RUME Magazine Issue 022 October 2025

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF THE WINTER GAMES

editor's letter

October takes us from the courts of Riyadh to the alpine air of Lake Geneva, weaving together stories of sport, culture and refined hospitality. We begin with a spotlight on the Six Kings Slam, a record-breaking tennis showdown bringing the world’s elite players to Saudi Arabia in an event that promises to set a new benchmark for the sport. From there, we look to Italy, host of the next Olympic Winter Games, sharing where to eat, stay and spectate one of the most thrilling editions yet.

Elsewhere in Europe, Vienna beckons with its timeless elegance, and we share the best ways to experience the city’s charm. Dining in Dubai also takes centre stage, as we step inside Sucre to discover how this DIFC favourite has carved out its own identity in a competitive culinary landscape.

Our cover story takes us to Evian-lesBains, where Hotel Royal offers hospitality on an entirely different level. Overlooking Lake Geneva, it’s a property that redefines what a grand hotel can be, blending heritage with artistry. Just a short flight away, the Costa Navarino in Greece proves why it’s one of the Mediterranean’s most exciting destinations. Also in this issue: everything you need to know about the highly anticipated Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, a striking new addition to Dubai’s skyline that promises to be as stylish as it is sophisticated. Enjoy the issue!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ELISE KERR elise@the-rume.com

MANAGING PARTNER

PAULO EDUARDO COSTA paulo@the-rume.com

LEAD DESIGNER

JUNIOR EDITOR

GRAPHIC ASSISTANT

Who will seize the throne?

The Six Kings Slam is making its return to Riyadh Season in 2025, bringing with it an elite roster of tennis stars and the largest prize purse in exhibition tennis. From 15 to 18 October, the ANB Arena will host six of the sport’s biggest names, competing for a share of $13.5 million.

This second edition builds on the success of its 2024 debut, which delivered memorable clashes between Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos

SIX KINGS SLAM

Alcaraz. In 2025, the excitement continues with another set of high-profile encounters, promising world-class action in the Saudi capital.

The confirmed lineup for the Six Kings Slam reads like a roll call of the game’s finest talents. World number one

Jannik Sinner returns to defend his crown, while world number two Carlos Alcaraz looks to add another milestone to his growing list of

achievements. Joining them are Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, who steps in as the latest “King” on court. This year’s tournament schedule guarantees marquee matchups.

Sinner faces Tsitsipas in the opening round, while Zverev and Fritz reignite their rivalry. Djokovic and Alcaraz will join in the semifinals, each awaiting the winners of the first-day clashes. The final, held after a rest day, ensures players are at their peak for a decisive showdown.

The Six Kings Slam is not just about prestige but also record-breaking financial incentives. The overall prize pool stands at $13.5 million, with the

winner taking home $6 million—surpassing even the US Open champion’s prize. Each of the other five participants secures $1.5 million, ensuring all players benefit from their participation.

Matches will be bestof-three sets, adding competitive intensity to an exhibition format.

For 2025, the Six Kings Slam will stream exclusively on Netflix, offering access to over 300 million subscribers worldwide. Fans will enjoy high-tech coverage featuring drones, wirecam, robotic cameras, and augmented reality graphics, making it one of the most immersive tennis broadcasts to date. For tickets visit webook.com

WINTER GAMES GET READY FOR THE Milano Cortina 2026

This winter, Italy will set the global stage for one of the most anticipated sporting events of the decade. The Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is more than a celebration of athletic excellence – it’s an invitation to experience la dolce vita in two of Europe’s most captivating settings: Milan, the heartbeat of style and innovation, and Cortina d’Ampezzo, the glamorous gateway to the Dolomites. Together, they form the backdrop to a spectacle where sport, culture and sophistication converge.

From 6 to 22 February 2026, the world’s best athletes will compete across alpine slopes, frozen rinks and pristine trails, but the experience for travellers extends far beyond the competition. Think exclusive ski-in chalets with panoramic mountain views, Michelin-starred dining framed by snow-dusted peaks, and private transfers whisking you from a

morning on the slopes to an evening at the opera.

