Fao_Vila_Golf_0515_01

10 best golf courses in Europe

 

From Antalya’s top-rated fairways to the Algarve’s bright-as-they-come greens, Europe has an unbeatable range of golf courses sure to test any player.

Looking to hone your tee shot while you’re on holiday? Or maybe you just fancy a trip away from the usual tourist sights to take in some amazing scenery? A golf getaway is the perfect way to escape from real life and indulge a favourite passion at the same time. And have you heard the news? We’re now offering golf holidays with rounds included too.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the continent is home to incredible golf courses. Here are some of the best in Europe to inspire your next break away.

1. Amendoeira Faldo, Portugal

A half an hour’s drive from Faro airport sits this championship course, the brainchild of Sir Nick Faldo. Dramatic yet traditional fairway architecture, including elevated holes, are its hallmarks. The desert scrub bunkers are there to put you through your putting paces, while you’ll get some reprieves on the downhill slopes.

2. Pestana Vila Sol, Portugal

Here you have it – a typical Algarve inland layout. This 27-hole course winds its way through pine and fig trees and incorporates a number of lakes into the interesting design. The course has hosted the Portuguese Open on two occasions, so it’s pretty impressive! Plus, the par 3 7th requires a daring shot over water. Are you up to the challenge?

3. Montgomorie Golf Course, Turkey

An outstanding championship course, the Montgomorie Golf Course was designed by golfing great Colin Montgomerie. It’s a popular choice for both holiday and pro golfers and has hosted national and international tournaments. There are eight beautiful lakes and seven bunkers strategically placed throughout the fairways to test you. And there are more tricky turns, water hazards and tough obstacles waiting for you on the 5th, 12th and 14th hole.

4. Aspendos, Turkey

Chip your way around this 18-hole course and you’ll be rewarded with impressive views across the neighbouring Taurus Mountains. It was originally established in 1997 but was fully redesigned in 2022, and boasts lakes, dunes, rivers and more, to mix up the terrain. Beyond the fantastic fairways, you can check out the driving range, pro shop and academy.

5. Golf Costa Adeje – The Championship, Tenerife

Found in the Tenerife foothills, Golf Costa Adeje was designed by renowned golf architect Jose Gancedo, who’s often referred to as the ‘Picasso of Golf’. He integrated the natural features of the land, including the original banana plantations, to create this picturesque but testing course. Unusually, the two hardest holes here are par 3s, and the 187-yard 7th is a real card-wrecker!

6. Club De Golf Barcelona, Spain

Located 16 miles outside of Barcelona, Club De Golf is a serene place to practise your swing. Stunning views of the Monserrat Mountains are your reward for negotiating some of the more difficult playing sections of this beautifully designed 18-hole course. It’s right at the edge of the Penedes wine growing region on a 250-acre suite that also features a swimming pool and tennis courts.

7. Club De Golf Ibiza, Spain

Just a short journey from Ibiza Town, Club De Golf Ibiza features two different courses offering very different playing experiences – a newer 18-hole course and another with nine holes which originally belonged to the now defunct Club De Gold Roca Llisa. However long you’ve been playing, there’s sure to be something to suit your level and the amazing scenery is a world away from the built-up areas in town.

8. Circolo Golf Venezia, Italy

As you might expect from a course located just outside Venice, the Circolo Golf Venezia features lots of water to break up its 18 holes. Dating back to 1928, it’s found in the walls of an old fortress and one of its most famous holes – the ninth – requires players to take a blind shot crossing through the ramparts. The fact it’s accessible only by boat helps to create a cut-off, otherworldly feel – and gives you a chance to savour some excellent views.

9. Corfu Golf Club, Greece

While Greece may not be known for golf, this club is as pristine as you’ll find anywhere in Europe. It was founded in 1971 and designed by top English architect Don Harradine. Corfu Golf Club is renowned for using small spaces to maximum effect, so expect to find a variety of challenges over a relatively short distance.

10. The Crete Golf Club, Greece

Views of the beautiful Crete mountains and Aegean Sea combine to provide a scenic distraction from the 18 holes on offer at Crete Golf Club. The course was designed to meet meticulous PGA standards and is well maintained all year round. It’s set at a slight altitude, meaning there’s a gentle breeze to add an extra layer of challenge to proceedings.

Posted: 19th Aug 2019. Updated: 31st May 2023.

Jet2.com Jet2 Holidays Jet2 City Breaks Jet2 Villas