Greek wellness philosophy

The plant-based Mediterranean diet is proven to help people live longer, healthier lives. At the Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, executive chef Bertrand Valegeas sources most produce from organic farms and dairies in the Peloponnese. Creamy sfela cheese is crumbled onto seasonal wild greens, Greek pancakes are served with mastiha, fresh cheese, berries and confit lemon for breakfast, and even the cocktails have a Greek twist; try a Siko, fragrant with fig leaves and metaxa. There’s nothing puritanical about this way of eating: everything in moderation, as the ancient Greek maxim goes.

Who knew the blues are good for you? Research shows that being close to ‘blue spaces’ such as seas, rivers, and lakes increases mood-lifting serotonin and reduces stress-inducing cortisol levels. So, just lounging on a pool float, gazing at the reflective waters of Navarino Bay, counts as self-care. It’s hard to imagine the last naval battle in the world – a turning point in Greece’s War of Independence – was fought in these glassy waters. For an even greater wellbeing boost, get out on the water: try the adrenalin rush of wingfoiling or wakeboarding, a meditative sail to the horseshoe bay of Voidokilia, or tandem paddleboarding to the tiny isles marooned off the coastline, a habitat for migrating birds and wild goats.