Where Is the Best Place for a Golf Holiday?

Planning a golf holiday involves finding the perfect blend of exceptional courses and attractive locations. The Algarve in Portugal stands out as the best place for a golf holiday, offering excellent value, diverse course options, and pleasant weather throughout the year. This region presents an ideal combination of challenging golf experiences and stunning coastal views, making it a favourite among golfers seeking quality and affordability.

Spain and Turkey also rank among Europe's top golfing hotspots, providing impressive facilities and varied landscapes. For those willing to travel further, destinations like Dubai, Thailand, Mauritius, and Miami offer unique golfing adventures paired with luxurious accommodation and beautiful beaches.

Your ideal golf holiday depends on your specific preferences, budget, and travel distance comfort. European destinations like Portugal, Spain, and France remain the most popular choices due to their accessibility, reasonable prices, and high-quality courses. Many resorts in these areas provide comprehensive golf packages that include accommodation, green fees, and additional amenities.

Choosing the Ideal Golf Destination

Selecting the perfect golf holiday requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure your time is well spent. The right destination combines excellent playing conditions with comforts and attractions that enhance your overall trip.

Geographic Location and Climate

The climate significantly impacts your golfing holiday quality. Mediterranean regions like Portugal's Algarve offer warm, sunny conditions nearly year-round, making them reliable choices for winter escapes. Spain provides exceptional weather particularly along the Costa del Sol, with over 300 sunny days annually.

Florida stands out in North America with its subtropical climate allowing play throughout the year. However, be mindful of hurricane season (June-November) when planning your visit.

Turkey has emerged as a popular choice with its balmy Mediterranean climate and extended playing seasons. The Belek region specifically offers pleasant temperatures even during European winter months.

Consider seasonal variations carefully. Spring and autumn often provide the best balance of favourable weather and reduced crowds at many premier golf locations worldwide.

Golf Course Rating and Design

Course quality forms the foundation of any golf holiday. Look for venues with professional ratings from recognised organisations or publications to gauge their standard. Many top courses feature designs by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus or Robert Trent Jones.

The PGA Catalunya near Barcelona has earned acclaim for its championship-level layout and impeccable maintenance. Similarly, La Manga in Spain offers multiple courses catering to various skill levels.

Course variety matters significantly when choosing your destination. Ideally, select locations with:

• Links courses: Traditional coastal designs with natural hazards
• Parkland layouts: Tree-lined fairways with strategic water features
• Desert courses: Unique playing environments with distinctive challenges

Consider difficulty levels that match your playing ability to ensure enjoyment rather than frustration during your holiday.

Resort Amenities and Services

Comprehensive resort facilities transform a golf trip into a truly relaxing holiday. Look beyond the courses to assess accommodation quality, dining options, and supplementary services.

Many premier golf resorts offer:

The Camiral Golf & Wellness Resort exemplifies excellence with its comprehensive offerings beyond golf. Similarly, Mauritius coastal resorts blend luxurious accommodation with world-class courses.

Consider inclusive packages that combine green fees, accommodation and meals for better value. Many resorts offer significant savings through these bundled options compared to arranging elements separately.

Cultural and Recreational Opportunities

The best golf holidays balance time on the course with enriching off-course activities. Destinations like Barcelona combine excellent golf with cultural richness, allowing you to enjoy architectural marvels, museums and gastronomy between rounds.

Miami and Palm Beaches deliver both outstanding golf and vibrant beach scenes. You can alternate playing days with relaxation along pristine coastlines or exploring vibrant urban areas.

Consider these non-golf activities when selecting your destination:

• Historical sites and museums near your resort
• Local cuisine and wine experiences
• Natural attractions and scenic areas
• Shopping and entertainment districts

The UK offers unique opportunities to combine golf with heritage exploration, particularly in Scotland where ancient castles stand near historic courses. Portugal's Algarve similarly balances excellent golf with charming coastal villages and superb seafood dining options.

Top Global Golf Destinations

The world offers exceptional golf holiday options across different continents. From championship courses with rich histories to modern masterpieces in stunning landscapes, these destinations provide memorable golfing adventures.

North America Highlights

Pebble Beach stands as America's premier golf destination, featuring dramatic coastal holes along California's rugged shoreline. The legendary course has hosted multiple US Opens and offers breathtaking views of Carmel Bay.

Bandon Dunes in Oregon has transformed into a golf mecca with six outstanding links-style courses that capture the essence of traditional Scottish golf. The resort's walking-only policy and natural terrain create a pure golfing environment.

Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina features nine courses, including the celebrated No. 2 course designed by Donald Ross. This historic venue has hosted multiple major championships and exemplifies classic American golf architecture.

