Set-jetting, or traveling to locations that have been featured in films, has notably influenced tourism patterns over the last decade. Popular shows and movies have dramatically shifted travel demands, with places like Hawaii, Sicily, and Koh Samui experiencing significant increases in interest and bookings.
The White Lotus effect showcases how quickly destinations can gain traction, evidenced by the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, which reported a remarkable 40 percent uptick in booking queries. Similarly, their Maui property saw an astounding fourfold increase in online visits.
Another film poised to attract travelers’ attention is Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of The Odyssey, slated for release on July 17, 2026, featuring actors like Matt Damon and Zendaya. The film’s anticipation surged, particularly following the rapid sellout of IMAX tickets released a year prior, as revealed by the recent trailer.
While filming took place in various locations, including Morocco and Iceland, one specific area in Greece stands to benefit significantly: Messinia in the southwest Peloponnese. Known for its ties to Homer’s narrative and landmarks such as Nestor’s Cave, the region hosted about 20 days of filming, with the cast and crew residing near Pylos and the Costa Navarino resort.
Unlike more popular tourist locales in Greece, Messinia remains relatively undiscovered by international visitors. Its spring months bless it with lush greenery and tranquility. Meanwhile, autumn offers a quieter yet vibrant experience, especially during the olive harvest period in this renowned olive oil region.
At the heart of Messinia’s luxurious offerings is Costa Navarino, featuring four five-star properties: The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, W Costa Navarino, and Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino. Its large-scale design has provided a balance that is likely to accommodate any influx of interest without overwhelming the area.
©Costa Navarino
Stay
The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, features a palatial reception area inspired by the nearby Palace of Nestor. Guests are greeted with breathtaking views of the main resort pool and the ocean, complemented by refreshing pomegranate juice. A hallmark of the resort is its mile-long beach, thoughtfully positioned with sunbeds and chairs distanced from nesting turtle habitats.
With 321 rooms, 23 suites, and ten villas situated throughout the expansive grounds, many accommodations offer terraces or balconies with varying views, from serene ocean vistas to lush golf courses. A notable 128 rooms include private infinity pools, ideal for sun-seeking guests even in the off-peak season. While the suites maintain tranquility, their minimalist design is set for an update by year-end.
For unparalleled seclusion, the Royal Villa Koroni stands apart from the main resort, featuring modern architecture over two expansive floors. It boasts three bedrooms, a dining area, kitchen, study, gym, and spa, all interconnected by an internal lift. The master suite is particularly striking with a sea-facing Jacuzzi. Outside, guests will find a vast area including a private infinity pool, outdoor bar, firepit, and direct beach access.
Dine
Capitalizing on its anticipated role in The Odyssey, Costa Navarino has introduced the Nestor’s Feast experience, showcasing the ancient Greek principle of philoxenia, or hospitality. Elite Traveler was among the first to partake in this culinary journey.
The inaugural event took place on the beach at W Costa Navarino, adorned with olive branches and white floral arrangements at a long communal table. Guests enjoyed a beachside meal prepared over live flame as the sun set behind pink skies.
The thoughtfully crafted menu focuses on ingredients harking back to ancient Greece, relying on unripe grapes for acidity while avoiding modern imports. Dishes included slow-cooked lamb with beans, goat cheese with figs, and a notable dessert of flame-grilled apples paired with milk and raisins. Across the resort, dining options abound, with 40 varied restaurants serving everything from fine dining to cozy beachside fare.
Relax
The Romanos features the expansive Anazoe Spa, renowned for its oleotherapy treatments that incorporate local ingredients like olive oil and honey. The signature trilogy treatment rejuvenates the skin through exfoliation with salt and honey, followed by a luxurious body wrap and massage using botanical oils.
Guests might find arriving early beneficial, as the spa operates through a series of hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. For those preferring activity, the resort offers four notable golf courses that run alongside the coastline, along with the first European Mouratoglou Tennis Center hosting various courts available for guests.
Explore
Messinia’s allure extends beyond its luxurious accommodations to its rich mythology and archaeological significance. Linked to the tales of Nestor and Telemachus from The Odyssey, it is home to many critical Mycenaean sites poised to garner renewed interest in light of recent film productions.
Keen explorers can easily visit the Palace of Nestor, renowned as one of Greece’s best-preserved Mycenaean palaces, along with Methoni Castle and the Pylos Archaeological Museum. These sites can be enjoyed independent of a guide, though having one enhances the experience with deeper historical insights. A stop in Pylos’ charming seaside square for a local lunch offers a fitting conclusion to a day of exploration.
For cyclists, a ride to Voidokilia Beach using e-bikes presents the chance to visit a less-traveled sandy spot, culminating in a picturesque lookout. Nearby Nestor’s Cave is also accessible, with extensive cycling routes available for those seeking more distance.
Back at The Romanos, engaging with the local history can be enjoyed during the Philosophy Walk. These sessions encourage guests from various walks of life to discuss ancient Greek literature and thoughts, facilitated by a resident professor in a relaxed environment.
