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Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to announce the grand opening of the Dunes Course at Costa Navarino – the first signature golf course in Greece.
The Dunes Course is located at Costa Navarino’s first integrated resort project called Navarino Dunes in Messinia, southwest Peloponnese. The course officially opened alongside The Romanos, Luxury Collection Resort. Soon to follow will be Navarino Dunes’ second five–star hotel – The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino.
Stretching across a breathtaking beachfront landscape, the Dunes Course was designed by two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup captain Bernhard Langer in partnership with European Golf Design. The new golf resort has caught headlines in recent months as many point to the significance of a course of this magnitude in Greece.
“I’m thrilled to have had this opportunity to design the golf course at Navarino Dunes and I believe we have built something really very special,” stated Bernhard Langer. “I’m sure that with the opening of The Romanos, Luxury Collection Resort, people from all over the world will be drawn to this area and our new golf course.”
The Dunes Course, the first of two championship courses at Costa Navarino, was completed some 12 months ago and has since been allowed to fully mature ahead of play. The stunning views of the Ionian Sea are particularly enjoyable on the links-inspired holes, where tall sand dunes divide holes to an adjacent golden beach. Moving further inland, the course evolves to fit the Messinian surroundings of olive and citrus groves. The par 72 championship layout features wide fairways, pot-bunkers, rolling greens, and memorable aesthetics for an unforgettable experience.
Troon Golf worked closely with TEMES, the owning company, during the course construction and pre-opening to ensure a truly world-class golf experience.
“There are few launches in golf that have caught the attention of the industry and golf media quite like this,” commented Bruce Glasco, managing director, Troon Golf Europe, Middle East and Africa. “The attention to detail and the magnitude of Costa Navarino in this stunning region of Greece is truly exceptional and we are delighted to be setting a new standard for golf in Greece.”
The on–course amenities at Navarino Dunes include an extensive clubhouse with stunning views offering dining and banquet facilities and a fully equipped shop with the latest golf equipment and apparel from a range of international brands. Extensive practice facilities include a full–size driving range, putting green and short–game practice area.
“The inspiration for the Dunes Course was its spectacular location,” said Ross McMurray, who led the team from European Golf Design. “It is one of the most beautiful places you could be asked to design a golf course and frankly, the waterfront views are just breathtaking. Our objective was to create a course that would not only compliment this wonderful setting, but would set a benchmark for quality and high standards to attract a golfing public who may not have considered visiting Greece.”
With future plans including the Bay Course designed by Robert Trent Jones II on the historic bay of Navarino to be completed in early 2011, Costa Navarino is set to establish itself as an iconic destination among discerning travelers and golfers alike.
“The Dunes Course is the first step to realizing our goal of developing a new golf destination in this undiscovered, authentic and historical area,” commented Achilles Constantakopoulos, managing director of TEMES. “Costa Navarino began from the vision of my father, Captain Vassilis, to create a unique place in his homeland where golfers from around the world could enjoy its unparalleled beauty and nature.”
TEMES S.A. is a premier developer of luxury mixed-use resorts in the Mediterranean region. Costa Navarino in Messinia is its flagship development. At the heart of the company’s business philosophy is its strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility with the aim of achieving sustainable tourism development in complete harmony with the natural environment and traditions of the destination.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Troon Golf EMEA is committed to developing Troon Golf’s presence in Europe, Middle East and Africa. This rapidly expanding division now oversees operations at 36 courses in 12 countries including Dubai, Portugal, Spain and England with further expansion planned across all regions.
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