International Olympic Academy Golf Course

The cliff-edge 12th sets the tone at the International Olympic Academy Golf Course. This par-three plays towards a green framed by olive trees and penalty ground, with the wind often adding another decision before the tee shot. José María Olazábal’s 18-hole, par-72 design runs to 6,961 yards through the rolling hills of Navarino Hills, looking across woodland and valleys towards Navarino Bay and the Ionian Sea. Water, changes in elevation and bunkers placed to influence the line of play make this the sterner of the two Navarino Hills courses. Sloping greens reward an approach played to the right section rather than simply fired at the flag.

A full-length driving range, putting green and short-game area make it easy to prepare properly before the round. The academy also offers private tuition, group sessions and clinics, with video analysis and a simulator available as part of the coaching set-up. The Hills clubhouse is a good place to settle after 18 holes, built with locally sourced stone and positioned for broad views over the landscape. Within the wider Costa Navarino resort, the other three 18-hole courses are all within 8.1 miles, so a multi-round stay can include the 6,581-yard Dunes Course, where pot bunkers, broad fairways and undulating greens meet olive groves and stretches beside the sea.

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino provides beachfront accommodation within the resort, while meals can take the shape of steak and locally sourced produce at Flame in the Dunes Clubhouse, or modern French cooking at Brasserie de la Bay as the sun drops over the Ionian Sea. Ted’s Lounge works well for a relaxed snack or drink between rounds. For time away from the fairways, the Anazoe Spa runs treatments across four programmes, including Messinian Healing and Mind Reset, with published opening hours from 10:00 to 19:00.