The Dunes Course

The 485-yard fourth is the longest par 4 from the back tees, an early reminder that The Dunes Course has enough length to test stronger players. This 18-hole, par-71 Bernhard Langer and European Golf Design layout extends to 6,581 yards at its fullest, but every hole has several tee choices, making it straightforward to set up a round that suits the group. Broad fairways give a little room from the tee, while large greens have enough movement to make approach distance and leaving the right putt important. The coastal holes bring steep-faced pot bunkers and views towards the sea, while other parts of the course run beside the Sellas river or through olive and fruit groves. In season, ripe fruit can be picked from the trees around the fairways.

Opened in 2010 as Greece’s first signature-designed course, The Dunes remains the natural starting point for a Costa Navarino golf break. The Navarino Golf Academy provides a full-size range, putting green and dedicated short-game area, useful before a first round or for settling a few loose shots after travel. Private coaching, clinics and group sessions are available, with video analysis and a simulator among the teaching tools. Buggies, shoes and full club sets can also be included with golf arrangements. After the round, Flame at The Dunes Club House centres its menu on locally sourced steaks, using herbs and produce from its own gardens.

The course sits beside The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, so the golf is close to the main resort facilities. Costa Navarino’s Anazoe Spa offers Messinian Healing treatments, Kinetics Flow physiotherapy sessions, regenerative dermatology and mindfulness experiences for a quieter afternoon between rounds. For a change of challenge, the nearby Bay Course at Navarino Bay is another 18-hole par 71, a Robert Trent Jones II design measuring 6,141 yards from the back tees.