Golf Like a Pro – Top Lessons and Tips for the Ultimate Golf Getaway – Golf News

Have you always wanted to get out on the same courses where golf legends have made history? If you're a golf fan, you probably are, and for many the dream of playing on some of the world's top golf courses is a chance to feel like a pro even if it's just for a weekend.

You can find many great courses here on our coast and around Europe, so whether you want to improve your swing, challenge your skills on the links of the champions, or just take in the views of nature, a golf getaway is the perfect reason to enjoy the game a little more relaxed.

To help you plan the best trip possible, here are some important tips and lessons to consider. If you haven't started planning your trip yet, read on for more inspiration on what to take and what not to forget before you leave.

Top golf courses in the UK and Europe

St Andrews Links

Here in the UK, you'll always want to consider a trip to St. Andrews in Scotland, a must visit for any serious golfer. Known as the 'Home of Golf', played there for 600 years, its Old Course is the oldest in the world, renowned for its popular history and challenging links. You can book golf packages that include unlimited golf on all 6 courses, so check in early to avoid disappointment.

Royal Birkdale

Up on the North West coast, the Royal Birkdale in Southport offers a classic links experience. With its demanding courses and historic clubhouse, it has hosted the Open Championships ten times and will do so again in 2026. As the property changes in Winter 2024 and 2025, you can book the 'Birkdale Experience' from May to September which includes 18 holes of golf and a 2 course bistro meal.

Royal Portrush

Across the Irish Sea, Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland combines challenging play with stunning coastal views. Found on the Causeway Coast and Glens, an area of ​​outstanding natural beauty, the ruins of Dunluce Castle overlook the course, which hosted the 2019 Open Championship and will again in 2025. If you plan to travel in a large area. you can stay in luxury self-catering accommodation nearby at 'The Rosses', overlooking the 4th fairway on the Dunluce Course.

Quinta do Lago South

Portugal's Algarve is known for its many stunning courses, and Quinta do Lago South has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times. With beautiful lakes and beautiful pines lining the fairways, this was the winner of the Best Golf Course in Europe and Portugal 2023. It is a challenge for golfers of any skill and the resort itself is surrounded by 2,000 hectares of Ria Formosa National Park, perfect for some relaxing time away from the course.

This Golf National

To the east, Le Golf National in France, which hosts the 2018 Ryder Cup on its Albatros course, is perfect for players and spectators alike thanks to its combination of traditional links and modern course styles ready to host major tournaments, including the French one. Open and Olympic golf in Paris 2024. This course explores all aspects of the game of golf, with many water hazards on the last 4 holes. You can book at an on-site Novotel hotel or stay at the 5-star Waldorf Astoria offering play and stay packages.

Valderrama

Spain's Valderrama is often rated as one of Europe's top courses, having hosted the Ryder Cup and the LIV Golf League. Spain's number 1 golf course offers beautiful fairways and carefully maintained greens, surrounded by cacao oak woods. Its strategic design makes it a favorite among travel professionals. You'll find world-class amenities at Valderrama as well, so you can enjoy your evening in the clubhouse as much as on the green.

Planning Your Golf Getaway

When planning a golf getaway whether here in the UK or in Europe, time and place are key to an exceptional experience. Some of the best months to play golf are from April to October, when the weather is good, and the courses are in excellent condition. Early booking is essential, as top courses such as St. Andrews or Valderrama see high demand, especially during peak seasons.

To find out where to stay, consider booking at a resort that offers golf packages. This is where you can find all the amenities and not have to walk a long distance between your room and everything else. Packages can include guaranteed tee times, transportation between courses, and amenities such as spas and fine dining to enjoy your time off golf. These resorts are often located near courses, offering stunning views and the convenience of playing multiple rounds without the hassle of a daily commute.

If it's your first time on a golf vacation, you'll need to decide whether or not you want to take golf equipment with you. If you are flying to your destination, it is best to check the flight policies of golf clubs and golf clubs before the trip as additional fees may be required depending on the airline. You may want to consider renting clubs at the resort if you prefer to go light, so check to see if this is available before you go.

As well as checking your passport is still valid, make sure you don't forget travel insurance. A comprehensive travel insurance will help deal with unexpected issuessuch as your luggage being lost or damaged. Look for policies that include medical expenses, trip cancellation, and additional sports equipment coverage when traveling with your clubs. Insurance is especially important when traveling abroad, where you may face unexpected travel issues such as flight delays or medical needs away from home.

If you enjoy carefully planning every aspect of a golf getaway, from tee times to the best room packages and insurance options, you'll have plenty to think about. If you don't enjoy this part of the tour guide, remember that doing so can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to some of the world's best golf courses. You'll be glad you planned ahead.

Essential Gear for the Serious Golfer

While playing at the best courses can be a dream, you'll want to think about the finer details:

• Every golfer should start with the right clubs. A set that includes drivers, irons, wedges, and a putter that matches your playing style is essential. Of course, you can always look into renting your own clubs when you arrive if the resort offers this to make things easier, especially if you're new to golf vacations.
  
• Be sure to take plenty of golf balls or check ahead of time to see if they can be purchased at the course or resort.
  
• Aside from clubs and balls, proper golf attire is important not only for adhering to course dress codes but also for comfort and flexibility during play. As noted by travel insurer Staysure, you want to pack smart and consider golf and leisure needs and waterproofing or layers when the weather changes.
  
• Get yourself a high-quality golf bag that's durable and easy to carry – you'll thank yourself in the long run for investing in something good quality and lightweight. Be sure to check the details of the airline when traveling with this.

With the right gear, some pro tips, and a well-planned itinerary, you're set to experience these courses like a pro. Each area is a great place no matter your skill level, so even if you're not the best at playing, you can still have a great time while you're away. So, which course will you visit first?