A great golf holiday should offer more than an impressive course. The right resort gives you somewhere to relax after the final putt, enjoy quality food and make the most of your time away—whether that means a spa treatment, an afternoon by the pool or an evening exploring the local area.

This becomes even more important when travelling as a couple, with friends or alongside non-golfers. While the golfers take on another round, everyone else should have plenty to enjoy without feeling as though the holiday revolves entirely around the tee sheet.

Fortunately, Europe is home to an excellent collection of resorts that combine memorable golf with first-class accommodation, extensive spas and plenty to experience away from the course.

From the sunshine of Portugal and Spain to the countryside of France, Italy, Ireland and the UK, here are 16 of the best golf resorts and spas in Europe.

1. Acaya Golf Resort & Spa, Italy

Acaya Golf Resort and Spa

Set among the peaceful countryside of Puglia, Acaya Golf Resort & Spa combines relaxed Italian hospitality with excellent golf and easy access to the southern Italian coastline.

The resort’s rooms overlook the gardens, the surrounding countryside or the neighbouring golf course, providing a comfortable and peaceful base for your stay. Guests can also enjoy traditional Italian cuisine in the resort’s restaurant or travel to nearby Lecce to explore its historic centre, restaurants and bars.

Golf at Acaya

Acaya Golf Club is situated beside the hotel and offers an enjoyable 18-hole layout surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Its combination of water features, strategically positioned bunkers and exposed holes provides enough variety to keep golfers interested throughout the round.

Having the course so close makes Acaya particularly convenient for golfers who want an easy stay-and-play experience without spending too much of the holiday travelling between the hotel and first tee.

Spa and leisure facilities

The resort’s wellness facilities include:

  • Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
  • Sauna and steam room
  • Turkish bath
  • Whirlpool and Jacuzzi
  • Gym and fitness facilities
  • A selection of massages and beauty treatments

Best for: Couples and smaller groups looking for golf, relaxation and an opportunity to experience authentic southern Italy.

2. Hotel Terraverda at Empordà Golf, Spain

Hotel Terraverda at Emporda Golf

Located in the Costa Brava countryside, Hotel Terraverda at Empordà Golf is a stylish and contemporary option for golfers who prefer a peaceful resort atmosphere.

The hotel is surrounded by natural scenery but is still within easy reach of the charming town of Torroella de Montgrí, where guests can discover local restaurants, bars and Catalan culture.

The hotel’s restaurant specialises in local dishes, while the lounge provides a relaxed setting for a post-round drink.

Golf at Empordà

The resort offers two contrasting 18-hole courses:

Empordà Dunes 

With exposed terrain, rolling fairways, lakes and large bunkering, the Dunes Course provides a strategic test where club selection and course management are essential.

Empordà Forest

The Forest Course winds through mature pine trees, creating a more sheltered and visually impressive round. Accuracy is important, particularly when approaching the greens.

Together, the two courses give groups plenty of variety without needing to leave the resort.

Spa and leisure facilities

The wellness facilities are available for an additional charge and include:

  • Turkish bath
  • Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Fitness centre
  • Massage and wellness treatments
  • Outdoor swimming pool

Best for: Golfers who want two contrasting courses on site and a quiet base from which to explore the Costa Brava.

3. Kinsale Hotel & Spa, Ireland

Exterior of Kinsale Hotel & Spa

Surrounded by 90 acres of wooded parkland and overlooking Oysterhaven Bay, Kinsale Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice for a relaxing golf break in Ireland.

Its location offers the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of the hotel and its coastal surroundings while remaining within easy reach of Kinsale and Cork.

Kinsale itself is known for its colourful streets, welcoming pubs and excellent food scene, making this a particularly appealing option for golfers who want more than a resort-only holiday.

Golf near Kinsale Hotel

Kinsale Golf Club is located just a short drive from the hotel and offers two courses, including the dramatic Old Head-style coastal scenery associated with golf in this part of Ireland.

The wider Cork area also provides access to several rewarding courses, allowing Golf Escapes to create an itinerary that matches the ability and preferences of your group.

Spa and leisure facilities

The hotel’s spa includes:

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sauna and steam room
  • Relaxation area
  • Treatment rooms
  • Fitness facilities
  • A varied menu of massages and treatments

Best for: Couples and groups who want Irish golf, coastal scenery and lively evenings in nearby Kinsale.

4. Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster, France

Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster brings classic French style to the centre of Le Touquet, one of northern France’s most established coastal resorts.

