Must-visit golf destinations for spring

Spring is one of the most complete travel windows in golf - combining peak course conditioning, playable climates, and strong destination variety. Below are eight standout destinations, each with leading courses, tailored travel insights, and off-course recommendations to round off the experience.

Spring in Scotland offers a purer, more traditional links experience, where game is dictated by natural conditions rather than resort presentation. Courses begin to firm up after winter, and with fewer peak-season crowds, it's an ideal window for purists, bucket-list travellers, and those seeking authentic links golf in its more strategic form.

Top golf packages include:

• St Andrews (Old Course) | No.7 course in the World by Top 100 Golf Courses The spiritual home of golf and a strategic masterpiece that rewards intellect over power. Its vast double greens, subtle undulations, and iconic bunkering require precise positioning and imaginative shot-making. Despite its width, scoring well demands a deep understanding of angles and ground game.

• Muirfield | No.10 course in the World by Top 100 Golf Courses Widely regarded as one of the fairest tests in championship golf. The routing - front nine clockwise, back nine anti-clockwise - ensures players face constantly shifting wind directions. Every hole presents a distinct challenge, emphasising club selection, trajectory control, and disciplined course management.

• Royal Troon | No.15 course in Scotland by Top 100 Golf Courses A classic Open Championship venue defined by contrast. The outward nine offers scoring opportunities, while the inward stretch becomes increasingly demanding. The “Postage Stamp” par-3 is one of the most famous short holes in the world, requiring absolute precision, while the closing holes test control in exposed coastal conditions.

Travel advice

• Fly into Edinburgh for St Andrews and East Lothian, or Glasgow for Ayrshire courses like Royal Troon.
• Planning is essential - St Andrews requires entry via the ballot or guaranteed access through authorised tour operators.
• Spring weather can be variable, so layering and flexible tee time planning are key.

Beyond the course:

• Whisky distillery tours (Speyside & Lowlands) – Discover Scotland’s most famous exports with guided tastings and behind-the-scenes experiences

• Edinburgh Old Town & Castle – Explore historic streets, landmarks, and panoramic city views in Scotland’s capital

• East Lothian & Fife coastline – Scenic coastal drives and walking routes offering classic linksland views and seaside villages

Ireland delivers one of the most distinctive golf experiences in the world - defined by rugged coastlines, towering dunes, and a raw, natural routing philosophy. Spring is an excellent time to visit, as courses begin to firm up and daylight increases, while demand remains below peak summer levels. It’s particularly well-suited to golfers seeking dramatic scenery, strategic links golf, and a more immersive, road-trip style itinerary.

Top golf packages include:

• Royal County Down Golf Club | No.3 course in the World by Top 100 Golf Courses Regularly ranked among the top courses globally, Royal County Down is as visually striking as it is demanding. Set beneath the Mourne Mountains, the course features narrow, rumpled fairways, blind tee shots, and natural dune formations that frame each hole. Precision and local knowledge are critical, particularly when navigating the subtle green complexes and shifting winds.

• Ballybunion Golf Club (Old) | No.29 course in the World by Top 100 Golf Courses A quintessential Irish links experience, Ballybunion’s Old Course is considered one of the best links courses in Ireland. It is routed through towering dunes with dramatic elevation changes and exposed coastal holes. The layout rewards creativity and adaptability, with uneven lies, rolling fairways, and ever-present wind influencing shot selection throughout the round.

• Lahinch Golf Club | No.32 course in the World by Top 100 Golf Courses Often described as one of the most characterful links courses in the world, Lahinch blends traditional design with unique quirks. Blind approach shots, distinctive holes like the “Klondyke” and “Dell,” and undulating greens create a memorable and unconventional playing experience that challenges both strategy and execution.

Travel advice:

• Dublin serves as the main international gateway for east coast and northern courses, while Shannon Airport is more convenient for southwest links such as Ballybunion and Lahinch.
• A self-drive itinerary is strongly recommended, allowing flexibility to navigate Ireland’s coastal regions at your own pace.
• Expect variable weather conditions in spring - layered clothing and adaptable scheduling are essential.

