best golf courses in Italy
Italy, a country celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, also offers a unique and memorable experience for golf enthusiasts. Although golf might not be the first sport that comes to mind when thinking of Italy, the country has over 87,000 aficionados, particularly thriving in Lombardy, which leads the nation in the number of golf courses and clubs. The best golf courses in Italy are predominantly found in the north, yet central and southern regions also present courses with spectacular views and challenging plays that cater to the most discerning golfers. This article will guide you through the top 10 best golf courses in Italy, highlighting their distinct features, scenic beauty, and the exceptional golfing experience they provide, proving that Italy’s golfing appeal is as compelling as its more renowned attractions.
At the beginning of 2024, Italy has a rich tapestry of over 250 golf courses, showcasing a diverse range of designs from the classic parkland to the serene tree-lined fairways, and even unique links-style layouts exemplified by the Verdura Golf Resort in Sicily. The majority of these courses are concentrated in the northern regions, but the golfing experience extends to the picturesque islands of Sardinia and Sicily as well, offering players the chance to enjoy their game in some of Italy’s most stunning landscapes.
Location: Via Cantù, 13, 22030 Montorfano CO, Italy
Golf Club Villa d’Este
The esteemed Villa d’Este Golf Club boasts a golf course renowned for its beauty, challenge, and fame across Europe, established in the mid-1920s. Across its century-long history, the club has welcomed notable figures from European aristocracy and Hollywood fame, adding to its prestigious character.
The course itself is designed to evoke the traditional Scottish landscapes where golf is believed to have originated, featuring lush expanses of birch, chestnut, and pine trees set against the backdrop of the stunning pre-Alps, providing both a visual feast and a serene golfing environment.
Golfers on the 18-hole course encounter a variety of natural challenges meticulously integrated into the course design, offering skilled players numerous opportunities to showcase their talent and strategy in overcoming these obstacles.
Location: Via Castelconturbia, 10, 28010 Localita’ Bindellina NO, Italy
Castelconturbia Golf Club
The Castelconturbia Golf Club stands out as Piedmont’s most historic golf course, established in the late 19th century by Count Gaspare Voli, who introduced the sport from Scotland, a country he frequented.
Today, the club spans over a million square meters and features a 27-hole course set amidst venerable trees, scenic ponds, and meandering streams, earning it a spot among the top 10 best golf courses in Europe and the accolade of the best golf course in Italy.
Adding to the allure of Castelconturbia are its stunning surroundings: the proximity to Lake Maggiore, just 12 kilometers to the south, and the majestic Mount Rosa, visible from virtually everywhere on the course, enhancing the golfing experience with breathtaking views.
Location: Via Regina Margherita, 25, 20853 Biassono MB, Italy
Golf Club Milano
Nestled within the vast expanse of the Royal Park of Monza, covering over 700 hectares, the Milano Golf Club stands as a beacon of exclusivity and prestige, recognized among the finest golf courses in Italy and Europe. The club’s foundations were laid in 1928, under the watchful eye of British architect James Peter Gannon.
Golfers at Milano Golf Club are presented with a choice of three courses, totaling 27 holes, each offering a unique challenge. The first course comprises the initial segment of the historic layout, celebrated for hosting six Italian Opens, featuring 9 holes. The second course concludes the original layout, also offering 9 holes for play. The third course, renowned for its technical challenges, is interspersed with numerous bunkers, demanding strategic play across its 9 holes, marking it as the most challenging of the trio.
Location: Via San Isidoro, 1, 28010 Bogogno NO, Italy
Bogogno Golf Club
Though relatively new, the Bogogno Golf Club in Piedmont has quickly established itself as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, providing both enjoyment and relaxation amidst its comprehensive amenities. The Bonora course sprawls across a vast, hilly terrain, dotted with pristine streams and lush woodlands, featuring a full 18-hole layout.
Alternatively, the Conte course presents a different challenge with its relatively flatter landscape, distinguished by variously sized man-made lakes that add to its complexity. This course also boasts 18 holes, with views of Mount Rosa’s slopes from its periphery.
In addition to these courses, the Practice Range at Bogogno is thoughtfully sectioned into thematic areas designed for skill enhancement, catering to players of all levels. Beyond golf, the club is a hub for various sports, offering facilities for five-a-side football, tennis, and swimming, making it a comprehensive sports and leisure complex.
Location: Via Agnelli, 40, 10070 Fiano TO, Italy
Circolo golf Torino la Mandria
Located mere kilometers from the majestic Reggia di Venaria in Piedmont, Torino la Mandria Golf Club occupies what was once a royal hunting ground. Established in the 1950s, this 36-hole course prides itself on an untouched, natural setting, free from any urban development.
The club features two distinct courses: the Blue Course, with its 18 holes, offers a slightly less challenging layout ideal for a broader range of players. In contrast, the Red Course presents a more rigorous test with its 18 holes, demanding greater skill and strategy.
Additionally, Torino la Mandria provides an extensive training field that can host up to 200 players simultaneously, including a covered area for inclement weather. For short game practice, there is a 36-hole pitch & putt course, segmented into four mini-zones, catering to varied practice needs and enhancing the golfing experience at this historic location.
