and creative ethos to the venue.
Messenian roots, origins and routes: The journey of Nostos
Embracing the region’s 4,500-year history, Costa Navarino invites guests on a journey of return: a rediscovery of place, heritage and self. Within this setting, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino curates holistic experiences rooted in wellness, balance and the restorative power of the landscape.
Across the destination, immersive experiences inspired by the region’s ancient narratives bring the spirit of Messenia to life, from the Messenian Odyssey Trail through the Palace of Nestor and Voidokilia Beach to Penelope’s Heritage weaving workshops.
Rooted in the enduring spirit of philoxenia, these curated moments serve as a bridge between the origins of the landscape and each guest’s modern journey of becoming.
This season, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino offers a sanctuary of meaningful experiences and refined hospitality, creating the setting for self-discovery and lasting memories.
For more information about the resort and to make a reservation, click here.
