Italy is renowned for its incredible art, culture, and food. But beyond the museums and the pasta plates, this beautiful country has a hidden gem for golf lovers: world-class golf courses set against stunning landscapes. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Rome, soaking up the charm of Florence, or enjoying the sun-drenched coasts of the Amalfi, there’s a fantastic golf course nearby, just waiting for you to tee off.
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Dive into our curated collection of Italy's most luxurious, hidden treasures. Tailored for discerning tastes, explore what others don't know.
Golf in Italy: Mixing Sport & Italian Culture The Perfect Getaway
Why just go on a holiday when you can combine it with your love of golf? Italy is an excellent destination for those who want to blend relaxation, culture, and sports. You can explore vibrant cities by day and enjoy a round of golf in the afternoon, with no rush and plenty of time to soak up the beauty of your surroundings.
Imagine playing 18 holes overlooking a vineyard, then sipping on a glass of Chianti as the sun sets. That’s golf in Italy! It’s not just about the game; it’s about the experience. You’re surrounded by rolling hills, towering cypress trees, or the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. And we haven’t even mentioned the food – which, after a round of golf, tastes even better (trust us on that).
Tuscany: A Golfing Paradise with a Touch of History
When it comes to iconic Italian regions, Tuscany always tops the list. Known for its rolling hills, historic towns, and world-famous wines, Tuscany is also home to some of the finest golf courses in Italy. If you’re planning a trip here, why not take advantage of both its history and its greens?
In particular, our top recommendation for mixing golf and holidays in Tuscany is the **Castiglion del Bosco Estate**. Nestled in the heart of the countryside, this private estate offers a golf course like no other. The stunning 18-hole course, designed by the legendary Tom Weiskopf, is set in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine playing golf surrounded by ancient forests, olive groves, and vineyards. It’s the kind of setting that makes you forget you’re even playing golf because you’re too busy soaking in the view.
Plus, Castiglion del Bosco offers more than just golf. After you’ve finished your round, you can explore the estate’s historical villas, sample local wines, or take part in a private cooking class. It’s the ultimate mix of relaxation, sport, and culture.
The Best Golf Courses in Italy: Play Near Italy’s Iconic Locations
If you’re new to the idea of golfing in Italy, don’t worry. Here’s a rundown of some of the best golf courses in the country, all conveniently located near Italy’s most popular cities and regions. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone.
1. Golf Club Castelgandolfo – Rome
If you’re visiting Rome, you’ll want to make time for a round at **Golf Club Castelgandolfo**. Located just 30 minutes from the city center, this course is set in the crater of an ancient volcano. Yep, you heard that right – you’ll be playing golf inside a volcano! The unique landscape makes for an exciting game, and the 18-hole course offers plenty of challenges for golfers of all levels.
Plus, after a day of sightseeing in Rome (the Colosseum, Vatican, etc.), Castelgandolfo offers a peaceful escape from the city. You can enjoy the lush greenery, the crisp air, and even spot some wildlife while you play. It’s a true Italian golfing experience.
2. Argentario Golf Resort – Tuscany
Another fantastic course in Tuscany is the **Argentario Golf Resort**, located in the Maremma region. This is a favorite among golfers who love a coastal setting. The course is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and offers stunning views of both the coast and the surrounding forests.
The resort itself is ultra-modern, with luxurious rooms, a wellness center, and top-notch dining options. It’s perfect for a mix of relaxation and sport, especially if you love the sea breeze as you play. And of course, you can always pop over to Florence or Siena for a day trip if you feel like exploring Tuscany’s cultural side.
3. Verdura Golf & Spa Resort – Sicily
Heading further south, Sicily offers a truly unique golfing experience. **Verdura Golf & Spa Resort** is one of Italy’s most famous golf destinations. It boasts two 18-hole courses and a 9-hole course, all set along the rugged Sicilian coastline. The sea views alone make this course worth a visit, but the layout itself is also fantastic, with wide fairways and challenging greens.
Verdura is also the ultimate luxury escape, offering a spa, gourmet dining, and endless opportunities to explore the island’s rich history. If you’ve never been to Sicily before, this is the perfect place to combine golf with a bit of adventure. Visit ancient Greek ruins, indulge in local Sicilian cuisine, and then unwind with a round of golf on one of the most scenic courses you’ll ever play.
