Desperate to take a step back from your hectic life?
If you, or your non-golfing partner, are in need of some pampering, but you don’t want to leave the clubs at home, then Europe has some of the best golf and spa resorts on the planet.
Guaranteed to inspire, both on and off the course, you can be sure that these five resorts really do have it all.
Finca Cortesin
Many places boast that they are luxurious and offer a great escape from the stresses of modern life. It’s an attractive prospect. However, not many can compete with the elegant escapism that you get at Finca Cortesin. The staff at this opulent, yet understated, destination are here to ensure your happiness.
Finca Cortesin offers one of the most exclusive golf breaks in Europe. Located in the rolling hills of southern Spain, the Andalusian resort serves up a slice of heaven. A three-time host of the Volvo World Match Play Championship, Finca Cortesin’s immaculately maintained 18-hole course is regularly ranked among the best layouts in Spain. At nearly 7,500 yards, the par-72 course it is also among the longest.
Nestled between the Mediterranean and the tranquil Casares Mountains, a grand spa awaits golfers when they step off the 18th. One of the highlights of the spa is the snow cave. This is the first of its kind in Spain and is an experience like no other. It’s the perfect place to cool down after a round of golf in the sun! You’ll also enjoy the indoor heated and salted pool as well as the two outdoor pools. The award-winning wellness centre offers treatments by the French beauty brand Biologique Recherche.
Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort*****
Terre Blanche may well be the ultimate golf lovers’ paradise. Being just 45 minutes from Nice Airport, the resort is situated in the peaceful Provencal countryside facing hill top villages, and feels a world away from the undiscovered and secret part of the French Riviera.
A member of the Leading Hotels in the World, the 5* resort features 115 suites and villas, as well as two championship courses. Both are out of the very top draw. Dave Thomas was the mastermind behind the two layouts, “Le Château” and “Le Riou” are spectacular by their stunning natural environment respecting the existing landscape. The tree-lined layout only opened in 2004 but merges effortless into the undulating landscape, and is rightly a regular feature among the rankings of the top-15 courses in Europe and is part of European Tour Destination.
A favourite hideout for the rich and famous, the bliss continues once you step off the eighteenth green. An infinity pool lapping against the spectacular Côte d’Azur panorama sits at the heart of the 35,000-square foot spa, which offers everything from a hammam and beauty salon, to Carita & KOS Paris signature treatments facials. The enchanting setting has made Terre Blanche one of the best-recognized spas in the South of France. After a day of pampering, four restaurants await, including Le Faventia, which was awarded a Michelin star in 2016 following the return of acclaimed chef Philippe Jourdin. Explore the best golf & spa as pure Luxury!
Evian Resort Golf Club
Situated on the lapping shores of Lake Geneva, the Evian Resort is an elegant essay in luxury. Home to the Evian Championship, the women’s fifth major, the French resort is bestowed a majestic setting in the heart of the Alps.
The layout is one of the most beautiful in Continental Europe. Winding its way through mature woodland, unrivalled viewpoints of Lake Geneva and the Alpine summit feature throughout. The undulating layout, which dates to 1904, underwent a large overhaul five years ago. The result is spectacular, and has helped cement the Evian Resort’s place among France’s other world-class courses.
The Evian Resort offers two luxury hotels, the 5-star Palace Hôtel Royal and 4-star Hôtel Ermitage as well as the Manoir du Golf which is not a hotel but yet so enjoyable to stay at.
Healthy living has always been at the heart of the Evian Resort. Located at the source of Evian water, there are three spas and wellness centres, each promoting their own philosophy to create a trio of indulgent slices of Alpine heaven.
Verdura Resort
Verdura Resort was described as paradise by Álvaro Quirós on his way to victory at the Rocco Forte Open in May 2017. With three sublime Kyle Phillips designs, both of which overlook the Mediterranean’s azure waters, and a 5* experience to rival any resort in Italy, it’s hard to disagree. Verdura’s East Course is ranked as one of Europe’s finest golf courses. Meanwhile the West Course provides the ideal complement and features one of the most memorable finishes anywhere in the world.
Spread over 4,000 square metres, the exclusive Sicilian resort’s wellness centre is the epitome of cool and boasts a whole host of relaxing treatments. Those looking for a more bespoke experience can also enjoy Verdura’s signature programmes, which range from fit, to relax and wellness.
Away from the fairways, guests should be sure to enjoy the food, wine, and culture that has made Sicily famous world-over.
The Chedi Andermatt
Alpine chic and Asian style might sound like an unusual mix. At The Chedi Andermatt the result is nothing less than pure luxury.
Switzerland has long been known as among the most beautiful places on the planet. Add in a spectacular 18-hole golf course and an award-winning spa, and you have the makings for an unforgettable trip. The Asian influence makes for a striking and unique resort, specifically built with relaxation in mind. The outrageously beautiful 35m indoor pool is the highlight of the award-winning The Spa and Health Club. Guests can also experience a 60-minute Alpienne Mountain Massage.
Meanwhile the Andermatt Swiss Alps Golf Course is located in the picturesque Ursener Valley, and also affords superb mountain views. The course itself, which carves its way between the Ruess River and the Alps, is surprisingly flat, and was voted ‘Switzerland’s Best Golf Course’ at the 2016 World Golf Awards.
