Best golf courses in Europe

Consistently ranked as the number one course in Spain, the Stadium Course at PGA Camiral Golf & Wellness is both spectacular and imposing. Trees press onto fairways, bunkers are strategically placed and lakes come into play on seven of the toughest holes, all of which are looking to catch golfers out. However, you may not realise the difficulty of this course thanks to its beautiful setting. It is no wonder quality players return time and time again.

Stadium Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 7,177 yards, front tees 5,565 yards

• Par: 72

• Architect: Neil Coles

• Founded: 1999

• Course type: Parkland

As Gary Player once said: “You will not find a golf course like this anywhere else on the planet,” when talking about The Signature Course at Thracian Cliffs. Framed by rugged coastal cliffs and the vast blue of the Black Sea, the backdrop to this course is simply sensational. The holes are perfectly sculpted into the natural layout of the land and, as one of the most dramatic golf courses in the world, it is no wonder it is among the best golf courses in Europe.

Thracian Cliffs Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 7,055 yards, front tees 5,012 yards

• Par: 72

• Architect: Gary Player

• Founded: 2022

• Course type: Links

The world-famous European Tour venue that is Real Club Valderrama is one of Robert Trent Jones Snr’s greatest designs. The course has played host to the Andalucia Valderrama Masters, as well as the Ryder Cup in 1997, and its immaculate condition provides a challenging round every single time you play it. The 17th is the standout hole here as the green slopes towards an emerald lake, but bunkers behind the green mean anyone that flies the green will face one of the most testing bunker shots in golf.

Real Club Valderrama Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 7,020 yards, front tees 5,331 yards

• Par: 71

• Architect: Robert Trent Jones

• Founded: 1974

• Course type: Parkland

Winding its way through chestnut, ash and pine trees, Villa d’Este offers golfers a picturesque challenge, with spectacular views of Lake Montorfano on several of the holes. It is Peter Gannon’s winding design that has led golfers to consider this as the most challenging and difficult par-69s in the whole of Europe. One thing is for sure, golf in Italy does not get much better than this.

Villa d'Este Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 6,268 yards, front tees 5,344 yards

• Par: 69

• Architect: Peter Gannon

• Founded: 1926

• Course type: Parkland

Despite only opening in June 2017, West Cliffs Golf Links has quickly become one of the best golf courses in Portugal, among its already prestigious reputation at the leading Praia D'El Rey Resort. The Cynthia Dye design is an exceptional creation that disturbed the natural terrain as little as possible, offering golfers holes that are just as unique and remarkable as the last. Running alongside the silver coast, featuring rolling sand dunes and coastal vegetation, this course really is a must-play.

West Cliffs Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 6,440 yards, front tees 4,976 yards

• Par: 72

• Architect: Cynthia Dye

• Founded: 2017

• Course type: Links

When looking for a holiday in Iberian Peninsula Troia Golf Course in Portugal ranks highly among Portugal's best golf courses. Designed by Trent Jones senior, it graces the Troia Peninsula near Lisbon, offering a championship course by the beach with stunning sea views in an unspoiled setting. Suitable for all skill levels, it's both challenging and unforgettable. Signature holes here include the Par 4 third hole and the impressive Par 5 18th hole. Troia is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, promising lasting memories.

Troia Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 6,912 yards, front tees 5,328 yards

• Par: 72

• Architect: Robert Trent Jones

• Founded: 1980

• Course type: Links

Viewed as one of the best golf courses in Spain by the esteemed Golf Digest magazine, the Finca Cortesin Golf Course offers a sensational experience suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The host of the 2023 Solheim Cup is nestled amidst a stunning natural backdrop. This 18-hole championship course boasts a mesmerising design, complemented by the region's consistently pleasant weather, creating an ideal setting for a round of golf. Impeccably maintained fairways and greens further enhance this spectacular golfing experience.

Finca Cortesin Golf Course Facts

• Length: Back tees 7,388 yards, front tees 5,306 yards

• Par: 72

• Architect: Cabell Robinson

• Founded: 2009

• Course type: Parkland