Milan will welcome the world with its signature blend of fashion, art and design. Between events, explore the city’s architectural icons – the soaring Duomo di Milano, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the cutting-edge boutiques of the Quadrilatero della Moda. As the Opening Ceremony lights up the legendary San Siro Stadium, luxury hotels across the city will offer bespoke hospitality, from curated tasting menus inspired by Lombardy’s culinary heritage to chauffeur-driven experiences that ensure every moment feels effortlessly refined.

Further north, Cortina d’Ampezzo – known as the Queen of the Dolomites — transforms into a stage of its own. Here, Olympic alpine races unfold against cinematic mountain vistas, while the town’s chic boutiques, historic cafés and cosy mountain lodges embody understated Italian glamour. Whether you choose to sip hot chocolate by fire or toast a downhill victory from a mountaintop terrace, Cortina’s après-ski scene promises elegance at every altitude.

For the most discerning travellers, the MilanoCortina Games are an opportunity to pair thrilling sporting moments with unforgettable stays. In Milan, a new wave of design-led luxury hotels ensures your Olympic experience is anchored in style. Mandarin Oriental Milan combines contemporary sophistication with timeless Italian charm, while Armani Hotel Milano offers sleek interiors and private butler service just steps from the city’s most exclusive boutiques. For those seeking privacy, Bulgari Hotel Milano provides an urban oasis with lush gardens, an intimate spa and exceptional dining. In the mountains, Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, stands as Cortina’s most iconic address, beloved for its panoramic views, impeccable service and refined alpine décor. Rosapetra

wellness programme and ski-in access. For a discreet, ultraexclusive stay,

Faloria Mountain Spa

Resort blends traditional Tyrolean architecture with contemporary luxury, while Rosa Alpina in nearby San Cassiano is ideal for those wishing to combine the Games with Michelin-starred dining and access to the impressive Dolomiti Superski region.

Beyond the headline venues, the Games stretch deep into Italy’s most breathtaking winter landscapes. Livigno will host

freestyle skiing and snowboarding on thrilling slopes known for their high-altitude powder and expansive backcountry, while Val di Fiemme welcomes cross-country and Nordic events amid serene pine forests and alpine meadows.

These regions offer opportunities to extend your journey – from private heliskiing excursions and sunrise snowshoe treks to gourmet picnics on secluded peaks prepared by private chefs.

For those seeking restorative balance between the excitement of the Games, Italy’s alpine wellness tradition provides the perfect antidote. Think thermal baths carved into mountainsides, holistic

Beyond the Games

treatments infused with local botanicals, and spa suites overlooking frozen lakes. QC Terme Dolomiti in Pozza di Fassa and Bagni Vecchi in Bormio are both exceptional choices for indulgent days away from the crowds. Luxury travel during Milano-Cortina is about crafting a narrative as memorable as the competition itself. Imagine a leisurely stroll through Verona’s historic streets before the Closing Ceremony, a wine-paired dinner in a Michelinstarred mountain restaurant, or a scenic drive through snow-laden valleys in a vintage Maserati. Extend your journey beyond the sporting schedule with curated day trips –from exploring Lake Como’s palatial

villas and Venice’s winter canals to tasting the bold reds of Valpolicella in a private vineyard. Dining will undoubtedly be a highlight of the experience. Lombardy’s refined cuisine – rich risottos, ossobuco and delicate pastries – contrasts beautifully with the heartier alpine flavours of Veneto and Trentino, where creamy polenta, wild game and local cheeses reign supreme. Book ahead for culinary experiences such as SanBrite in Cortina, a Michelinstarred

restaurant showcasing sustainable mountain cuisine, or Ristorante Cracco in Milan, where contemporary Italian gastronomy takes centre stage.

