The story of Costa Navarino is as old as Greece itself. It was King Nestor, legendary ruler of ancient Pylos, who first gave meaning to the word “hospitality” when he befriended complete strangers, but it is most famous for being the site of the Battle of Navarino in 1827, which turned the tide for Greek independence,
Situated in Messinia, in the southwest Peloponnese, Costa Navarino has one of the most unspoiled and breath-taking landscapes in the Mediterranean. Its philosophy is driven by a genuine desire to promote the region, whilst upholding the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility throughout all developmental stages, from construction to operation. As a world-class lifestyle travel destination in Greece, it aims to offer a world of authentic experiences, blending the finest hotels, private homes and extensive leisure amenities, always with respect for the natural environment, the local community, and the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, which spans over 4,500 years.
At a time when daily life is punctured by a series of global crises – from climate change to the pandemic, to all-out war – the quest for happiness seems ever more elusive, and even a bit indulgent. However more people than ever are seeking it out.
For the seventh year, Costa Navarino welcomes world-acclaimed authors and speakers to lead discussions and debates during “The Democracy and Happiness Weekend”.
In partnership with the Athens Democracy Forum, the cultural event takes place from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October 2022 at the brand-new W Costa Navarino – a vibrant resort located on the 13-hectare Navarino Waterfront site.
This stunning location is the setting for a series of events where attendees can immerse themselves in thought-provoking discussions and benefit from the unrivalled natural landscape, while enjoying a session of beach yoga, a philosophy walk or a cultural experience.
W Costa Navarino offers guests attending” Democracy and Happiness” a wide array of extra activities, including beach yoga.
The annual weekend explores the role of happiness in public life, through discussions and talks featuring motivational speakers, such as Pascal Bruckner, acclaimed author who penned the book Perpetual Euphoria: On the Duty to Be Happy; Wolf Singer, award-winning German neurophysiologist, and Yascha Mounk, professor, esteemed author and one of the world’s leading experts on the crisis of liberal democracy and the rise of populism.
The sessions are moderated by three key journalists at The New York Times: Roger Cohen – author, Chief Correspondent Paris and former Op-Ed columnist; Liz Alderman, Chief European Business Correspondent; and Steven Erlanger, Chief European Diplomatic Correspondent. The speakers will cover a variety of topics exploring whether a happier society equates to a more resilient democracy.
“Democracy feeds on argument, on the discussion as to the right way forward. This is the reason why respecting the opinion of others belongs to democracy”
– Richard von Weizsaecker
In addition to the series of talks and book readings, Costa Navarino offers curated cultural experiences for guests to enjoy, including philosophy walks with academics discussing modern-day ethics through the lens of ancient Greek philosophers, amidst the idyllic Messinian setting. Visitors will also be able to take full advantage of the spectacular coastal location, from swimming in the Ionian Sea, to diving, sailing, kitesurfing and more.
Just a stone’s throw from the long white-sand beach, the new resort’s design is inspired by the region’s traditional residential areas and committed to use local, natural materials such as stone, wood and reed. W Costa Navarino, exclusively for adults and young adults over 12 years old, offers 246 stylish rooms, two- bedroom suites and threw-bedroom villas with private infinity pools, staged in the Bay of Navarino with stunning Ionian Sea views.
The outdoor pool at W Costa Navarino is right next to the beach and offers unparalleled views of the bay.
Join a host of innovative thinkers and award-winning thought leaders from 30th September – 2nd October 2022, for a weekend of debates, discussions and meditations. More information about “The Happiness and Democracy Weekend” HERE.
Words: Shelley Campbell
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