Five of the Best Golf Resorts in Europe

When people talk about golf courses, some of the first things that come to mind are luxurious courses catering for every need of the modern day golfer. Nowadays, these meticulously designed courses are also being integrated into luxury resorts especially in Europe.

In the past, Luxury-Executive has talked about the continent’s best hotels; ranging from those picturesque seaside accommodation options to relaxing spa and wellness staycation spots. However now, it is time to raise the bar even more and feature some of Europe’s most sought-after golf resorts.

Photo: Richtclub.co.uk

Rockliffe Hall Hotel Golf & Spa (England)

Rockliffe Hall Hotel Golf & Spa’s claim to fame is its beautiful 18-hole, par-72 fairway. The Marc Westenburg-designed golf course features an ideal mixture of woodland and parkland surroundings that capture the comforting essence of the area. The resort’s amenities cover almost everything from course pros and club rentals, to a driving range and a putting green, to even a pro shop.

Photo: Terre Blanche Spa Golf Resort

Terre Blanche Hotel Spa & Golf Resort (France)

Known for offering one of the best year-round golfing getaways in Europe, Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort really is a cut above the rest. It provides players with sweeping vistas of quaint nearby neighbourhoods, as well as the majestic Southern Alps. Designers put a premium on certain construction and irrigation methods, making it a playable fairway all year round.

Photo: Nicklaus Design

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club (Portugal)

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is one of Portugal’s hidden gems. Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Eastern Algarve, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean to the south and the Serra do Caldeirao to the north, this particular course is truly magnificent. In addition, the par-72, Championship-level course is the first of two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses.

Photo: Finca Cortesin Resort

Finca Cortesin Golf Club (Spain)

Set in the affluent area of Andalusia, close to the Mediterranean Sea, Finca Cortesin Golf Club represents Spain’s golfing scene. Many players consider the course as one of the longest – if not the longest in Europe – considering it measures 7,000 metres from the back tees. Cabell Robinson planned the fairway’s layout, highlighting 18 distinctly challenging holes with more than 100 bunkers.

Photo: Waterford Castle Resort

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort (Ireland)

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort gives players a taste of what it is like living on an island dream. Bearing in mind that it is technically separated from the mainland yet still maintains its undeniable charm; this unique course is Ireland’s first and only bona fide island golf resort. Des Smyth drew up plans for this 18-hole, par-72 Championship course, which opened its doors way back in 1992.

These resorts in Europe certainly capture the whole golfing scene in the continent. Furthermore, the splendid fairways even complement and cultivate the emergence of its top players.

It is no wonder why someone like Sergio Garcia, the 37-year-old Spaniard who recently won his first major at the 2017 Masters, has become a household name. This, in a way, also led to Play Your Course a website that covers golfing news in North America, to the UK and the whole of Europe, to describe the likes of England’s Matthew Fitzpatrick as a true rising star. Fitzpatrick along with Garcia have no doubt frequented the aforementioned courses throughout their careers, and can attribute their success to the accessibility of being able to play some of Europe’s most wonderful courses to hone their skills. 

For more information on exclusive hotels, top resorts, and upscale getaways, please continue visiting the Luxury-Executive blog.