The hotel is located close to the beach and within walking distance of the town’s shops, bars and restaurants. Its traditional architecture, refined interiors and excellent dining create an elegant base for a golf holiday.

Guests can dine in the hotel’s stylish restaurant before finishing the evening with a drink in its oak-panelled bar.

Golf in Le Touquet

Several excellent courses are located within easy reach, including the layouts at Le Touquet Golf Resort.

La Mer is the area’s standout course, offering a traditional links-style challenge among dunes close to the coast. La Forêt provides a more sheltered woodland experience, while Le Manoir is a shorter option that works well for a relaxed additional round.

Spa and leisure facilities

The hotel’s wellness area offers:

  • Heated indoor swimming pool
  • Sauna
  • Hot tub
  • Treatment rooms
  • Massages and beauty therapies

Best for: Golfers looking for a sophisticated short break combining strong golf, a walkable town and easy access from the UK.

5. Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, Portugal

Restaurant at Hilton Vilamoura as Cascatas Golf Resort Spa

Vilamoura has long been one of Europe’s most popular golf destinations, and Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas provides a luxurious base from which to enjoy it.

The hotel is located close to the resort’s renowned golf courses and approximately ten minutes from Vilamoura Marina. Around the marina, guests will find an excellent selection of restaurants, bars, shops and evening entertainment.

During the summer season, the hotel also operates transport to Falésia Beach, providing an easy change of pace between rounds.

Golf in Vilamoura

The hotel sits opposite the Pinhal Golf Course and operates shuttle services to selected local courses.

Vilamoura’s golf collection includes Pinhal, Laguna, Millennium and the Old Course, giving golfers a varied itinerary of woodland fairways, water hazards and classic resort golf.

Its excellent course selection makes Vilamoura especially suitable for groups with mixed handicaps or those staying for several nights.

Spa and leisure facilities

The hotel’s extensive spa and leisure offering includes:

  • Hydrotherapy and water experiences
  • Indoor and outdoor pools
  • Sauna and steam facilities
  • Fitness centre
  • Massages and beauty treatments
  • Relaxation spaces

Best for: Groups and couples wanting a polished resort, varied golf and easy access to the restaurants and nightlife of Vilamoura Marina.

6. Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort, France

entrance

Set among the rolling hills of Provence, Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort is one of Europe’s most impressive luxury golf destinations.

The resort has been designed in the style of a Provençal village, with suites and private villas spread throughout landscaped grounds. This creates a sense of space and privacy while keeping guests close to the golf, restaurants and leisure facilities.

Service is a major part of the experience, making Terre Blanche particularly suited to golfers looking for a premium holiday where every detail feels carefully considered.

Golf at Terre Blanche

There are two 18-hole golf courses on site:

Le Château

Le Château is the resort’s championship course and offers a strategic challenge through undulating countryside, with water hazards, well-protected greens and memorable views.

Le Riou

Reserved primarily for members and resort guests, Le Riou is shorter but no less interesting. Its elevation changes and technical design make accuracy more important than power.

The resort also offers first-class practice and tuition facilities.

Terre Blanche Spa

The substantial spa includes:

  • Indoor and outdoor swimming areas
  • Multiple treatment rooms
  • Sauna and steam facilities
  • Private terrace
  • Fitness and wellness programmes
  • An extensive treatment menu

Best for: Luxury couples, special occasions and golfers who want a complete resort experience with championship golf on site.

7. Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness, Portugal

Palacio Estoril entrance and gardens. For golfing holidays in Portugal, Lisbon is an excellent choice.

Palácio Estoril combines old-world glamour with a superb location in one of the Lisbon region’s most fashionable coastal towns.

Opened during the 1930s, the hotel has retained its elegant architecture and traditional character while offering the facilities expected from a modern five-star property. It has even appeared on the big screen as a filming location for a James Bond movie.

The hotel sits close to Estoril’s beach, casino, restaurants and shops, while Lisbon and the picturesque town of Cascais are also within easy reach.

Golf near Palácio Estoril

Golf do Estoril is approximately five minutes from the hotel and is one of Portugal’s most established courses.

Its relatively compact design rewards accuracy, intelligent positioning and a reliable short game. Several other leading Lisbon courses can also be included within a tailored itinerary, giving golfers plenty of options during a longer stay.

Banyan Tree Spa and wellness facilities

Guests can enjoy:

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Treatment rooms
  • Massage and beauty therapies
  • Pilates and yoga studio
  • Fitness and wellness programmes
  • Relaxation areas

Best for: Couples looking for traditional luxury, excellent dining and a holiday that balances golf with coast, culture and city experiences.