Beyond the course:

• Cliffs of Moher – One of Ireland’s most iconic coastal landmarks, offering dramatic Atlantic views

• Traditional Irish pubs (Lahinch & Killarney) – Renowned for live music, local culture, and atmosphere

• Ring of Kerry – A scenic driving route showcasing some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal and countryside views

The Costa del Sol is one of Europe’s most established and versatile golf destinations, offering exceptional depth - from world-renowned championship venues to accessible resort layouts. In spring, the region benefits from consistent sunshine, warm but comfortable temperatures, and excellent course conditioning. It’s ideally suited to mixed-ability groups, repeat travellers, and those looking to combine high-end golf with a vibrant social scene.

Top golf packages include:

• Real Club Valderrama | No.1 course in Spain by Top 100 Golf Courses Widely regarded as Spain’s premier golf course, Valderrama is a true championship test that places a premium on precision and discipline. Narrow, tree-lined fairways - framed by cork oaks - demand accuracy off the tee, while small, firm greens require controlled approach play. Course management is critical here; aggressive play is rarely rewarded, making it one of the most strategically demanding layouts in Europe.

• Finca Cortesin Golf Club | No.15 course in Spain by Top 100 Golf Courses A modern championship venue known for its immaculate presentation and expansive design. The course features wide fairways, generous landing areas, and large, subtly contoured greens, offering a more playable experience than Valderrama while still challenging at a high level. Combined with one of Europe’s leading luxury resorts, it delivers a premium, resort-style golf experience.

• La Reserva Club | No.13 course in Spain by Top 100 Golf Courses A visually striking layout that blends elevation changes with wide corridors off the tee, encouraging confident driving. The course can be considered a moderate challenge and becomes more demanding on the greens, where well-placed bunkering and slopes shape approach strategy. The closing stretch is particularly strong, with risk-reward opportunities that can significantly influence scoring.

Travel advice:

• Fly into Malaga Airport, then allow approximately 60–90 minutes to reach Sotogrande, where many of the region’s top courses are located. Alternatively, flying into Gibraltar also provides easy access to the Costa del Sol
• Hiring a car is strongly recommended, as the best venues are spread across the coastline.
• Spring is a high-demand period, so booking tee times and accommodation in advance is advisable, particularly for premium courses like Valderrama.

Beyond the course:

• Marbella Old Town – A blend of traditional Andalusian charm, narrow streets, and modern dining

• Puerto Banús – Upscale marina known for nightlife, luxury shopping, and beach clubs

• Gibraltar – A unique day trip offering historic sites, panoramic views, and a distinct cultural contrast

The Algarve is one of Europe’s most reliable and well-rounded spring golf destinations, combining consistent sunshine, excellent course conditioning, and a highly developed golf infrastructure. With minimal rainfall and temperatures typically in the high teens to low 20°C, it provides ideal playing conditions without the intensity of summer heat. It’s particularly well suited to groups, first-time golf travellers to Europe, and those looking for a seamless mix of championship golf and resort lifestyle.

Top golf packages include:

• Monte Rei Golf Resort | No.1 course in the Algarve by Top 100 Golf Courses Widely regarded as Portugal’s premier golf experience, Monte Rei offers a refined, low-volume atmosphere with exceptional attention to detail. The Jack Nicklaus Signature design features generous landing areas off the tee but becomes progressively more demanding on approach, with elevated, contoured greens requiring precise distance control.

• Old Course, Vilamoura | No.3 course in the Algarve by Top 100 Golf Courses One of the Algarve’s most established layouts, the Old Course delivers a classic parkland experience framed by mature umbrella pines. While less visually dramatic than newer resort courses, its strategic depth is a defining feature, rewarding positional play off the tee and disciplined approaches to well-guarded greens. It remains a cornerstone venue within Vilamoura’s golf offering.

• Quinta do Lago (South Course) | No.2 course in the Algarve by Top 100 Golf Courses A flagship championship course with a strong European Tour pedigree, the South Course combines resort playability with high-level challenge. Water hazards feature prominently, particularly across the back nine, where risk-reward decisions become more pronounced. The closing stretch is one of the strongest in the region, demanding both accuracy and composure.

Travel advice:

• Faro Airport serves as the main gateway, with most major resorts and golf clusters located within 20–30 minutes.
• The compact geography makes transfers straightforward, but hiring a car is recommended for flexibility - especially when playing across Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo.
• Spring is a high-demand period, so booking tee times and accommodation at least 6–10 weeks in advance is advisable for premium courses.

