Camvillia Resort ★★★★★

Situated in the colourful, clay village of Vounaria, at the edge of the sea, and surrounded by olive groves, is where you’ll find the five-star Camvilla Resort. Built somewhat like an old traditional Greek amphitheatre, the villas and swimming pools stand facing the sea and look out over the impressive fortress of Koroni over the water.

From the moment you arrive, the smell of olive groves and the Grecian atmosphere with its local and natural materials of olive wood, stone, and whitewashed walls, paired with idyllic sea-filled views is humbling and tranquil. Enter your room to find a calming space with neutral and earthy shades of biscuit and cream with high ceilings and old wooden beams, creating a boho-chic vibe. The luxurious touches in the bedding, the large, tiled bathrooms and the private verandas overlooking the peaceful gardens and the Messinian Gulf.

Perhaps begin your morning relaxing on the beach or by the pool again, followed by a mid-morning snack at the resort’s old style Greek café, where you will be able to try Greek coffee, homemade traditional treats and the famous Greek meze. This should give you plenty of energy for your jaunt to Koroni to see its atmospheric old town and castle – a Venetian fortress built to defend the seaways of the Mediterranean.

When evening draws near and the sun begins to set, the village of Vounaria is at its most spectacular, the light casting shadows of the olive trees, the rocks and the villas over the golden-hued land. This is the perfect time for a romantic meal at the resort’s restaurant, by candlelight, overlooking the view of Koroni and the Messianian Gulf.

Greek cuisine is of course famous throughout the world for its rich Mediterranean flavours, and the Messinian region is known for its abundance of fine Greek products such as olives, sfela cheese, figs, and fresh seafood. The chefs at the Camvillia Resort restaurant use all these products to create a delicious Mediterranean menu.

Finish up your day with a cocktail next to the romantically lit pool where you’ll surely appreciate the beauty of these ancient islands.