Golf, Culture & Canals: The Ideal Solheim Cup 2026 Destination

Famous for its vibrant tulip fields, charming windmills, and picturesque architecture, the Netherlands is a true gem for travelers seeking an authentic European experience. Located just off the coast of England and a stone’s throw from France and Belgium, the Netherlands is renowned for being a top-tier European travel destination.

While it’s celebrated for its rich culture and history, the Netherlands doesn’t usually spring to mind when planning a European golf getaway. However, with the 2026 Solheim Cup heading to this stunning destination, and boasting three of Europe’s top 20 golf courses, it’s time to discover why the Netherlands might just be Europe’s best-kept golfing secret.

The 2026 Solheim Cup promises to be another thrilling showcase of world-class golf on the LPGA Tour, as team captains begin to focus on the standout performers across the women’s professional circuit. Following an unforgettable 2024 contest at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia, Lilia Vu’s clutch birdie on the 18th secured victory for Team USA on home soil. The question now is whether Team USA can retain the Cup and capture their first win on European soil since 2015.

With a layout that rewards precision, strategic thinking, and strong ball-striking, Bernardus Golf suits the strengths often seen in the US women’s team. Yet, the home advantage for Team Europe could prove decisive in this highly anticipated clash. Will the U.S. women’s team be able to reclaim glory for American fans after an unexpected outcome at the 2025 Ryder Cup?

You can be there to find out! Choose from a selection of fantastic packages for the ultimate Solheim Cup experience. Base yourself in the vibrant town of Eindhoven, just 30-minutes from Bernardus Golf, and witness world-class golf in one of Europe’s most exciting settings.

In recent years, the Netherlands has made remarkable strides in the world of golf, with its courses steadily climbing international rankings. Leading the charge is Bernardus Golf, a world-class venue that has hosted the KLM Open from 2021 to 2023 and is set to take center stage as the host of the 2026 Solheim Cup.

Bernardus Golf very quickly asserted itself as a championship-level venue, designed by the American architect Kyle Phillips. The 18-hole, par-72 course harnesses sandy native terrain to deliver firm, fast conditions and wide strategic variety.

You may already recognize the name Bernardus, but perhaps from a bottle rather than a golf course. The name originates from Ben “Bernardus” Pon, a Dutch entrepreneur and former racing driver who pursued his dream of producing exceptional wines in California’s sun-drenched Carmel Valley.

There, he founded Bernardus Wines, renowned for its elegant Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bordeaux-style blends. Today, these wines are proudly showcased throughout the Bernardus Golf clubhouse and pro shop, a nod to the brand’s heritage of quality and craftsmanship.

In 2018, Bernardus Golf opened its doors under the vision of Robert van der Wallen, who took ownership of the Bernardus Wine business and brought its philosophy of excellence to the fairways of the Netherlands. The result is a destination that embodies refined living, where championship-level golf meets sophisticated hospitality, and a glass of fine Californian wine is never far from reach.

While enjoying world-class golf at the Solheim Cup, don’t forget to take some time to explore the stunning landscapes of the Netherlands and its surrounding regions. Fly into Amsterdam and spend a couple of days immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture.

There’s plenty to discover, from historic landmarks like the Anne Frank House to culinary delights such as traditional bitterballen or fluffy Dutch pancakes. Be sure to explore the city’s famous canal networks, where a cruise along these waterways offers a unique perspective of the picturesque canal houses, which resemble a quaint Christmas village.

The charm of Amsterdam can be found throughout the Netherlands, and while attending the Solheim Cup, you can spend your evenings in the neighboring town of ’s-Hertogenbosch (or Den Bosch for short). This picturesque town captures the essence of a traditional Dutch village, with cobbled streets, cozy bars and restaurants, a historic cathedral, and an idyllic canal perfect for leisurely tours.

