The Hills Course at Costa Navarino gets under your skin from the first tee. José María Olazábal has used the natural terrain around Kalamata brilliantly, routing the course through elevation changes and contours that make you think your way round rather than just lash driver and hope for the best.
Yardage and par
Playing 6,908 yards from the back tees as a par 72, it's a proper test without feeling unfair. Pick the right tees for your handicap and you'll enjoy it a lot more.
How it plays
Strategy is everything here. You'll often need to work the ball both ways to open up the best angles into the greens. Miss a fairway and it's not only rough you're dealing with, it's awkward approaches and pins you can't attack.
The main defence: the greens
In my opinion, the greens are where the Hills really bites. They're quick, undulating and can be deceptively multi-tiered, so leaving the ball underneath the hole matters. Get on the wrong level and a three-putt suddenly feels very possible.
With the scenery across the Messinian landscape, plus conditioning that's usually excellent, it's no surprise this course has become a standout for golfers planning a Greece golf break. It's quickly becoming one of the finest courses in the country and a real highlight of any Costa Navarino itinerary.
Who is this for? Golfers who want a high-quality resort round with serious views and a strategic edge.
Who is it best for? Mid to low handicappers who enjoy course management and shaping shots, plus groups and couples building a premium Costa Navarino itinerary.
