Five Fantastic Golf Courses in Europe

For the avid golfer, Europe provides some outstanding golf courses for your next golfing vacation. Set against ocean views, mountain views or amongst rolling hills there are plenty of courses to choose from. To ensure a day at one of these European golf courses be sure to make a reservation well in advance, as days and times can be limited for visitors.

The Royal Birkdale Golf Club, England

The Royal Birkdale is an 18 hole golf course located in the scenic coastal town of Southport. It has hosted numerous golfing championships including two Ryder Cups, the Women's British Open and the Open Championship. The Royal Birkdale offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a variety of flora and fauna along the course including some rare and protected animal species. Visitors must make a reservation and a handicap certificate is required. Visitors are not permitted to play on Tuesday mornings, Friday afternoons or Saturdays. Green fees start from £120 per round and include a soup and sandwich lunch. Accommodation in the town of Southport is plentiful and varies from luxurious hotels to bed and breakfasts, with something to suit everyone's budget. For a list of available accommodation visit the Southport website. The Royal Birkdale Golf Club is located at Waterloo Road, Southport, England. For more information visit their website.

Halmstad North Course Golf Club, Sweden

Set amongst forests and streams, the 18 holes at Halmstad North Course is a course to remember. Having hosted the PGA Open Championship and the Solheim Cup, Halmstad will entertain even the most experienced golfer. The salty sea air will be sure to refresh you while you enjoy the tranquility at Halmstad. The par three 16^th hole was voted Sweden's best golf hole and is protected by a creek sure to provide a challenge. Green fees start from 600 SEK. Nearby accommodation includes the First Hotel Martenson which also provides golfing packages with the Halmstad. Halmstad Golf Club is located at Tylösand, 302 73 Halmstad, Sweden. For more information visit their website.

PGA Golf Catalunya, Spain

The stadium course at PGA Golf Catalunya has hosted numerous PGA European Circuit tournaments. The stunning scenery may well distract from the challenges that lie ahead in this course so make sure to pay attention. The 6^th hole provides players with a challenging dogleg that requires total concentration from the player. Green fees start from 70 euro for 18 holes for a visitor. The Meliá Golf Vichy Catalán Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of the PGA Catalunya golf course to provide easy access to the courses. PGA Golf Catalunya is located at 701 Caldes de Malavella, 17455 Girona, Spain. For more information visit their website.

Golf de Sperone, Corsica

Sperone is the only golf course on Corsica and the layout is very up and down so buggy hire is recommended unless you are especially fit. Stunning ocean views will enhance your golfing experience; just make sure your golf ball does not end up in the ocean! Daily green fees start from 70 euro. Rent an apartment on this beautiful island starting from 630 euro per week. Golf de Sperone is located at Domaine de Sperone, 20169 Bonifacio, Corsica. For more information visit their website.

Golf Club Biella, Italy

This 18 hole 6497 meter long course winds its way through dense forest, ponds and streams, rocky outcrops and strategically placed bunkers. Holes of note include the third hole, considered the most difficult of the course, and the 16^th hole set on high ground giving the player a spectacular view of the alpine mountains. On the grounds of the Golf Club Bielle, is a guesthouse which provides excellent accommodation with each of the 17 rooms having a private terrace with a view of the green. Visitors are welcome every day but advance reservations are essential. Daily green fees start from 70 euro. Golf Club Biella is located at Valcarozza, Magnano (BI) 13887, Italy. For more information visit their website.

Sources:

Royal Birkdale Golf Club

Halmstad Golfklubb - About

The Ultimate Golfing Destination - PGA Catalunya

Sperone

Golf Club Biella "Le Betulle"