Greece, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, also offers some of the most picturesque and well-designed golf courses in Europe. From the olive groves and Ionian Sea views at Costa Navarino to the historical backdrop of the Crete Golf Club, golfers of all levels can find a course that not only challenges their game but also enchants their senses. In this article, we explore the top 10 golf courses in Greece, each offering a unique golfing experience combined with the beauty and hospitality that Greece is renowned for.
Key Takeaways
- Greece has a total of 11 golf courses, with 10 of them being 5-star rated, showcasing the high quality of golfing experiences available.
- Costa Navarino stands out as a premier golf destination in Greece, offering four world-class golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and stunning natural beauty.
- The majority of golf courses in Greece have modern amenities, with 8 out of 11 featuring websites and email lists, facilitating easy communication and bookings.
- Golfing in Greece is not just about the sport; it’s a holistic experience that combines cultural richness, scenic beauty, and culinary delights, making it an ideal golf holiday destination.
- With no golf courses rated below 5 stars, Greece ensures a premium golfing experience, attracting golf enthusiasts from all over the world.
1. Costa Navarino – The Dunes Course
The Dunes Course at Costa Navarino offers an unparalleled golfing experience in Greece, with its thoughtful design by golf legends and its stunning Mediterranean landscapes. This course is part of a quartet that ranks among Europe’s top 150, showcasing the resort’s global acclaim.
At the Navarino Golf Academy, golfers of every skill level can enhance their game. With professional tuition available, both novices and seasoned players will find the Dunes Course a masterful blend of challenge and beauty. The Pro Shop ensures all your golfing needs are met, making for a seamless experience.
The Dunes Course is not just about golf; it’s about an immersive experience in a breath-taking setting.
The Dunes Course, a coastal gem, is complemented by the inland Hills Course and others, each offering a unique play style. With two hours of free practice included with each round, golfers can perfect their swing amidst the splendor of Costa Navarino.
2. Costa Navarino – The Bay Course
The Bay Course at Costa Navarino offers a distinctive golfing experience with its 18-hole, par 71 seaside layout. Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones II, it presents a delightful challenge for golfers at all skill levels. Located just minutes from the Navarino Dunes, the Bay Course is set within the Navarino Bay development, providing a contrasting challenge to its sister course.
With the majority of tees boasting stunning sea views and two holes playing along the historic Bay of Navarino, the course measures a bit shorter than The Dunes, yet it does not fall short on the quality of the golfing journey. The new Clubhouse has been recognized as the Global Clubhouse of the Year 2020, adding to the prestige of the venue.
The golfing experience at Costa Navarino is unparalleled, with four courses ranked among Europe’s top 150. The thoughtful design amidst the breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes ensures that each round is as visually engaging as it is technically satisfying.
Costa Navarino is committed to providing a world-class golf experience, with sustainability at its core. The resort’s four signature courses are a testament to its dedication to excellence and environmental consciousness.
3. Crete Golf Club
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Hersonissos, the Crete Golf Club stands out as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. With its immaculate courses and serene environment, it offers a unique golfing experience that combines sport with relaxation.
The Crete Golf Club Hotel complements the golfing experience with its spacious and elegant rooms, all boasting views of the golf course and the surrounding mountains. Guests consistently rate their stays as superb, highlighting the hotel’s tranquil atmosphere and the staff’s exceptional service.
The Crete Golf Club is not just a golfer’s paradise; it’s a haven of tranquility, designed to provide a luxurious escape from the everyday.
For those planning a trip, the average price per night is a reasonable $154, ensuring that this wonderful experience is accessible without breaking the bank. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Crete Golf Club is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
4. Glyfada Golf Course of Athens
Nestled in the heart of Athens, the Glyfada Golf Course offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. With its well-maintained fairways and greens, it stands out as a fully equipped facility, providing golf cars, clubs, and professional instructors to enhance your golfing experience.
The course’s design caters to both seasoned golfers and newcomers, ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable round for all skill levels.
Here’s a quick glance at the Glyfada Golf Course details:
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Athens, Attica Region, Greece |
| Phone | ********6820 |
| Rating | 4.7 |
| Review Count | 682 |
Not overcrowded, this course allows for a relaxed pace of play, making it an ideal location for those looking to improve their game or simply enjoy a day out on the links.
5. Corfu Golf Club
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Ionian Islands, Corfu Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience that is both challenging and enjoyable. With a course that weaves through rivers and lakes, it provides a test for golfers of all skill levels.
The course’s design harmoniously blends with the natural landscape, offering stunning views and a peaceful environment for the perfect round of golf.
Facilities at the club include a well-appointed clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, where players can relax after a game. The club also offers golf carts for rent, which is a popular choice for guests wanting to explore the course at their leisure.
For those looking to book a tee time, the Corfu Golf Club is known for its excellent customer service, ensuring a memorable golfing experience.
