text: 16 of the Best Golf & Spa Resorts in Europe
  For the perfect golf escape, golfers need to find the perfect balance between getting some well-deserved ‘R and R’ and challenging the greens of the local golf courses. It is also important to think about the facilities and activities available at the resorts besides the fantastic golf courses, especially if non-golfers are going on the trip.
  This week’s blog is a guide to some of the best European golf and spa resorts which boast fantastic amenities and even better deals.
  Our recommended golf and spa hotels in Europe
  Acaya Golf Resort and Spa
  First up, we have the brilliant four-star Acaya Golf Resort and Spa which is situated in the beautiful Italian countryside just five minutes drive from the stunning coastline of southern Italy. All of the rooms here are elegantly designed and have lovely views overlooking the golf course, the garden, or the Puglia countryside, and there is so much to do around the resort.
  You can spend time relaxing by one of the two outdoor swimming pools, take a walk through the hotel’s garden, play at Acaya Golf Club which is the great 18-hole golf course on-site, or enjoy relaxing in the hotel’s extensive spa. The extensive spa boasts everything that you could ever need for a relaxing experience including a sauna, a steam room, a whirlpool, a Jacuzzi and a Turkish Bath as well as a wide range of different treatment options.
  This is a superb hotel with some excellent golf and spa facilities to enjoy and the best part is that there are some spectacular deals on which makes this an ideal destination for your next golf break to Italy.
  Hotel Terraverda at Emporda Golf
  Just a few minutes drive from the hotel is the charming town of Torroella de Montgri, where you can find an array of different bars and restaurants. If you prefer to dine in at the hotel, the hotel’s restaurant specialises in Catalan dishes and afterwards, you can enjoy a cocktail or two in the lounge area.
  The spa at the hotel is available at a small extra charge, but it is more than worth it as you can enjoy a range of treatments there as well as the Turkish Bath, the hot tub, the sauna and the fitness centre. This is another superb hotel with great golf, a great spa and great prices.
  Kinsale Hotel & Spa
  Situated amongst 90 acres of wooded parkland with panoramic views across Oysterhaven Bay is the lovely four-star Kinsale Hotel & Spa. This hotel boasts a superb location, as you can soak up the tranquillity of the hotel’s immediate surroundings or take short drives into the nearest towns including Cork and Kinsale where you will find so much to eat, drink, see and do.
  Whilst staying here you are also just two miles from Kinsale Golf Club, and when you are not out having a round of golf you can enjoy the extensive spa and wellness facilities at the hotel. The spa boasts a relaxation room, a sauna, many different treatment rooms, a steam room and a large indoor pool to keep you occupied and fully relaxed!
  This is a lovely hotel situated in a stunning location, and with so much to do and see both at the hotel and in the surrounding areas, it is no surprise that we suggest this hotel for your next golf break to Ireland if you are after great spa facilities and a great price.
  Hotel Barriere Le Westminster
  The four-star, stylish Hotel Barriere Le Westminster is in Le Touquet in Northern France. This luxurious hotel is just 500 metres from the beach and boasts an extensive spa with a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna and a hot tub, as well as five treatment rooms where you can enjoy a range of different massages and treatments.
  Whilst here, you can enjoy dining in the hotel’s 30’s style restaurant and drinking in the oak-panelled bar, but if you are looking to venture out of the hotel, Le Touquet’s bars and restaurants are a very short distance away. With all of these facilities as well as five brilliant golf courses within a short distance of the hotel it is no surprise that we recommend Hotel Barriere Le Westminster for your next golf holiday to France.
  Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa
  The Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa is a fantastic hotel situated in one of Europe’s top luxury golf holiday destinations, Vilamoura. Golfers continue to flock to Vilamoura year after year in huge numbers with its great climate, superb golf courses and its well-known marina.
  Just a ten-minute drive from the Hilton Vilamoura takes guests into the centre of Vilamoura, where they can enjoy a spot of leisurely lunch around the marina or enjoy some well-deserved retail therapy at one of the many upmarket shops on offer.
  Vilamoura is a great destination for all those looking to enjoy the finer things in life, including some fantastic golf. The Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort could not make it easier for its guests to enjoy all of the fantastic golf that is on offer in Vilamoura, as the hotel runs a complimentary shuttle service to the local golf courses.
  The hotel is positioned just across from the Dom Pedro Pinhal Golf Course, so a great round of golf is never far away. For guests to unwind after challenging the greens of the local golf courses, they can head to the Falesia Beach which the hotel runs a complimentary shuttle service to in the summer season, or skills can just make the most out of the hotel’s excellent facilities. The hotel’s 7 Seven Spa is said to be the biggest spa in Portugal, so the guests here are in a great position to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation in the spa’s unique water tunnel experience.
  Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort
  Another great resort for the perfect golf and spa escape is the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort. The resort is set in the beautiful rolling hills of the South of France’s countryside, so guests can enjoy beautiful views throughout the resort during their stay, as well as an unbeatably idyllic atmosphere.
  To add to the resort’s idyllic atmosphere, the layout is set like a village of small villas with just 115 suites and villas, so there is the perfect boutique-hotel feel. The service here is impeccable, and with so many great facilities and a relaxing atmosphere, meaning Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort is an unbeatable option for your next golf escape.
  The excellent quality of the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort has not gone unnoticed in the travel industry; the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort was voted the Golf Resort of the Year in 2013, and more recently awarded the World’s Leading Golf and Villa Resort in 2019.
  The Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort is the perfect resort for both a golf escape and a spa retreat with a comprehensive spa facility on-site, as well as two spectacular golf courses. Both the Le Chateau Course and the Le Riou Course at Terre Blanche are widely considered to be among some of the best golf courses in the French Riviera region, and conveniently for all golfers looking to challenge its greens, they are located onsite at the resort.
  Aside from its fantastic golf courses, the resort’s best facility is its spa centre with 14 treatment rooms, a private terrace, and a wide range of facilities to help guests relax.
  Sesimbra Hotel and Spa
  Sesimbra Hotel and Spa is the ideal choice for all those looking for the perfect mix of sun, sea, and spa. This four-star hotel boasts an ideal coastal location positioned on a stunning white sandy beach, so guests here are never without an opportunity to catch a tan and make the most out of one of the beautiful beaches that Portugal is known so well for. All of the guest rooms here are spacious and modern in design, and they are all facing the coast, so beautiful sea views can be enjoyed by the whole hotel.
  Sesimbra Hotel and Spa is not just ideally located to make the most out of the region’s stunning beaches; it is also ideally located to make the most out of exploring one of the region’s most charming coastal towns, home to a great range of bars, restaurants and shops. Once guests here have had enough of lounging on the neighbouring beach or exploring Sesimbra, they can focus their sights on playing some of the region’s best golf courses.
  Both of the Aroeira golf courses are located just a forty-minute drive away from the hotel, so a great round of golf is always in easy reach. To relax after a gruelling round of golf, guests can head to the spa for a well-deserved session of ‘R and R’ with a massage or treatment. Alternatively, the more active guest can head to the outdoor swimming pool for a swim or a session in the gym.
  Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa
  Yet another great choice for your next golf and spa escape in the Lisbon region is the Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa, a stunning five-star hotel located in Estoril, one of the region’s most sought-after towns. Estoril is one of Portugal’s most upmarket areas, but it is fair to say that a golf escape here is worth every penny with the great weather, beautiful beach, and charming town.
  This luxury destination is widely considered to be among one of Europe’s best golfing holiday destinations, and it is not difficult to see why. At the Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa, guests are in the perfect position to make the most out of all that Estoril can offer as it is set just a stone’s throw away from the centre of town where there is a great selection of bars, restaurants and shops, as well as a stunning sandy beach. The hotel opened its doors in the 1930s, but it has still maintained all of its charms throughout its stunning architecture and décor.
  The Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa’s beautiful décor has never gone unnoticed; the hotel was the setting for a scene in a well-known James Bond film. The hotel’s best facility to help its guests unwind has to be the Estoril Wellness Centre with various treatment rooms, a Pilates and yoga studio, and an indoor swimming pool. For all guests looking for a leisurely round of golf, there is no need to look far, as the Golf do Estoril is set just a five-minute drive up the road.
  East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa
  Perfect for all those who are looking to stay local on their next golf escape, but are still looking to enjoy some spectacular golf, the East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa is a great option.
  The East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa is the perfect choice for golfers who do not want to have to deal with the cost and stress of flying and going abroad, as they can still play some superb golf and enjoy some well-deserved ‘R and R’. The resort is set in the heart of the English countryside, so guests can enjoy an unbeatably idyllic golfing getaway, but the resort is still perfectly positioned next to great transport links, so it is highly accessible for all prospective guests.
  The hotel is relatively small in size, with all of the guest rooms overlooking the stunning rolling hills of the South Downs and the two neighbouring golf courses; the East Sussex National East Course and the East Sussex National West Course. Both of these golf courses offer a fantastic round of golf which can be enjoyed by golfers of all handicaps.