Here is a sample 10-night itinerary of how you could spend your trip to Europe for the Solheim Cup:

• Day 1 (Saturday): Overnight flight to Amsterdam
• Day 2 (Sunday): Land at Amsterdam Airport, check in, shake off jet lag with a canal walk and Jordaan cafés. Optional: prebook Anne Frank House and a timed Rijksmuseum slot.
• Day 3 (Monday): Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, then a sunset canal cruise.
• Day 4 (Tuesday): Intercity train Amsterdam Centraal to Eindhoven in about 1 hr 20 minutes, departures all day, this is where you will be staying.
• Day 5 (Wednesday): Head to the course for practice sessions and merch. Dinner back in town along the Binnendieze canals.
• Day 6 (Thursday): Practice - morning at the course, a day in ’s-Hertogenbosch to check out the sites!
• Day 7 (Friday): Solheim Cup day 1 - opening foursomes and fourballs. Expect a lively atmosphere and quick turnarounds between matches.
• Day 8 (Saturday): Solheim Cup day 2 - second day of team matches. If you prefer a breather, visit the fortified town of Heusden or rent bikes in National Park Loonse en Drunense Duinen.
• Day 9 (Sunday): Final Solheim Cup day - stay for the finish and presentations, then celebrate back in ’s-Hertogenbosch or Eindhoven.
• Day 10 (Monday): Eurostar high-speed train from Amsterdam Centraal to Paris Gare du Nord, about 3 h 20 m. Afternoon sightseeing, explore Eiffel Tower views or a Seine stroll.
• Day 11: (Tuesday): Play a round at Le Golf National, the 2018 Ryder Cup host and an annual French Open venue.
• Day 12: (Wednesday): Morning transfer to Paris Airport for your flight home.

Here are some of our travel tips when visiting the Netherlands for the Solheim Cup:

• Flights: Fly into Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS); major U.S. cities have direct routes.
• Transport: Trains are fast and reliable - about 1 hour 20 mins from Amsterdam to Eidenhoven.
• Location: Bernardus Golf is in Cromvoirt, near ’s-Hertogenbosch.
• Weather: Early September is mild (60s°F / 15–20°C) with occasional rain - pack layers and waterproofs.
• Money: Euro currency; credit cards and contactless payments widely accepted.
• Power: European plugs (Type C/F) - bring an adapter.
• Language: English widely spoken; Dutch people are friendly and helpful.
• Dining: Great local food; tipping 5–10% is appreciated.
• Sightseeing: Amsterdam canals, ’s-Hertogenbosch old town, or day trips to Delft, The Hague, or Paris by train.

Add-on golf trips: Combine the Solheim Cup with a post-event golf trip to France, Scotland, Ireland, Spain, or Portugal! Here is a breakdown of some of our favorite nearby places:

France Travel time: 3–4 hours by train or car from the Netherlands

• Le Touquet & Hardelot (Northern France): Le Touquet Golf Resort – La Mer (links) & La Forêt (woodland), Golf d’Hardelot – Les Pins & Les Dunes
• Paris Area: Le Golf National – 2018 Ryder Cup host, annual French Open venue, Golf de Chantilly – Historic parkland gem, Fontainebleau Golf Club – One of France’s finest woodland layouts

Scotland Travel time: 1.5-hour flight from Amsterdam to Edinburgh or Glasgow

• Edinburgh & East Lothian: North Berwick West Links, Gullane No. 1, Dunbar Golf Club
• St Andrews: Old Course (via ballot), Kingsbarns Golf Links, Carnoustie Championship

Spain Travel time: 3-hour flight from Amsterdam to Málaga

• Costa del Sol: Real Club Valderrama – Former Ryder Cup host, La Reserva de Sotogrande, Finca Cortesin – 2023 Solheim Cup venue

Portugal Travel time: 3-hour flight from Amsterdam to Faro

• Algarve: Dom Pedro Old Course, Quinta do Lago South & Laranjal, Monte Rei Golf & Country Club

The 2026 Solheim Cup in the Netherlands promises an unforgettable mix of world-class golf and European charm. Hosted at Bernardus Golf, a championship course famed for its strategic design and refined hospitality, the event will see Team USA and Team Europe battle for glory.

Beyond the fairways, you can enjoy the Netherlands’ iconic canals, tulip fields, and historic cities like Amsterdam and Eindhoven. Combining top-tier golf with rich culture and stunning scenery, this destination offers the ultimate golfing getaway.