Hollywood Epic Set to Reveal Greece's Hidden Messinia Gem
The Independent's journalism receives support from readers, with commissions earned through site purchases. Travel in Focus explores why the upcoming film adaptation of The Odyssey will transform a secret Greek island into a major holiday destination. With breathtaking beaches, tranquil towns, and remarkably preserved ancient sites, this underappreciated corner of Greece is poised for the global spotlight, as detailed by Fiona McIntosh on Sunday, 08 March 2026.
Ancient Wonders Without the Crowds
It comes as no surprise that Christopher Nolan's epic summer release, The Odyssey, chose Messinia for much of its filming. This southwestern area of the Peloponnese peninsula in mainland Greece offers a stark contrast to the overcrowded Acropolis of Athens and Ancient Olympia, where tourists often shuffle through in large groups. Here, atop a bougainvillaea-covered hill near the small harbour town of Pylos, lies the Palace of Nestor, one of mainland Greece's best-preserved Mycenaean structures, famously mentioned in Homer's epic. During a visit, only a handful of other tourists were present, allowing for an intimate exploration.
A short 20-minute drive away is Ancient Messini, a sprawling city built in 369BC in the Arcadian mountains, once larger than Athens. Even for those not versed in classics, this site is extraordinary, featuring Greece's best-preserved ancient stadium. Once again, visitors can enjoy it largely in solitude. On the return journey, a roadside stop reveals the Arcadian gates, a revered example of Ancient Greek fortification, now traversed by cars instead of horse-drawn chariots.
Hollywood Buzz and Local Excitement
This quiet, astonishingly underrated region will catapult into global fame in July with the release of the movie adaptation of Homer's The Odyssey. The blockbuster stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya, generating immense local excitement. Residents volunteered as extras and eagerly spotted celebrities as the cast and crew arrived at Kalamata airport in early 2025, before settling at the Costa Navarino resort for filming.
Upon arriving at the W Costa Navarino, one of four luxury hotels at the resort, it's tempting to simply relax on a sun lounger, read by the pool, or swim in the Ionian Sea. However, unlike the islands, the Peloponnese offers too many attractions to spend all day lounging.
Activities Beyond the Beach
Visitors can embark on the new Messinian Odyssey Trail, guiding them through six extraordinary ancient Greek sites within an hour's drive of Costa Navarino. Alternatively, a philosophy walk through the countryside, led by a professor of Ancient Greek literature, provides intellectual enrichment. The resort's extensive sporting facilities also distract from sunbathing, including a racquet centre with tennis, padel, and pickleball courts, a water sports centre for diving, sailing, and kitesurfing, an NBA basketball school, and yoga, pilates, and fitness classes.
Notably, the four 18-hole golf courses are a major draw, reflecting golf's rising popularity with high engagement levels into 2026. Tom Holland was reportedly seen playing all four courses at Costa Navarino. Inspired by this trend, a lesson with golf pro Tino transformed hacking at grass into proper swings, while navigating an electric buggy on The Dunes course offered fun with sea views.
Exploring Nature and History
An early morning guided e-bike tour led along the coastline, through vineyards, olive groves, and villages selling olive oil and honey, to the Gialova lagoon, teeming with white flamingos. After parking bikes, a steep hike to the ancient acropolis of Paleokastro rewarded with a stunning view of Voidokilia Beach, a perfect arc of white sand and turquoise water, also used as a filming location. As a Natura 2000 protected area, it remains unspoiled by buildings, featuring only hills, lagoons, Navarino Bay, and a few locals on the pristine beach.
Following a refreshing swim, an e-bike return to the hotel allowed for a late lunch of grilled fish, zucchini fries, and local blanc de gris wine, with the satisfaction of experiencing Messinia before its potential surge in popularity.
Travel and Accommodation Details
The nearest airport is Kalamata, a 40-minute drive from the resort, with direct flights from EasyJet and British Airways starting at £180 return in summer. Alternatively, Messinia is a 3.5-hour drive from Athens. Hiring a car from the airport or the resort's Hertz depot is advisable for sightseeing.
For an A-list experience, stay at W Costa Navarino, part of a resort with four five-star hotels: the adult-only W Costa Navarino, the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, family-friendly The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, and The Romanos. This resort hosted The Odyssey's cast and crew, offering a luxurious stay. Prices begin at £300 per night. Fiona McIntosh was hosted by W Costa Navarino during her trip.