Location: Regione Valcarrozza, 2, 13887 Magnano BI, Italy
Golf Club Le Betulle
Nestled in the serene town of Magnano within the Biella province, the Le Betulle Golf Club is renowned for its distinct English-style layout. Crafted by British architect John Morrison in the late 1950s, this 6,497-meter course is steeped in history and prestige, having been the venue for numerous national championships throughout the years.
The course’s 18 holes gracefully navigate through a diverse landscape adorned with chestnut trees, man-made lakes, and a variety of native flora such as oaks and birches, each hole offering a unique challenge to its players. Le Betulle not only prides itself on its exceptional golfing experience but also on providing a touch of nostalgia with accommodations and facilities that boast charming, old-world decor, allowing visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern-day golfing.
Location: Via Alessandro Volta, 63, 22070 Cassina Rizzardi CO, Italy
Golf Club Monticello
Nestled between Como and Milan, Monticello Golf Club stands out as one of the largest golf courses in Italy, featuring a total of 36 holes across three distinct courses alongside the acclaimed Eagle Golf Academy. The Red Course is steeped in history, stretching over 6,410 meters with 18 holes, and has gained prestige by hosting seven Italian Open tournaments, securing its high stature in Italy’s golf rankings. The Blue Course presents its own set of challenges across 18 holes, designed to test players with greater difficulty. Additionally, the Practice Course caters to both novices and seasoned golfers, providing an ideal setting for honing skills. The Eagle Golf Academy at Monticello is renowned for its exceptional instruction, supported by a team that includes celebrated figures in the sport.
Location: L.go Olgiata, 15, 00123 Roma RM, Italy
Olgiata Golf Club
Situated in the scenic northwest outskirts of Rome, adjacent to the historic remains of Veio, an ancient Etruscan city, Olgiata Golf Club offers a prestigious golfing experience with its beautifully designed courses.
Established in 1961, the club features two distinct courses. The West Course, renowned for its maturity and challenge, comprises 18 holes and has a rich legacy, having hosted prominent tournaments including the 1968 and 1984 Professional World Team Championships. This course is celebrated for its strategic design and historical significance in the golfing community.
On the other hand, the East Course, a more recent addition, extends over 42,947 meters and offers a 9-hole layout, providing a unique and independent challenge distinct from its older counterpart. In total, Olgiata Golf Club boasts 27 holes set amidst a serene pine forest, contributing to its reputation as one of the most picturesque golf courses in Italy. The club’s integration of nature and design creates an unforgettable golfing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Location: Via del Golf, 20, 07021 Porto Cervo SS, Italy
Pevero Golf Club
Costa Smeralda stands out as a premier golfing destination, with Pevero Golf Club being acclaimed as Sardinia’s finest by many enthusiasts. Constructed during the late ’60s and early ’70s, this prestigious course was the venue for the 1978 Italian Open. Its two distinct courses offer stunning views, one overlooking the Grande Pevero Bay and the other facing Cala Volpe Bay.
With 18 holes distributed over its dual courses, Pevero provides comprehensive golfing experiences alongside instructional opportunities at the Pevero Golf Academy, suitable for both adults and children. Given northern Sardinia’s windy conditions, golfers might find an added layer of challenge, particularly in mastering precision under variable breezes that can influence gameplay.
Location: S.S. 115, Km 131, 92019 Sciacca AG, Italy
Verdura Resort Golf Club
The Verdura Resort, celebrated for its stunning offerings in Sicily, has earned a prestigious place among the top 100 golf resorts globally, specifically ranking nineteenth. This acknowledgment highlights its appeal to golf enthusiasts seeking luxury alongside their sport.
The resort’s golf facilities are notably picturesque, featuring courses with sea views. The West Course, known for its expansive 18-hole layout, boasts several holes that trace the coastline, allowing players to enjoy the sea’s proximity. Meanwhile, the East Course presents its own 18 holes with numerous water hazards and fairway bunkers, enhancing the complexity and allure of the game. There’s also an additional 9-hole course nestled between the West and East courses, providing a varied playing experience.
Verdura Resort is an exceptional choice for golfers who seek to blend their love for the game with the enchanting beauty of Sicily’s coastal landscape.
Traveling to Italy for golf offers a unique blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty, and diverse golfing experiences, making it a worthy destination for any golf enthusiast.
Firstly, golf courses in Italy are set against some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world, from rolling hills and vineyards in Tuscany to dramatic coastlines in Sicily and Sardinia. This diversity in terrain not only provides stunning backdrops for your game but also offers a range of course styles and challenges that cater to all skill levels.
Moreover, Italy golf courses are steeped in history and tradition, with some designed by renowned architects and others located on historic estates or near ancient ruins. Playing golf in Italy allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich heritage, turning a simple game into a culturally enriching experience.
The country also excels in hospitality, with many golf resorts offering luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining featuring Italian cuisine, and other amenities like spas and wine tastings. This level of service enhances the golfing experience, allowing for relaxation and indulgence on the course.
Finally, golfing in Italy provides the perfect opportunity to combine your passion for the sport with the chance to explore Italy’s famous cities, countryside, and coastlines. Whether you’re looking to sightsee, shop, or simply savor Italy’s culinary delights, your golfing trip can be enriched with countless other travel experiences.
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