8. East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa, England

East Sussex National is an excellent reminder that a relaxing golf escape does not always require a flight.

Set within the rolling Sussex countryside, the resort is easy to reach from London and much of southern England. Its spacious rooms overlook the surrounding landscape and golf courses, while the peaceful setting makes it ideal for a convenient overnight or weekend break.

Golf at East Sussex National

The resort has two championship courses:

The East Course

Designed as the resort’s tournament layout, the East Course has hosted professional events and provides a strong test from the back tees. Its scale, water hazards and well-guarded greens reward thoughtful course management.

The West Course

The West Course offers a slightly different challenge, with tree-lined holes, water features and an attractive parkland setting. It remains testing but is enjoyable for a broad range of handicaps.

Horsted Spa

After the round, guests can make use of:

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sauna and steam room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Treatment rooms
  • Gym and fitness facilities
  • Massages and beauty treatments

Best for: UK golfers seeking an easy-to-reach resort break with two quality courses and no airport logistics.

9. Fairplay Golf & Spa Resort, Spain

Reception seating area at Fairplay Golf & Spa Resort

Fairplay Golf & Spa Resort is located within the natural surroundings of the Los Alcornocales area in Cádiz.

Designed in the style of a traditional Andalusian village, the resort offers spacious accommodation, attractive courtyards and extensive views over the surrounding countryside.

The nearby town of Benalup provides a selection of bars and restaurants, while the resort itself offers several dining choices for guests who prefer to remain on site.

Golf at Fairplay

Fairplay Golf Club sits directly beside the hotel, making the journey from breakfast to the first tee refreshingly simple.

The course features generous fairways, water hazards, well-positioned bunkers and views across the Cádiz countryside. Its approachable layout makes it enjoyable for mixed-handicap groups, although there is still enough strategy to punish careless shots.

Fairplay Spa

The resort’s spa facilities include:

  • Hydrotherapy circuit
  • Sauna and steam areas
  • Treatment rooms
  • Massages and beauty treatments
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Gym and fitness facilities

Best for: Golfers looking for a peaceful stay-and-play resort in a less crowded corner of southern Spain.

10. Conrad Algarve, Portugal

Exterior of Conrad Algarve

Located within Quinta do Lago, Conrad Algarve is one of the Algarve’s most refined five-star hotels.

Its modern rooms, attentive service and impressive dining make it a superb option for golfers who value the accommodation as much as the courses. The hotel is also well suited to couples, with beaches, restaurants and leisure facilities nearby for days away from the fairways.

Golf around Quinta do Lago

Guests are ideally positioned for some of the Algarve’s best-known courses, including:

These courses provide a strong mix of pine-lined holes, water hazards, elevated greens and coastal scenery. With so much quality golf nearby, itineraries can be adapted for different handicaps and lengths of stay.

Conrad Spa

The hotel’s spa offers:

  • Indoor and outdoor pools
  • Sauna and steam facilities
  • Ice fountain and experience showers
  • Private spa lounge
  • Fitness centre
  • Personalised treatments and massages

Best for: Luxury couples and small groups who want premium accommodation with several leading Algarve courses nearby.

11. The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, Greece

pool Westin Costa Navarino

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is positioned beside the Ionian Sea in the beautiful region of Messinia.

Its low-rise buildings, landscaped gardens and extensive leisure facilities create a relaxed resort atmosphere. It is particularly well suited to families and couples, as there is plenty to enjoy beyond the golf—including beaches, swimming pools, watersports and cultural activities.

Golf at Costa Navarino

Costa Navarino has developed into one of Europe’s leading golf destinations, with four courses now available across the wider resort.

The Dunes Course is located close to The Westin and combines olive groves, river scenery and views towards the sea. The Bay Course offers a more dramatic coastal experience, while the Hills and International Olympic Academy courses provide additional variety from their elevated setting.

Together, the courses make Costa Navarino an excellent choice for a longer golf holiday.

Spa and wellness facilities

The resort’s extensive wellness facilities take inspiration from ancient Greek treatments and locally produced olive oil.

Facilities include:

  • Indoor and outdoor treatment areas
  • Thalassotherapy
  • Heat and mist rooms
  • Hydrotherapy experiences
  • Massages and beauty treatments
  • Fitness and wellbeing programmes

Best for: Families, couples and groups wanting resort luxury, multiple courses and a wide choice of non-golf activities.