The 2026 Winter Olympics is far more than a sporting milestone – it’s an invitation to discover Italy at its most spectacular. From the haute couture runways of Milan to the powder-dusted slopes of Cortina, from spa sanctuaries to starlit tasting menus, every moment is a chance to immerse yourself in the art of Italian living. Whether you’re there for the thrill of the competition or the beauty of the journey, this is a oncein-a-generation opportunity to experience la dolce vita in its purest form – against a backdrop of snow, sport and timeless elegance. olympics.com/milano-cortina-2026

From coffeehouses and classical landmarks, explore what makes Vienna one of Europe’s most elegant cities

EXPLORING

IENNA AUSTRIAV

Vienna is a capital where imperial grandeur meets contemporary creativity, weaving centuries of tradition with a modern cultural rhythm. Stately façades, gothic cathedrals and grand palaces recall the Habsburg era, while nearby, bold art installations and sleek cafés reflect a new generation of innovation. In this guide, discover how the coffeehouses preserve traditions that have shaped Viennese life for centuries, offering a place where time seems to slow down. This contrast between past and present is what makes

Vienna so compelling. From marbled museum halls lined with Old Masters to contemporary galleries alive with neon and glass, from quiet gardens tucked behind grand boulevards to streets that hum with music after dark, the city offers experiences that feel both timeless and current.

Elegant yet approachable, it remains one of Europe’s most fascinating capitals, best explored through its dining, cultural highlights and long city walks.

Where to eat

Rote Bar at Hotel Sacher

No Vienna city guide would be complete without the Rote Bar at Hotel Sacher. Red velvet interiors, glittering chandeliers and portraits create an atmosphere that feels timeless. Order the Wiener schnitzel with Caesar salad, then finish with a slice of Sachertorte, the city’s most famous dessert. This is the original recipe, served with whipped cream, and it remains unmatched.

Das Loft

Perched on the 18th floor of SO/ Vienna, Das Loft offers some of the best panoramic views of the city, framed by its striking colourful ceiling designed by artist Pipilotti Rist. The menu blends international flavours with Austrian influences, while the setting makes it equally popular for relaxed daytime dining and evenings overlooking the illuminated skyline.

Café Central Opened in 1876, Café Central is one of Vienna’s

most iconic coffee houses, once frequented by writers, poets and political thinkers such as Trotsky and Freud. The grand vaulted ceilings and marble columns create an atmosphere that feels closer to a palace than a café, making it a destination as much for its architecture as for its coffee. Today, it remains a popular spot to enjoy a classic Viennese mélange alongside traditional pastries, with the famed apple strudel among the highlights.

Cultural Highlights

Albertina Museum

The Albertina balances heritage and modernity in striking ways. Visitors can wander through historic state rooms lined with gilded décor and parquet flooring before stepping into contemporary galleries filled with neon installations, mirrored text works and modern masters such as Picasso and Monet. It is this blend of eras that makes the museum one of Vienna’s most compelling stops.

Austrian National Library

Austrian National Library is one of the most cinematic interiors in Europe. Vast domes painted with frescoes rise above rows of marble statues and thousands of leather-bound books. It is a space that overwhelms and inspires in equal measure, making it a highlight of any cultural itinerary.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Housing collections of Greek, Roman and Egyptian antiquities, the Kunsthistorisches Museum is as much about architecture as it is about art. The grand staircase, marble columns and frescoed ceilings make the building itself a reason to visit. Even if ancient history is not your focus, the sheer beauty of the setting makes it unforgettable.

Where to stay

Hotel Zur Wiener Staatsoper

Staying at Hotel Zur Wiener Staatsoper sits just steps from the State Opera House, on a side street where the buzz of Kärntner Straße quickly fades into a more intimate rhythm. From the entrance, you can wander to St Stephen’s Cathedral in under ten minutes, or reach the Albertina, the Austrian National Library, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum within a short stroll.

Anantara Palais Hansen

Anantara Palais Hansen

Vienna offers the perfect blend of past and present.

This heritage palace, originally designed by Baron Theophil Edvard von Hansen for the 1873 World’s Fair, has emerged from an extensive renovation to become Vienna’s first urban luxury resort. The transformation marks Anantara’s official debut in Austria, bringing the brand’s signature Asian-inspired hospitality to one of Europe’s most culturally rich capitals.

