Europe is where the game of golf began. It started with a group of monks at St. Andrews and the rest is history. Some of the best courses in the world are still here and many come from across the globe to pay their tributes. The majority of championship and tournaments are played in England, Ireland, and Scotland, but there’s good grass to be head elsewhere on the continent.
- St. Andrews, Scotland Golf has been played by monks at St. Andrews since the 12th century. It is considered one of the oldest courses in the world and attracts legions of golfers who come to pay their respects to the game.
- Turnberry, Scotland The Alisa Course is considered the Pebble Beach of Scotland as it looks out on to the wild waters of the Irish Sea.
- Ballybunion, Ireland This legendary course in County Kerry is one of the most famous in all of Europe. The massive sand dunes sandwich the course between the high sea cliffs.
- Muirfield, Scotland The wind is in your face and every bounce counts at this legendary course that has been home to frequent championships for more than a century. Home of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, which dates back to 1744.
- El Saler, Spain Valencia’s El Saler, designed by Javier Arana, is located on the Mediterranean and within Albufera Nature Park. Ranked 29th in the world.
- Royal County Down Golf Club, Northern Ireland This 18-hole championship course is one of the oldest in Ireland and considered one of the best in the world.
- Royal St. Georges, England AKA Sandwich. This course has played host to 14 British Opens. Features fairways set between large sandy mounds and what may be the largest bunker in the golfing world on the eight hole.
- Palazzo Arzaga, Italy The Palazzo is the finest golfing resort in Northern Italy and home to a Jack Nicklaus II designed course, Gary Player Links course, and the PGA of Europe Golf Academy, not to mention a fine hotel and stunning views of the Alps.
- Carnoustie, England The back nine of Carnoustie is one of the most challenging in all of golf, which is why many championships and tournaments are played here.
- Le Méridien Moscow Country Club, Russia This Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed course is the only 18-hole course in Russia, and home to the PGA Europe-sanctioned Russian Open. It’s not far from the city center and the posh Starwood resort is loaded with comfort and luxury.