From sloping seaside courses with a breeze to inland retreats at the edge of mountains and lakes, Europe is where you can find some of the best golfing in the world. Accommodation ranges from castles to grand hotels, and onsite fine dining and spas ensure your visit is as relaxing as can be. Try courses designed by world renowned golf designers, terrains used for professional cups and in sunny southern Europe, courses which are just simply pleasurable to play.
Bro Hof Slott, Sweden
Located a short drive from Stockholm, Bro Hof Slott Golf Club is located in the grounds of a historic Swedish castle on the shore of stunning Lake Mälaren. You can find two of Europe's best golf courses here, imagined by Robert Trent Jr., one of the world's top golf course designers. Try the Stadium Course, and enjoy the challenging route which follows a lakeside path. After a fresh day out, retreat to the Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, a historic institution which has housed celebrities since 1871. Admire its views of the ocean and the old town, and enjoy the infamous smorgasboard offered at restaurant Veranda.
Oceânico Vilamoura Old Course, Portugal
Set among scented pinewood and gently undulating terrain, this golf course still tops lists as one of the most challenging in the world. Oceanico Vilamoura is the second oldest golf course in the sun-kissed Algarve region, landscaped in the English design style, with a unique 522 metre challenge on the 16th hole. Rest up at Blue & Green The Lake Spa Resort, one of the finest five-star hotels in the Algarve, and enjoy their panoramic private balconies with views over the marina of Vilamoura, Falesia Beach and the hotel's private lake.
The Belfry, England (photo)
Set in 550 acres of bucolic North Warwickshire countryside, the Belfry is a four star resort which combines world-class golfing with top notch facilities. The golf courses here need no introduction, having hosted the Ryder Cup four times previously. Try the PGA National Course, perfect for players who love a creative challenge, with its severe runoffs and fast running fairways. Relax after you play in the onsite spa, which stocks ESPA's award-winning products. Their unique couples spa experience, Fire and Ice, is a 90 minute journey through 12 bio thermal rooms and a perfect way to unwind.
Dolce Fregate Provence, France
With its view of the Mediterranean sea and gently wooded course, Dolce Fregate Provence golf course is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. In the heart of scenic Provence, dotted with olive trees, lavender fields and vineyards, the resort is an ideal getaway. As well as some of the finest golfing in the region, the resort has an onsite spa, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and jacuzzis. Try the Fregate golf course, a 72 par experience over a varied and gently undulating landscape, and then welcome in the evening with a glass of locally produced wine.
Riva dei Tessali, Italy
In sun-drenched southern Italy, the Riva dei Tessali Golf Resort is the setting for one of the most relaxing golfing holidays around. Their onsite four-star hotel is a delightful sprawling complex of whitewashed buildings and pine trees, while the award-winning restaurant serves up a variety of local Puglian specialities, as well as continental breakfasts with locally made cheeses and cured cuts which can be washed down with expertly made cappuccinos. Try the pine tree studded signature Riva dei Tessali course and let its gentle twists and turns hone your accuracy. To cool off afterwards, stroll down to the private beach and enjoy a swim in the azure Adriatic sea.