Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking links courses in the world, offering a unique blend of challenging golf and stunning scenery. From the historic courses of the British Isles to the emerging destinations in Eastern Europe, this article explores the best links courses across the continent, highlighting the diversity and beauty of European golf landscapes.
Key Takeaways
- The British Isles are home to some of the most iconic links courses in the world, including The Old Course at St. Andrews and Royal County Down.
- Scandinavia might be off the beaten path, but it boasts hidden gems like Lofoten Links in Norway, offering a unique golfing experience.
- Continental Europe’s top links experiences combine golfing excellence with breathtaking views, such as those at Thracian Cliffs in Bulgaria.
- The Mediterranean offers more than just sunny beaches, with links courses like Verdura Resort in Italy providing stunning coastal vistas.
- Eastern Europe is an emerging links destination, with Bulgaria’s BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas leading the way in golf course development.
Iconic Links Courses of the British Isles
The Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland
Revered as the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews Links stands as a pilgrimage for golf enthusiasts. The Old Course, with its ancient links, is a testament to golf’s enduring traditions and challenges. Its fairways have witnessed centuries of golf history, and playing here is akin to walking through a living museum of the sport.
- Historic Charm: The Old Course exudes a sense of history that is palpable from the Swilcan Bridge to the Hell Bunker.
- Challenging Golf: The course demands strategic play, with deep pot bunkers and large, undulating greens.
- Stunning Landscapes: The panoramic views of the North Sea create a backdrop that is both beautiful and formidable.
The experience of playing at St. Andrews is more than just a round of golf; it’s an opportunity to be part of something that transcends the game itself.
Royal County Down, Northern Ireland
Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, Royal County Down is a testament to the purest form of links golf. Players are treated to a challenging round amidst the dramatic backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne and the rugged Irish Sea coastline. The course is renowned for its natural beauty and the strategic layout that demands precision and skill.
- Location: Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland
- Course Length: 7,186 yards (Par 71)
- Established: 1889
Visitors often remark on the seamless blend of dunes, gorse, and native grasses that make up the course’s character. The wind is a constant factor here, adding an extra layer of complexity to each shot. Golfers looking to experience a piece of history and challenge their game will find Royal County Down exceeds expectations.
Embrace the elements and the storied tradition of links golf at one of Ireland’s most prestigious courses.
Royal Birkdale, England
Nestled on the golden links of the English coast, Royal Birkdale stands as a testament to golf’s enduring traditions. With its challenging dunes and relentless winds, the course demands precision and strategy, offering a pure golfing experience that harks back to the origins of the sport.
- Host of major championships: The course has a rich history of hosting prestigious tournaments, including The Open Championship.
- Architectural masterpiece: The layout is a brilliant example of golf course architecture, seamlessly blending with the natural landscape.
- A test for all golfers: Regardless of skill level, Royal Birkdale provides a stern yet fair challenge to all who play it.
Embrace the challenge of Royal Birkdale, where every shot is a brushstroke on the canvas of golfing history. Here, the game is played as it was meant to be, amidst the whispers of the coastal breeze and the tales of golfing legends.
Muirfield, Scotland
Muirfield, home to the world’s oldest golf club, offers a golfing experience steeped in tradition and history. Known for its challenging layout and impeccable maintenance, the course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including The Open Championship.
- Historic significance: Home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
- Championship pedigree: A frequent host for The Open.
- Strategic design: Demands thoughtful shot placement and course management.
Muirfield is not just a golf course; it is a test of one’s golfing prowess and respect for the game’s deep-rooted customs.
Golfers from around the globe aspire to play Muirfield, seeking to walk the same fairways as the legends of the game. The course’s layout requires a blend of power and precision, with each hole presenting a unique challenge that has tested the skills of the world’s best players.
Scandinavia’s Hidden Links Gems
Falsterbo Golfklubb, Sweden
Nestled on the southwestern tip of Sweden, Falsterbo Golfklubb offers a traditional links experience with a rich history dating back to 1909. The course is renowned for its natural beauty, challenging layout, and the strategic placement of bunkers that demand precision from golfers.
