Golf in the Mediterranean: Top 5 Courses outside of Spain

We know that if you’re traveling to a Mediterranean country, there’s a pretty good chance you’re heading to a coastal location. According to a study by KPMG; out of the 1,400 golf facilities in the European Mediterranean countries, 30% of these were located within 20km of the coast. However, the majority of these coastal golf facilities in are either in Spain or Portugal. Although it’s not geographically correct, Portugal can sometimes be included as a Mediterranean country. It is grouped in this bracket due to its popularity among travelling golfers, as well as it’s strong influence on the market. However, there are 20 other countries on the Mediterranean Sea and there’s golf to be played in all of them.

It comes as no surprise to us that most of the golfing facilities are found in Spain or Portugal. The quantity of reviews on Leadingcourses.com for both of these countries is remarkable. We have therefore decided to highlight some popular golf destinations outside of these nations, as we know that the Mediterranean can offer so much more!

Regions such as the Côte d’Azur and Tuscany have always been popular destinations among golfers. Areas like Belek in Turkey and Peloponnese in Greece are also familiar and have been rapidly developing in recent years. In this post, we will be highlighting 4 popular countries. However, it should be noted that countries such as Cyprus, Croatia and Morocco are also becoming more and more fashionable among golf tourists today.

Read about our trip to a hidden gem in Morocco here.

The courses listed here are based on the ratings/reviews of golfers on our website. They do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Leadingcourses.com. All courses on this list are: 

1. Located outside of Spain and Portugal.
2. Within an hour drive of the coast.
3. Reviewed at least 50 times.

Architect Dave Thomas fully capitalised on the existing contours and natural features of this magnificent site. Terre Blanche Golf Club is one of the world’s most prestigious golf destinations and applauded by golf lovers everywhere. It’s two 18-hole courses (Le Château and Le Riou) challenge the player while providing spectacular scenery. It is also the venue for an Open of the Ladies European Tour Access Series, the “Terre Blanche Ladies Open”.

The Montgomerie Maxx Royal is a unique golf experience in the Belek region of Antalya. The region is located on the shores of the Mediterranean. It is a haven for golfers with its mild climate and 300 days of sunshine each year. There is a number of excellent golf courses in this region but The Montgomerie Maxx tops the lot. Designed by Colin (Montgomerie) himself the course has hosted the Turkish Airlines Open 4 times (2013 – ’15 & 2019). This course/region cements Turkey’s place as a strong golf destination.

“Turkey is an up and coming golf destination and to be given the opportunity to design a course in this developing market is a great honour” according to Colin Montgomerie.

Open since May 2010, the impressive Dunes Course is the first signature golf course in Greece. Bernhard Langer designed the layout which combines large undulating greens, wide fairways and steep-faced pot bunkers. The links element of the course also adds to its unique style and playability. Costa Navarino was named “European Golf Resort of the Year 2017” by the IAGTO and offers two 18-hole courses; The Dunes & The Bay Course, with a third course – designed by José Maria Olazabal – in the making.

Nestled in the centre of the Côte d’Azur and the Gorges du Verdon, the 340 hectare estate of Château de Taulane Golf sits in an idyllic setting. Although this course is located about an hour from the coast we still consider it a prime location for Mediterranean golfers. Gary Player designed the course, and ensured a diversity of holes with a variety of tees. The course appeals to both amateur and professional golfers, who will waver between moments of relaxation, learning and difficulty!

Tuscany has always been considered a very suitable golfing destination. The mild climate allows for almost year-round golf with dozens of golf clubs to choose from. Golf Club Castelfalfi is the largest golf course in Tuscany and attracts fans from around the world. The club has 27 holes and challenges the most experienced players while ensuring fun for beginners alike. It offers a driving range with grass teeing grounds, covered areas for conducting clinics and a clubhouse.

It is important to note that the areas surrounding these courses/resorts are also quite well equipped for a holiday. All of the locations in this list have good infrastructure, nice hotels and even more golf courses in the vicinity. You can see these surrounding courses simply by searching the region on Leadingcourses.com. As stated they are all close to the beach too!

So whether you are looking to get away with friends, family or even just a quiet weekend by yourself, golf in the Mediterranean is just for you!