Golf is one of the world’s most popular sports, both in terms of active participation and spectating. The sport received a boost during 2020 during the height of the COVID pandemic, with more people taking to the wide-open fairways in search of exercise, competition, and fun.
While the United States has the world’s attention in terms of the professional players, with three of the sport’s Majors played on US soil, Europe is the true home of golf.
If you are planning a trip to Europe with your clubs, then this blog post is for you. Here, we will highlight 4 of the best-golfing destinations in Europe.
1. Scotland
Where else could we start but with the country where golf was first invented and played? If you are looking for proper link courses with hundreds of years worth of history, you will find them dotted right across Scotland.
St. Andrew’s is the spiritual home of golf, with the Old Course one of the most iconic golf courses in the world. Other top-rated courses include Muirfield, Carnoustie, Royal Troon, Gleneagles, and Prestwick. Scotland is a haven for golfing purists.
2. Ireland
On the subject of incredible links-style golf courses, it would be remiss of us to leave out the island of Ireland. As with Scotland, the often brutish weather along the island’s coast makes for challenging golf that requires skill and stamina.
The 2027 Ryder Cup is due to be played in Adare Manor, while Royal Portrush played host to the Open Championship in 2019 (and will again in 2025). Other courses to play include Ballybunion, Royal County Down, and Lahinch.
Check out this video if you are planning a Northern Ireland tour.
3. Portugal
There are dozens of golf courses in Portugal, which is home to decidedly better weather than the aforementioned destinations. You’ll find some of the most aesthetically stunning golf courses in the world in Portugal, with the Algarve region, in particular, being a proud home of quality golf courses.
Top options in Portugal include San Lorenzo, Penha Longa Atlantic South, Victoria, and the Jack Nicklaus-designed Monte Rei.
4. Italy
Italy may not have the rich golfing heritage of some other European countries, but it is home to some of the best courses in the world. Italy is home to Francesco Molinari, winner of the 2018 Open Championship, and his Ryder Cup-playing brother, Edoardo.
For first-rate golf in Italy, look no further than Circolo Golf Villa D’Este, Golf Club Biella, Marco Simone (due to host the 2023 Ryder Cup), and Royal Park I Roveri.
Top Golfing Destinations in Europe
The above-golfing destinations are home to some of the best European golf courses. Whether you are looking for an affordable golf course or a luxury golf course, you will find it in Europe.
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