While not as widely recognized as some of its British counterparts, Falsterbo’s seaside location provides stunning views and a test of golf that is both fair and demanding. The club has hosted numerous national and international competitions, solidifying its status as a premier golfing destination.
The windswept fairways and undulating greens make for an unforgettable round, where the elements play as much a part of the game as the course itself.
Golfers looking for a serene yet challenging round will find Falsterbo to be a hidden gem among Europe’s links courses. With a welcoming atmosphere and impeccable maintenance, it’s a must-visit for any links enthusiast.
Lofoten Links, Norway
Nestled in the stunning landscape of Gims\u00f8ya, the Lofoten Links course is a marvel of golf architecture, harmoniously blending with the rugged Norwegian coastline. Since its opening in the summer of 2015, this 18-hole masterpiece has quickly ascended to the top ranks of Norway’s golf courses, offering an unparalleled golfing experience.
The course’s remote location only adds to its allure, providing a serene escape for golfers seeking both challenge and tranquility.
With its dramatic views and challenging layout, Lofoten Links is a course that stays with you long after the final putt. Here are a few reasons why golfers are drawn to this northern gem:
- The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape
- The inventive design that leverages the coastal terrain
- The unique golfing experience under the midnight sun during summer months
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply an enthusiast of breathtaking landscapes, Lofoten Links is a destination that should not be missed.
Stora Lundby Golfklubb, Sweden
Nestled in the heart of Sweden, Stora Lundby Golfklubb offers a serene golfing experience that stands out among the top 5 golf courses in Sweden. With its well-maintained greens and picturesque surroundings, it provides a tranquil escape for golfers of all levels.
- Challenging yet accessible layout that caters to both seasoned players and beginners.
- A commitment to sustainable course management, ensuring a harmonious blend with the natural environment.
- A rich history that adds a layer of depth to every round played on this storied course.
Embrace the unique character of Stora Lundby Golfklubb, where each hole tells a story and every swing brings a sense of discovery.
While the club may not host events on the scale of the Volvo World Match Play Championship, it prides itself on delivering a world-class golfing experience. The club’s amenities, including rental options and practice facilities, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all guests.
Continental Europe’s Top Links Experiences
Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, Bulgaria
Nestled on the dramatic Black Sea Coast, Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort offers a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is challenging. Designed by Gary Player, the 18-hole signature course spans 85 hectares of breathtaking cliff-side terrain, ensuring that each swing comes with a view of the expansive sea.
The resort’s amenities cater to both golfers and non-golfers alike, with a range of facilities including a beachfront restaurant, a lounge bar, and ample relaxation spaces. The attention to detail extends to the beach services, where guests can enjoy the luxury of a cabana or the simplicity of a sunbed and towel.
The essence of Thracian Cliffs is its blend of luxury and nature, crafted to provide an unparalleled golfing retreat.
For those looking to perfect their game, the resort offers a driving range with tokens priced at 2 EUR for 20 balls, and rental clubs available at 30 EUR per person per day. Operating hours vary by season, with the course open daily from 08:00 to 19:30 between March and October, and with adjusted hours in the winter months, weather permitting.
| Service | Price (BGN) |
|---|---|
| Cabana (3x4m) | 140 |
| Big Cabana (12 pax) | 350 |
| Parasol with 2 sunbeds & 2 towels | 50 |
| Extra Sun Bed | 20 |
| Extra Towel | 20 |
For inquiries and reservations, the resort can be contacted at reservations@thraciancliffs.com or via phone at +359 57 09 22 00.
Golf de Morfontaine, France
Nestled in the serene French countryside, Golf de Morfontaine offers an exclusive links experience that combines the elegance of traditional design with the natural beauty of the landscape. The course is renowned for its strategic layout and impeccable maintenance, providing a challenge to golfers of all levels.
- Strategic layout that tests the golfer’s skill
- Impeccable maintenance ensuring a pristine golfing experience
- Exclusive atmosphere for a serene and private round of golf
Golf de Morfontaine is a testament to the timeless allure of links golf, where the game is played in its purest form amidst the whispering pines and sandy soils.
