Golf Courses In Europe
Throughout Europe, you will find a number of the world’s top golf courses, from the golfing haven that is Portugal to stunning courses of France, we’re looking at the Best Golf Courses in Europe. Thanks to a lot of Europe’s best courses being within close proximity, providing you have the time and money to spare, you could visit more than one during the same trip! As one of the world’s golfing hotspots, continental Europe has a lot to offer, below are just some of our top picks for you to check out.
Monte Rei Resort, North Course, East Algarve
Born back in 2007 from the signature design of golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, the Monte Rei Resort of the Algarve is impressive indeed. With some golfers claiming this course is one of the greatest layouts not only in Europe but across the globe, it’s most certainly worth a visit. With the course measuring a little over 7,100 yards from the championship markers and a dramatic finishing hole, you’re sure to experience some excitement as you take on this course.
Size: 7,118 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 2007
PGA Catalunya, Stadium Course, Spain
Located within easy driving distance of the buzzing city that is Barcelona, the PGA Catalunya is arguably one of the best courses in Europe. Not only is the location fantastic, but the resort boasts two incredible courses. As one of the continents must-visit golf courses, the PGA Catalunya pairs a luxurious 5-star hotel with two world-class golf courses, it doesn’t get much better!
Size: 7,200 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 1990
West Cliffs Golf Course, Portugal
While it only dates back to June 2017, the West Cliffs Golf Course of Lisbon, Portugal has undoubtedly earned its stripes. Setting on the coastline along the Silver Cliffs, the views are as spectacular as the course. Not only will you enjoy a course that has truly taken the world by storm, but you’ll get to soak up the picture-postcard views as you tee off. As the course follows the flow of the natural surroundings effortlessly, you’ll enjoy ocean views on nearly every hole. How can you resist?
Size: 7,000 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 2017
Golf de Chantilly, France
Nestled in the breath-taking countryside that surrounds that enchanting city of Paris, the Golf De Chantilly is one of the country’s finest golf courses. Dating way back to 1909, the Vinieuli course can be likened to a good wine as it’s aged so well. The course is somewhat demanding, so, it would best suit those that are up for a little challenge. If you feel like taking it on, the layout of this course is the perfect layout to take your golf club and put your golfing skills to the test. When it comes to golf courses so close to the capital, you’ll be hard pushed to peat the Golf De Chantilly.
Size: 6,990 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 1909
Thracian Cliffs Finca Cortesin, Bulgaria
In the front running for one of the most striking courses not only in Europe but in the world, the Thracian Cliffs course of Bulgaria should take pride of place on your bucket list. The course follows the flow of the dramatic limestone cliff edges creating a challenging course for those willing to take it on. While it is less than 10 years old, this course is no doubt one of the most unique and impressive across the globe. If you’re looking for a golf course that offers an experience like no other in Europe, you’ve most definitely found it with the Thracian Cliffs.
Size: 7,291 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 2011
Carya Golf Club, Turkey
Lying within the heart of Turkey’s tourism hotspot, you’ll find one of Europe’s highest-ranked golf courses, the Carya Golf Club. The pristine course seamlessly winds its way through the indigenous trees and plants of Turkey. As the product of Perret & Lobb, the design firm of five-time Open Championship winner Peter Thompson, it’s no surprise that this perfectly manicured course is one of Turkey’s most desirable choices. What’s more, there are a number of impressive courses in Turkey, so if you fancy a road trip, it makes for a good location!
Size: 7,186 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 2008
Oitavos Dunes, Portugal
As one of Europe’s hottest destinations for golf courses, it’s no surprise that a Portuguese course has once again made the list. This time, it’s the Oitavos Dunes course of the Algarve. Dating back 1937, the set up of this course is reminiscent to those found in Scotland. As it flows freely with the natural landscape of the Portuguese coastline, you’ll find gentle sloes and striking views. Just in case you needed another reason to visit Portugal as your golfing destination, the country enjoys around 300 days of sunshine every year, so you’ll be teeing off in good weather!
Size: 6,968 yards
Par: 71
Open for play: 1937
Fontainebleau Course, France
Last but certainly not least is the Fontainebleau Course. When you visit this course, you’ll appreciate the phrase ‘with age comes beauty’ more than ever. As one of the country’s oldest courses dating back to 1909, this course is truly enchanting as it winds its way through its picturesque surroundings. While it may not be as dynamic as modern courses, this classic course employs strategically placed bunkers that will require the utmost accuracy as you play.
Size: 7,000 yards
Par: 72
Open for play: 1909
So, those are just eight of the top courses you should consider visiting in Europe. It goes without saying that there are plenty of courses that offer different things for different abilities, from Scotland and the South West of England to Spain and Italy, Europe has a lot to offer. As we mentioned, if you’ve got the means, you should visit more than one course as you explore the delights of European golfing.
