© Costa Navarino

The upscale Mediterranean destination Costa Navarino will start cooperating with The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) to bring signature training programs for professionals and boot camps for cooking enthusiasts to Greece. In early 2024, two exclusive 5-day courses - one for professional chefs and one for food enthusiasts - will take place at the sustainability-focused luxury retreat. 

© The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

Held in small groups, the courses will be led by head instructors from the world-renowned CIA, which has been training top chefs for more than 75 years. Participants will work in professional kitchens while enjoying luxurious accommodations at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the Ionian Sea and state-of-the-art sports, spa and wellness facilities as well as an abundance of outdoor activities, while also learning about the region's culture, history and natural beauty.

The Intensive training program for professionals will take place from February 28 to March 3, 2024, and will focus on plant-based cooking. Participants will learn basic techniques to extract maximum flavor from vegetables, fruits and grains. From March 6 to 10, a Food Enthusiast Boot Camp will follow, where amateur cooks can improve their skills. Participants will also learn about the gastronomic heritage of Messenia, from their world-famous olive oil and Kalamata olives to local fruits, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.

© The Culinary Institute of America

The Culinary Institute of America was established in 1946 and is a leading global culinary school. The independent, nonprofit institute educates leaders in the restaurant industry and offers certificates and courses for professionals and food enthusiasts. The CIA has campuses in New York, California, Texas and Singapore and a global network of more than 50,000 alumni.

Costa Navarino is a sustainable destination with numerous five-star hotels and luxury private residences in the southwestern Peloponnese in Greece. Navarino Dunes is home to The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and the Costa Navarino Residences. Navarino Bay is home to the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, the W Costa Navarino and the Navarino Agora, a curated marketplace. Both sites feature 18-hole signature golf courses, while Navarino Hills has two additional signature golf courses.

Learn more: costanavarino.com