For those seeking the quintessential French links course, Golf de Morfontaine is a destination that should not be overlooked. Discover the best links golf courses in France, offering a blend of challenge and scenic beauty. Plan your trip with Golf Autour du Monde for a seamless golfing experience.
Budersand Golf Club, Germany
Nestled on the island of Sylt, Budersand Golf Club offers a unique blend of challenging play and natural beauty. The course is a testament to Germany’s diverse golfing experiences, with a layout that harmonizes with the coastal landscape. Players can expect to spend anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours on this meticulously designed 19-hole course, which is a favorite among both local and visiting golfers.
Here’s a quick glance at some of the amenities available:
- 2-seater golf buggy: 40 EUR per round
- Driving range tokens: 2 EUR per 20 balls
- Rental clubs: 30 EUR per person / per day
The signature golf course at Budersand is more than just a game; it’s an overview of what golfing in Germany can offer. With its strategic bunkers and undulating greens, it presents a challenge to golfers of all skill levels while providing panoramic views that are second to none.
While the club does not boast the vineyard views of Wine Valley Golf Club or the mountain vistas of TPC Snoqualmie Ridge, it compensates with its own unique coastal charm and a serene atmosphere that can only be found on Sylt. The course’s reputation for quality and the exceptional golfing experience it provides make it a must-visit for any links enthusiast.
Mediterranean Marvels: Links Courses with a View
Verdura Resort, Italy
Nestled along the Sicilian coast, Verdura Resort offers a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is challenging. With courses designed by the renowned architect Kyle Phillips, the resort has quickly become a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking Mediterranean beauty and top-tier amenities.
The resort’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect, from the meticulously maintained greens to the exceptional service provided to guests. Verdura’s reputation for quality is not just local but recognized across Europe, as it has been featured in the prestigious ‘Best Golf Resorts in Europe 2024‘ ranking.
Verdura Resort is a testament to the harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and sport. Here, the game of golf transcends into an art form, against the backdrop of the azure sea and rolling hills.
For those planning a visit, here are some key details:
- Opening Date for New Season: April 8th, 2024
- Notable Features: Exceptional sea views, Kyle Phillips-designed courses
- Contact Information: reservations@thraciancliffs.com | +359 57 09 22 00
Costa Navarino, Greece
Nestled in the Messinia region of Greece, Costa Navarino offers a golfing experience that is both luxurious and steeped in the natural beauty of the Mediterranean landscape. The Dunes Course, the first of two courses at this resort, is a masterpiece that blends seamlessly with the rolling hills and olive groves that characterize the area. With its wide fairways reminiscent of traditional links courses and stunning sea views, it provides a challenge to golfers of all levels.
The resort’s commitment to sustainable practices ensures that the beauty of the course is preserved for future generations. Here’s a quick glance at what golfers can expect:
- Breathtaking sea views
- Wide links-like fairways
- A commitment to sustainability
Costa Navarino is not just a golf destination; it’s a retreat that offers an escape into a world where the game meets natural splendor.
Real Club Valderrama, Spain
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sotogrande, Real Club Valderrama stands as a beacon of golfing excellence in Spain. Known for its meticulously maintained course and the historical significance of hosting the Ryder Cup, it offers an unparalleled golfing experience. The course is characterized by its tight fairways, small greens, and strategic bunkering, demanding precision and strategic play.
- Historical Significance: Hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup, the first ever held in continental Europe.
- Course Features: Tight fairways, small greens, strategic bunkering.
- Amenities: Luxurious clubhouse, world-class practice facilities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Spain offers diverse and enriching golf experiences with challenging courses like Isla Canela, Valderrama, PGA Catalunya, Alcanada, and Finca Cortesin. Each course boasts unique features and amenities for a memorable round. Real Club Valderrama, in particular, is a testament to the country’s commitment to world-class golfing standards.
Emerging Links Destinations in Eastern Europe
BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas, Bulgaria
Nestled on the dramatic Black Sea Coast in Northern Bulgaria, BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas offers an unparalleled golfing experience. Designed by the legendary Gary Player, the course is a testament to golf architecture that harmoniously blends with the natural landscape.