Rosewood Vienna

Opened in 2022, Rosewood Vienna occupies a restored 19th-century former bank on Petersplatz in the First District, just steps from St Peter’s Church and the Hofburg. Dining and drinks are central to the experience: Neue Hoheit Restaurant presents Austrian classics elevated with modern techniques, while Neue Hoheit Bar is known for its cocktails, oysters and Champagne. On the rooftop, THE1835 offers an elegant setting with panoramic city views. Combining heritage architecture, contemporary design and attentive service, Rosewood Vienna has quickly become a landmark for luxury stays in the city. wien.info

Ignite your senses at SUCRE Dubai

Tucked within DIFC, Sucre has secured its place as one of Dubai’s most compelling dining addresses. Originally from Buenos Aires, the restaurant brings with it a concept centred around fire cooking, with the flames of the Josper grill visible through an open kitchen framed in glass. It’s a setting that feels both theatrical and refined, perfectly suited to an area that has become one of the city’s most competitive dining districts. On this occasion, a Wednesday evening, the room was buzzing. Sucre’s ladies’ night drew a full house, with nearly every table occupied, yet the space maintained its moody ambience thanks to the soft glow of table lamps and chandeliers. The atmosphere struck a balance between lively and intimate.

– setting a bright note against the darker, low-lit interiors. Starters arrived with variety and colour: garlic prawns, served sizzling in a heavy skillet, were tender and delicately seasoned, their garlic notes subtle rather than overpowering. Alongside, a plate of cauliflower offered more intrigue than expected, with a mix of purple florets, broccoli and traditional cauliflower laid over a thin layer of hummus. The contrast of textures – charred edges and fresh crunch – gave the dish a satisfying depth. A beef tartare followed, clean and straightforward in its presentation, with spinach, rocket and a drizzle of balsamic.

from carrots with a light creamy dressing to grilled broccolini and mushrooms. Despite the restaurant operating at full capacity, service remained warm and attentive. Food arrived promptly and with consistent freshness, though the pace of drinks and table attention occasionally reflected the busyness of the evening. The music, leaning towards a playful and at times slightly cheesy soundtrack in line with the ladies’ night theme, added energy without overtaking the dining experience. It is this balance of atmosphere and ease that allows Sucre to handle a lively crowd without compromising the dining experience.

The evening began with cocktails – a classic pisco sour and a Cosmopolitan

For the main course, a tenderloin steak was the clear highlight. Cooked medium rare, it arrived sliced into thick cuts, pink from edge to edge with a lightly charred crust. A side of roasted garlic lent creaminess when pressed across the meat, while accompaniments ranged

Sucre has been part of Dubai’s dining landscape for several years, and its appeal endures. The reason is clear: the restaurant blends atmosphere, open-fire cooking and Argentine flair with a consistency that makes it more than just a one-time destination.

@sucredubai

Hôtel Royal Lakeside Luxury at

Perched above the glistening Lake Geneva, Hôtel Royal Evian is one of those rare addresses that manages to be both historic and refreshingly current. With more than a century of heritage and a major renovation in 2013, the property stands as the flagship of the Évian Resort, embodying a polished sense of oldworld refinement with all the comforts expected of a modern luxury retreat. The first impression comes in scale. Rooms are notably generous, especially by European standards, and many are blessed with balconies that capture uninterrupted views of the lake. Waking up to the sun rising between the mountains,

Evian

with light breaking across the water, is a moment that feels entirely Évian – serene, understated, and connected to its extraordinary natural setting. Interiors retain a classical French style, enhanced by carefully considered modern updates that keep the ambience elegant without feeling dated.

Breakfast is served at La Véranda, a lightfilled dining room where quality takes precedence over excess. Guests can expect roasted tomatoes, sausages, a fine selection of regional cheeses, artisanal bread, and butter produced locally in the French Alps. It is the kind of spread that showcases the region’s produce while setting an unhurried tone for the day.

At the heart of Évian-les-Bains, this storied property comfort. We discover how its history, design, and

Lunch one afternoon was taken at La Table, the restaurant of Hôtel Ermitage, Hôtel

Royal’s sister property just a short five-minute walk through manicured gardens.

