The Edit

Discover our golf holiday experiences

Golfbreaks Editor
6 mins read
Explore the different kinds of golf holidays available, from luxury escapes and all inclusive resorts to bucket list links trips and flexible group getaways.
Golf & Spa
Golf tours
All-inclusive
City breaks
Stay & play
Tournaments
Self-catering
Luxury
Semi all-inclusive
Golf & city

For many, a golf holiday starts with one simple idea: playing great courses in great destinations. But the reality is far richer than that.

Today’s golf trips are as much about the overall experience as they are about time on the fairways. Whether it’s relaxing in a five-star resort, exploring a new city, enjoying nightlife with friends or combining golf with completely different activities, the modern golf holiday has evolved.

At Golfbreaks, there are countless ways to shape your perfect trip, from traditional golf-focused packages to experience-led escapes. Below, we break down the different golf holiday experiences available, starting with the most golf-centric options before expanding into experiences that go far beyond the course.

All-inclusive golf holidays

Best for: Hassle-free travel and great value Typical duration: 3-7+ | Ideal for: couples, groups | Where? Worldwide | Courses on-site? yes

Why choose this type of trip? All inclusive golf holidays take the stress out of planning by covering everything in one package. From accommodation and meals to drinks and rounds of golf, it is all arranged before you arrive, so you can relax and enjoy the experience from day one.

Perfect for those who want a seamless getaway, these trips offer excellent value and predictability, with no need to worry about organising extras once you are there.

Maxx Royal Belek

Highlight: A fully organised golf holiday where everything is taken care of in advance.

Key features:

  • Accommodation, meals and drinks included
  • Pre-arranged golf
  • Great value and convenience
  • Stress-free planning

Bonus insight: All inclusive resorts often feature on-site courses and facilities, meaning everything you need is just steps away throughout your stay.

Types of all-inclusive golf holidays

  • Luxury all-inclusive - Five-star golf and premium experiences Combining world-class courses with exceptional service, luxury all inclusive holidays offer fine dining, spa access and high-end resorts in standout destinations.
  • Semi all-inclusive - Flexibility with added value Often referred to as golfer’s all-inclusive, enjoy breakfast, dinner, and selected drinks as part of your package. This is a great way to experience the ease of all-inclusive without worrying about excess.
  • Budget all-inclusive - Smart value without compromise Focused on the essentials, these trips deliver convenience and great golf at a more accessible price point.
  • Adults-only all-inclusive - Relaxed, refined and uninterrupted Designed for couples and groups seeking a quieter atmosphere, these resorts offer a more peaceful and upscale environment throughout your stay.

Stay & play golf packages

Best for: Easy, all-in-one golf breaks Typical duration: 2–5 nights | Ideal for: Groups, couples, short breaks | Where? UK, Ireland and Europe | Courses on-site? Often yes

Why choose this type of trip? One of the most popular ways to experience a golf holiday is with a stay & play package, with 61% of our customers choosing this option. By combining accommodation and tee times into one simple booking, often at resorts where the course is just a short walk from your room, everything is designed to be effortless from the moment you arrive.

Ideal for both short breaks and longer getaways, these packages remove the hassle of planning and let you focus purely on enjoying the golf. With flexibility, great value and everything in one place, they offer a seamless experience whether you are travelling with friends or as part of a group.

Adare Manor

Highlight: Effortless golf from start to finish, with everything organised for you in one easy package.

Key features:

  • On-site or nearby golf courses
  • Simple, all-in-one booking
  • Flexible durations
  • Great value for groups and short breaks

Some of our favourites:

  • The Belfry – One of the UK’s most iconic golf resorts, home to the Brabazon course and a multiple Ryder Cup host, offering championship golf alongside top-class facilities.
  • Slaley Hall – Set in the Northumberland countryside, this 36-hole resort features two contrasting courses and a peaceful, scenic setting ideal for a relaxed golf break.
  • Belton Woods – A popular choice for groups, with two courses, modern accommodation and great value packages in a convenient central location.
  • East Sussex National – Championship-standard golf with two highly regarded courses, set within a spacious resort known for its excellent practice facilities.

