Golf in Greece

Greece might not be the first destination that comes to mind for golf in Europe, but for those in the know, it’s one of the most breathtaking and rewarding places to tee it up. With a growing reputation for championship-quality design, dramatic scenery, and sunshine almost year-round, golf in Greece offers a truly unique experience that blends sport, culture, and natural beauty.

What makes golf here so special is the sheer spectacle of the surroundings - the deep blue of the Mediterranean, rugged coastal cliffs, and tranquil olive groves that frame every fairway. Though still relatively new to the European golf scene, Greece’s courses - especially those at Costa Navarino - are among the finest in the region, delivering world-class layouts in one of the most stunning settings imaginable.

Below are some of the best golf courses in Greece - each one offering its own flavor of challenge, character, and unforgettable scenery.

The Dunes Course (Costa Navarino, Messinia)

Designer: Bernhard Langer | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,581 yards

As Greece’s first signature golf course, The Dunes set the standard for golf in the country - and it shows. Designed by former Masters Champion Bernhard Langer, this stunning seaside course combines championship pedigree with captivating natural beauty. Sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and nearby river are paired with undulating fairways, tall native grasses, and deep bunkers that make accuracy a must. It’s a test of both strategy and shot-making, delivering a world-class round that’s as scenic as it is challenging.

The Bay Course (Costa Navarino, Navarino Bay)

Designer: Robert Trent Jones II | Par: 71 | Yardage: 5,751 yards

Less demanding than The Dunes but equally enjoyable, The Bay Course offers a playful and visually spectacular round. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, it winds gracefully along the historic Bay of Navarino, combining coastal holes with inland stretches framed by olive trees and mountain views. Its variety of hole designs keeps every round fresh, and the panoramic views make it one of the most photographed golf courses in Europe.

Our experts say... “The Bay Course delivers the perfect balance - fun, scenic, and full of character. It’s hard to keep your eyes on the ball when the views are this good.”

The Hills Course (Navarino Hills, Messinia)

Designer: José María Olazábal | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,956 yards

Opened in 2022, The Hills Course is a masterpiece of modern golf architecture. Set high above the coastline, it showcases the breathtaking Peloponnesian countryside and Ionian Sea from nearly every hole. Wide fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and sweeping vistas create a serene yet strategic inland test. Precision and smart course management are key here - every shot demands thought, and every hole rewards creativity.

The International Olympic Academy Golf Course (Navarino Hills)

Designer: José María Olazábal | Par: 72 | Yardage: 6,960 yards

Also debuting in 2022, the International Olympic Academy Golf Course offers a more challenging complement to its sister layout, The Hills. This tour-caliber course delivers a thrilling mix of rolling terrain, deep bunkering, and well-placed water hazards that demand both power and precision. Set amid the rugged natural beauty of Navarino Hills, it’s a course designed to test the very best - and to inspire every golfer who plays it.

Our experts say... “The Olympic Academy Course feels like a true championship venue - a bold, dramatic layout that rewards strategy and punishes anything less than your best.”

Travel Tips & Best Time to Go

Best time to visit: Greece enjoys a year-round golf season, but the best times to visit are during spring (April–June) and fall (September–early November). These months bring warm, sunny weather with mild temperatures - perfect for comfortable rounds and sightseeing without the summer crowds.

Best time of day to play: Summer (July-August) can be hot, particularly inland, but coastal destinations like Costa Navarino benefit from refreshing sea breezes that keep conditions pleasant. Early morning or late afternoon tee times are ideal for avoiding the midday heat while enjoying the magical Mediterranean light.

Getting there: The easiest route to Costa Navarino is via Athens International Airport (ATH) - about a 3.5 to 4-hour scenic drive - or by domestic flight to Kalamata Airport (KLX), just 45 minutes away. Private transfers, rental cars, and chauffeur services are readily available for a smooth journey to the resort.