Golf bucket list destinations exist without intercontinental flights or jetlag. A tour through Europe with selected examples.
This is not the time to overuse the saying ‘Why roam far away?’. Ultimately, in uncertain times with global societal challenges, inflation, and soaring energy costs, and out of ecological consideration, intercontinental flights or heavy fuel ship transfers across the world’s great waters are less popular among sustainably minded sports enthusiasts—or rather, they should be.
\”People Just Want to Get Out Again\”
\”People just want to get out again,\” a fellow passenger noted after the official end of the COVID-19 pandemic at the Edinburgh airport check-in line. That sentiment remains today, and travel seems even more uninhibited since SARS-CoV-2 no longer grips the world.
While travel portals report a clear focus on eco-friendly travel and sustainable accommodations, with Booking.com noting that post-pandemic, 50% of travelers in Germany and 71% worldwide wish to travel more sustainably, and over 25% choose destinations closer to home.
Simply Playing Golf
The golf travel sector, however, has not been specifically surveyed. A specialist in exclusive golf travel noted anonymously that for clientele able to afford such destinations, ecology is seldom a concern—they simply want to play.
Fortunately, offsetting CO2 emissions generated through golfers’ travel behaviors via climate protection donations or organizations like Atmosfair and MyClimate offers a means to mitigate the environmental impact. Spending a few extra euros for a dream tee time is justifiable.
Great Golf Close to Home
The topic of golf travel remains ambivalent. Yet, who wouldn’t be tempted by distant bucket list destinations? Still, the best often lies nearby.
Golf Post has previously showcased many happy places: Spa & GolfResort Weimarer Land in Thuringia, Budersand Hotel – Golf & Spa on Sylt, Andreus Resorts, and the golf region in South Tyrol. Below is another tour through nearby golfing areas, based on personal experience without claiming completeness.
Golf Enjoyment at the Limes
A phenomenal course on a small scale: Architect Christian Althaus achieved a feat at Hofgut Georgenthal by fitting an 18-hole links-style course plus a 3-hole layout and practice facilities on just 48 hectares, all without disturbing the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historic Limes border. The landscape in the Lower Taunus has character, and the golf course was designed to blend in, featuring a naturally rugged character, explains Hofgut director Brita Hankammer.
The estate itself offers rural elegance, combining art, culture, culinary delights, sport, wellness, or simply indulgent relaxation. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, Hofgut Georgenthal is a perfect getaway from daily chaos. (www.hofgut-georgenthal.de)
Where George Clooney Golfs
Perched above Lake Como is a golf course seemingly frozen in time. The Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, designed by five-time champion John Henry Taylor in