  However, golf is not the only thing that the East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa offers its guests; it also boasts an excellent spa facility to help all guests unwind on their golfing getaway. The Horsted Spa offers a wide range of treatments and massages to guests should they choose to indulge in some well-deserved ‘me time’. If you’re interested in exploring the golf and spa scene in the UK, be sure to check out our dedicated article on the Best Golf & Spa Breaks in the UK.
  Fairplay Golf and Spa Resort
  The Fairplay Golf and Spa Resort is a consistent favourite amongst all golfers, and it is hardly difficult to see why with its fantastic facilities, impeccable service, and most importantly, its spectacular golf course located on-site. This resort is truly five-stars in every aspect, ranging from its spacious and modern guest rooms to its comprehensive spa facility.
  Set in the Los Alcornocales Nature Reserve, guests can enjoy beautiful views across the surrounding landscapes, as well as the superb golf course next door. The Fairplay Golf Club was designed by the world-renowned golf architect Baron Paul Rolin, and with its generous fairways and well-thought-out layout, it welcomes golfers of all handicaps and skill. Perfect for all golfers who are looking to challenge the greens of the Fairplay Golf Club, this fantastic golf course is located on-site, so a fantastic round of golf is never far from reach.
  However, the Fairplay Golf and Spa Resort is not just perfectly located to enjoy one of the Costa de la Luz Cadiz’s best golf courses; it is also perfectly located to explore one of the region’s most charming towns. Benalup is home to a good range of bars, restaurants and shops to suit all budgets and preferences, and it is located just a twenty-minute walk away from the resort.
  If the guests here want to stay local and relax, then the resort is also home to a great range of facilities to help them do just that. Guests can lounge around the outdoor swimming pool, or head to the Fairplay SPA, one of the most luxurious spas in the Costa de la Luz Cadiz.
  The Quinta do Lago Resort has often been described as the ‘California of Europe’ with its beautiful beaches and warm climate, meaning it is a top option for your next golf break in the Algarve. The Conrad Algarve is a fantastic five-star hotel located in the heart of this resort, home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, stunning 18th-century architecture, and great service.
  The Quinta do Lago offers absolutely everything a golfer could ever want and more for an unforgettable golf escape; world-class golf courses, stunning beaches, and a good selection of bars, restaurants and shops to suit all preferences and budgets. Both of the Vale do Lobo golf courses and both of the Quinta do Lago golf courses are just a stone’s throw away from the Conrad Algarve, so a superb round of golf is never far from reach.
  Even for a five-star hotel, the guest rooms here are especially modern in design, providing the perfect base for guests to relax. Arguably the Conrad Algarve’s best facility is its world-class spa, the Conrad Spa, home to an infinity pool, a private lounge, as well as an extensive menu of treatments and massages.
  Westin Resort Costa Navarino
  The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is a coastal golf resort positioned in the heart of the Costa Navarino. With its great facilities and location, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is not just the perfect choice for your next golf and spa escape; it is also a superb option for a family holiday.
  The resort boasts a beachfront position in Messinia, so guests here are always just a stone’s throw away from one of the many stunning white sandy beaches that Greece is known so well for. With its picturesque beach location, all guests here are set to have an unbeatably idyllic golfing getaway.
  The resort itself is set out in small low-rise buildings across manicured gardens, with all of the great facilities in easy reach of its guests. The Westin Resort Costa Navarino’s best facilities include its two world-class golf courses, The Dunes Course and The Bay Course, both of which are located on-site.
  For all non-golfers and younger guests, there are still plenty of things going on. The resort is also home to two swimming pools, an aquapark, a cycling tour activity school, and a unique spa centre that focuses on the use of locally grown olive oil.
  La Cala Golf Resort
  The five-star luxurious La Cala Golf Resort is beautifully positioned between the Sierra de Mijas National Park and the Mediterranean Sea. The resort boasts three golf courses, swimming pools and a luxurious spa. Within the spa, you can find hydrotherapy pools, a Turkish bath and a sauna as well as several different health and beauty treatments available including massages and facials.
  Each of the hotel’s guest rooms boasts stunning views over the golf course which you can admire from your room’s private balcony. The rooms are also equipped with all of the modern facilities and amenities that you could need to make the most out of your stay here including satellite TV and free Wi-Fi.
  During the day you can spend time in the hotel’s spa, relax around the pool or take the short 10-minute drive to the nearest beach. The resort is also just 35 minutes drive from Malaga Airport.