Beyond the course:

• Vilamoura Marina – A central hub for restaurants, bars, and a lively evening atmosphere, ideal for groups
• Ria Formosa Natural Park – A protected coastal lagoon offering scenic walks, boat tours, and a quieter contrast to resort areas
• Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo beach clubs – Relaxed, upscale beachfront settings perfect for post-round dining and sunset views

Morocco has become one of the most compelling short-haul spring sun destinations for golf, combining warm, dry conditions with a rich cultural backdrop. With temperatures typically sitting in the low to mid-20s°C, it offers highly playable conditions without the intensity of peak summer heat. It’s best suited to golfers looking for a sun-soaked alternative to Southern Europe, with added cultural depth and a more relaxed pace of travel.

Marrakech is the focal point for golf, where a growing portfolio of high-quality courses is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. The destination blends modern resort golf with traditional Moroccan character, creating a well-rounded travel experience.

Top golf packages include:

• Marrakech Royal Golf Club | No.12 course in Morocco by Top 100 Golf Courses One of Morocco’s most historic courses, Royal Golf Marrakech dates back to the 1920s and offers a traditional, tree-lined layout that contrasts with the region’s newer desert designs. Fairways are framed by mature eucalyptus, palm, and olive trees, creating tighter playing corridors that reward accuracy over power. The design is relatively flat but strategically engaging, with well-protected greens demanding precise approach play. Its heritage and setting make it a key part of any Marrakech itinerary.

• Assoufid Golf Club | No.5 course in Morocco by Top 100 Golf Courses A modern desert-style course that has quickly established itself as one of North Africa’s top-ranked layouts. Set against unobstructed views of the Atlas Mountains, Assoufid features wide fairways and natural waste areas, but the challenge lies in its subtly contoured greens and strategically placed bunkers. The minimalist design allows the landscape to dictate play, with wind often becoming a key factor in club selection and shot shaping.

• Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort | No.4 course in Morocco by Top 100 Golf Courses Located on the Atlantic coast, Mazagan offers a contrasting experience to Marrakech’s inland courses. Designed by Gary Player, the course runs alongside the ocean, incorporating links-style elements with wide fairways, coastal breezes, and expansive views. It’s more forgiving off the tee than some inland layouts, making it playable for a range of abilities, while still offering enough challenge through its length and exposure to wind.

Travel advice:

• Marrakech Menara Airport is the primary gateway, with direct flights from major UK cities taking approximately 3.5 hours.
• Most golf resorts are within 15–25 minutes of the city, making transfers straightforward - private transfers are recommended for ease and comfort.
• For those including Mazagan, allow around 2.5–3 hours travel to the coast (via Casablanca), or consider combining as part of a multi-centre itinerary.

Beyond the course:

• Marrakech Medina & souks – A vibrant, immersive experience of markets, food, and traditional craftsmanship
• Atlas Mountains excursions – Day trips offering hiking, local villages, and panoramic scenery
• Traditional hammam & spa experiences – A key part of Moroccan culture, ideal for post-round relaxation

Cyprus offers a refined yet relaxed Mediterranean golf experience, combining reliable spring sunshine with scenic, resort-led golf. With temperatures typically ranging from 18–24°C, conditions are ideal for consistent play without the peak summer heat. It’s particularly well suited to couples, smaller groups, and golfers looking to combine quality golf with a slower-paced, leisure-focused escape.

What sets Cyprus apart is its compact and accessible golf offering, with several high-quality courses located within proximity to Paphos. This allows for an efficient itinerary without long transfer times, making it especially appealing for shorter stays.

Top golf packages include:

• Aphrodite Hills Golf Club | No.2 course in Cyprus by Top 100 Golf Courses The standout course in Cyprus, Aphrodite Hills, delivers a dramatic and memorable layout set across two plateaus divided by a deep ravine. The signature par-3 7th hole, played over the canyon, is one of the most photographed in European golf. Elevation changes are a defining feature throughout the round, requiring careful club selection and distance control. Combined with a full-service resort, it offers a complete stay-and-play experience.

