Golfing may be traditionally seen as a men's hobby or sport, however plenty of ladies also enjoy a day on the golf course. Whether you play professionally or just for fun, taking a golf vacation can be a unique idea for a girly break with your friends. There are various factors to be considered when creating the perfect golf vacation, and it's important to be aware that there are certain parts of the world that are more suited to travelers who're arriving with the main purpose of having a good time playing golf. Of course, one of the main things that you'll need to take into consideration are the golf courses available; you'll be glad to hear that there are many parts of the world that boast an impressive selection of golf courses with something to suit everybody's preferences.
But, it's not just the course that you'll need to think about - when you plan a golf vacation with your girlfriends, you'll also need to think about things such as the type of accommodation available, the climate and weather, the cost of living, surrounding landscapes, and the amenities and attractions available at your destination. After all, whilst you may be taking a golf vacation, there will certainly be other things that you'll probably like to do. But with so many countries and destinations to choose from when it comes to planning a fun golf vacation, where do you start? We've listed some of the best golf destinations around the world.
#1. The Algarve, Portugal:
If you're hoping for a golf vacation that's entwined with the traditional beach break, then look no further than the Algarve. When it comes to golf vacations in Europe, this area of Portugal has long been the front runner, with world class golf resorts and stunning golf courses available along with beautiful scenery and beautiful weather.
Vilamoura, a stunning harbor town, is home to some of the most sought-after golf courses in the country, including the Victoria, Pinhal, Oceanico Old, Laguna and Millennium courses. Along with these, the Algarve is also home to various other famous golfing hotspots, such as Penina, located in the west, and Monte Rei which can be found to the east. And, you can enjoy your stay at some of the awesome five-star golfing resorts available, such as Tivoli Marina.
When you're not playing golf, the Algarve has some stunning beaches, towns, and attractions to offer, along with a wide range of further activities including water-sports, horseback riding, and more. Check out the best golf clubs for women to take in on your trip.
#2. Arizona, USA:
If you're hoping to stay in the U.S. for your golf vacation, then Arizona may not seem like the most obvious choice. The dry deserts of the Sonoran Desert may not seem like the first choice for building a golf course, however, they have certainly made it work. In recent years, the area has seen a massive influx of new, world-class golf courses being designed and built amongst the stupendous mountains and amazing desert landscapes, providing a golfing experience like none other.
For a unique, fun golf vacation, the place to be is Scottsdale, where many of the locals rely on golf to make their income, so you can expect a fantastic, world-class experience when it comes to service in the golf resorts here. If you choose Arizona for your all-female golfing vacation, you can choose from a range of delightful resorts including the Boulders Resort, the TPC Scottsdale, and the incredible Dove Mountain, which is host to the WGC Accenture World Match Play Championship. Once you're done on the course, you have a lot to choose from by way of attractions and things to do; the local culture is an amazing mix of America's Old West and neighboring Mexico.
#3. Southwest Ireland:
The Southwest of Ireland is known by the Irish as the premier golfing vacation destination at home, boasting an impressive range of world class links courses, which can be found mainly along the rugged coastline of County Claire and County Kerry. Some of the most famous courses there include Doonbeg, Lahinch, and Ballybunion, along with lesser known, yet just as impressive hidden treasures such as Waterville and Skellig Bay.
With picturesque views, rolling countryside, and fresh sea air, it's no surprise that more and more golfers from Europe and beyond are making their way to southern Ireland for the ultimate golfing trip of a lifetime. And, along with the stunning links course collection available, the Southwest of Ireland is also home to a variety of beautiful inland layouts, such as the three championship courses available at the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, which are absolutely stunning places to play golf. Or, you can choose from world-class resorts such as Dromoland Castle, which offers the perfect combination of amazing golf courses and fantastic accommodation and service.
#4. Costa Del Sol, Spain:
The Costa Del Sol has been constantly developed and improved since back in the 1970's, especially when it comes to the golfing facilities offered in this area. Now known as one of the best vacation destinations in Europe, it is visited every year by droves of tourists, including those who visit for the sole purpose of playing golf in the summer sun. The province of Malaga is bursting at the seams with stunning golf courses; popular courses such as Marbella Golf and Country Club, Calanova, and Santa Clara are fantastic for golfers on a smaller budget, whilst if you have more money to spend on your golf trip, you can head down to some of the more luxurious and high-class resorts such as Atalaya Park and La Cala.
Don't forget to pay a visit to the recent host of the Volvo World Match Play Championship at the beautiful La Finca Cortesin. On top of all the options available for golfers, the Costa Del Sol makes for the perfect summer break with friends, since it boasts a near-perfect climate almost all year round, allowing you to forget worrying about bad weather, even if you're not visiting at the height of the summer months. Outside of the golf courses, you can enjoy stunning sandy beaches, gorgeous marinas, and delicious, traditional Spanish cuisine.
#5. Northern France:
Another popular European destination among golf travelers is Northern France, which is well-known for its impressive variety of world-class golf courses, many of which are widely recognized for being some of the best in the country. Choose from stunning courses at Hardelot, Saint Omer, Arras, and Le Touquet, which are frequently visited by travelers looking for a unique and fun golfing experience during their trip, along with those who travel for the purpose of playing golf alone.
In addition, the French northern coastline makes for the perfect girl's vacation destination; it's famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant, buzzing nightlife which makes it an extremely popular destination for group golf vacations. If you're looking for something more relaxed, then don't worry - the north of France has it all to offer, with quiet, stunning fishing towns and settlements located further inland, offering interesting attractions, beautiful views, and tasty food for those who are looking for a vacation with a slower pace.
#6. Monterey, USA:
For decades, holidaymakers have been taking vacations in the sunny state of California, whether they're arriving from other parts of the U.S. or beyond. With San Francisco and it's many attractions, the world-famous Hollywood Hills and the picturesque, laid-back beach towns located along Route 1, it's easy to see why this destination is so popular with not just golfers, but everybody else!
Along with the many local attractions and stunning weather, the Pacific Coast is also home to many world-class golf courses and resorts, including the world-famous Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill, or Palm Springs, which hosts a range of unique desert-like courses like those seen in Arizona. With a friendly, laid back atmosphere wherever you go, California is a very welcoming state and visitors are sure to be met with a warm, hospitable welcome wherever they choose to play golf.
#7. St. Andrews and Fife, Scotland:
Long considered to the best golf vacation destination in the world, St. Andrews has been described as the 'spiritual home' of golf, and is home to a huge variety of world-class, world-famous golf courses including the R&A with its rich history of golfing and the well-known St. Andrews Old Course. Whilst St. Andrews may be the main place for golfers, there's plenty to explore further afield, with the Kingdom of Fife also home to a selection of many further world-class courses, such as the mighty Kingsbarns.
Along with the big names that you may already have heard of if you are an avid golfer, there are many smaller, hidden gems to choose from that you certainly won't forget in a hurry. And, when it comes to accommodation, there are many stunning, outstanding hotels and resorts to choose from including the Old Course Hotel, and the incredible Fairmont St. Andrews, which includes two golf courses on site.
Where would you choose? We'd love to hear from you in the comments.