Whistling Straits and TPC Sawgrass round out America's finest golf destinations with their challenging layouts and iconic holes. Sawgrass's island green 17th hole remains one of golf's most recognised challenges.

Europe's Finest Courses

St Andrews in Scotland, the birthplace of golf, offers the historic Old Course and several other magnificent links. The town's golfing heritage and atmosphere make it an essential pilgrimage for golf lovers.

Royal County Down in Northern Ireland consistently ranks among the world's best courses with its dramatic setting against the Mourne Mountains. The course's natural beauty is matched by its challenging design.

Gleneagles and Turnberry represent Scotland's luxury golf options, combining world-class courses with five-star accommodation. France, Portugal and Spain offer exceptional Mediterranean golf holidays, as noted in recent rankings.

The Belfry and Valderrama have both hosted Ryder Cup competitions and provide challenging layouts in beautiful settings. Paris has emerged as continental Europe's greatest golf city, offering outstanding courses and urban attractions.

Asia-Pacific Gems

Mission Hills in China features 12 championship courses, making it the world's largest golf resort. The complex has hosted numerous professional tournaments and provides luxurious facilities.

Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania, Australia delivers a true links experience with coastal dunes and challenging conditions. The remote location adds to its appeal as a pure golf destination.

Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand offer dramatic cliff-top holes with spectacular ocean views. These courses ingeniously use the natural landscape to create unforgettable golf challenges.

Emirates Golf Club in Dubai combines desert golf with modern amenities, hosting the prestigious Dubai Desert Classic annually. The night-lit Majlis course provides a unique opportunity for evening rounds in the desert.

Fancourt in South Africa features three outstanding courses including The Links, which has hosted major international competitions. The resort's combination of golf, scenery and hospitality makes it Africa's top golf destination.

Accommodation Options

Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your golf holiday. Accommodation quality, proximity to courses, and package inclusions often determine the overall value and enjoyment of your trip.

Luxury Resorts and Hotels

Trump Turnberry in Scotland stands as one of the finest luxury golf resorts, featuring two championship courses along the stunning Ayrshire coast. The property combines elegant accommodation with exceptional dining and spa facilities.

Miami and Palm Beaches offer outstanding luxury golf and spa combinations, balancing challenging courses with opulent relaxation opportunities. These resorts typically provide premium services including personal golf concierges and custom club fitting.

Many luxury golf resorts feature spa facilities that provide ideal recovery options after a day on the course. Look for properties offering golf-specific massage treatments and wellness programmes designed specifically for golfers.

On-site amenities at luxury golf resorts frequently include multiple dining venues, swimming pools, and fitness centres to complete your holiday. Premium rooms often feature course views and private balconies or terraces.

Golf-Focused Accommodation

Portugal hosts some of Europe's best golf-focused resorts, with properties designed specifically around golfing needs. Many Portuguese resorts offer multiple courses within the same complex, meaning you can play different layouts without changing accommodation.

Golf-focused properties typically offer practical amenities such as secure club storage, equipment cleaning, and early breakfast service for morning tee times. Some provide golf buggies included with room rates for convenient course access.

Practice facilities are another key consideration, with the best golf accommodations featuring driving ranges, short game areas, and putting greens. Many also employ PGA professionals who can provide lessons or swing analysis during your stay.

Room locations matter in golf-focused properties—look for options with views over fairways or within walking distance to the first tee. This convenience eliminates transport worries and allows more time for playing.

All-Inclusive Packages

All-inclusive golf holiday packages combine accommodation, green fees, meals and sometimes drinks into one convenient price. These arrangements offer excellent value, particularly in destinations like Turkey where comprehensive packages have become increasingly popular.

Airport transfers are commonly included in premium all-inclusive golf packages, removing the stress of organising transport. Some packages even include club transport and storage services throughout your stay.

Consider packages that offer flexibility with your included rounds—the best deals allow you to choose from multiple courses rather than restricting you to a single layout. This variety ensures your golfing holiday remains interesting throughout.

Food and beverage inclusions vary significantly between all-inclusive golf packages. Higher-end options might include à la carte dining and premium drinks, while budget packages may offer buffet-style meals with limited beverage selections.

Look for seasonal promotions when booking all-inclusive golf holidays, as shoulder season packages often provide the best value. Many resorts in Europe and beyond offer significant discounts for autumn and spring bookings.

Golf Holiday Planning Tips

Planning a successful golf holiday requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure your trip meets expectations and provides excellent value for money. Proper preparation can make the difference between a memorable outing and a disappointing journey.

