Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, Navarino Bay, Greece

Resort

Embedding luxury into landform, Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino won best Resort at AHEAD Europe 2025.

Rooted in the rugged beauty of Navarino Bay, the resort exemplifies a landscape-first approach to contemporary hospitality, as part of a collaboration by Tombazis & Associates, K-Studio, Afroditi Studio, Alexander Waterworth and MKV Design, with landscaping by Coopers Hill and Greenways. Sunken architectural volumes, planted roofs and curved stone forms echo the region’s vernacular, while interiors unfold in hushed tones and natural textures, creating an calming atmosphere. Passive bioclimatic strategies—such as cross-ventilation and shaded transitions—are seamlessly integrated, while the surrounding landscape, defined by native planting and over 2,700 preserved olive trees, establishes a continuous dialogue.

“Restorative and rejuvenating,” commented one judge, with another noting its “convincing integration into the landscape.” The panel saw “sublime execution at every level,” highlighting “memorable moments, underpinned by a sense of quiet luxury.” “A standout,” – “this is what a large-scale resort should be.”

Winners
Global Headline Sponsor
 
RH

Trophy Sponsor
 
Preciosa

Global Sponsors
 
Kaldewei
 
Laufen
 
Lutron
 
Roca
 
Villeroy&Boch

Event Sponsors
 
Alarwool
 
Franklite
 
Hansgrohe
 
Interdecor Design
 
Magnovent
 
Northern Lights
 
Occhio
 
Preciosa
 
Starpool
 
TECE

Organised By
 
Sleeper
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Partners
 
HIX
 
Music Concierge