12. La Cala Resort, Spain

Indoor dining at La Cala Golf Resort

Set between the Sierra de Mijas and the Mediterranean coast, La Cala Resort is one of the Costa del Sol’s most complete stay-and-play destinations.

The hotel overlooks the surrounding courses, and many rooms include private balconies from which guests can enjoy the scenery. The resort also offers restaurants, bars and several leisure facilities, while the beaches and restaurants of the coast are only a short drive away.

Malaga Airport is approximately 35 minutes away, making transfers relatively straightforward.

Golf at La Cala

The resort is home to three 18-hole golf courses:

America Course

Known for its elevation changes and wide views, the America Course rewards confident driving and good distance control.

Asia Course

The oldest and most technical of the three, the Asia Course requires careful positioning and a thoughtful approach from the tee.

Europa Course

The Europa Course has wider fairways but includes water hazards, large greens and several memorable risk-and-reward holes.

With 54 holes on site, La Cala is a particularly strong choice for groups who want plenty of golf without arranging daily transfers.

La Cala Spa

The spa offers:

  • Hydrotherapy pools
  • Turkish bath
  • Sauna and steam room
  • Experience showers
  • Treatment rooms
  • Massages, facials and beauty treatments

Best for: Groups wanting three courses in one location and enough variety to fill a multi-round itinerary.

13. Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton

pool

Located on the lower slopes of Mount Etna, Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton offers one of the most distinctive settings on this list.

The hotel sits among vineyards, orchards and volcanic countryside, with panoramic views across eastern Sicily. Its elevated position provides more comfortable golfing temperatures during warmer periods of the year.

Away from the course, guests can explore local vineyards, enjoy traditional Sicilian cuisine or arrange activities such as trekking and mountain biking.

Each of the hotel’s guest rooms is beautifully decorated and takes advantage of the hotel’s lovely setting with beautiful views of the vineyards and the orchards. The room types range from a comfortable classic room to a stunning suite so everyone can take their pick!

The hotel’s main restaurant, La Ghiandaia, serves delicious traditional Sicilian cuisine. Within the clubhouse, you can enjoy a great lunch menu, and in the Lounge Bar, you can enjoy a few drinks after your meal.

Golf at Il Picciolo

Il Picciolo Golf Club is located beside the hotel and winds through oak trees, vineyards and the natural contours of the landscape.

The course is not especially long, but its narrow fairways, elevation changes and smaller targets require accuracy. The backdrop of Mount Etna adds a sense of drama to the round that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Spa and leisure facilities

The resort’s wellness centre includes:

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sauna and Turkish bath
  • Jacuzzi
  • Treatment rooms
  • Relaxation areas
  • Massages and beauty therapies

Best for: Golfers looking for something different, combining golf with Sicilian food, wine and spectacular scenery.

14. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, Portugal

monte rei hotel 1

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is located in the eastern Algarve, between the mountains and the Atlantic coast.

Rather than a traditional hotel, the resort offers beautifully designed villas and residences, providing guests with more privacy and space. The high standard of accommodation makes it especially suitable for families, couples and small groups looking for a premium self-catering experience.

Guests can dine within the resort or explore nearby towns such as Tavira, Vila Nova de Cacela and the coastal communities of the eastern Algarve.

Golf at Monte Rei

The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is the centrepiece of the resort and is widely regarded as one of Portugal’s finest golf experiences.

Generous fairways provide some encouragement from the tee, but water hazards, bold bunkering and carefully contoured greens ensure that approach play is thoroughly tested. The excellent course presentation and spacious layout add to the feeling of playing somewhere special.

Spa and leisure facilities

The resort offers:

  • Spa treatments and massages
  • Fitness centre
  • Tennis courts
  • Swimming pools
  • Personal training and wellbeing options
  • Private leisure facilities within selected accommodation

Best for: Golfers seeking a premium villa-based stay and one of the Algarve’s most highly regarded courses.

15. Celtic Manor Resort, Wales

Celtic Manor is one of the UK’s best-known golf resorts and provides a complete destination for a short break, group trip or special golf event.

The resort offers a wide range of rooms, restaurants and bars, alongside extensive leisure and conference facilities. Its size means there is plenty happening throughout the stay, making it a good choice for groups who appreciate choice and a lively resort atmosphere.

Golf at Celtic Manor

Golfers have access to three courses:

Twenty Ten Course

Created specifically to host the 2010 Ryder Cup, the Twenty Ten provides a dramatic tournament-style challenge with water in play on several holes.