• Elea Golf Club | No.1 course in Cyprus by Top 100 Golf Courses Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, Elea is a more strategic and understated test. The layout emphasises positioning over power, with well-placed bunkering, natural terrain, and subtly contoured greens dictating play. It’s a course that rewards thoughtful shot shaping and course management, appealing particularly to more experienced golfers.

• Minthis Golf Club | No.4 course in Cyprus by Top 100 Golf Courses Set in the hills above Paphos, Minthis offers a cooler microclimate and a more tranquil setting compared to coastal courses. The routing weaves through vineyards, orchards, and natural rock formations, creating a visually distinctive and varied round. Elevation changes and sloping greens add complexity, while the peaceful environment enhances the overall experience.

Travel advice:

• Paphos International Airport is the primary entry point, with all major golf resorts located within approximately 15–25 minutes. This makes Cyprus one of the easiest destinations to navigate without extensive travel logistics.
• Car hire is recommended for flexibility, although transfers are short and straightforward.
• Spring is an increasingly popular season, so booking in advance is advisable for preferred tee times and resort stays.

Beyond the course:

• Paphos Harbour & UNESCO archaeological sites – Combine coastal dining with historic landmarks, including ancient mosaics and ruins

• Troodos Mountains wine region – Explore local wineries and traditional villages in a cooler, scenic inland setting

• Mediterranean coastal experiences – Boat trips, beach clubs, and coastal walks offering a relaxed, post-round atmosphere

Belek has established itself as one of Europe’s most efficient and accessible golf destinations, combining championship-calibre courses with a fully integrated, all-inclusive resort model. In spring, conditions are particularly strong - warm temperatures (typically 18–25°C), lush fairways, and excellent course conditioning following winter overseeding. It’s ideally suited to groups, society trips, and golfers looking for a high-quality, low-logistics experience with strong value.

What differentiates Belek is its concentrated resort layout, where multiple top-tier courses and five-star hotels sit within close proximity. This allows for seamless transitions between accommodation, golf, and leisure, often without the need for external transport.

Top golf packages include:

• Carya Golf Club | No.1 course in Turkey by Top 100 Golf Courses One of the standout courses in the region, Carya offers a unique heathland-style design - rare for this part of the world. Tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and firm, fast greens create a layout that rewards accuracy and thoughtful course management. It’s also one of the few courses in Europe to offer fully floodlit night golf, adding a distinctive dimension to the playing experience.

• Montgomerie Maxx Royal | No.2 course in Turkey by Top 100 Golf Courses A championship layout designed by Colin Montgomerie, known for hosting the Turkish Airlines Open. The course is defined by its bold bunkering, risk-reward opportunities, and strong finishing stretch. Wide fairways offer some forgiveness off the tee, but approach play into well-guarded greens is where scoring opportunities are won or lost. The attached Maxx Royal resort elevates the overall experience with premium service and facilities.

• Gloria Golf Club (Old Course) | No.7 course in Turkey by Top 100 Golf Courses One of the most established venues in Belek, the Old Course at Gloria offers a balanced test with a traditional parkland feel. Pine-lined fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and varied hole designs provide a fair but engaging challenge for a wide range of abilities. Its consistency and playability make it a staple in multi-round itineraries.

Travel advice:

• Fly directly into Antalya Airport, with most Belek resorts located within a 30–40 minute transfer.
• One of the key advantages of the destination is that many resorts operate on an all-inclusive basis, including on-site golf or dedicated shuttle services to nearby courses - removing the need for car hire.
• Spring is a peak period, so securing preferred tee times and resort packages in advance is recommended.

Beyond the course:

• Beachfront resort living – Private beaches, multiple pools, and full-service hospitality create a relaxed, all-day environment
• Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi) – A short trip away, offering historic streets, harbour views, and local dining
• Spa & wellness facilities – High-end resorts feature extensive spas, including traditional Turkish baths, ideal for recovery between rounds

Scottsdale is one of the premier spring golf destinations in the United States, offering near-perfect playing conditions, dramatic Sonoran Desert landscapes, and a high concentration of top-ranked courses. With daytime temperatures typically ranging from 20–30°C, spring provides an ideal balance of warmth and playability before the peak summer heat. It’s best suited to golf groups, and travellers seeking championship-level golf combined with a vibrant off-course scene.