  La Cala’s Restaurant serves both international and local cuisine and you can enjoy a few drinks within the clubhouse or the lobby bar. There’s no doubt that La Cala Resort is the perfect destination for your next stay-and-play golf break to the Costa del Sol with excellent golf, a wonderful spa and a beautiful location.
  Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort and Spa
  Situated in Sicily is the four-star Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort and Spa, which boasts a beautiful location in the East of Sicily within the breathtaking Mount Etna National Park, located on the lower slopes of the volcano. The hotel is situated more than 2000ft above sea level which means that guests to the hotel can enjoy a pleasant year-round temperature with stunning panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding countryside.
  There is so much to do and visit within the local area like trekking, mountain biking and wine vineyard tours. Arguably, the two best things about this resort is the fact that the great Il Picciolo Golf Club is conveniently situated next door and that there is a luxurious, comprehensive spa facility located within the hotel.
  The spa area boasts the perfect place for you to unwind, within the facility you can find a sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and a large massage and treatment area. There is also a great hotel swimming pool which you can lay around whilst enjoying the sun.
  Each of the hotel’s guest rooms is beautifully decorated and takes advantage of the hotel’s lovely setting with beautiful views of the vineyards and the orchards. The room types range from a comfortable classic room to a stunning suite so everyone can take their pick!
  The hotel’s main restaurant, La Ghiandaia, serves delicious traditional Sicilian cuisine. Within the clubhouse, you can enjoy a great lunch menu, and in the Lounge Bar, you can enjoy a few drinks after your meal.
  Monte Da Quinta Resort
  Next, situated on the exclusive Quinta do Lago Estate is the Monte Da Quinta Resort. This is a luxurious resort with a great range of leisure activities situated nearby as well as a selection of brilliant golf courses including the brilliant Quinta do Lago courses.
  The resort boasts a range of one, two and three-bedroom suites which are all furnished to a very high standard to ensure that you have a brilliant and luxurious stay here. The suites all provide the modern essentials for your stay including a flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi access as well as a private balcony or terrace from which you can enjoy the views. They are all fully equipped for self-catering with a fridge, microwave, oven and dishwasher.
  As the suites are so well-equipped, you can easily self-cater here. However, if you want to take a night off from cooking, take a trip to the Melange Bistro Restaurant where you can enjoy a large buffet meal. Alternatively, head to the Peacock’s Grill for an a la carte meal before enjoying a few drinks in the Peacock Bar.
  The Monte Da Quinta Resort boasts a great range of leisure facilities including two outdoor swimming pools and an indoor pool. You can also enjoy access to the wonderful Magnolia Spa which boasts a sauna, steam room and a Turkish bath as well as the opportunity to take advantage of a range of massage and beauty treatments.
  Monte Rei Golf and Country Club
  Situated amongst the beautiful foothills, in between the mountains and the ocean, sits the beautiful Monte Rei Golf and Country Club. This is a great, villa-based resort that boasts everything that you could possibly need or want from your next golf break to the Algarve.
  You can enjoy rounds on Portugal’s number one golf course, stunning accommodation, excellent gastronomy and first-class service within this great hotel. From the hotel, you can explore Eastern Algarve’s towns of Tavira, Monte Gordo and Cabanas which are all within a 25-minute drive of the resort.
  Due to the location of the resort, you can easily venture outside of the hotel to enjoy a meal and a few drinks. However, there are three great restaurants in the hotel including Vistas, which has been included within the Michelin Guide for Portugal which means that it really is worth having a meal in that restaurant if you choose to stay at Monte Rei.
  The resort offers guests a great range of self-catered luxury villas which have all been built in a typically Portuguese style and have been furnished to a very high standard. You can find all of the modern amenities that you could need for your stay within the villas including a large terrace with a great outdoor dining area as well as complimentary toiletries, air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi.
  Of course, the most impressive thing about Monte Rei Golf and Country club is the beautiful, Jack Nicklaus-designed Monte Rei course. The course boasts 18 quality holes, stunning surroundings and a stern test of golf.
  Another impressive thing about the resort is the range of leisure facilities that you can enjoy. There are private tennis courts, a fully-equipped fitness centre and extensive spa facilities. Within the spa, you can opt to enjoy a range of treatments and massages.
  This is a wonderful resort and offers guests the chance to self-cater, explore the local towns and the chance to play on the brilliant Monte Rei Golf Course.
  We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog on some of the best golf and spa escapes. All of these hotels and resorts offer the perfect mix of golf and relaxation, meaning anyone of them would be an unbeatable option for your next golf escape.
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