Roman Road Course

Roman Road is a scenic parkland layout with views across the surrounding countryside and the Severn Estuary.

Montgomerie Course

The Montgomerie combines elevation changes, valleys, strategic bunkering and several memorable downhill shots.

This range allows groups to create a varied itinerary while remaining within the same resort.

Forum Spa

The resort’s extensive spa and leisure facilities include:

  • Swimming pool
  • Sauna, steam and Jacuzzi areas
  • Multiple treatment rooms
  • Relaxation spaces
  • Massages and facials
  • Fitness cent

Best for: Larger groups, society trips and golfers wanting several courses, restaurants and facilities in one resort.

16. Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa, Turkey

Overhead view of the resort, with the U shaped hotel wrapping around the gardens & pools below

Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa is located in Belek, one of Europe’s leading destinations for all-inclusive golf holidays.

The resort combines modern accommodation with direct beach access, numerous swimming pools and an extensive choice of restaurants and bars. Its all-inclusive format makes budgeting simpler for groups, as meals and drinks are already taken care of throughout the stay.

Belek’s purpose-built golf infrastructure also keeps transfer times between the hotels and courses relatively short.

Golf at Cornelia

The resort is closely associated with Cornelia Golf Club and its 27-hole Nick Faldo-designed layout.

The King, Queen and Prince loops can be combined to create three different 18-hole configurations. Pine-lined fairways, sculpted bunkers and water hazards provide a strategic test, while the ability to play different combinations adds variety during a longer stay.

Hotel guests benefit from convenient shuttle services between the resort and golf club.

Crassula Spa

The expansive spa and wellness facilities include:

  • Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
  • Turkish hammam
  • Sauna and steam rooms
  • Treatment rooms
  • Massages and beauty therapies
  • Fitness and relaxation areas

Best for: Groups looking for all-inclusive convenience, warm-weather golf and a wide range of resort facilities.

How to Choose the Right Golf and Spa Resort

Outdoor dining at W Costa Navarino

With so many excellent choices, the right resort will depend on the type of golf holiday you have in mind.

For plenty of golf without daily transfers

Consider a resort with several courses on site, such as La Cala, Celtic Manor, Terre Blanche or Costa Navarino.

These work particularly well for groups because the logistics are simple and golfers can enjoy varied rounds without spending too much time travelling.

For couples and non-golfing partners

Conrad Algarve, Palácio Estoril, The Westin Costa Navarino and Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster all offer plenty beyond the fairways.

Beaches, restaurants, local towns, cultural experiences and substantial spa facilities mean both golfers and non-golfers can enjoy the holiday at their own pace.

For a peaceful golf retreat

Fairplay, Acaya, Terre Blanche and Monte Rei provide a quieter environment where the emphasis is on space, service and relaxation.

These are strong choices when the post-round plan involves a spa treatment, a leisurely dinner and an early night rather than a busy nightlife scene.

For an easy short break from the UK

East Sussex National, Celtic Manor, Kinsale and Le Touquet can all work well for shorter trips.

They reduce travel time while still providing quality golf, comfortable accommodation and the opportunity to properly switch off.

For sunshine and resort convenience

Hilton Vilamoura, Conrad Algarve, La Cala and Cornelia Diamond combine warmer weather with established golf infrastructure.

Cornelia Diamond is particularly attractive for golfers who prefer an all-inclusive package, while the Algarve and Costa del Sol offer more freedom to explore local restaurants and towns.

Plan Your European Golf and Spa Holiday

The best golf resorts make every part of the holiday feel easy. The courses are close by, the accommodation matches your expectations and there is somewhere inviting to unwind when the scorecard has been signed.

Whether you are arranging a group trip, travelling as a couple or looking for a relaxing golf break closer to home, our experienced team can help you find the resort that suits your golf, budget and preferred pace of holiday.

Tell us what matters most—championship courses, a standout spa, lively evenings or complete peace and quiet—and we will recommend the options that fit.

Because the only difficult decision on your golf holiday should be which club to hit next.

You May Also Be Interested In…

Best Golf & Spa Breaks in the UK

Best Luxury Golf Resorts

Best Golf Resorts By The Beach

Best 4* & 5* Golf Resorts

Best All-Inclusive Golf Resorts

Best Golfing Holiday Destinations

Best Long Haul Golf Packages

Best Budget Golf Holidays

Best Group Golf Holiday Packages

Best Golf Resorts With Golf Courses On-Site

Best Golf Courses & Holes In Europe

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