If you’re an avid golfer (like myself!), chances are you’ve dreamt of teeing off in a spectacular setting. Designing a golf-focused travel experience is an incredible way to explore some of the world’s most astounding sights, check off “bucket list” courses from your list, and practice—and maybe even improve!—your golf game.

Keep reading for my top three picks for international destinations perfect for a golf getaway—plus ideas on how you can explore the destination away from the course (or, if your travel companions aren’t as keen on golf as you, ideas for how they can fill their days while you swing away):

Scotland

For most avid golfers, Scotland is at the top of the wishlist for a golfing travel experience. That’s for good reason—several, actually, including famed courses at St Andrews and Gleneagles. You could create an entire itinerary spent golfing at courses set against the backdrop of historic manor houses and castles, the remote rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, or dramatic coastal cliffs. Luckily, the tradition of a hearty Scottish breakfast will power your days.

Standout course: 

There’s too many to choose from, but I’ll highlight The King’s Championship Golf Course at Gleneagles for its history: designed by James Braid, the 18-hole course has been played for more than 100 years.

Away from the course:

• Explore the fishing villages of Fife, near St Andrews, along the coastal path that takes you past cobblestone high streets, active harbors, artisan boutiques, and sandy beaches
• Journey into the wild, windswept Highlands as you trek through old-growth forests and heather-covered heathland in and around Cairngorms National Park
• Combine an outing to two of Scotland’s quintessential sites: centuries-old Stirling Castle and breathtaking Loch Lomond

Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia is considered by many to be the capital of golf in continental Europe—and it’s easy to see why, when the region gets over 300 days of sunshine a year! This area in Spain’s south borders the Mediterranean (and the Strait of Gibraltar), so courses often butt up against seaside cliffs and golden beaches, and boast dramatic coastline views. If you like the idea of a European golf getaway but Scotland sounds a bit too chilly, give Andalusia a try. With the scent of pine and scrub oak in the air, mild mornings and sun-drenched afternoons, and days capped off with fresh seafood feasts, it’s the ultimate Mediterranean golf escape. 

Standout course:

Head to La Hacienda Links Golf Resort on the Costa del Sol for a seaside setting boasting spectacular views—on clear days, you can see all the way to Africa. 

Away from the course:

• Explore the fragrant gardens and famed Moorish architecture on an early morning visit to Grenada
• Try your hand at a twirl during flamenco class in seaside Seville, the birthplace of Spain’s most famous dance
• Cap an evening with a private yacht charter that sails across the Mediterranean, for a prime sunset view and a champagne toast

New Zealand

For a thrilling-from-start-to-finish golf adventure, head to New Zealand. The north and south islands that make up the country provide absolutely stunning backdrops, from deep blue lakes ringed with mountains to island fjords that jut out into the ocean—plus canyons, volcanic craters, forested valleys split by winding rivers, and glacier-capped peaks. Don’t miss the Over the Top Heli Course outside Queenstown, which involves a helicopter ride up to a ridge nestled 4,500 feet high in New Zealand’s southern alps. It features four tee boxes for you to attempt the most epic hole in one imaginable! If you want your courses to come with a major dose of natural eye candy, New Zealand delivers, no matter where in the country you tee off. 

Standout course:

Jack’s Point near Queensland, which is a visually stunning course offering panoramic views of the rugged Remarkables mountain range. You can combine this with the Over the Top Heli Course experience (mentioned above) afterwards, for one truly unforgettable day of golf!  

Away from the course:

• Soar high above Milford Sound during a private helicopter tour, landing on pristine beaches and near alpine lakes to explore on foot
• Travel through the “Valley of the Wines” in Central Otago with private tastings lined up at renowned wineries producing some of New Zealand’s best Sauvignon Blanc
• Island hop across the Bay of Islands on a private sail boat charter; the network of 140 islands is rich in marine life and historical sites—including the country’s first capital city, Russel

 Ready to tee off someplace spectacular?

Get in touch to start planning your very own golf journey—simply fill out my brief trip inquiry form to start.