The Best Golf Destinations for Foodies

Combining the pleasures of golfing with culinary delights creates an experience that tantalizes both the taste buds and the senses. For golf enthusiasts who have an equal passion for fine dining, there are destinations around the globe where the fairways are as enticing as the cuisine. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems offering local delicacies, these destinations offer a perfect blend of golfing and gastronomy. Let’s explore some of the best foodie destinations for golfers where you can swing, savour, and indulge in a memorable culinary journey.

France

Golfing in France means playing amidst breathtaking landscapes of vineyards, lavender fields, and historic towns. After a round of golf, explore the local markets filled with fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Indulge in traditional French dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade, accompanied by a glass of rosé from the region’s renowned vineyards.

Some of our favourite French golf includes Hardelot Les Dunes, Le Golf National and Le Touquet La Mer among many others, each offering a unique golfing experience.

Costa Brava & Girona, Spain

Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Girona is a charming city known for its medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and renowned gastronomy. Golfers visiting Girona can enjoy picturesque courses surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.

After a day on the greens, explore Girona’s culinary scene, which blends traditional Catalan cuisine with innovative twists. Indulge in local specialties such as botifarra (Catalan sausage), escalivada (grilled vegetables), and crema catalana (a creamy dessert similar to crème brûlée).

Don’t miss the chance to dine at one of Girona’s Michelin-starred restaurants, where talented chefs showcase the region’s finest ingredients in creative and exquisite dishes. When visiting this region, some must-play golf includes the magnificent 36 holes at Camiral (formerly known as PGA Catalunya), TorreMirona and the Golf de Pals which borders the ocean.

Italy

Italy’s picturesque countryside provides a stunning backdrop for golfers seeking both beauty and culinary delights. After a round in the rolling hills, indulge in traditional cuisine ccharacterised by simple, flavorful dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

From handmade pasta dishes to succulent meats and decadent desserts, Italy offers a true feast for the senses.

Notable courses range from Marco Simone in Rome which hosted the 2022 Ryder Cup, Il Picciolo which lies in the foothills of Mount Etna on the stunning island of Sicily, and Riviera Golf Club in the North, each of which boasts something new and exciting. 

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve region in Portugal is a golfer’s paradise with its stunning coastal landscapes and world-class golf courses. After a challenging round, immerse yourself in Portugal’s culinary delights, which blend Mediterranean flavours with fresh seafood. Indulge in grilled sardines, cataplana (a traditional seafood stew), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) whilst sipping on local wines or refreshing vinho verde.

This is a true golfing haven and it’s difficult to narrow it down to the best courses and of course it depends which area you visit, but our recommendations include Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo in the central Algarve, Palmares and Espiche to the west, and Monte Rei and Quinta da Ria to the east.

Costa del Sol, Spain

The Costa del Sol, often referred to as the “Costa del Golf,” boasts an abundance of golf courses along its sun-drenched coastline. After perfecting your swing, you can explore the vibrant culinary scene of Andalusia.

Sample tapas at bustling markets, feast on paella by the beach, and savour traditional dishes like gazpacho and jamón ibérico.

Pair your meals with local wines or sip on refreshing sangria as you soak in the Spanish ambiance.

We highly recommend a round at La Cala which has 3 courses on-site, the refurbished La Hacienda Links Golf Resort which offers 36 holes with some beautiful sea views, or El Paraiso for a traditional Spanish golf course feel.

Turkey

Belek, located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is renowned for its luxurious golf resorts and championship courses.

After a day on the fairways, treat yourself to Turkey’s rich and flavorful cuisine. Indulge in mezes, kebabs, and traditional dishes such as keşkül-ü fukara, Keşkek, Şevket-i bostan, accompanied by traditional Turkish çay or raki.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try baklava, a delectable pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey. It’s a tough choice to pick where to go in Belek, but we recommend you play the new Cullinan Links, Montgomerie Maxx Royal, Carya, or the National to name just a few.

You can even try night golf for something different! Wherever you play in Belek, the courses all promise pristine conditions from tee to green. 

Greece

Costa Navarino, a destination quickly becoming one of Europe’s finest. Home to a range of resorts and local towns which provide a superb gastronomic experience, and a true taste of the pinnacle of luxury. With no less than four signature golf courses which all boast a testing layout and marvellous views, it really is something special. 

Alternatively, Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a combination of stunning natural beauty and a rich culinary heritage. Golfers can enjoy a challenging course with views of the Mediterranean Sea and rugged landscapes.

After a round of golf, explore Crete’s gastronomic delights, which include fresh olive oil, aromatic herbs, and locally sourced ingredients. Feast on Greek classics like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salads topped with creamy feta cheese, all washed down with a glass of ouzo or local wine. 

Combining golfing with gastronomy creates a truly unforgettable experience for avid foodies and golf enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re teeing off in the rolling hills of Tuscany, savouring kebabs in Turkey, indulging in fresh seafood in Portugal, sampling tapas in Spain or enjoying a pint in St. Andrews, these destinations offer the perfect blend of sport and culinary indulgence for golfers with discerning palates.

So pack your clubs and your appetite, and embark on a golfing and gourmet journey to discover the best foodie destinations for golfers around the world.

About the Author

Matt Standley

Role: Marketing Executive - Handicap: 15 - Home course: Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club - Favourite courses: Palmares, Aphrodite Hills, Quinta do Lago North, Monte Rei & La Manga Club South