Peloponnese

From the editors of Condé Nast Traveler:

Messinia is a ravishingly remote corner of the southwest Peloponnese that's a four-hour drive from Athens (or one hour from tiny Kalamata airport). It was well under the radar until the advent of Navarino Dunes, a 320-acre Mediterranean-hugging resort that's part of the ambitious Costa Navarino development—a modern take on a classic agora of shops, restaurants, cafés, and a cavernous spa flanked by two hotels. The family-friendly Westin Resort is livelier and more laid-back than The Romanos next door. Its 445 rooms are done in pale wood and exposed stone, with blissful tubs positioned to make the most of pool, golf, or sea views. Frazzled parents unwind at the swim-up bar, while the little ones run amok in the spiffy waterpark, bowling alley, and giant sand castle equipped for sleepovers. The range of activities at both properties is exhaustive, but the main attractions are the half-mile sandy beach and 18-hole golf course. Food at the various multi-ethnic restaurants (which include Greek, Italian, and even American diner fare) is fine, but breakfasts make a bigger impression—a smorgasbord of local produce, perfect cappuccinos, and eggs any way you'd like. Though occasionally out of their depth, staff are always enthusiastic. —2011 Hot List

Which room to book: At the Westin, a Premium Deluxe Sea Room for floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony overlooking the Ionian Sea.

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