Best golf holidays for beginners in Europe

As a beginner golfer, planning your first European getaway is an exciting prospect. It is an excellent opportunity to combine your passion for golf with a memorable holiday experience.

What makes it even more enticing is that the courses in Europe offer diverse styles, layouts, and challenges, distinct from those you might encounter playing in the UK. This provides a valuable opportunity to broaden your golfing horizons and enhance your technique.

To help you choose the best holiday destination for you and your group, we have handpicked a selection of exceptional resorts in Europe that cater specifically to beginner golfers. These resorts boast outstanding facilities, stunning courses, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them the ideal choice for an unforgettable golf holiday for beginners.

• On-site course(s): Islantilla Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,272 yards (Yellow & Green Courses)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting greens & pitching area
• Academy: SV Golf Academy

Situated on the picturesque Costa de la Luz in Spain is DoubleTree by Hilton Islantilla Beach Golf Resort. The resort features a renowned 27-hole parkland golf course suitable for players of all skill levels. The Yellow & Green Courses (holes 10-27) are recommended for golfers with a higher handicap.

Its forgiving fairways and stunning coastal views create a relaxed atmosphere, allowing beginners to develop their skills with confidence. Moreover, the resort's convenient location provides easy access to beautiful beaches, cultural sites, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring a well-rounded golfing holiday.

• On-site course(s): Isla Canela Old Course & Isla Canela Links
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,437 yards (Old Course) 5,837 yards (Links)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting green & short play area
• Academy: Training centre & Callaway fitting centre

Nestled along the pristine shores of Huelva, Hotel Isla Canela Golf Resort is a haven for beginner golfers. Isla Canela Golf Club offers two 18-hole golf courses with wide fairways and forgiving layouts, perfect for novice players seeking to refine their skills.

With its tranquil ambiance, nearby nature reserves, and various off-the-course activities, the resort guarantees a delightful holiday experience for both golfers and non-golfing companions.

• On-site course(s): Lauro Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,390 yards (holes 1-18)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting greens
• Academy: The Lauro Golf School

Lauro Golf Resort is made up of a collection of townhouses close to the towns of Mijas and Torremolinos, providing plenty of entertainment for your group as well as a host of bars and restaurants.

The resort boasts a 27-hole golf course amidst rolling hills and olive groves, offering an idyllic backdrop for players of all levels. Beginners can enjoy the challenges of the course while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

• On-site course(s): Gramacho & Vale da Pinta
• Par: 72 (Gramacho) 71 (Pinta)
• Course length from red tees: 5,224 yards (Gramacho) 5,322 yards (Pinta)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting green, chipping green & practice bunker
• Academy: Pestana Golf Academy

Pestana Golf Resort Carvoeiro, located in Portugal's Algarve region, is an excellent choice for a European break. The resort offers a combination of stunning courses, professional instruction, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Beginners can take advantage of the resort's golf academy, where experienced instructors provide tailored lessons to help improve their skills. With its picturesque surroundings and a range of amenities, Pestana Golf Resort Carvoeiro ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience.

• On-site course(s): Costa Ballena Ocean Golf Club
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,638 yards
• Practice facilities: Floodlit driving range, putting green, two chipping & pitching greens
• Academy: Performance Golf Centre

Situated on the captivating Costa de la Luz in Spain, this resort is an excellent choice for anyone looking to use academy facilities during their break. The on-site golf club features golf clinics and driving ranges, where expert instructors tailor their lessons to individual skill levels. Once you’ve enjoyed your round and tested out the facilities on offer, the Wellness Spa is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

With a stunning 27-hole golf course on-site, you can expect a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience at Barcelo Costa Ballena Golf Resort.

• On-site course(s): Almerimar Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,694 yards
• Practice facilities: Driving range & practice area
• Academy: Almerimar Golf School

Hotel Golf Almerimar offers a comprehensive golf holiday experience, ideal for beginners and mixed-ability groups. The resort features a 27-hole golf course renowned for its forgiving fairways and scenic surroundings.

Multiple course combinations cater to different skill levels, enabling beginners and seasoned golfers to enjoy their rounds together. Non-golfers can also indulge in various amenities and activities available within the five-star resort, such as the luxurious Spa & Wellness Centre.

• On-site course(s): Championship Course & 9-hole Resort Course
• Par: 71 (two rounds of the Resort Course)
• Course length from yellow tees: 5,751 yards (two rounds of the Resort Course)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting green, chipping green & practice bunker
• Academy: Penina Golf Academy

Penina Hotel & Golf Resort in Portugal offers an exceptional setting for those new to golf. Sir Henry Cotton designed the Resort Course with beginners in mind, providing a balanced challenge with nine well-thought-out holes that can be played twice to make a full round.

Additionally, Penina Golf Resort offers a golf academy where beginners can receive professional guidance to enhance their skills. With its luxurious accommodations and top-notch facilities, the resort guarantees a truly immersive and rewarding golf holiday for beginners.

• On-site course(s): La Finca Golf Course & Villamartin Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,918 yards (La Finca) 5,471 yards (Villamartin)
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting greens, chipping area & practice bunker
• Academy: La Finca Golf Academy

La Finca Resort is an excellent destination for a golf holiday, with the on-site championship golf course known for its strategic layout and stunning views. Beginners can experience the thrill of playing on a challenging course while enjoying the resort's world-class facilities.

With its luxurious accommodations, spa, and exquisite dining options, this resort provides a complete and unforgettable golf holiday experience.

• On-site course(s): Bonalba Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,828 yards
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting green & chipping area
• Academy: Bonalba Golf School

Hotel Bonalba Alicante offers direct access to the Bonalba Golf Club, which features an 18-hole course suitable for players of varying skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the challenge of the course which provides many birdie opportunities while taking advantage of the resort's golf academy.

The resort's comfortable accommodations, beautiful views, and proximity to the vibrant city of Alicante creates a perfect blend of relaxation and top-quality golf.

• On-site course(s): Alicante Golf Course
• Par: 72
• Course length from red tees: 5,746 yards
• Practice facilities: Driving range & short play area
• Academy: Alicante Golf Academy

Hotel Alicante Golf offers direct access to the Alicante Golf Club, which features an 18-hole course suitable for players of varying skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the challenge of the course which provides many birdie opportunities while taking advantage of the resort's golf academy.

The resort's comfortable accommodations, beautiful views, and proximity to the vibrant city of Alicante creates a perfect blend of relaxation and top-quality golf.

• On-site course(s): Boavista Golf Course
• Par: 71
• Course length from red tees: 5,171 yards
• Practice facilities: Driving range, putting green & chipping green
• Academy: Boavista Golf Academy

Nestled in the stunning region of Lagos, Boavista Golf Resort is an idyllic retreat. The resort boasts an 18-hole championship course that caters to players of mixed abilities. With its gentle undulations and forgiving fairways, you can enjoy your round while honing your skills.

Boavista Golf Resort also offers a driving range, practice areas, and a golf academy. The resort's serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings create a tranquil setting for a relaxing and enjoyable golf holiday.

The above golf resorts are all brilliant choices for a golf holiday for beginners. With on-site courses, professional instruction, and a variety of off-the-course activities, you and your group are guaranteed to have an excellent holiday.

No matter whether you prefer the captivating coasts of Spain or the serene landscapes of Portugal, you will be embarking on a trip that nurtures your skills, boosts your confidence, and creates lasting memories.