What sets Scottsdale apart is its density of elite daily-fee courses, many of which are maintained to tournament standards. The combination of desert visuals, strategic design, and consistent conditioning makes it one of the most complete golf destinations in North America.

Top golf packages include:

• TPC Scottsdale (Stadium) | No.37 course in Arizona by Top 100 Golf Courses Home of the WM Phoenix Open, this is one of the most recognisable courses in world golf. Designed with spectator viewing in mind, the layout features wide, forgiving fairways off the tee, encouraging aggressive play. However, approach shots into well-guarded greens demand precision, particularly across the closing stretch. The par-3 16th hole - surrounded by grandstands during tournament play - adds a unique, stadium-like atmosphere even outside event week.

• Troon North Golf Club (Pinnacle) | No.26 course in Arizona by Top 100 Golf Courses Widely regarded as the benchmark for desert golf in Scottsdale, Troon North delivers a pure Sonoran experience. Both courses are routed through natural desert terrain, featuring granite boulder outcrops, elevation changes, and tight landing areas framed by native vegetation. While playable off the tee, the challenge intensifies into firm, elevated greens, requiring accurate distance control and disciplined shot shaping.

• We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Saguaro) | No.8 course in Arizona by Top 100 Golf Courses A minimalist Coore & Crenshaw design that contrasts with more target-style desert layouts. Built on untouched land with no surrounding real estate, Saguaro emphasises width, angles, and ground-game options. The course is highly walkable and rewards strategic thinking, offering a more traditional design philosophy within a desert setting.

Travel advice:

• Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, located approximately 20–30 minutes from central Scottsdale.
• Hiring a car is strongly recommended, as courses are spread across the region and often require 20–40 minute drives.
• Spring is peak season in Scottsdale, particularly around March due to events like the WM Phoenix Open and MLB Spring Training, so booking tee times and accommodation 2–3 months in advance is essential for premium venues.

Beyond the course:

• Old Town Scottsdale – A central hub for restaurants, bars, and nightlife, particularly popular with golf groups
• Desert hiking and outdoor activities – Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve offer scenic trails and panoramic views
• Cactus League Spring Training – A unique sporting experience, with multiple MLB teams hosting pre-season games across the region

Q: Where is the best place to go for golf in spring? A: The best destination depends on your priorities. For guaranteed sunshine, the Algarve, Costa del Sol, and Morocco are strong options. For world-class links golf, Scotland and Ireland stand out, while Scottsdale offers premium desert golf with consistently dry conditions.

Q: When is the best month to take a spring golf trip? A: April and May typically offer the best balance of course conditions and weather across most destinations. March is ideal for long-haul trips like Scottsdale, while late spring (May) is excellent for links golf in the UK & Ireland.

Q: Are golf courses in good condition during spring? A: Yes - spring is when many courses emerge from winter maintenance, meaning fairways and greens are often in peak or improving condition. In warmer climates, courses are typically maintained to a consistently high standard throughout.

Q: Is spring a busy time for golf travel? A: Spring is a popular travel period, particularly in destinations like Portugal, Spain, and Scottsdale. Booking 2–4 months in advance is recommended to secure preferred tee times and accommodation.

Q: What should I pack for a spring golf trip? A: This depends on the destination. For UK & Ireland trips, bring waterproofs and layers for variable weather. For warmer destinations like Spain, Morocco, or Arizona, lighter clothing is suitable, but early mornings can still be cool.

Q: How long should a spring golf trip be? A: A 3–5 night trip with 2–4 rounds is ideal for most destinations. This allows enough time to experience multiple courses, enjoy off-course activities, and avoid a rushed schedule. But there is no right or wrong answer, speak to your Golf Travel Expert for a fully tailored golf trip.

Spring offers one of the most complete and versatile golf travel windows of the year. From the sun-drenched fairways of Southern Europe to the iconic links of Scotland and Ireland, and the dramatic desert landscapes of Scottsdale, each destination provides a distinct experience shaped by climate, course design, and culture.

Choosing the right location comes down to what you value most - whether that’s guaranteed sunshine, championship-level golf, or a more traditional links test. With the right planning, spring delivers exceptional playing conditions and a well-balanced travel experience.