Bonus insight: Many of our stay and play packages are available to book online, making it easier than ever to secure your trip and explore what is currently available.

Budget golf packages

Best for: Value-driven golf trips Typical duration: 1–4 nights | Ideal for: Groups, regular golfers, short breaks | Where? UK and Europe | Courses on-site? Sometimes

Why choose this type of trip? Great golf trips do not have to come with a high price tag. By travelling outside peak seasons, choosing emerging destinations or keeping things short and simple, it is still possible to enjoy excellent golf for less. Many of these resorts and courses are consistently well-reviewed, proving that lower cost does not mean lower quality.

Ideal for spontaneous getaways or golfers looking to play more often, these trips are all about smart value without compromising the overall experience. With the right planning, budget golf holidays prove you can still enjoy fantastic courses, comfortable accommodation and highly rated stays at a fraction of the price.

Celtic Manor

Highlight: More golf for your money, with smart savings that make regular trips possible.

Key features:

  • Great value packages
  • Off-peak travel opportunities
  • Short, flexible breaks
  • Access to hidden gem destinations

Some of our favourites:

  • Bells Hotel & Forest of Dean Golf Club – A great-value option in a scenic woodland setting, ideal for relaxed rounds and easy-going short breaks.
  • Hill Valley Hotel – A popular budget-friendly resort with two courses on-site, offering plenty of golf and good facilities at an accessible price point.
  • Altoana Golf & Country Club – A peaceful Portuguese retreat offering excellent value, with a well-maintained course and a relaxed atmosphere away from the busier resorts.
  • Boavista Golf & Spa Resort – A fantastic Algarve option blending great value with quality, featuring a championship course, modern accommodation and views over Lagos and the Atlantic.

Bonus insight: Travelling midweek or during shoulder seasons often unlocks the best deals, with quieter courses and more tee time availability adding to the appeal.

Self-catering golf holidays

Best for: Flexible, independent group trips Typical duration: 3–7 nights | Ideal for: Groups, families, longer stays | Where? UK, Ireland and Europe | Courses on-site? Sometimes

Why choose this type of trip? Self catering golf holidays are ideal for those who want full control over their trip. With your own space to relax, cook and socialise, you can plan each day exactly how you like, both on and off the course.

Perfect for groups, these stays create a more laid-back and sociable atmosphere, whether that means cooking together, enjoying drinks after a round or simply unwinding in your own space. It is a flexible option that combines great golf with the comfort of home.

Boavista

Highlight: Total flexibility to shape your trip around your group, your schedule and your pace.

Key features:

  • Private accommodation for groups
  • Flexible daily plans
  • Self catering facilities
  • Comfortable, sociable environment

Some of our favourites

  • Sol Puerto Marina – A relaxed beachfront aparthotel on the Costa del Sol, ideal for combining flexible, self catering stays with easy access to popular local courses.
  • Pestana Golf Resort – A great-value Algarve base offering villa-style accommodation set around championship courses, perfect for golfers wanting space and convenience.
  • Praia D’El Rey Resort – A standout Portuguese option with stylish self catering properties and a spectacular links-style course set along the Atlantic coast.
  • Ugadale Cottages – Part of the Machrihanish Dunes resort in Scotland, these spacious cottages provide a great base for exploring iconic links in a remote, scenic setting.
  • Macdonald Dona Lola Resort – A sun-soaked option on Spain’s Costa del Sol, offering apartment-style stays with easy access to a range of nearby courses.

Bonus insight: Self catering options often work out as great value for groups, especially when sharing larger properties and splitting costs across the trip.

Luxury golf holidays

Best for: Premium, bucket list golf experiences Typical duration: 3–7+ nights | Ideal for: Couples, groups, special occasions | Where? UK, Ireland and worldwide | Courses on-site? Often yes

Why choose this type of trip? For those seeking more than just great golf, Luxury golf holidays combine world-renowned courses with exceptional accommodation, fine dining and first-class service. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a truly premium escape, both on and off the course.

From iconic destinations to exclusive resorts, each trip elevates every part of your stay. Whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply want to travel in style, the result is a level of comfort and quality that matches the courses you play.