Timing and Seasonality

Weather conditions significantly impact your golf holiday quality. The Mediterranean offers ideal playing conditions from April through October, while Scotland and Ireland are best visited between May and September to avoid the worst rainfall.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) often provide the best balance of good weather and reduced prices. Many top courses in popular destinations like Portugal and Spain offer discounted green fees during these periods.

Booking 6-12 months in advance is advisable for premium courses and resorts, particularly if travelling during peak season. Some prestigious venues like St Andrews in Scotland require bookings up to a year ahead.

Consider local tournaments and events when planning. These can either be attractions or obstacles depending on your preferences. Travelling during major competitions means higher prices but potentially exciting atmospheres.

Group and Solo Travel Considerations

Group size affects both booking requirements and overall costs. Larger groups (8+) often qualify for discounts but require more advance planning to secure consecutive tee times.

For solo travellers, many resorts offer "golf buddy" programmes that pair you with other single players. This provides both companionship and reduces costs compared to paying single supplements.

Group dynamics should influence your choice of courses. If your party has varying skill levels, look for destinations with multiple courses of different difficulties like the Algarve in Portugal or Belek in Turkey.

Consider arranging a mini-tournament format for group holidays. This adds competitive fun while accommodating different abilities through handicap systems.

Budgeting and Expenses

Create a comprehensive budget that includes all potential expenses: flights, accommodation, green fees, club hire, transfers, meals, and spending money. Many first-time golf holidaymakers underestimate costs beyond green fees.

Package deals often represent better value than booking components separately. Tour operators can secure preferred rates at golf resorts that aren't available to individual bookers.

Remember to account for additional costs such as:

• Club transport (£20-£60 per flight)
• Buggy hire (£30-£50 per round)
• Trolley rental (£5-£15 per round)
• Caddie fees (£50-£100 plus tip)

Travel insurance specifically covering golf equipment is essential. Standard policies often exclude expensive clubs, so verify your coverage includes protection for lost or damaged equipment.

Golf Courses and Experiences

The finest golf holidays offer exceptional courses designed by legendary architects, breathtaking scenery that enhances play, and comprehensive facilities to hone your skills.

Championship Courses

Scotland's East Lothian stands as the premier destination for accessing world-class championship courses. This region boasts 22 outstanding venues where golf history was written. The Old Course at St Andrews represents the pinnacle of golfing heritage, challenging players with its unique layout and historic significance.

Portugal's Algarve region delivers excellent championship options with superb value. Courses like Monte Rei and Quinta do Lago offer meticulously maintained fairways and challenging holes designed by renowned architects including Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones.

Spain's championship courses, particularly along the Costa del Sol, combine Mediterranean climate advantages with sophisticated designs. Valderrama Golf Club, former Ryder Cup host, presents narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers that test even professional golfers.

Scenic and Unique Locations

Golf courses with ocean views create unforgettable playing contexts. The clifftop holes at Old Head in Ireland provide dramatic Atlantic panoramas that enhance every shot. Pebble Beach in California offers stunning Pacific coastline vistas alongside challenging play conditions.

Mountain courses in France deliver unique altitude challenges and spectacular Alpine backdrops. Courses near Evian present elevation changes that affect club selection while rewarding players with magnificent views across Lake Geneva.

Mauritius combines tropical luxury with exceptional golfing. The island's coastal courses feature holes framed by turquoise waters and white sand beaches, creating a visually striking environment perfectly suited for holiday golf.

Practice Facilities and Learning Opportunities

Leading golf destinations provide comprehensive practice areas to improve your game. The Algarve's major resorts feature extensive driving ranges, short-game areas, and putting greens that allow for focused skill development.

Professional instruction opportunities abound at premier golf holidays. Many resorts offer:

• Individual lessons - Personalised coaching with PGA professionals
• Group clinics - Cost-effective skill development sessions
• Video analysis - Technical assessment using cutting-edge technology

The best practice facilities complement championship courses. Golf academies in Spain's major resorts utilise the latest technology, including launch monitors and putting analysis systems, helping you address specific weaknesses. These learning centres often feature covered hitting bays, allowing practice regardless of weather conditions.

Enhancing Your Golf Holiday Experience

A truly exceptional golf holiday goes beyond just playing on magnificent courses. Your time off the greens can be just as rewarding with the right complementary activities.

Spa and Wellness Facilities

Luxury resorts with golf courses increasingly offer comprehensive wellness centres to help you unwind after a day of play. Many premier golf destinations in Spain, such as La Manga and Camiral Golf & Wellness Resort near Barcelona, feature world-class spa facilities.

These spas typically provide:

• Specialised treatments for golfers focusing on back, shoulder and arm recovery
• Hydrotherapy circuits with thermal pools and jets targeting muscle tension
• Professional sports massage therapists familiar with golf-related strains

Look for properties with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, modern fitness centres, and personalised wellness programmes. The Algarve region in Portugal boasts several exceptional golf and spa resorts where therapeutic services complement your sporting holiday perfectly.

