Did you know that some of our finest properties neighbour several of the best golf courses in Europe?
That’s right. The popular sport – which originated in 15th-century Scotland – has an interesting past all its own, and is beloved by tourists around the world. Between its fascinating roots and proximity to many of our hotels, a day of golf is the perfect addition to any historic holiday. Read on to discover some of our top golf courses in Europe.
Belgium: Damme Golf & Country Club
What’s on offer? An 18-hole course and nine-hole compact course. Green fees: 35 – 75 € per 18 holes.
Belgium’s beauty is at its most powerful in the countryside, which makes Damme Golf & Country Club a wonderful place to partake in the sport. With different courses to choose from and several practice areas – including a driving range and putting and pitching green – to practice your swing in, along with lavish landscapes as far as the eye can see, you’re guaranteed a great day on the green.
Where to stay: After the excitement of visiting one of the best golf courses in Europe, you’ll want a good night’s sleep. Flanders Hotel, based just twenty minutes away by car in Brugge, is an exemplary choice. Designed by one of Belgium’s top nineteenth-century architects, and with fascinating features such as a Gothic room, this one-of-a-kind property is one you won’t want to miss.
France: Golf de Meribel
What’s on offer?: An 18-hole course. Green fees: 40 – 65 € per 18 holes.
Sandwiched between awe-inspiring mountains and acres of forest is Golf de Meribel. It’s one of France’s finest sporting spots, and a true example of how stunning golf courses in Europe can be. Hills and water hazards contribute to the grounds’ visually-striking effect and ramp up the stakes of your game. Amenities to rent – which include electro-trolleys and carts – also allow you to whiz around with minimal effort. Make sure to book in advance.
Where to stay: Treat yourself to a room at Hôtel L’Hélios . This five-star hotel sits at the foot of the alps, and offers a luxurious cabin-style retreat that’s hard to beat. After all – what could be better than snuggling up next to an open fire, after a day of golfing and a gourmet dinner?
Ireland: The European Club
What’s on offer?: An 18-hole course. Green fees: 180 € per 18 holes.
Consistently named one of the world’s top 100 golf courses since 1992, The European Club in Brittas Bay promises amazing variety on the green. Beloved by champions including Tiger Woods, this exceptional course includes rugged sand dunes, hills and more, and is set against the glittering backdrop of the Irish Sea.
Where to stay: Roughly one hour away from the course is Rathsallagh House. The winner of numerous awards, including the National Hospitality Awards, this quaint country house delivers world-class service and traditional Irish ambience on tap. Between its spa room, billiard room and tennis court, there’s plenty to do. Better yet, a second golf course – Rathsallagh Golf Club – is right next door, so you can experience two of the most-loved golf courses in Europe in one trip.
Italy: Asolo Golf Club
What’s on offer?: A variety of nine-hole courses. Green fees: 80 – 100 € per day.
Built over 140 hectares and incorporating soft hills, lakes and creeks, the nine-hole courses available at Asolo Golf Club will challenge all sorts of players. But there’s more than just golfing on offer, here. The club also boasts a wellness centre, gym and outdoor swimming pool: making it not only one of the leading golf courses in Europe, but one of the most entertaining sporting clubs to visit in general.
Where to stay: If you don’t mind a scenic drive between your hotel and the club, book Villa Cipriani. Once owned by the famous poet Robert Browning – known as a “passionate admirer of the Florentine countryside” – this stunning property contains tranquil gardens, an infinity pool and several perfectly-kept rooms.
Switzerland: Golf Club Alvaneu Bad
What’s on offer?: An 18-hole course. Green fees: 93 – 107 € per 18 holes.
Nothing short of your A game is worthy of Golf Club Alvaneu Bad. Built across varied terrain and eclipsed by trees and mountains, this Swiss course is perfect for those of intermediate to expert golfing ability. It’s equipped for families too, with a children’s playground, restaurant and more onsite. You can even bring your dog here! It’s open between April and November, so make sure to factor that in when making your travel plans.
Where to stay: The art-nouveau Kurhaus Bergün is a real treasure trove of discovery. Twice a week the hoteliers host a film in their historic cinema. Guests can also benefit from numerous seminars and workshops, a wonderful restaurant and bar and many local activities nearby, such as skiing and a visit to Lai da Palpuogna, known as the “most beautiful lake in Switzerland”.
Netherlands: Utrechtse Golfclub ‘de Pan’
What’s on offer?: An 18-hole course. Green fees: 100 € per 18 holes.
Put together by a renowned course architect – Harry S. Colt – in 1927, Utrechtse Golfclub ‘de Pan’ is one of Netherlands finest greens for accomplished golfers. With the fairytale Pan Forest flanking each side and a range of diverse, exciting elements to consider as you play, it’s no wonder it’s been named the second best golf course in Europe. It’s beautiful throughout the year as well, as you can see from the website’s seasonal videos.
Where to stay: Sterkenburg Castle is something else. Surrounded by canals and home to various incredible gardens and buildings, this historic gem is as much a tourist attraction as it is accommodation. There are plenty of options to choose from while staying here, too, as each of the property’s rooms offers a completely unique experience of the castle. So many choices…
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