Gloria Serenity

Highlight: Unforgettable golf paired with outstanding hospitality and world-class surroundings.

Key features:

  • Iconic and bucket list courses
  • Five-star accommodation
  • Fine dining and premium service
  • Seamless, high-end experiences

Some of our favourites:

  • Adare Manor – One of Ireland’s most luxurious golf resorts, home to a Ryder Cup host course and exceptional five-star service throughout.
  • Verdura Resort – A spectacular Sicilian escape set along the Mediterranean coast, offering two championship courses, stylish accommodation and a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.
  • Terre Blanche – A stunning Provençal resort offering two championship courses, elegant accommodation and a truly tranquil setting.
  • Fancourt – South Africa’s premier golf destination, boasting three championship courses, including the world-renowned Links.

Bonus insight: Many luxury golf resorts offer added touches such as spa facilities, concierge services and private transfers, ensuring every part of your trip feels effortless and elevated.

Group golf holidays

Best for: Easy, organised group trips Typical duration: 2–5 nights | Ideal for: Friends, societies, larger groups | Where? UK, Ireland and Europe | Courses on-site? Often yes

Why choose this type of trip? There is nothing quite like a golf trip shared with friends, where every round, every meal and every moment becomes part of the story. From the first tee to the final putt, group golf holidays bring people together, creating lasting memories both on and off the course. With over 25 years of experience organising trips for groups of all sizes, we take care of every detail, from tee times to accommodation, so everything runs seamlessly from start to finish.

Beyond the experience itself, these trips also offer exceptional value. Many packages include added extras such as free places and exclusive group benefits, making it even more rewarding to travel together. Whether it is a society trip, a milestone celebration or a long-awaited getaway, it is the combination of great golf, shared moments and expert planning that makes it truly special.

AP Cabanas Beach & Nature 1

Highlight: Stress-free group travel with everything organised, so you can focus on the golf and the company.

Key features:

  • Tailored packages for groups
  • Pre-arranged tee times
  • Flexible accommodation options
  • Easy, all-in-one planning

Some of our favourites

  • East Sussex National – A spacious UK resort with two championship courses, ideal for groups looking for quality golf and easy logistics.
  • Precise Resort El Rompido – A popular Spanish destination offering two courses, relaxed surroundings and excellent value for group trips.
  • Penina Resort – One of the Algarve’s most established golf resorts, featuring three courses and a welcoming, group-friendly atmosphere.
  • Sueno Hotels – A lively all inclusive resort in Belek with two on-site courses, perfect for groups seeking a social and convenient golf experience.

Bonus insight: Many group packages include added extras such as reserved dining, competitions or bespoke itineraries, helping to make each trip even more memorable.

Tournament experiences

Best for: Bucket list and event-led golf trips Typical duration: 2–5+ nights | Ideal for: Golf fans, couples, groups | Where? UK, Ireland and worldwide | Courses on-site? Sometimes

Why choose this type of trip? A unique way to connect with the game at its highest level, these trips bring you closer to golf’s biggest stages. Whether you are walking the fairways at iconic events or playing the same championship venues as the pros, the experience is unlike any other.

Perfect for those looking to elevate their golf holiday, tournament experiences combine world-class courses with the atmosphere and prestige of top-tier events. It is an experience that goes beyond the round, delivering lasting memories both on and off the course.

The Open

Highlight: Play and experience legendary courses that have hosted the world’s greatest players.

Key features:

  • Access to championship venues
  • Opportunities to attend major events
  • Bucket list golf experiences
  • Unique, immersive itineraries

Bonus insight: Timing your trip around major tournaments can add an extra layer to your experience, combining great golf with the chance to witness the game’s biggest moments live.

Golf tour experiences

Best for: Longer, experience-led golf trips Typical duration: 5–10+ nights | Ideal for: Groups, enthusiasts, bucket list travellers | Where? UK, Ireland and worldwide | Courses on-site? No

Why choose this type of trip? Designed for those who want more from a golf holiday, these golf tour experiences bring together multiple courses and destinations in one unforgettable trip. Picture playing legendary links before discovering vibrant local culture, enjoying world-class golf alongside wine tasting in South Africa’s famed vineyards, or even heading out on safari to see the Big Five between rounds.

