With championship play, breathtaking views and exceptional facilities, these exclusive resorts for golfers are ones to consider for those wanting to tee off, dine and unwind in style.
Trump Turnberry, Scotland
Turnberry has been welcoming golfers to experience its links courses on the West Coast of Scotland since 1901. At the heart of Trump’s five-star resort is the championship Ailsa course, where iconic golfing moments such as the 1977 Open Championship’s ‘Duel in the Sun’ between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson played out. Complementing the Alisa is the King Robert the Bruce – a par-72 links course renowned for its coastal views. And, when it’s time to unwind, relax in the spa, dine at one of three restaurants or experience outdoor pursuits at Turnberry Adventures.
The Championship Golf Package – two nights’ accommodation with breakfast and two rounds of golf – starts from £798 per person. www.turnberry.co.uk
Costa Navarino, Greece
Offering a combination of world-class golf, luxury accommodation and numerous leisure and lifestyle facilities, Costa Navarino is situated in Greece’s Southwest Peloponnese and features four signature 18-hole courses. Awarded the World’s Best Golf Venue at the 2024 World Golf Awards, there’s a choice of four five-star hotels – including Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental – as well as more than 40 dining and entertainment venues, state-of-the-art sports facilities, world-class spa centres and a wealth of experiences engaging with the region’s culture, history and nature.
A seven-night stay with breakfast in The Westin Resort – which includes four rounds of golf – starts from €4,118 per person. www.costanavarino.com
Verdura Resort, Sicily
Spanning olive groves, citrus orchards and a sun-drenched coastline on Sicily’s Southwest coast, Verdura Resort is another option for players eager to combine golf with the finer things in life. The home of European Tour’s Rocco Forte Sicilian Open, facilities include two 18-hole championship courses – the West Shore and East Links – as well as a nine-hole par-three layout designed by acclaimed golf architect, Kyle Phillips. For time off the course, there’s an extensive array of other luxury sports, spa and lifestyle amenities, as well as a diverse range of dining options at a choice of 12 bars and restaurants.
Choose from a collection of villas, including the Villa Agata Three Bedroom Sea View and Villa Corallo Four Bedroom Sea Front. POA. www.roccofortehotels.com
Apes Hill, Barbados
A thousand feet above sea level, Apes Hill is said to be one of the most remarkable high points in the Caribbean. Planned to work harmoniously with nature, the 18-hole championship level course embraces the highs and lows of the undulating landscape, making use of the gully system and vistas. Beyond golf, other experiences can be found throughout, from practising yoga and hiking trails to relaxing by the pool or at the picturesque 20th hole. Private villas provide the space to explore Barbados at your own pace, while the Noisy Cricket and 20th Hole offer an array of culinary options.
A five-night stay at a four-bedroom Hilltop Villa with pool costs approximately $13,120. www.apeshill.com
Quinta do Lago, Portugal
Quinta do Lago blends world-class golf, gastronomy, and luxury accommodation, all set across 2,000 acres in the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park. There’s bespoke leisure, elite sports facilities and a culinary journey with over a dozen bars and restaurants. Choose from Michelin-starred fine dining at Conrad Algarve’s Gusto by Heinz Beck, or sample fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean-inspired tapas across the resort. Home to three 18-hole courses, this is a destination where tradition meets high-end luxury.
The Q2 Experience includes three nights’ accommodation with breakfast, a dinner at Louro, and two rounds of golf, from €450 per person. www.quintadolago.com
Dundonald Links, Scotland
Located in the heart of Ayrshire’s golf coast, Dundonald Links plays host to the Women’s Scottish Open and Final Qualifying for the Open Championship. Known for its imaginative greens and challenging bunkers, it’s earned a place among the star names of Western Scotland. Heavy investment has seen it evolve into a fully-fledged resort, with guests staying in either premium rooms or luxury lodges. Then there’s the Canny Crow restaurant and Whisky Room both paying tribute to the resort’s heritage while maintaining a contemporary feel.
A one-night stay with breakfast at Dundonald Links, including two rounds of golf (based on twin or double occupancy), costs from £209 per person.
Disclaimer Prices, product details and availability are correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
