Travel Designers Winter Golf Holidays: Escape the Cold and Tee Off in Style
As winter sets in and UK courses become less inviting, it’s time to take your game abroad. Winter golf holidays offer the perfect escape, combining sunshine, world-class courses, and the chance to recharge. Here’s why winter is ideal for a golfing getaway and some top destinations with must-try courses for your next trip.
1. Chase the Sun
Escape the winter gloom and enjoy perfect golfing conditions in these sunny destinations:
Spain
- Real Club Valderrama (Andalusia): A Ryder Cup venue and one of Europe’s finest courses.
- PGA Catalunya Stadium Course (Costa Brava): Consistently ranked as Spain’s #1 course.
- Finca Cortesin (Costa del Sol): Known for its immaculate design and luxury facilities.
Portugal
- Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course (Vilamoura): A European Tour favorite in the Algarve.
- Monte Rei Golf Club (Eastern Algarve): A Jack Nicklaus masterpiece offering stunning views.
- Quinta do Lago South Course (Algarve): Perfect for players seeking a championship challenge.
Dubai
- Emirates Golf Club (Majlis Course): Host of the Dubai Desert Classic and a global icon.
- Jumeirah Golf Estates (Earth Course): A European Tour destination with immaculate fairways.
- The Els Club: Designed by Ernie Els, offering desert scenery and lush greens.
Thailand
- Black Mountain Golf Club (Hua Hin): A picturesque course with a world-class reputation.
- Red Mountain Golf Club (Phuket): Stunning elevation changes and breathtaking views.
- Chiang Mai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort: A serene course nestled in the Thai countryside.
2. Play on Iconic Courses
Winter getaways allow you to tick off some of the world’s most renowned courses:
- In South Africa, try Pinnacle Point (Mossel Bay) for its stunning views, Fancourt Links (George) for its exclusivity, or Gary Player Country Club (Sun City), home to the Nedbank Golf Challenge.
- In Florida, test your skills at TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra), Streamsong Resort (Central Florida), or Bay Hill Club (Orlando), Arnold Palmer’s signature course.
3. Relaxation Beyond Golf
Pair your time on the course with luxurious accommodations and serene settings.
- Portugal: Relax in Quinta do Lago’s luxury villas or the beachside resorts in Vilamoura.
- Dubai: Stay at the opulent Atlantis The Palm or the chic Jumeirah Al Naseem for ultimate comfort.
- Thailand: Enjoy spa treatments and gourmet dining at Black Mountain Resort or Banyan Golf Club.
4. A Chance to Explore
Winter golf holidays let you balance your passion for golf with cultural exploration.
- In Spain, tour Seville’s historic landmarks or sample tapas in Malaga.
- In Thailand, visit temples in Chiang Mai or enjoy a sunset cruise in Phuket.
- In South Africa, add a safari or a trip along the Garden Route to your itinerary.
5. Great Deals for Golfers
Many destinations offer winter golf packages that include accommodation, green fees, and perks like lessons or spa access. Look out for exclusive deals at resorts in the Algarve, Dubai, and Thailand.
Pack Your Clubs and Escape the Chill
This winter, trade the UK’s frost for warm fairways and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s Spain’s sunlit courses, Portugal’s coastal gems, or the exotic greens of Thailand, there’s a destination waiting for you.
Book your trip, perfect your swing, and make this winter one to remember—both on and off the course.
Happy golfing!