Greece 2025 - A Journey Beyond Expectations
/Greece once again proved to be a rare destination where reality not only met but surpassed the hype. The trip promised – and delivered – unforgettable moments: the turquoise waters of Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, championship golf across the stunning courses of Costa Navarino, and the spectacle of the Changing of the Guards (Evzones) in Athens, with kilts and pom-poms moving in perfect harmony. It was a journey filled with memories, friendships, and experiences that will linger long after the jetlag wears off!
Hotels / Destinations
The choice of accommodation showcased the very best of Greece - and it would have been hard to beat this trio of 5-star properties:
Lesante Cape, Zakynthos - A Michelin Key-recognised hotel that offered an exceptional stay. The suites were stylish, spacious, and elegantly decorated, each boasting lovely sea views. The hotel itself blended modern luxury with traditional Greek charm, complemented by attentive, personalised service at every turn.
Costa Navarino – W Hotel- Offered bold, contemporary luxury with style and attitude. Sleek, locally inspired rooms set the scene, while vibrant dining and top-tier wellness options made every moment memorable. It was perfect for travellers seeking comfort, flair, and a little fun rolled into one unforgettable stay.
Athens – Capital MGallery - Centrally located, stylish, and effortlessly luxurious. The hotel combined refined comfort with easy access to Athens’ historic landmarks, providing the perfect home base for exploring the capital and unwinding after busy days on tour.
Experiences
Zakynthos was the surprise destination of the tour, leaving a lasting impression despite severe weather warnings and unexpected rain. The welcome dinner in the plateia, complete with Greek dancing and plate-breaking, was filled with laughter, delicious local cuisine, and palpable excitement for the days ahead.
A private yacht cruise to Navagio Beach, the legendary “Shipwreck Beach,” and the mesmerizing Blue Caves revealed towering cliffs and dazzling turquoise waters. Some eagerly jumped straight from the yacht into the sparkling sea, swimming through shades of blue so vivid they seemed almost otherworldly. A leisurely lunch at a charming local seaside restaurant added the perfect finishing touch to this unforgettable island adventure.
Ancient Olympia and Mycenae offered a journey through Greece’s rich history. Standing in the ancient stadium at Olympia, surrounded by centuries of history, was unforgettable - every stone seemed to whisper stories of the past. At Mycenae, the imposing ruins and the legendary Lion Gate sparked the imagination, offering a glimpse into Greece’s mythical history and the power of its ancient kings. A delightful interactive lunch and cooking demonstration in a sleepy village added warmth and local flavour, providing a true taste of Greek hospitality.
Guests who opted for the Hydra extension savoured the car-free island’s leisurely, sun-drenched rhythm and charming coastal scenery.
Golf
In the realm of golf travel, Costa Navarino is pure indulgence.
From the superb accommodation to the impeccably maintained courses, pre-arranged club hire, and flawless organisation, every detail ran like clockwork. Transfers between hotels and courses were seamless, golf carts were clearly labelled, and hire clubs were pre-assigned - every aspect perfectly managed from start to finish. Beyond the facilities, it was the remarkable golf staff who elevated the experience, delivering service that was attentive, professional, and genuinely memorable. Navarino truly deserved every accolade it receives.
The group enjoyed four rounds of golf, with an optional fifth round available. Each course offered a unique character and challenge:
The Bay Course (Robert Trent Jones Jr.) – Set against the olive groves and commanding views of the Bay of Navarino, the course featured four seaside greens framed by tranquil waters. Canyon and grove holes showcased elevated greens, sweeping mountain vistas, and more than a thousand ancient olive trees, creating a striking contrast between coastal and inland scenery.
The Hills Course (José María Olazábal) – Rugged and untamed, this course climbed away from the sea with dramatic elevation changes, challenging long holes, and exhilarating short holes. Routed through an ancient forest, every shot demanded focus, while flowering grasses along the fairways softened the raw beauty, making each round visually stunning and mentally engaging.
The Dunes Course (Bernhard Langer) – Echoing the rugged contours of distant mountains, this layout wound through olive groves and orchards bursting with citrus, fig, quince, and pomegranate trees. Expansive fairways and steep-faced pot bunkers added challenge, and the course remained in pristine condition despite heavy rain the previous day.
The International Olympic Academy Course (José María Olazábal) – Perched on a clifftop plateau, the front nine echoed The Hills Course with gentle ruggedness and flowering grass gardens. As the course looped toward the sea, fairways narrowed, holes lengthened, and the challenge intensified, framed by breathtaking coastal and hillside vistas.
For those who joined, it was a trip of a lifetime - and for anyone who missed out, the excitement is only building: the Greece 2026 tour promises to be just as unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the adventure! Book your place now!
“This was my first trip with On The Tee. It was a wonderful, luxurious experience. The quality of the hotels, golf and all other experiences was exceptional. Ria and Dina were very attentive to the needs of all travellers and nothing was too much effort. I would highly recommend On The Tee to anyone.”