From bucket-list experiences to hidden gems, each itinerary reveals a destination in a deeper, more meaningful way. Perfect for longer escapes, they combine outstanding golf with unforgettable moments beyond the fairways.

Rovos Rail

Highlight: A journey through multiple courses and destinations, packed into one unforgettable trip.

Key features:

  • Play a variety of courses
  • Multi-destination itineraries
  • Ideal for longer stays
  • Mix of iconic and lesser-known venues

Bonus insight: Well-planned tours often include seamless transport between stops, allowing you to focus on the golf while experiencing more of each destination along the way.

UK golf & nightlife

Best for: Social, high-energy golf trips Typical duration: 2–4 nights | Ideal for: Groups, celebrations, friends | Where? UK | Courses on-site? Sometimes

Why choose this type of trip? UK golf and nightlife breaks are all about balance, combining quality courses with buzzing evening scenes. Spend your days on the fairways, then head into lively towns and cities to make the most of pubs, bars and restaurants.

Perfect for group getaways, celebrations or stag trips, these breaks deliver a sociable atmosphere from start to finish. With everything close by, it is easy to enjoy both great golf and memorable nights out.

Dublin

Highlight: The perfect mix of competitive golf and lively social experiences.

Key features:

  • Top courses near vibrant towns
  • Easy access to bars and restaurants
  • Ideal for groups and celebrations
  • Short, high-energy breaks

Bonus insight: Destinations like Newcastle, Liverpool and Dublin-style UK hotspots offer some of the best combinations of golf and nightlife, all within easy reach of top courses.

Golf & city breaks

Best for: Golf with culture and city experiences Typical duration: 2–4 nights | Ideal for: Couples, mixed groups, short breaks | Where? UK, Europe and worldwide | Courses on-site? No

Why choose this type of trip? Blending great golf with time to explore, these breaks give you more than just the course. Tee it up at top layouts by day, then step into some of the world’s most iconic cities, with historic sights, standout dining and vibrant culture all on your doorstep.

Ideal for those travelling with non-golfers or anyone looking to add variety to their trip, golf and city experiences offer a more balanced getaway. It is the perfect mix of sport and discovery, both on and off the course.

Madrid

Highlight: Play great golf while experiencing the energy and culture of a world-class city.

Key features:

  • Courses within easy reach of major cities
  • Access to restaurants, attractions and nightlife
  • Ideal for mixed groups
  • Balanced, experience-led trips

Some of our favourites:

  • Lisbon, Portugal – A vibrant capital with easy access to top courses like Oitavos Dunes and Penha Longa, paired with fantastic food and coastal scenery.
  • Barcelona, Spain – Combines iconic city culture with excellent golf at courses such as Real Club de Golf El Prat, just outside the city.
  • Edinburgh, Scotland – Historic charm meets world-class golf, with legendary links like Muirfield and Gullane within easy reach.
  • Dublin, Ireland – A lively city with a famous pub scene and quick access to top coastal courses like Portmarnock and The Island.

Bonus insight: Many top golf cities offer excellent transport links, making it easy to combine multiple courses with sightseeing without needing a car.

Golf & spa holidays

Best for: Relaxed golf breaks with added wellness Typical duration: 2–5 nights | Ideal for: Couples, mixed groups, leisure travellers | Where? UK, Ireland and Europe | Courses on-site? Often yes

Why choose this type of trip? Designed to balance great golf with total relaxation, these breaks let you switch seamlessly between the fairways and the spa. Spend your mornings on the course, then unwind with soothing treatments, thermal facilities and peaceful surroundings.

Perfect for those who want a more laid-back escape, golf and spa experiences cater to both golfers and non-golfers. It is a slower, more indulgent way to travel, where time to recharge is just as important as time spent playing.

Rockliffe Hall

Highlight: A seamless blend of quality golf and rejuvenating spa experiences.