Here, the highlight was a sea bass fillet accompanied by vanilla-infused butter sauce, herb garden potato mousseline, and seared onion – a dish that captured both comfort and finesse in equal measure. For many guests, the Évian experience is inseparable from wellness, and the recently renovated spa is among the resort’s strongest features. Completed in 2024, the spa introduces a thoroughly contemporary note to the Royal’s offering, with sleek facilities that include saunas, wet rooms, an ice room, and a sprawling outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the mountains. Treatments are

delivered with a high level of expertise, and a massage here feels as restorative as the Alpine air outside. The balance between history and modernity is tangible – the spa proving that the hotel is not content to rest on its legacy alone.

Activities at and around the resort extend well beyond the walls of the hotel, enriching the stay without ever breaking its rhythm. One morning began with a lakeside run, made easy by the hotel’s location just 15 minutes on foot from the shoreline. Hiking is another draw, with the surrounding mountains providing a natural playground. In a thoughtful touch, the hotel

blends heritage with contemporary service create a stay worth travelling for.

even provides hiking boots for guests who may not have come prepared – a small detail that speaks volumes about service that anticipates needs. For skiers, winter brings direct access to passes and nearby slopes, confirming the Royal’s year-round appeal. An afternoon yacht excursion on Lake Geneva revealed another side of the region’s character. Cruising past the Alpine backdrop, the captain shared insights about the town and the evian water brand that has made it globally recognisable. The sheer scale of production – millions of bottles daily, filtered naturally over

15 years through the surrounding geology –underscores how deeply the town and the hotel are tied to the source. On that same outing, a sudden shower gave way to a brilliant double rainbow across the lake, the sort of fleeting encounter with nature that becomes a highlight of any journey.

Back on land, the town itself reveals quieter charms. Guests can board the small funicular train that links the upper reaches with the lakeside, or visit the Cachat Spring, where locals still collect Évian water directly from its source. Cheese shops and wine boutiques line the streets, offering

A stay at Hotel Royal Évian is defined by the seamless way history, nature, and modern luxury come together.

alpine produce worth taking home. Culture also finds its place here, with a stop at the Lumière family residence – a reminder that Évian played its part in cinema’s earliest history. Evenings at the hotel

carry their own appeal. The bar has a playful energy, thanks to an Italian barman who shares the intricacies of aperitifs and the hotel’s own gin, produced in limited editions. On another evening, glasses

of vintage Veuve Clicquot added a celebratory note before heading to dinner. Back at La Véranda, the setting that greets guests at breakfast transforms seamlessly into an elegant dining space, where dishes range from refined classics to comfort plates like a French burger served with perfectly crisp fries.

For those looking for entertainment beyond the resort, the Casino d’Évian provides a diversion. The hotel operates a complimentary shuttle every 30 minutes, ensuring easy access. Entry requires official documentation – a passport in the case of international visitors – but once inside, guests find both a gaming floor and a restaurant, making it a lively contrast to the calm of the hotel.

What distinguishes Hôtel Royal Evian is not a single feature but the harmony between them: historic architecture refreshed by thoughtful renovations, rooms that open towards the lake, dining shaped by the finest French produce, a spa that rivals the best in Europe, and activities

that draw on the richness of the Alps and Lake Geneva. The experience is layered yet balanced, refined yet natural. A three-night stay reveals the property as far more than a hotel. It is a place where history, wellness, and nature intersect, where mornings begin with sunlight spilling over the mountains and evenings close with a glass lifted towards the lake. Évian may be globally recognised for its water, yet at Hôtel Royal the name carries a deeper meaning — one of elegance, heritage, and a quiet sense of escape. What makes the stay truly memorable, however, is the way grandeur is balanced with intimacy.

