News Summary
Rhodes is undergoing a transformative redevelopment of the Afantou Golf Course with a €400 million investment led by the Mitsis Group. This project aims to enhance Rhodes’ appeal as a luxurious destination, featuring modern golf facilities, three high-end hotels, and a marina. Furthermore, it supports Greece’s strategy to diversify tourism beyond traditional offerings, promoting year-round visits with a focus on sustainability and aesthetics. The redevelopment is expected to create local jobs and elevate the island’s economic and cultural significance.
Rhodes Launches €400 Million Project to Transform Afantou Golf Course into a Luxury Destination
Rhodes is set to undergo a significant transformation as a €400 million investment is directed toward redeveloping the island’s only 18-hole golf course, the Afantou Golf Course. The project aims to elevate Rhodes’ status as a premier luxury and leisure destination, attracting high-end international travelers seeking a blend of recreational, cultural, and maritime experiences.
Major Renewal by the Mitsis Group
The Mitsis Group, which acquired the Afantou Golf Course in 2022, is spearheading this comprehensive redevelopment initiative. The project’s primary goal is to maintain the intrinsic character of the original golf course while expanding its scope over an area of 500 stremma (approximately 123.7 acres). This strategic expansion promises to redefine the tourism landscape on Rhodes with modern infrastructure, contemporary golf facilities, and luxury amenities.
Design and Architectural Enhancements
The redevelopment emphasizes green design and modern architecture, blending sustainability with elegance. The new golf course will be configured in a contemporary style, featuring verdant fairways and scenic vistas designed to provide improved playing conditions and aesthetic appeal. The initiative also includes constructing pedestrian routes, public squares, and recreational areas, creating a welcoming environment for both visitors and locals.
Luxury Hospitality and Maritime Facilities
A cornerstone of the project involves the development of three high-end hotels geared toward affluent travelers. These resorts will integrate comfort, luxury, and style while offering extensive amenities. An on-site marina, directly connected to the Mediterranean Sea, will serve as a hub for maritime tourism, providing opportunities for boating, yachting, and other sea-based leisure activities.
Additional Commercial and Residential Components
Complementing the golf and hotel facilities, the project plans to include a shopping complex that features designer boutiques and local craft shops, appealing to tourists seeking unique shopping experiences. Furthermore, residential units tailored for long-term stays will be integrated into the development, offering opulent living spaces that naturally complement the resort environment.
Alignment with Greece’s Tourism Diversification Strategy
This investment aligns with Greece’s broader policy to diversify its tourism offerings beyond traditional beach holidays. The new facilities aim to attract high-end tourists year-round, promoting both relaxing and adventurous experiences outside the peak summer months.
Expected Economic and Cultural Impact
The redevelopment is anticipated to create numerous new jobs, enhance infrastructure, and boost economic activity in Rhodes. It is also expected to increase the island’s cultural and aesthetic appeal, making it a more attractive destination for international visitors seeking luxury and exclusivity.
Sustainable Development and Future Vision
Developers emphasize a commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices and green design principles into the project. The overall vision is to establish Rhodes as a European-standard luxurious destination, ushering in a new era for the island’s tourism industry while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
Comprehensive Infrastructure and Recreational Enhancements
In addition to luxury accommodations and golf facilities, the project includes developing new pedestrian pathways, promenades, public squares, and recreational zones. These infrastructural improvements are designed to support a seamless and elevated tourism experience, promoting active leisure options throughout the year.
Conclusion
The €400 million redevelopment of Afantou Golf Course marks a significant step toward positioning Rhodes as an elite international tourism hub. By combining contemporary luxury facilities, sustainable design, and diverse recreational offerings, the project aims to attract a discerning clientele and foster long-term growth aligned with Greece’s strategic tourism objectives.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Travel and Tour World
- Wikipedia: Rhodes
- Ladies European Tour
- BBC Sport
- Sky Sports
- Google Search: Afantou Golf Course Rhodes
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RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
