Jose Maria Olazabal's International Olympic Academy Course at Costa Navarino is, in my opinion, one of the standout plays on the resort. You get the full Peloponnese backdrop, but it's not just a pretty walk, it's a proper thinking golfer's course.
Off the back tees it measures 6,986 yards and plays as a par 72. The big thing to know before you rock up is that it asks for accuracy, not heroics. The corridors are tighter than you'll find over on The Hills, and there are some nasty drop-offs and hazards waiting if you miss the short stuff. If you're trying to hit driver everywhere, you can make life hard very quickly.
Where it really shines is on the par 3s. There are a couple that will stick in your head long after the round, mostly thanks to the elevation changes and those wide-open views across the Peloponnese. Even if you've pulled one into trouble (we've all been there), you'll still enjoy the walk to the next tee.
When you're done, give yourself time for the clubhouse. The Hills Clubhouse is a bit of a showpiece and it's a brilliant spot for a cold drink as the sun goes down. Architect Lubomir Zeman has created something genuinely special here, a space that feels as considered as the course itself. That's your day sorted.
Who is this for? Golfers planning a Costa Navarino break who want a resort course that looks spectacular but still asks you to plot your way round, plus groups who like having great golf, good food and a strong clubhouse scene all in one place.
Who is it best for? Anyone who prefers accuracy and course management over all-out power, particularly mid-handicappers and better players. It's also ideal if your group has mixed abilities, as you can choose tees sensibly and still have a brilliant day.
