The 9 Best Golf Courses and Resorts in Greece
Greece is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture—but it’s also quickly becoming a top destination for golfers. With world-class courses, set against breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine to fuel your game, and ancient monuments to explore, Greece offers a unique blend of relaxation, sport, and culture.
Whether you’re seeking challenging fairways or simply a peaceful escape, this Mediterranean paradise has something for every golfer.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at why Greece should be at the top of your list for your next golf getaway.
1. The Dunes Course – Costa Navarino
The Dunes Course, Greece’s first signature golf course, opened in 2010 and was designed by two-time US Masters Champion Bernhard Langer. Set alongside The Romanos and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, this par 71 course offers stunning sea and river views, with links-style holes near the coast.
On top of the four signature golf courses and four 5-star resorts, Costa Navarino has over 40 dining venues, a world-renowned spa facility, and an overall level of luxury that is hard to obtain.
Opened: 2010
Par: 72
Length: 6755 yards
Designers include: Bernhard Langer (2010) European Golf Design (2010)
Difficulty: Slope 140 / Rating 73.0
2. The Bay Course
The Bay Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in October 2011, offers one of the most beautiful golfing experiences in Greece. Set in the Navarino Bay development, this par 71 seaside course features stunning waterfront holes and views of the Bay of Navarino.
With four sets of tees ranging from 4,810 to 6,100 yards, it caters to golfers of all levels. The course weaves through three distinct landscapes—the Seaside, Canyon, and Grove holes—providing a mix of challenges and breathtaking scenery, making for a memorable round.
Opened: 2011
Par: 71
Length: 6139 yards
Designers include: Robert Trent Jones, Jr. (2011)
Difficulty: Slope 136 / Rating 71.0
3. The International Olympic Academy GC – Costa Navarino
Designed by two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup legend José María Olazábal, The International Olympic Academy Golf Course is perched atop a mountaintop, offering panoramic views stretching out to the sea.
This par 72 course boasts six sets of tees, ranging from 4,952 to 7,000 yards, and is complemented by some of the finest practice facilities you’ll find anywhere.
Opened: 2022
Par: 72
Length: 6961 yards
Designers include: José María Olazábal (2022)
Difficulty: Slope 130 / Rating 73.7
4. The Hills Course – Costa Navarino
The second of the Costa Navarino courses designed by José María Olazábal, The Hills Course, is perched above the coastline which offers sweeping panoramic views of the Bay of Navarino and Ionian Sea.
The standout holes include the short par-three 5th, which measures 132 meters, and the challenging par-six 6th, considered the toughest hole on the front nine. On the back nine, the par-four 13th presents the best opportunity for a rewarding birdie.
Opened: 2022
Par: 72
Length: 6867 yards
Designers include: José María Olazábal (2022)
Difficulty: Slope 126 / Rating 72.7
5. Portos Carras Golf Club
Initially a nine-hole course with irrigation issues, Porto Carras was revamped in 2004 into the 18-hole Olive Course. Located on the Sithonia peninsula, the course features improved soil and new plantings, including warm-season grass that ensures the course remains lush year-round.
Alongside the Olive Course, the club offers extensive practice amenities, including two driving ranges, a putting and chipping green, and a practice bunker.
Opened: 1973
Par: 72
Length: 6625 yards
Designers include: Geoffrey Cornish (1974) Bill Robinson (1974)
Difficulty: Slope 132 / Rating 72.4
6. Glyfada Golf Club of Athens
Founded in 1966, Glyfada Golf Club of Athens is situated on a 125-acre site next to the old Athens airport. Initially designed by Donald Harradine, the 18-hole parkland course was revamped by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1979 in preparation for the 27th World Cup of Golf,
Today the course spans 6,261, featuring two returning nines. Notable holes include the short par fours at the 2nd and 17th.
Opened: 1966
Par: 72
Length: 6132 yards
Designers include: Robert Trent Jones, Sr. (1979) Donald Harradine (1966) Les Furber Design (1979)
Difficulty: Slope 126 / Rating 69.5
7. The Crete Golf Club
The Crete Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by the famous architect Bob Hunt, who is known for creating courses that blend harmoniously with their surroundings.
The Crete Golf Club offers luxurious suites that include views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. The proximity to beautiful beaches, Cretan countryside, and the vibrant city of Heraklion adds to the experience.
Opened: 2003
Par: 71
Length: 6277 yards
Designers include: Bob Hunt
Difficulty: Slope 135 / Rating 71.0
8. Corfu Golf & Country Club
As one of the best-kept courses in Europe, the Corfu Golf Club ties seamlessly with the Ropa Valley. Harradine’s design offers clever hazards and fast-bent greens, proving that a great course does not need length to be challenging. For those who approach with skill and strategy, Corfu offers birdie opportunities, especially from the forward tees.
Opened: 1971
Par: 72
Length: 6761 yards
Designers include: Donald Harradine (1971) Andrew Mair (2005)
Difficulty: Slope 130 / Rating 72.4
9. Afandou Golf Club
Afandou Golf Course, located on the island of Rhodes, boasts a stunning seaside setting with three holes that run right along the ocean. To maintain lush fairways and greens year-round, even through the island’s hot summer months, the course uses a variety of grass types.
Afandou is conveniently situated near several popular attractions, including beautiful beaches, scenic countryside, and the medieval town of Rhodes. In addition to the main course, Afandou Golf Course offers a putting green and driving range, providing ample opportunities for golfers to refine their short game.
Opened: 1973
Par: 73
Length: 6818 yards
Designers include: Donald Harradine (1973)
Difficulty: Slope 125 / Rating 73.0
FAQs
The Peloponnese peninsula, particularly the Messenia region around Costa Navarino, is the top golf destination in Greece. This area features several world-class, championship courses designed by acclaimed architects such as Bernhard Langer and Robert Trent Jones Jr.
The best time to play golf in Greece is during the shoulder seasons, specifically May and September. This is when the weather is pleasant, not too hot, and crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
Greece hosts several major golf tournaments, including the Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy, the first major professional event in 23 years, featuring top Legends Tour players. The AEGEAN Messinia Pro-Am took place in 2022 and 2024 at Costa Navarino, with 50 teams from 21 countries.
The Greek Seniors Open is held at Glyfada Golf Club, and Women’s Golf Day will be celebrated in Messinia, Pylos, in 2025. The Greek Maritime Golf Event is set for 2024, showcasing Greece as a premier golf destination.
Yes, Premier Golf has an exceptional week-long package to Costa Navarino. It features four fantastic days of golf alongside ample free time to explore the resort’s incredible attractions.
You can enhance your experience by adding a visit to the ancient city of Athens to complete your perfect Greek getaway.
In Greece, green fees can range from $50-130 depending on the course, season, and time of day. Premier Golf will inform you of the green fees of each course you choose to play.
Meet the Author: Bill Hogan
Bill Hogan is based in Austin, TX and has over 35 years of experience in the luxury golf travel industry.
He has played golf in 57 different countries to date, is a long- time panelist for GOLF Magazine World & USA Top 100 courses, and on the ranking panel for Platinum Clubs of the World.
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