Key features:

  • Access to spa and wellness facilities
  • Relaxed, balanced itineraries
  • Ideal for couples and mixed groups
  • High-quality resorts and settings

Some of our favourites

  • Gleneagles – A world-renowned Scottish resort offering three championship courses alongside an award-winning spa and luxury facilities.
  • The K Club – A five-star Irish destination with two Ryder Cup courses, complemented by a tranquil spa and elegant surroundings.
  • The Grove – A stylish Hertfordshire retreat featuring a championship course, modern spa and easy access from London.
  • Celtic Manor – One of the UK’s leading resorts, home to the Twenty Ten Course and extensive spa and wellness facilities.

Bonus insight: Many golf and spa resorts feature thermal suites, pools and tailored treatments, making them perfect for unwinding after a day on the course.

Golf & padel holidays

Best for: Active, multi-sport golf breaks Typical duration: 3–5 nights | Ideal for: Groups, friends, mixed abilities | Where? Europe and worldwide | Courses on-site? Often yes

Why choose this type of trip? Golf and padel holidays bring together two of the fastest-growing sports, offering a fresh and energetic twist on a traditional golf break. Split your time between the fairways and the padel court, adding variety and a more social, fast-paced element to your trip.

Ideal for groups looking to mix things up, these breaks create a lively and engaging atmosphere both on and off the course. It is a great way to try something new while still enjoying plenty of golf.

Amendoeira

Highlight: A fun, social blend of golf and padel that keeps every day varied and engaging.

Key features:

  • Combination of golf and padel
  • Social and interactive activities
  • Ideal for groups and mixed abilities
  • Active, varied itineraries

Some of our favourites:

  • La Cala Resort – One of Spain’s leading golf resorts, offering three courses alongside excellent padel facilities in a scenic Andalusian setting.
  • Grand Hyatt La Manga Club – A world-class sports resort with multiple golf courses and extensive padel and tennis facilities, perfect for active group getaways.
  • La Finca Resort – A stylish Costa Blanca resort combining a standout championship course with modern padel courts and high-quality accommodation.

Bonus insight: Padel’s quick, easy-to-learn format makes it perfect for groups, adding a competitive and social edge that complements a golf trip perfectly.

Planning your golf holiday

Booking tips

  • Think about what you want from your trip. Whether it is relaxation, competition or social time will help determine the right type of holiday
  • Consider your group. Some trips suit mixed abilities and interests, while others are more focused on serious golf
  • Plan around timing. Peak season offers the best conditions, while off-peak travel can unlock better value
  • Decide how much structure you want. All inclusive and stay & play options are seamless, while self catering and tours offer more flexibility
  • Balance golf with downtime. Adding spa, city or social elements can enhance the overall experience

Golf holiday FAQs

Q: Which golf holiday is best for groups? A: Group golf holidays and stay & play breaks are ideal, as they make organising tee times, accommodation and logistics easy for larger parties.

Q: Are all inclusive golf holidays worth it? A: Yes, especially if you want a stress-free experience. With accommodation, meals, drinks and golf included, they offer excellent convenience and value.

Q: What is best for a short golf break? A: Golf weekends or stay & play breaks are perfect for shorter trips, maximising time on the course with minimal travel.

Q: Which golf holiday offers the most variety? A: Golf tour experiences provide the most variety, allowing you to play multiple courses and explore different destinations in one trip.

Q: Can non-golfers enjoy a golf holiday? A: Absolutely. Options like golf & spa or golf & city breaks are ideal for mixed groups, offering plenty to do away from the course.

Choosing your ideal golf holiday

With so many different types of golf holidays available, the right choice comes down to what you want from your trip. Whether it is a quick weekend escape, a social group getaway or a once in a lifetime tour, there is an option to suit every golfer.

From seamless all inclusive packages to flexible, experience-led trips, each style offers its own unique appeal. The key is finding the balance between great golf and the kind of experience you want to enjoy off the course.

Feeling inspired?
If you’re unsure where to go or what kind of golf trip suits you, Golfbreaks offers a wide range of options to inspire you. From hassle-free all-inclusive packages to golf and city breaks with plenty to enjoy off the course, explore our most popular golf holiday types.

Published 05 May 2026

Golfbreaks Editor

Golf Travel Expert