Bulgaria golf holiday FAQs

Thinking about a golf holiday in Bulgaria? With award-winning courses, modern resorts, excellent value, and a warm climate from spring through autumn, Bulgaria has quickly become one of Europe’s most exciting golf destinations.

Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you plan the perfect golf getaway.

Bulgaria has around ten established 18-hole golf courses, with the highest concentration found along the Black Sea Coast in Varna. While the number may be small compared to some European nations, the quality is exceptional - several Bulgarian courses are designed by legends such as Gary Player and Ian Woosnam and regularly win international awards.

Bulgaria punches above its weight when it comes to elite course design. Top picks include:

Thracian Cliffs Golf Course Location: Cape Kaliakra, Black Sea Coast | Par: 72 | Opened: 2011 | Designer: Gary Player No.1 golf course in Bulgaria and 43rd in Europe by Top 100 Golf Courses Dramatic cliff-top holes overlooking the Black Sea; one of Europe’s most iconic layouts.

BlackSeaRama Golf Club Location: Cape Kaliakra, Black Sea Coast | Par: 72 | Opened: 2008 | Designer: Gary Player No.2 golf course in Bulgaria by Top 100 Golf Courses A Gary Player design with spectacular sea views and fast-running fairways.

Lighthouse Golf Course Location: Cape Kaliakra, Black Sea Coast | Par: 71 | Opened: 2011 | Designer: Ian Woosnam No.3 golf course in Bulgaria by Top 100 Golf Courses Championship layout ideal for groups and mixed-ability golfers.

Pirin Golf & Country Club Location: Bansko, Pirin Mountains | Par: 72 | Opened: 2008 | Designer: Ian Woosnam No.4 golf course in Bulgaria by Top 100 Golf Courses Alpine scenery and immaculate conditioning near Bansko.

Bulgaria appeals to golfers for several reasons:

• All-inclusive - Enjoy all-inclusive options at a number of our five-star resorts
• Exceptional value for money – Green fees, accommodation, and food are often cheaper than in Western Europe.
• High-quality championship golf – Resort-style experiences with world-class facilities.
• Beautiful scenery – From sea cliffs to mountain backdrops.
• Easy access – Direct flights from many UK airports.
• Long playing season – March to November on the coast.

Yes. Courses like Lighthouse and Pravets offer wide fairways and friendly layouts ideal for beginners, while Thracian Cliffs and BlackSeaRama challenge low handicappers with strategic bunkering, wind conditions, and dramatic elevation changes.

• Versus Spain & Portugal: Bulgaria tends to offer more competitive pricing and less crowded courses.
• Versus Turkey: Fewer resorts but equally impressive course quality and views.
• Versus UK & Ireland: A more reliable warm-weather climate and resort-style golf.

The prime season runs from April to October, with coastal golf often playable from March to November. Summer brings hot temperatures, while spring and autumn offer ideal scoring conditions.

Bulgaria offers an outstanding list of stay and play options, but the best golf resorts include:

Lighthouse Golf Resort - Customer rating: 4/5 Known for offering some of the most attractively priced golf packages in Europe, Lighthouse delivers superb value without compromising on quality. Guests benefit from an on-site championship course, flexible stay-and-play deals, all-inclusive or half-board options, and a modern spa.

BlackSeaRama Villas Offering spacious villa accommodation with private or semi-private settings, BlackSeaRama provides a luxury experience at surprisingly affordable rates. The resort combines a world-class Gary Player–designed course with excellent amenities, including fine dining, pools, and sports facilities.

Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort – Customer rating: 4.5/5 While famous for its dramatic cliff-top setting, it often offers strong value outside peak months, especially for golfers wanting to tick off one of Europe’s most iconic courses. With unique coastal suites, private beaches, and a bucket-list course, Thracian Cliffs delivers a premium experience at a competitive price.

Beyond golf, you can enjoy:

• Spa and wellness at resort facilities
• Black Sea beaches and watersports
• Wine tasting at local vineyards
• Hiking and outdoor activities
• Cultural excursions to Varna, Balchik, or Sofia

Absolutely. The Cape Kaliakra region is close to:

• Balchik Palace & Botanical Gardens
• Varna’s Roman Baths and Sea Garden
• Local wineries producing award-winning Bulgarian wines

In the Pirin Mountains, you can explore Bansko’s old town, monasteries, and scenic hiking routes.

Yes. English is widely spoken by golf staff, hotel reception teams, and restaurant personnel, making communication easy for international visitors.

No. UK citizens do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

For more information, visit the government travel advice page: www.gov.uk

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). While some hotels and tourist areas may accept euros, it’s best to carry lev for everyday spending. ATMs are widely available, and card payments are accepted at most golf resorts, restaurants, and shops.

Flight times to Bulgaria vary depending on your departure airport and chosen region (typically Varna or Burgas for Black Sea golf, and Sofia for inland courses). As a guide:

• London → Varna/Sofia: approx. 3 hours 15 mins – 3 hours 30 mins
• Manchester → Varna/Sofia: approx. 3 hours 30 mins – 3 hours 45 mins
• Birmingham → Varna/Sofia: approx. 3 hours 30 mins
• Edinburgh/Glasgow → Sofia: approx. 3 hours 45 mins – 4 hours

Seasonal routes operate to Varna and Burgas, especially during spring and summer - ideal for golf holidays on the Black Sea Coast.