Summer is the perfect time to combine the thrill of a golf getaway with the allure of beautiful landscapes, stunning courses, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an avid golfer looking to improve your game or a travel enthusiast seeking an unforgettable vacation, these top golf destinations offer an ideal blend of world-class golf courses and scenic beauty. From the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva to the sun-kissed greens of the South of France, here’s where to travel for golf this summer.
Lake Geneva – Evian, France
Nestled between the majestic Alps and the serene Lake Geneva, Evian is one of the most picturesque golf destinations in Europe. The iconic Evian Resort Golf Club, known for hosting the Evian Championship, one of the five major championships in women’s golf, promises a world-class experience.
The course was designed by Jean-Guy Laffon and has undergone a series of renovations to maintain its standing as a premier golf venue. The stunning views of the lake and mountains offer a peaceful backdrop to the challenging holes, with water hazards and elevated greens demanding precision and strategy from players of all levels.
Evian itself is a charming town known for its famous mineral waters, luxurious spas, and quaint cafes that line the shores of the lake. After a day of golf, relax in the Evian Resort’s luxury hotel and spa, where the focus is on wellness and rejuvenation. It’s an escape that blends relaxation with the excitement of golf, offering a retreat to recharge both physically and mentally.
Stockholm – Bank Hotel with Bro Hof and Ullna Courses, Sweden
For golf lovers looking to explore Scandinavia, Stockholm offers an unbeatable combination of luxury, culture, and top-tier golf. The Bank Hotel, located in the heart of Stockholm, offers a stylish and historic base to explore the Swedish capital. From here, you can access two of the best golf courses in the region: Bro Hof Slott Golf Club and Ullna Golf Club.
Bro Hof Slott, often hailed as one of the top courses in Sweden, boasts a stunning design by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offering dramatic water features, challenging fairways, and panoramic views of Lake Mälaren. The course is known for its impeccable maintenance and the prestigious Nordea Masters tournament, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Just a short distance from the city, Ullna Golf Club offers another exceptional golfing experience. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course provides a scenic layout that weaves through forests and along the lakeshore, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. The layout offers a great mix of challenge and accessibility, with numerous risk-reward opportunities.
While in Stockholm, explore its vibrant cultural scene, including historic sites like the Vasa Museum and the stunning Gamla Stan (Old Town), filled with charming cobbled streets and cafés. After a day on the links, unwind with a Swedish spa treatment or explore the city’s world-class dining.
South of France – Terre Blanche, Provence
The South of France is a dream destination for many, and for golfers, Terre Blanche Golf Resort in Provence stands out as one of the most luxurious venues in Europe. The resort is home to two championship courses, Le Château and Le Riou, both designed by Dave Thomas and offering a perfect balance of challenge and natural beauty.
Le Château is a scenic, undulating course with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and an array of doglegs that demand both skill and strategy. The course is surrounded by the lush landscapes of Provence, with views of the surrounding hills and vineyards providing a serene atmosphere. On the other hand, Le Riou is more compact but just as engaging, offering tight fairways and exciting risk-reward opportunities.
Besides its world-class golf courses, Terre Blanche is renowned for its outstanding luxury amenities. The resort includes a five-star hotel, a state-of-the-art spa, and exquisite dining options, all of which allow you to enjoy the best of Provençal hospitality. The surrounding region offers countless cultural treasures to explore, from charming villages like Mougins to the ancient Roman ruins of Vence.
Sicily – Verdura, Italy
Sicily’s dramatic landscapes, rich history, and Mediterranean climate make it a fantastic destination for golfers looking to combine sport with stunning surroundings. Verdura Golf Resort, located on the southern coast of Sicily, is an award-winning destination offering three courses designed by the legendary Kyle Phillips. The resort is set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, with lush fairways, challenging greens, and views of crystal-clear waters.
Verdura’s East Links Course and West Shore Course are both laid out with precision, ensuring that each round is an exciting challenge. The resort’s location on the island allows you to enjoy Sicily’s unique blend of cultural richness, from ancient ruins like the Valley of the Temples to the bustling markets of Palermo.
After a round of golf, you can indulge in the local Sicilian cuisine, with fresh seafood, rich pasta dishes, and the region’s famous wines. The Verdura resort also offers a world-class spa and a range of leisure activities, ensuring that your stay is both rejuvenating and action-packed.
Costa Navarino, Greece
Located on the sun-drenched coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, Costa Navarino is one of Greece’s most celebrated golf destinations. The resort is home to two championship courses: the Dunes Course and the Bay Course, both designed by the renowned Bernhard Langer and Robert Trent Jones Jr., respectively.
The Dunes Course is a coastal layout with wide fairways and beautiful views of the Ionian Sea. The course features numerous strategic bunkers and water hazards, making it both a visually stunning and challenging test of golf. The Bay Course, set in a more serene environment, offers a more technical layout with narrow fairways and tricky greens that require precision and planning.
Costa Navarino is not only about golf; it offers a complete luxury experience. The resort includes a range of upscale hotels, spas, and gourmet dining, allowing you to unwind after a day on the course. For those interested in history, nearby attractions like the ancient ruins of Olympia and Mycenae offer fascinating cultural experiences. And, of course, the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean are perfect for a refreshing dip or a relaxing day on the beach.
Whether you are seeking the tranquillity of Lake Geneva’s shores, the lush landscapes of Provence, or the historic charm of Sicily, these golf destinations promise to offer everything a golf enthusiast could desire. Each one provides a unique blend of stunning landscapes, world-class courses, and rich cultural experiences. So, pack your clubs, book your flights, and get ready for an unforgettable summer on the greens!