The character of the hotel shines through in gestures both grand and discreet: a perfectly timed shuttle to the nearby casino or a guide ready to adjust a hiking route. Whether the purpose is wellness, gastronomy, or the restorative calm of alpine air, Hôtel Royal offers not just luxury but an attentiveness that turns every visit into something personal, long-lasting, and not-soquietly unforgettable. hotel-royal.evianresort.com

Hotel Royal Évian at a glance

Perched above the serene shores of Lake Geneva, Hôtel Royal Evian is the flagship property of the Évian Resort, an elegant retreat that combines Belle Époque heritage with contemporary refinement. Just over an hour’s drive from Geneva Airport, the hotel offers 150 rooms and suites, each with sweeping views of the lake or the French Alps. Guests can indulge in treatments at the recently renovated Evian Spa, enjoy seasonal French cuisine across its restaurants, or explore a wealth of outdoor pursuits from hiking and lake cruises to winter skiing.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOWNTOWN, DUBAI

Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai is preparing to welcome its first guests this month, marking a significant milestone for the luxury hotel group as it expands its presence in the emirate. The 259-room property will occupy the striking Wasl Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, offering a distinctly urban experience that complements the brand’s existing beachside resort in Jumeirah.

Werner Anzinger, Area Vice President of Operations for Mandarin Oriental, has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Having overseen the success of the Jumeirah property for the past eight years (it officially opened in 2019), he brings valuable insights to the Downtown venue. “Though the two hotels are

just two kilometres apart, they offer very different experiences,” Anzinger explains. “We have a more resort-orientated style in Jumeirah, while Downtown is operated

fins that optimise airflow for natural cooling. “The building is a standout,” Anzinger notes. “You take the elevator to the 36th floor – the ceiling height is 12 metres – and you

“It’s a superstructure, 303 metres tall, with restaurants and a helipad on top so you can arrive by helicopter.”

completely differently,” says Werner. “They complement each other.”

The Wasl Tower itself represents a feat of modern engineering and sustainable design. At 303 metres tall, the building features the region’s tallest ceramic façade with a distinctive twisting form enhanced by innovative

have a straight view over Sheikh Zayed Road,” says Werner. “It’s quite spectacular.”

This architectural prowess extends to the guest experience, with the lobby positioned on the 36th floor alongside what

The luxury hotel group’s second Dubai property brings urban sophistication to Wasl Tower, opening with 259 keys on 15 October. We caught up with Area Vice President of Operations, Werner Anzinger, ahead of the grand opening.

Anzinger describes as “a bar with one of the best views in the world at night.”

The property will house 224 exclusive Mandarin Oriental branded residences available for lease, marking Dubai’s first residential offering from the group. These combine private home comforts with access to the hotel’s legendary service and world-class facilities. Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai will feature ten distinct dining concepts spanning French, Chinese, Greek and Italian cuisines. The culinary portfolio includes several standout venues, including a new home for much-adored dinner and a show restaurant, Billionaire. Anzinger is particularly excited about the bar, noting that its location offers one of the city’s rare views – “there aren’t many bars on that stretch where you have that view,” he says. The proximity of the two Mandarin Oriental properties offers unique flexibility for guests. “If you’re staying in a suite, you’ll still have access to the beach resort, that’s going to be quite beautiful.” Anzinger reveals. Looking ahead, Anzinger is particularly enthusiastic about the penthouses and the building’s

forward-thinking features.

“It’s a superstructure with restaurants and a helipad on top. So you can arrive by helicopter. Maybe even by air taxi, once that service launches in Dubai. That will be very exciting.” With its combination of architectural innovation, culinary excellence, and the brand’s renowned service standards, Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai is positioned to become a defining presence in the city’s luxury sector. Opens 15 October, 2025. mandarinoriental.com

COSTA NAVARINO

On Greece’s sun-drenched Peloponnese coast, W Costa Navarino redefines seaside luxury with its signature mix of energy and elegance. Framed by the Ionian Sea and the dramatic outline of Sphacteria island, the resort combines raw natural beauty with W’s bold design language.

Perched along the Ionian Sea, W Costa Navarino feels at once expansive and intimate. Set within Navarino Bay, its location is defined by the dramatic line of the Sphacteria island sitting just offshore, giving the sense of a natural amphitheatre. The water here is beautifully clear, and at certain points shallow enough that it feels possible to walk across to the island. We settle in for a stay that blends raw natural beauty with W’s signature flair for detail and design.

