7 Top Golf Trips in Europe

While there are some incredible destinations for avid golfers in almost every corner of the globe, many of the planet's top-rated courses are found in various pockets of Europe. Whether you're a keen golfer planning to experience playing in one of the continent's pristine courses or are a novice hoping to practice your swing, you'll find Europe is abundant in world-class golf resorts. From hotspots like southern Spain and Portugal to underrated destinations in Italy and Turkey, we've compiled the finest European destinations for your next golfing getaway. Keep reading to uncover our top picks.

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club

The much-loved Algarve region in Portugal is a popular destination for vacationers looking for a sun-drenched retreat, but it's especially alluring for golf enthusiasts. It's here where you'll find the magnificent Monte Rei Golf & Country Club. Often ranked as the best golf course in the country, Monte Rei is a sought-after location for golfers looking for a somewhat difficult 18 holes. Not only is the course in sublime condition, but the entire resort is set in the Portuguese countryside and has an exclusive and serene ambiance. The course itself is named after the iconic Jack Nicklaus, and the team at Monte Rei is in the midst of constructing a second.

La Cala

From one southern European paradise to another, this time, we're moving over to La Cala Resort along Spain's Costa del Sol.  A huge complex in the most stunning surroundings, La Cala boasts three world-class golf courses, all of which are unique, challenging, and kept in immaculate condition. If you're new to golf or are keen to enhance your skills, there's also a range of lessons for players of every level. Not only are the golfing opportunities excellent, but the resort has some fantastic amenities to enjoy when you need some respite from the course.

Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort

Another European destination with a stellar line-up of golf resorts is France, and the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort is among the most supreme spots in the country. Terre Blanche is nestled amongst the rolling green hills of Provence and plays host to two beautiful courses and an acclaimed training center. The course and its facilities were designed with eco-conscious practices in mind, making it one of the most environmentally friendly spots in Europe for a round of golf. If all that wasn't enough to convince you to visit, you'll be intrigued to know that Terre Blanche has been crowned the top golf course in Europe on several occasions.

La Bagnaia Golf & Spa Resort Siena

While the picturesque region of Tuscany in northern Italy is perhaps best known for mouthwatering wine and charming towns, it's also a hub for some excellent golf resorts. La Bagnaia Golf & Spa Resort in Siena is particularly coveted and considered the most exceptional in the country. What sets La Bangnaia apart from most golf resorts is the setting, as the complex is built into a former medieval village. As you work on lowering your handicap, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the gorgeous vineyards and Tuscan hills before resting your feet in the clubhouse, which once stood as a brick factory in times gone by. The entire resort centers around the golf course, and you'll find the main restaurant serves as the best vantage point, overlooking all 18 holes.

Gloria Golf Resort

With three outstanding golf courses perched along the Mediterranean coast, Antalya's Gloria Golf Resort in southern Turkey is a must-visit spot for devoted golfers. A whopping 45 holes are situated across the sprawling grounds, making Gloria Golf Resort the largest of its kind in Turkey. However, that's not their only claim to fame here. It's also the only resort in Europe to use the PGA-approved TrackMan technology, which allows you to analyze and develop your game effectively. When you're not hitting birdies or brushing up on your putting techniques, you can spend your days taking some downtime at the private beach or alongside one of the many on-site pools.

Gleneagles

This time, we're heading to northern Europe, where you can visit some of the most esteemed courses on the continent. Gleneagles is a luxury golf resort in Auchterarder, Scotland and has been attracting golfers in their droves for decades now. Located in the scenic Scottish Highlands, Gleneagles has three championship courses and one 9-hole alternative, each appealing to professionals as well as rookies. When you're not tackling your pick of the courses, you'll have the chance to fine-tune your talents at the driving range, putting greens, and short game area. This remarkable golf resort has hosted the likes of the Ryder and Solheim Cups over the years, meaning you'll play on courses where many greats of the game once stood, including Adam Scott and Rory McIlroy.

Costa Navarino 

Costa Navarino is a lavish golf resort in the Messinia region in southwest Greece and is considered by many to offer the most impressive golf courses in the country. Though the resort has some spectacular amenities, namely its luxurious wellness center and revered eateries, the four signature courses have really put this place on the map. Each course has been built to blend into the environment seamlessly. Here, you'll work your way through each hole while taking in views of the sea, rugged landscapes, olive gardens, and dramatic mountains. With several major tournaments behind it, Costa Navarino has rightfully earned its place among Europe's most highly regarded golf resorts and is set to continue to move up the ranks in the coming years.

Have Your Next Swing in Europe!

If you've been longing for a European getaway where you can fill your days conquering some of the continent's premier golf courses, this is your sign to pack up those clubs and turn that dream into a reality. With first-rate golf resorts scattered all over Europe, you're sure to find plenty of options that tick all your boxes, whether you want to hit the fairways along the Mediterranean or venture to lesser-known locations.