The Royal Guide to Greece

On the mainland, in the southwestern part of the Peloponnese, Costa Navarino is part of a region called Messenia. It’s a short drive from Kalamata International Airport, or a scenic boat ride from Athens – always my preferred way to travel around Greece. It’s a great destination for families, dotted with famous beauty spots, like the horseshoe-shaped beach at Voidokilia. From the beach and its crystal-clear waters, you can hike to the ruins of Palaiokastro Castle – a hot climb, rewarded by wonderful views. A few kilometres away, the walk to the Kalamaris waterfall is also magical. And, if you’re more of a golfer than a hiker, the courses here are renowned.

Greek poet Homer dubbed olive oil “liquid gold”, and for good reason. It’s exceptionally delicious in Messenia, which is famed for its olive trees. This part of Greece also has some wonderful wines, and the countryside is dotted with locally owned, organic vineyards. It’s always fun to visit for a tasting, followed by some delicious Talagani cheese, another local speciality – and, of course, some of Kalamata’s signature olives!

A two-hour boat ride from Athens, the Saronic island of Spetses is magical. We’ve been visiting the island for years, since the children were small, and it’s a place we cherish. Its sights include the old lighthouse and the Bouboulina Museum, the 17th-century mansion of Greek revolutionary heroine Laskarina Bouboulina. I’d also recommend renting a traditional wooden boat, packing a picnic and spending the day swimming, sunbathing and exploring the coves along the western coast.

Come the evening, you can walk along the port to the old town, lined with colourful fishing boats and yachts. We love to have drinks at one of the many cafés, before heading for dinner at the old harbour. Tarsanas is a family favourite, serving fish from the local boats, while Bikini is great for music and the after-dinner hot spot.