Fine Dining and Cuisine

The culinary aspect of your golf holiday can be equally satisfying as the sporting element. High-quality golf resorts understand the importance of superb dining options.

Most premium golf destinations feature:

Costa del Sol in Spain is renowned for its blend of Mediterranean gastronomy and excellent golf. Many resorts offer wine pairing evenings and cooking classes alongside their golfing packages.

Consider accommodation with half-board options to sample different local restaurants while maintaining value. East Lothian in Scotland pairs traditional Scottish fare with its 22 outstanding courses.

Cultural Tours and Activities

Your golf holiday can be enriched by exploring the cultural heritage of your chosen destination. Many golf resorts organise excursions to local points of interest between rounds.

In the Algarve, you can visit historic coastal towns, attend wine tastings at local vineyards, or explore traditional Portuguese markets. Spanish golf resorts often arrange visits to nearby historical sites, museums, and artisan workshops.

Popular cultural activities include:

• Guided walking tours of historic centres
• Regional food and beverage tastings
• Local craft workshops and demonstrations
• Boat excursions along scenic coastlines

Vilamoura in Portugal offers excellent golf alongside rich cultural opportunities. Scheduling a rest day between golf rounds provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and create a more balanced holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golf holidays offer players the chance to try exceptional courses in beautiful settings while enjoying comfortable accommodation and amenities. Many countries provide world-class golfing opportunities with varying price points and package options to suit different preferences.

What are the top destinations in Europe for a golfing holiday?

Spain ranks among Europe's finest golf holiday locations, featuring diverse terrains and climates. The Camiral Golf & Wellness Resort near Barcelona offers outstanding facilities and challenging courses.

Portugal delivers excellent golf courses combined with beautiful weather and stunning coastal views. The Algarve region particularly stands out for its concentration of quality courses.

Turkey has emerged as a popular European golf destination with luxury resorts and well-maintained courses, particularly around Belek. Many Turkish golf packages include accommodation at five-star resorts.

Which golf holiday package offers the best value for money?

All-inclusive packages often provide the best value as they include accommodation, green fees, and sometimes meals and drinks. Companies like Golfbreaks.com specialise in these comprehensive deals.

Off-peak season bookings can save you significant money while still offering excellent playing conditions. Consider travelling in spring or autumn when courses are less crowded and prices more affordable.

Group bookings typically receive discounted rates per person. Organising a trip with 8-12 players can substantially reduce the cost for everyone involved.

Can you recommend all-inclusive golf holiday options?

La Manga in Spain offers comprehensive packages including accommodation, golf, and dining options. These resorts feature multiple courses on-site, eliminating transportation concerns.

Turkish golf resorts near Belek specialise in all-inclusive offerings with luxury accommodation and unlimited golf options. Many include spa facilities and multiple dining venues at no extra cost.

Portuguese resorts in the Algarve provide excellent all-inclusive deals with accommodation, green fees, and transportation between courses. Some packages include airport transfers and daily breakfast.

Which country is renowned for its exceptional golf courses?

Spain houses some of Europe's most celebrated courses with varied landscapes from coastal links to mountain settings. Regions like Costa del Sol are particularly known for their concentration of quality courses.

Florida in the USA boasts an impressive collection of world-class golf courses designed by famous architects. The state's year-round warm climate makes it ideal for golf at any time.

Portugal's courses regularly feature in European top rankings, particularly those along the Algarve coastline. The combination of scenic beauty and challenging design makes these courses highly sought after.

What are some popular golf holiday destinations that include flights?

Package holidays to Spain typically include flights to Malaga or Alicante airports, with transfers to coastal golf regions. These comprehensive packages often work out cheaper than booking components separately.

Turkey golf breaks regularly include flights to Antalya with transfers to the Belek region. Many operators offer competitive prices due to their relationship with airlines and local services.

Florida packages from UK tour operators include flights to Orlando or Miami with car hire included. The Palm Beaches area offers excellent golf alongside beautiful coastline.

Which companies specialise in organising comprehensive golf holidays?

Golfbreaks.com has established itself as a leading provider of golf holiday packages across multiple destinations. They offer personalised service and have extensive knowledge of courses worldwide.

Your Golf Travel provides specialised golf packages with flight-inclusive options to popular destinations. They often secure exclusive deals at certain resorts due to their booking volume.

Golf Escapes focuses on tailored itineraries for groups and individuals seeking bespoke golf holidays. Their expertise helps match players with courses that suit their skill level and preferences.