Europe’s beauty lies in its diversity. From Ireland’s green hills to Greece’s sun-kissed coasts, there’s a European holiday for everyone. And if you’re in the market for a sporting holiday, Europe more than has you covered. Italy, France and Switzerland offer some of the world’s most luxurious skiing resorts; the Canaries are known for their gruelling triathlon routes; and parts of Southern Europe offer perfect surfing conditions.
However, Europe really shines in golf. While championship-standard golf courses exist worldwide, Europe is home to some of the most prestigious. History, hospitality, scenery, and impressive grounds abound, but which courses make our list of Europe’s best? From UK courses steeped in history to fairways overlooking deep blue seas, here’s our list of Europe’s most luxurious golf courses.
Royal County Down Golf Club, Ireland
If you’re looking for history and heritage, the UK & Ireland are home to some of the world’s oldest courses. Starting with the Royal County Down Golf Club in Ireland, which dates back to the 19th century. While you may not get the warm weather many other courses on this list offer, this famous course more than makes up for it in other ways.
Many amateur and professional golfers have played this iconic course, with the Mourne Mountains providing one of the most picturesque backdrops. But the surroundings can also challenge players as they navigate shots around sand dunes, long rough, and deep bunkers.
St Andrews Old Course, Scotland
Sticking with the UK & Ireland, we move on to one of the world’s most recognisable courses, and what some would call the home of golf: St Andrews. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a course with as much history as St Andrews, with records suggesting that golf here dates back to the 15th century.
But despite its age, St Andrews remains one of Europe’s best-kept courses, so players of all abilities add a round to their golfing bucket list. It’s not just the course itself that offers luxury; the accompanying accommodation is just as impressive and offers unrivalled hospitality, no matter how long you stay.
Quinta do Lago South Course, Portugal
Moving on to sunnier climates, if you’re looking for luxurious warm-weather golf, Portugal is a great option. There’s no shortage of luxury golfing options in Portugal, but most players head to the Algarve when they want trips that balance golf with a five-star experience.
The stunning Quinta do Lago South Course sits in the heart of the Algarve’s Golden Triangle, a region known for fine dining, blue flag beaches, and luxury villas. Surrounded by the Ria Formosa Natural Park, expect crystal-clear waters and towering trees to accompany your round.
But it’s not just jaw-dropping views that draw golfers to Quinta do Lago. The course itself, designed by American golf architect William Mitchell, offers a challenging layout and has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times. The course was also named Portugal’s best in 2024.
Finca Cortesin, Costa del Sol, Spain
If you’re seeking modern luxury, then Spain’s Finca Cortesin is likely to be one of your best European options. Located in the popular holiday resort of Costa del Sol, the course opened in 2007 and features a five-star hotel, luxurious spa, and relaxing beach club. It’s a great option for amateur players looking to combine casual golf with a sun-soaked escape.
As golfers make their way around, they’ll look out over the Mediterranean and pass olive trees, water hazards, and golden bunkers. After 18 holes, reward yourself with a refreshment on the clubhouse balcony overlooking the Andalusian mountains before sampling the fine dining the hotel has to offer.
Terre Blanche, France
The South of France and luxury go hand in hand, and if you are looking for a luxurious golf trip in this part of the world, the Terre Blanche hotel spa golf resort is a level above other options. The resort actually features two courses, allowing golfers to complete 36 holes during their stay at Terre Blanche.
In terms of scenery, the course offers more of a countryside experience compared with typical European courses. Golfers can expect greenery as far as the eye can see, including perfectly kept fairways, rolling hills, and surrounding forests.
The experience off the golf course is as luxurious as the experience on it. The resort’s impressive spa and dining facilities make for a well-rounded trip in a part of the world where luxury is everywhere you turn.
Final Thoughts
Europe is home to thousands of golf courses, many of which have hosted respected championship tournaments, so creating a shortlist of the most luxurious is no easy task. We selected the five above based on the experience they offer on and off the course. Some offer ancient history that appeals to golfing purists, while others appeal to travellers based on their facilities and hospitality.
