Discover Europe's Underrated Golf Resorts
Golf remains a significant part of sports tourism, with many exciting golf tours available across Europe.
Golf enthusiasts should consider where to go for a vacation, opting for less popular destinations away from the usual tourist spots.
According to Golfbreaks, interest in the search term 'golf package holiday' in the UK has increased by 750% compared to last year, while searches for 'quiet golf courses' have risen by 140% in just three months. This data is current as of September 2026.
Experts have identified seven 'underrated' destinations based on booking data from 2026 compared to 2025.
Varna in Bulgaria, two locations in Portugal, as well as Spain, Norway, France, and Greece made the list.
'Golf is steeped in tradition, and the quality of a course is often judged by its history and reputation,' said Cameron Ritchie from Golfbreaks. 'However, some of the most interesting experiences await those who choose less commercialized resorts.'
Choosing a less conventional destination usually means quieter courses, better prices, and a more authentic experience while maintaining championship-level golf in stunning natural settings.
Underrated Golf Tourism Destinations in Europe
- Varna, Bulgaria
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- Comporta and Troia Peninsula, Portugal
- Northeastern Mallorca, Spain
- Gimsoya, Norway
- Biarritz, France
- Tavira, Portugal
- Costa Navarino, Greece
Best Golf Courses
Varna, Bulgaria
Golfers are starting to discover Bulgaria's affordable courses and hotels: Golfbreaks reports a 173% increase in demand in 2025 and a further 47% since the beginning of 2026. Varna on the Black Sea coast is named an underrated golf destination, with the Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort offering stunning views from every hole. Other accommodation options include BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas and Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort.
Comporta and Troia Peninsula, Portugal
The Troia Peninsula and Comporta are better known for surfing than golf, but according to Golfbreaks, demand here has risen by 85% year-on-year. Golfers can test their skills on the championship courses Dunas and Torre at the Terras da Comporta complex, as well as at the Tróia Golf Club designed by Robert Trent Jones. Beaches and the estuary of the Sado River add to the appeal.
Northeastern Mallorca, Spain
Club de Golf Son Servera offers narrow fairways surrounded by trees and water hazards. This is the only private golf club in Mallorca that is open to guests. At Capdepera Golf Club, golfers can enjoy mountain views and vistas of the Mediterranean Sea.
Gimsoya, Norway
At Lofoten Links Golf Club, players can enjoy golf under the midnight sun in summer. The course winds along the coast among dunes and rugged terrain, framed by views of the sea and mountains.
Biarritz, France
Golf de Biarritz le Phare, one of the oldest golf courses in France, combines rich history with fast greens and challenging bunkers. At Golf d’Arcangues, players can expect undulating terrain and views of the Pyrenees.
Tavira, Portugal
The charming Tavira in eastern Algarve often remains overshadowed by more famous resorts. Nearby, golfers can play at Quinta da Ria Golf Club with views of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Costa Navarino, Greece
According to Golfbreaks, golf in Greece has 'long remained in the shadows,' but the situation is 'starting to change': demand for Costa Navarino has increased by 140%. Here, there are four golf courses, including The Dunes and The Bay, as well as the International Olympic Academy Course and The Hills Course, designed by José María Olazábal and opened in 2022, further diversifying golf options in Greece's Peloponnese.