Arrival and first impressions

Even before check-in, the service set the tone. A call came through to let us know the room was ready well before the official time, meaning that by late morning we were already settled, showered, and decompressing. The lobby deserves mention – a bright, book-lined space that frames a direct view of the sea from the moment you step inside. It’s a reminder of W’s design ethos, where architecture isn’t just

functional but experiential. Our ground-floor room offered a private terrace opening onto a long, shared pool. Despite being connected to other rooms, it never felt exposed. The balcony, furnished with a table and chairs, quickly became our preferred spot for a quiet glass of wine. Inside, the layout was generous and cleverly zoned, with contemporary furniture and details that made life easier. Small touches – such as the inroom garment steamer – proved

surprisingly valuable, showing how practical amenities elevate a stay as much as grand gestures.

Dining at Green Pepper

Lunch at Green Pepper captured the lighter, fresher side of Greek cuisine. A deconstructed Greek salad arrived first, built on a smooth whipped feta base and layered with grilled vegetables, bright cherry tomatoes, olives and olive oil. It reimagined a classic with depth and balance. A zucchini-based pasta dish was equally refreshing, while dessert was a playful pistachio cheesecake, served in layers and packed with fresh flavours.

Meals here proved that W’s food is not about excess, but about detail and reinterpretation. Local

ingredients were central, and each dish seemed designed for the kind of slow, sunny lunches that spill naturally into the afternoon.

Navarino Agora and beyond

A short walk from the resort leads to Navarino Agora, a lively open-air marketplace with boutiques, dining, and a small harbour where boats moor. Its atmosphere, with shaded lanes and waterfront cafés, recalls Dubai’s Souk Madinat in spirit, though more authentically Greek in setting. It was here we found a bottle of 1827 wine, discovered earlier at lunch, and stocked up for a quiet evening in.

Boat rentals are another highlight of the area. Without requiring a licence, guests can take small boats out onto the calm waters, giving freedom to explore the bay at their own pace. It’s an easy extension of the resort experience, tying relaxation with a sense of discovery.

Sunset moments and evening energy

As the day slowed, the pier at W Costa Navarino became the natural gathering place. With its view of the horizon and the mountains in the distance, it framed one of the most memorable sunsets of the trip.

Just steps away, Parelia – the hotel’s Greek restaurant – provided the soundtrack with a DJ spinning house music into the evening. Breakfasts were also served here, making it a versatile space that shifted from calm mornings to lively nights.

Though we had planned to return later in the evening, the comfort of the room and the day’s activities caught up with us, proving that even in a resort designed for energy, there is space for rest.

A day for leisure

The following morning, breakfast proved to be a standout in its own right. Among the highlights were the tomatoes – intensely sweet, distinctly Greek – and a spread of cakes and pastries, from orange cake to fig tarts. It easily surpassed other comparable properties we

had visited, setting a new standard in both quality and variety.

We alternated between the hotel’s main pool and our private terrace pool, enjoying the balance of social and secluded spaces. Lunch, again at Parelia, featured a raw sea bass carpaccio with green peas and olive oil, spaghetti with burrata and tomato, and a crisp-skinned cod filet. Each dish underscored the resort’s ability to keep flavours light, fresh, and in tune with its coastal setting.

Tennis, golf, and spa

Costa Navarino is more than a single hotel – it’s a full destination. A short drive took us to the Mouratoglou Tennis Centre at The Westin, where clay courts set the stage for an afternoon of play. For golf enthusiasts, the Bay Course and its clubhouse are close by, broadening the appeal.

Back at W, the Away Spa offered a couple’s massage that was both restorative and refined, delivered with professionalism in a calming, minimalist space. It was a clear example of how W blends its contemporary identity with traditional hospitality, ensuring that wellness is part of the rhythm of a balanced stay.

Final thoughts

W Costa Navarino is not a place that reveals itself all at once. It unfolds through details – a lobby with sea views, a shared pool that still feels private, a marketplace that doubles as a cultural hub, and a meal that reimagines something familiar. While our stay was short, it confirmed the property as a new wave of modern, upscale W hotels. The combination of natural beauty, design precision, and thoughtful service ensures that this is more than a resort – it’s a destination worth returning to.

@wcostanavarino