It might come as a surprise to some, but Greece is now considered an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts.

Imagine perfect weather conditions, luxurious accommodations with magical views, and a superb golf course only a few steps away. If that sounds like a dream read on to discover three exceptional golfing experiences around the Aegean that will leave you wanting to head for the Greens!

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Costa Navarino

In the heart of Messinia, Costa Navarino offers not one but two world-class golf courses with the stunning sea, mountain, and river as a backdrop to your tee shots. The Dunes and The Bay Course are 18-hole signature courses surrounded by five-star hotels and resorts, making it a prime location for golf connoisseurs. Here you will find everything from shoes and buggies to full sets of golf clubs for hire and you can test your skills while enjoying uninterrupted views of lush olive groves on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. This spot has become so popular with golfers from around the world that Costa Navarino is scheduled to open two new José Mariá Olazábal-designed golf courses in 2021.

Porto Carras

Set on the spectacular coast of Sithonia, Porto Carras is home to the one and only golf course in Northern Greece, which is now considered a leading golf destination in the Mediterranean. Here you can enjoy a luxurious golf experience on its 18-hole and par 72 signature course, which hosts international tournaments all year round (pre-COVID). With breathtaking views of the Aegean, nearby mountains, vineyards, and the overall landscape of Halkidiki have made Olive Grove Golf Course one of the most admired in the globe. There are also private and group lessons, which are designed for every golfer level, including kids’ classes. The course is close to Porto Carras two 5-star hotels, a world-class villa, a casino, one of the biggest thalassotherapy and spa centers in Europe, a private 315-berth marina, a horse riding academy, a tennis club with nine courts, a diving center, a nautical club, plus Greece’s largest organic vineyard, making it a real treat for all.

 

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Crete Golf Club

On Greece’s largest island, you will find an 18-hole Championship course that meticulously maintains the distinctive elements of Crete’s natural landscape. The mountainous course at Hersonissos, about 25km east of Heraklion, features a desert-style layout and each hole has been individually sculptured to blend into the authentic surroundings. The course is said to test every aspect of a golfer’s repertoire and the popular 11th hole offers an unrivaled view of the Lasithi Mountains and the unique Cretan countryside. Open all year round (prior to COVID) the course is only footsteps away from its 5-star hotel that consists of 25 suites, which all include large balconies with mountain/ sea views, plus a serene restaurant overlooking the course.