The Pros of Letting a Travel Advisor Plan Your Golf Trip in Italy
Let’s be honest: organizing a trip, especially one that involves both golf and sightseeing, can be a bit of a hassle. You’ve got to figure out transport, book tee times, and make sure you’re staying somewhere nice. That’s where a travel advisor comes in.
Here’s why working with a travel advisor is a game-changer:
– Time-saving: A travel advisor takes care of all the details, from booking flights and accommodation to securing tee times at the best golf courses. This means you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your holiday.
– Insider knowledge: Advisors who specialize in Italy (like us!) know the best places to play, eat, and stay. We’ve been to these courses, stayed at these hotels, and know what’s worth your time and what’s not.
– Exclusive perks: When you work with a travel advisor, you often get access to special perks, like room upgrades, complimentary meals, or priority booking for golf courses. This can make your trip even more memorable.
– Stress-free travel: If anything goes wrong during your trip (delayed flights, last-minute changes, etc.), your travel advisor is there to handle it. You won’t have to worry about a thing.
Ultimately, letting someone else handle the logistics means you can focus on what matters: enjoying your holiday, playing great golf, and making lasting memories.
Why Golf in Italy is So Special
Playing golf in Italy is more than just a round on a beautiful course – it’s about the entire experience. Each course is unique, not just because of its layout but because of its setting. One day you could be playing in the Tuscan hills, surrounded by vineyards. The next, you might be teeing off with views of the Mediterranean Sea or the Dolomite mountains.
Then there’s the food. You won’t find better post-round dining anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of homemade pasta at a local trattoria or indulging in a fine-dining experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Italy’s cuisine is second to none.
Not to mention, Italian hospitality is famous worldwide. Everywhere you go, you’re welcomed with open arms, whether it’s by the local pros at the golf course or the hosts at your luxury villa. Italians know how to make you feel at home.
**More Must-Visit Golf Courses in Italy**
4. Circolo Golf Villa d’Este – Lake Como
Located near the glamorous shores of Lake Como, **Circolo Golf Villa d’Este** is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in Italy. It’s set high in the hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The course itself is a challenging 18-hole layout that has hosted numerous international tournaments. If you’re visiting Lake Como (and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to?), this is a must-play.
5. Royal Park I Roveri – Turin
Set just outside the city of Turin, **Royal Park I Roveri** is a favorite among serious golfers. The course was designed by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and offers a mix of challenging holes and beautiful scenery. It’s located within La Mandria Regional Park, which means you’re playing golf in the midst of nature – expect to see deer and other wildlife as you make your way around the course.
Royal Park I Roveri has hosted the Italian Open multiple times, so if you’re looking for a course with a bit of prestige, this is the one.
FREE DOWNLOAD
Discover Hidden Luxuries of Italy
Dive into our curated collection of Italy's most luxurious, hidden treasures. Tailored for discerning tastes, explore what others don't know.
Planning Your Dream Golf Holiday in Italy
By now, you’re probably dreaming of playing a round or two on one of Italy’s scenic courses. But don’t worry, you don’t have to plan it all by yourself. That’s where we come in. At Luxo Italia, we specialize in creating luxury golf holidays that combine the best courses in Italy with stunning accommodations, private tours, and gourmet dining experiences.
We know the ins and outs of every course, hotel, and restaurant, which means we can tailor a golf holiday that’s perfect for you. Whether you want to spend your mornings on the green and your afternoons exploring Italian vineyards, or you’re after a week of pure golf, we’ve got you covered.
And don’t worry, you won’t be left dealing with logistics or last-minute changes. We handle everything, so you can focus on what really matters – enjoying yourself and playing some of the best golf courses Italy has to offer.
Ready to pack?
Golf in Italy isn’t just about the sport – it’s about the entire experience. From world-class courses to stunning scenery, delicious food, and luxurious accommodations, Italy is the perfect destination for a golf holiday. So why not make your next trip one to remember by combining your love for golf with a bit of Italian culture, history, and relaxation? Whether you’re playing at Castiglion del Bosco in Tuscany, teeing off along the Sicilian coast, or enjoying a round near Lake Como, golf in Italy is an experience like no other.
Get in touch with us at Luxo Italia to start planning your perfect golf getaway today.