Golfing holidays have evolved far beyond the traditional greens of Scotland and the sun-drenched courses of Florida. Today, avid golfers are seeking out unique and exotic destinations that offer not only challenging courses but also breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Here, we explore some of the world’s most unique destinations for a golfing holiday.
Vietnam: The Rising Star (& Dragon) Of Golfing Destinations
Vietnam has emerged as a premier golfing destination in recent years, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes, world-class courses, and warm hospitality. The country boasts a variety of golf courses that cater to all skill levels, from beginners still learning the rules all the way to seasoned pros.
Ba Na Hills Golf Club, Da Nang
Nestled in the foothills of the Ba Na Mountains, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. Designed by former world number one Luke Donald, this 18-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience. The course is known for its lush fairways, strategic bunkers, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After a round of golf, visitors can explore the nearby Ba Na Hills, home to the famous Golden Bridge and a French village replica.
Laguna Golf Lang Co, Hue
Located between the ancient city of Hue and the bustling town of Da Nang, Laguna Golf Lang Co is part of a luxurious resort complex. Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, this 18-hole, par-71 course is set against a backdrop of mountains, forests, and the East Sea. The course’s unique layout incorporates natural streams, rice paddies, and rock formations, providing a truly immersive golfing experience. Off the course, visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of Hue, including its imperial citadel and royal tombs.
Read: 2024’s best cruise destination, Vietnam
New Zealand: Golfing In Middle-Earth
New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes, made even more famous by the Lord of the Rings films, provide a stunning backdrop for some of the world’s most unique golf courses. The country’s diverse terrain offers a variety of golfing experiences, from coastal links to alpine courses.
Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay
Perched on the cliffs of Hawke’s Bay, Cape Kidnappers is a spectacular course that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Tom Doak, this 18-hole course features deep ravines, rolling fairways, and challenging greens. The course’s dramatic setting and impeccable design make it a bucket-list destination for golfers. After a round, visitors can enjoy the region’s renowned wineries and gourmet cuisine.
Jacks Point, Queenstown
Set against the backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range, Jacks Point is one of New Zealand’s most scenic golf courses. This 18-hole, par-72 course offers a challenging layout with natural hazards, including tussock grasslands and rocky outcrops. The course’s stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains make it a memorable golfing experience. Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, offers a range of activities, from bungee jumping to wine tasting.
Morocco: Where Desert Meets Fairway
Morocco offers a captivating blend of ancient culture and world-class golf facilities. The country’s diverse landscape provides a unique backdrop for golfers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Royal Palm Golf Club, Marrakech
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, Royal Palm Golf Club is a masterpiece designed by Cabell B. Robinson. This 18-hole championship course features immaculately maintained fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and challenging bunkers.
The Golf Carts of ATX, renowned for their reliability in diverse terrains, are particularly useful on this expansive course, allowing players to navigate the 6,608 metres of beautifully landscaped terrain with ease. After a round, visitors can explore Marrakech’s vibrant souks, historic palaces, and indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Mazagan Golf Club, El Jadida
Stretching along the Atlantic coastline, Mazagan Golf Club offers breathtaking ocean views from nearly every hole. Designed by Gary Player, this 18-hole links-style course presents a challenging experience with its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and coastal winds. The course’s unique design incorporates natural dunes and indigenous vegetation, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.
El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a perfect cultural complement to your golfing adventure with its Portuguese cistern and historic medina.
Japan: Tradition Meets Precision
Japan’s striking terrain and famed meticulous attention to detail extends to its golf courses, offering players an experience that combines technical challenge with aesthetic beauty.
Kawana Hotel Golf Course (Fuji Course), Izu Peninsula
Often referred to as the “Pebble Beach of Japan,” the Fuji Course at Kawana Hotel Golf Course offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji and the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Charles H. Alison in 1936, this classic course features dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and immaculately maintained fairways. The course’s traditional Japanese elements, including stone walls and indigenous plantings, create a unique playing environment that honours the country’s rich cultural heritage. After golf, visitors can relax in the nearby natural hot springs or explore the scenic Izu Peninsula.
Hirono Golf Club, Hyogo
Considered Japan’s finest golf course, Hirono Golf Club is a masterpiece of golf course architecture. Designed by C.H. Alison, this private club (which occasionally welcomes international visitors) offers a challenging layout with its strategically placed bunkers, undulating greens, and mature pine forests. The course’s traditional Japanese clubhouse provides a glimpse into the country’s golfing etiquette and traditions. Nearby Kobe city offers visitors the chance to sample its famous beef and explore historic temples and gardens.
South Africa: Golfing With Wildlife
Renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, South Africa is an undeniably exciting destination for a golfing holiday. The country’s golf courses often incorporate the natural environment, providing a unique experience where golfers can encounter wildlife on the fairways.
Leopard Creek Country Club, Mpumalanga
Located on the edge of Kruger National Park, Leopard Creek Country Club offers a unique golfing experience where players can spot wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Designed by Gary Player, this 18-hole course features lush fairways, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers. The course’s proximity to Kruger National Park allows golfers to combine their love of the sport with a thrilling safari adventure.
Fancourt, Garden Route
Fancourt, located on South Africa’s picturesque Garden Route, is home to three world-class golf courses: The Links, Montagu, and Outeniqua. The Links, designed by Gary Player, is often ranked as the best course in South Africa and offers a challenging layout with undulating fairways and deep bunkers. The resort’s luxurious amenities and stunning surroundings make it a perfect destination for a golfing holiday. Off the course, visitors can explore the Garden Route’s beautiful beaches, forests, and wildlife reserves.
Iceland: Golfing Under The Midnight Sun
Iceland’s unique geography and long summer days provide a one-of-a-kind golfing experience. During the summer months, the sun barely sets, allowing golfers to play late into the night under the midnight sun.
Keilir Golf Club, Hafnarfjörður
Located just outside Reykjavik, Keilir Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience with its lava field setting and views of the Atlantic Ocean. This 18-hole course features a challenging layout with natural hazards, including lava rock formations and rugged terrain. The club’s location near the capital city allows visitors to explore Reykjavik’s vibrant culture and stunning natural attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle.
Akureyri Golf Club, Akureyri
Situated in northern Iceland, Akureyri Golf Club is the world’s northernmost 18-hole golf course. The course’s unique location provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. During the summer solstice, golfers can experience the thrill of playing under the midnight sun. Akureyri, known as the “Capital of the North,” offers a range of activities, from whale watching to exploring the nearby volcanic landscapes.
The Bottom Line
From the rising star of Vietnam to the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand, the wildlife-rich courses of South Africa, and the midnight sun of Iceland, the world offers a whole host of unique destinations that your golf balls probably can’t wait to get lost in! These locations not only provide challenging and memorable golfing experiences but also allow travellers to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty.
Once you’re armed with that information, it’s time to pack your clubs and embark on an unforgettable golfing adventure to one of these extraordinary destinations.