6. Porto Carras Golf Club
Nestled in the stunning region of Halkidiki, the Porto Carras Golf Club offers a unique blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge. This 18-hole course, designed by Geoffrey Cornish, provides golfers with a variety of strategic options and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
The club is well-equipped with all the amenities needed for a perfect golf day, including a pro shop, driving range, and a cozy clubhouse where you can relax after your round. The course is known for its well-maintained fairways and greens, which promise a rewarding experience for golfers of all levels.
Porto Carras Golf Club is not just about the game; it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the serenity of Greek nature while enjoying a sport you love.
For those looking to improve their game, the club also offers golf lessons and clinics. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Porto Carras is a destination that should not be missed by any golf enthusiast visiting Greece.
7. Afandou Golf Course Rhodes
Nestled on the scenic island of Rhodes, the Afandou Golf Course offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty for golf enthusiasts. With a rating of 4.1 stars from over 200 reviews, it’s clear that this course is a favorite among players seeking a serene golfing experience.
The course is praised for its well-maintained fairways and greens, providing a pristine golfing environment. However, it’s important to note that the surrounding area is quite remote, with limited access to amenities such as bars, shops, and restaurants.
For those planning a visit, here’s a quick guide:
- Call ahead to book your tee time.
- Prepare for a tranquil round, as the course is away from the hustle and bustle.
- Consider staying at nearby accommodations that offer transport services, as the course is not easily accessible by public transport.
- Enjoy the natural beauty and take in the stunning views as you play.
8. Porto Elounda Golf Club
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Crete, the Porto Elounda Golf Club offers a unique blend of luxury and sport. With its challenging 9-hole course, golfers can enjoy the game while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The club is not just about golf; it’s a full experience. Guests can indulge in the amenities of the adjacent resort, which include a spa, fine dining, and a private beach. The course itself is well-maintained, with strategic bunkers and water hazards that require careful navigation.
The Porto Elounda Golf Club is an ideal destination for those seeking a serene golfing retreat with the added benefit of upscale resort facilities.
For those looking to improve their game, the club also offers golf lessons and clinics. The pro shop is stocked with the latest gear, and the clubhouse provides a welcoming space to relax after a round.
While Porto Elounda may not have the extensive course count of some European destinations, it stands out for its quality and the comprehensive experience it provides.
9. Messinia Golf Club
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Peloponnese region, the Messinia Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience. With meticulously maintained fairways and greens, golfers of all levels can enjoy a challenging yet rewarding round.
The club’s reputation for excellent service is well-known, and visitors often praise the condition of the courses. As one traveler mentioned on Tripadvisor, the courses at Costa Navarino, including the Dunes and the Bay, were in awesome condition with stunning views.
The Messinia Golf Club is not just about the sport; it’s a place where the beauty of Greek nature meets the passion for golf.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the club’s facilities cater to every need, ensuring a memorable golfing experience.
10. Rhodes Golf Club
Nestled on the picturesque island of Rhodes, the Rhodes Golf Club offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and challenging play. With its well-manicured fairways and greens, it stands as a testament to golfing excellence in Greece.
Accommodation options near the course are plentiful, with the Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton being a notable mention. This enchanting retreat truly feels like a slice of a quaint Greek village, with convenient access to charming restaurants and boutique shops.
The Rhodes Golf Club is not just about the game; it’s about the experience. From the moment you step onto the course, the blend of natural beauty and the spirit of the game envelops you, promising an unforgettable golfing adventure.
For those looking for a stay that combines affordability with proximity to the golfing action, the SPOT HOTEL in Rhodes Town is an excellent choice. With an average price of $30 per night and a good rating from visitors, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort or convenience.
Conclusion
Exploring the top golf courses in Greece offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, world-class facilities, and rich cultural experiences. With only 11 golf courses scattered across the country, each provides a distinct charm and challenge for golf enthusiasts. The majority of these courses are highly rated, boasting 5-star experiences that promise to enhance your golf holiday. Notably, Costa Navarino stands out as a premier golf destination, offering four top-tier courses and an array of luxury amenities. Whether you’re looking to tee off with a view of the Ionian Sea or immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Greek islands, these golf courses are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. As you plan your next golf getaway, consider the unparalleled offerings of Greece’s finest courses, and indulge in a sport and leisure experience like no other.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many golf courses are there in Greece?
There are a total of 11 golf courses in Greece as of March 15, 2024.
How many 5-star rated golf courses are there in Greece?
There are 10 5-star rated golf courses in Greece.
What is the total count of golf courses in Greece with a website?
The total count of golf courses in Greece with a website is 8.
Are there any golf courses in Greece without a website?
Yes, there are 3 golf courses in Greece without a website.
What are some of the best golf hotels to stay at in the Greek Islands?
Some of the best golf hotels in the Greek Islands include Porto Galini Seaside Resort & Spa, Villa Elia Resort, Hotel Odeon, Saint George Hotel, Dream Island Hotel, and Zanneta Apartments & Suites.
What makes Costa Navarino a unique golf destination in Greece?
Costa Navarino is unique due to its classic Mediterranean holiday environment paired with world-class golf. It offers four top-150 European golf courses, luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches, stunning views, and a range of activities beyond golf.