Golf bucket list destinations without intercontinental flights or jet lag. A tour through Europe with selected examples.
At a time of global societal challenges, inflation and energy cost surges, and growing awareness of ecological footprints, long-haul flights and heavy-fuelled ship journeys are less favored among sustainably minded sports enthusiasts. Or indeed, they should be.
\”People Just Want to Get Out Again\”
\”People just want to get out again,\” said a fellow traveler at Edinburgh Airport after the official end of the COVID-19 pandemic. This sentiment remains strong, with some feeling that travel has become even more unrestricted since the grip of SARS-CoV-2 loosened worldwide.
Travel portals report a rising focus on eco-friendly travel and sustainable accommodations. For instance, Booking.com found post-pandemic that 50% of travelers in Germany and 71% worldwide aim to travel more sustainably. Over 25% indicated choosing destinations closer to home.
Simply Playing Golf
The golf travel sector hasn’t been specifically surveyed, but an expert in exclusive golf trips mentioned that for such clients, ecological concerns play little role; they just want to play golf. Fortunately, CO2 emissions from their travel can be offset through contributions to climate protection and sustainability projects via providers like Atmosfair and MyClimate, making the trip worth the extra cost.
Golf Enjoyment near the Limes
One remarkable course on a compact 48-hectare area is Hofgut Georgenthal, designed by architect Christian Althaus to fit a links-style 18-hole layout plus a 3-hole course and practice facilities without disrupting the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historic Limes border. The venue offers rural elegance, culture, culinary delights, sport, wellness, or simply relaxation. In 2025, Hofgut Georgenthal celebrated its 25-year anniversary (www.hofgut-georgenthal.de).
Where George Clooney Plays Golf
Overlooking Lake Como, the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club sits high on the Croce plateau. Established in 1907 by five-time champion John Henry Taylor, its narrow 18 greens amidst dense woodland offer a timeless atmosphere embraced by members including George Clooney. The clubhouse patio is ideal for winding down, or visitors can enjoy lively local venues in the lakeside town of Menaggio (golfclubmenaggio.com).
Great Golf Thanks to Small Bricks
On Denmark’s Baltic island of Fünen lies Great Northern, a masterpiece commissioned by Lego heir Kirk Kristiansen. The Jack Nicklaus-designed course, architectural gem clubhouse, regional seasonal cuisine managed by Bavarian Michelin-star chef Rainer Gassner, and exceptional spa make it a bucket list highlight. Fünen itself, with Odense—birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen—is well worth a visit (greatnorthern.dk).
All-Round Wellness in Northern Ireland’s Lakeland
While Northern Ireland’s golf fame may be synonymous with Royal County Down and Royal Portrush, Lough Erne in County Fermanagh offers a comprehensive wellness package. Two hours from