If you’re looking to book a European golfing holiday away from the traditional hotspots, then pack your clubs and head to underrated destinations like Varna on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, Gimsøya in Norway or Costa Navarino in Greece.
Golf has long been one of the biggest drivers of the sports travel sector and in Europe there are stunning options for golfing getaways right across the continent.
Aside from picking which club to use, golfers face another tough choice: where to go in Europe for a golf holiday, especially when seeking somewhere under the radar and away from the traditional hotspots.
According to Golfbreaks, UK Google search interest in “golf package holiday” increased 750% year on year, while interest in “quiet golf courses” rose almost 140% over three months. The Google Trends figures were current to September 2026.
In response to the demand, the golf travel operator’s experts have selected seven destinations they consider “underrated”, supported by internal booking data comparing 2026 with the equivalent period in 2025.
Varna in Bulgaria leads the list, while Portugal features twice, alongside destinations in Spain, Norway, France and Greece.
“Golf is steeped in tradition, and course quality is often judged by history and reputation,” said Cameron Ritchie, Head of Product – Europe at Golfbreaks. “But some of Europe’s most rewarding experiences can be found away from the established resorts.
“Choosing a less conventional destination often means quieter courses, better value for money and a more authentic experience, while still enjoying championship-quality golf in spectacular surroundings.”
Underrated golf destinations in Europe
- Varna, Bulgaria
- Comporta and Tróia Peninsula, Portugal
- North-east Majorca, Spain
- Gimsøya, Norway
- Biarritz, France
- Tavira, Portugal
- Costa Navarino, Greece
The top golf courses to play
Varna, Bulgaria
Bulgaria is often overlooked, but golfers are “starting to discover its excellent-value courses and hotels”, with Golfbreaks reporting a 173% rise in demand in 2025, and a further 47% in 2026 to date. The area around Varna, on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, is picked out as an underrated golf destination and Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort is the headline attraction, with sea views from every hole. Other options where golfers can stay and play include BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas and Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort.
Comporta and Tróia Peninsula, Portugal
The Tróia Peninsula and Comporta are better known for surfing than golfing, but demand is up 85% year-on-year Golfers can tackle the Dunas and Torre championship courses at Terras da Comporta, alongside the Robert Trent Jones-designed Tróia Golf Club. Beaches and the Sado Estuary add appeal between rounds
North-east Majorca, Spain
Away from Palma and the island’s south-western resorts, Club de Golf Son Servera offers tree-lined fairways and water hazards. It is also Majorca’s only private members’ club but still welcomes visitors. Capdepera Golf Club brings mountain scenery and Mediterranean views, while Club de Golf Alcanada is another option. When not playing 18 holes, golfers can explore beaches and traditional towns in Majorca’s north-east.
Gimsøya, Norway
Above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Links Golf Club offers the chance to play beneath the midnight sun during summer. Its coastal layout winds through dunes and rugged terrain, framed by sea and mountain views. Lofoten Links Lodges provides a nearby base for visiting golfers.
Biarritz, France
One of the oldest golf courses in France, Golf de Biarritz le Phare combines a long history with fast greens and challenging bunkers. At the nearby Golf d’Arcangues, rolling terrain and Pyrenees views welcome players, while Golf de Seignosse expands the regional choice.
Tavira, Portugal
The charming town of Tavira in the eastern Algarve is often overshadowed by Vilamoura and Albufeira. Nearby playing options include Quinta da Ria Golf Club, overlooking the Ria Formosa Natural Park, and neighbouring Quinta de Cima, with undulating fairways and water hazards. Monte Rei Golf Resort adds a Jack Nicklaus Signature course to the options around Tavira.
Costa Navarino, Greece
Golf in Greece has “long flown under the radar”, said Golfbreaks, but that’s “starting to change” with a 140% rise in demand for Costa Navarino. Its four golf courses include The Dunes and The Bay, plus the International Olympic Academy Course and The Hills Course. The latter two were designed by José María Olazábal and opened in 2022, adding further variety to this golf destination in Greece’s Peloponnese.
Source: <a href="https://www.euronews.com/2026/10/18/tee-off-in-europes-most-underrated-golf-holiday-destinations” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow noopener”>www.euronews.com