The resort provides not just a golfing challenge but also top-notch accommodation and service, ensuring a perfect vacation for golf enthusiasts and their families.
Facilities such as a beachfront restaurant, a lounge bar, and lifeguard services ensure comfort and relaxation after a day on the greens. The availability of cabanas and sunbeds adds to the luxurious beach experience.
Operating hours cater to avid golfers with schedules from 08:00 to 19:30 during the peak season, and adjusted times in the off-season based on local weather conditions. For those looking to perfect their swing, the driving range and rental clubs are available at reasonable rates.
Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort, Bulgaria
Nestled on the dramatic Black Sea Coast, the Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort offers a blend of luxury accommodations and premier golfing experience. Designed by the legendary Ian Woosnam, the course is part of the Cape Kaliakra Signature Golf Coast, which includes two other renowned courses by Gary Player.
The resort is not just about golf; it provides a comprehensive experience with a variety of amenities. Guests can enjoy multiple dining options, bars, and a beach bar, along with entertainment and sports facilities. The resort’s commitment to providing a full package of leisure and relaxation is evident in its extensive offerings.
The Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort is a beacon for those seeking a serene getaway with the allure of the game.
For golf enthusiasts, the course presents a challenge for all skill levels, with stunning sea views accompanying each hole. The resort’s additional services cater to every need, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Pezula Championship Course, Poland
Nestled in the heart of Poland’s picturesque landscapes, the Pezula Championship Course offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and visually stunning. With its varied terrain and meticulously designed holes, players can expect a round full of strategic play and scenic views.
The course is known for its significant elevation changes, which demand careful shot placement and a thoughtful approach to each hole. Players often remark on the unique character of the course, with some holes playing along narrow ridgelines, adding an element of thrill to the game.
The Pezula Championship Course is a testament to modern golf course design, seamlessly integrating the natural topography to create a memorable golfing journey.
Here’s a quick glance at what golfers can expect:
- Average time spent on the course: 1.5 – 3 hours
- Total number of holes: 19
- Different layouts available: 7
While the course does not currently host any major events, its reputation continues to grow as more golfers discover this Eastern European gem.
Conclusion
As we have journeyed through the best links courses in Europe, it’s clear that the continent offers a diverse and rich tapestry of golfing experiences. From the windswept dunes of Scotland to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, each course presents its unique challenges and breathtaking beauty. Whether you are seeking the thrill of playing on a championship course or the tranquility of a hidden gem, Europe’s links courses are a testament to the enduring allure of the game. As you plan your next golfing adventure, consider the storied fairways and undulating greens that have captured the hearts of golfers for generations. Remember, the perfect round is not just about the score, but the memories made along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes a links golf course from other types of courses?
Links golf courses are the oldest style of golf course, typically found in coastal areas, with undulating terrain, sandy soil, and natural obstacles such as dunes and long grass. They are known for their exposure to the wind and lack of trees.
Can beginners enjoy playing on links courses?
Yes, beginners can enjoy links courses, but they can be challenging due to the natural elements and course design. It’s a great way to experience traditional golf and improve various aspects of the game.
Are there any signature golf courses in the Cape Kaliakra Signature Golf Coast?
Yes, the Cape Kaliakra Signature Golf Coast in Bulgaria features three notable courses: Lighthouse, designed by Ian Woosnam, and two Gary Player-designed courses, including the renowned Thracian Cliffs.
What additional services are available at Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort?
Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort offers additional services such as 2-seater golf buggy rentals, driving range tokens, and rental clubs. Green fees vary for resort guests and outside guests.
Is it possible to book a tee time at Thracian Cliffs online?
Yes, you can book a tee time at Thracian Cliffs online via their website or by contacting their pro shop via email or phone.
What are some top golf courses in Washington State?
Top golf courses in Washington include Chambers Bay, Sahalee Country Club, Gamble Sands, TPC Snoqualmie Ridge, Gold Mountain Golf Club (Olympic Course), and Wine Valley Golf Club.