Date of publication 04/07/2017
Golf The best golf destinations across three continents
Tunisia, Andalusia and Mexico are home to some of the world’s finest golf courses
What makes a golf enthusiast choose one course over another? Here’s a selection of some of the world’s top golf destinations, each offering the perfect blend of exceptional play and outstanding leisure experiences across three different continents. Even better, Iberostar has golf hotels in every one of them.
What defines a great golf destination? The greens of a well-designed course can entice players with their sense of calm, relaxation, and escape. For others, the appeal lies in challenging themselves to improve their personal best. Some seek the perfect place to compete with family, friends, or fellow golfers. There are even those who decide based on the 19th hole, in other words, everything that comes after the round.
A course that is well suited to players’ needs and maintained to the highest standards can become the deciding factor in a vacation, especially for those who appreciate aesthetics, the environment, architecture, and design. With countless rankings published each year and so many remarkable courses to choose from, we have narrowed it down to destinations that truly embody the spirit of golf and consistently prove themselves worthy of even the most demanding players, as well as those just getting started. Each one is located on a different continent where its courses stand out in their own right.
Golf in Andalusia
The pleasure of playing and enjoying 18 holes, or as many as you wish, can come from many sources, though most are closely tied to the setting. Sunshine, gentle breezes, and consistently excellent weather conditions are key to a satisfying golf experience. It’s something more and more golfers value, which is why southern Spain is such a compelling starting point.
The climate, landscapes, and geographic diversity of this southern region make it a magnet for travelers from around the world. Known as the birthplace of flamenco and home to the renowned sherry wines of Jerez, Andalusia has earned its reputation. Its beaches and coastline, dotted with charming fishing villages and modern marinas, are widely admired. Historic architecture, such as Cádiz Cathedral, offers picture-perfect moments, while the cuisine stands out for its quality. Along the beaches, locals often grill freshly caught seafood over open coals in the traditional espeto style. North of Cádiz lies the “Sherry Triangle,” where wines like Oloroso, Amontillado, and Pedro Ximénez originate. In bars and taverns, flamenco performances often arise spontaneously.
The Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean also attract sailing enthusiasts and fans of other water sports, supported by the many marinas throughout the region. All of this unfolds under a warm, ever-present southern sun, allowing golfers to discover exceptional courses where they can refine their drive and swing.
At Real Novo Sancti Petri Golf Club, located next to the historic city of Cádiz, the attention to detail in its infrastructure, design, and surroundings makes it a benchmark for golf in Europe. Lakes, carefully placed palm trees, and oak trees line wide fairways, many of them overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Blue Flag beach of La Barrosa. The course is part of the OnCourse® program by golfenvironment.org, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility, and has received the “Recommended Certificate” from Leadingcourses.com readers and golfers. In addition to its 36 holes across two par-72 courses, Novo Sancti Petri features more than 86,000 square feet of driving range and a variety of obstacles designed with an American aesthetic.
For those seeking the best golf hotels in Cádiz, Iberostar offers two exceptional beachfront options along La Barrosa. Iberostar Waves Royal Andalus is a beachfront hotel with a golf course just 820 feet away: Real Novo Sancti Petri, the first European design by Severiano Ballesteros, inaugurated in 1990 and considered one of the continent’s most iconic courses. The resort provides complimentary transfers and an all-inclusive program in Cádiz that makes each day effortless. It is ideal for both families and couples looking to combine golf with relaxation by the pool, a spa, and Andalusian cuisine. Just steps away, Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa is a five-star hotel with direct access to the same course, featuring the Cataria restaurant led by Michelin-starred chefs specializing in seafood from the Cádiz coast, along with a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere for those seeking an elevated experience. Both hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to Real Novo Sancti Petri, making them the perfect base for enjoying its two championship courses.
Widely considered the best golf course in Spain, Real Club Valderrama attracts members, professionals, and experienced players looking for the challenge of a truly unique course. Its combination of demanding fairways and a tranquil atmosphere makes it stand out. With immaculate conditions and unmatched maintenance, it is no surprise that it has hosted the prestigious Volvo Masters and became the first course outside Great Britain to host the Ryder Cup. Valderrama remains one of the most sought-after courses in Europe, with top-tier facilities throughout. Explore all thegolf hotels in Cádiz to make your experience exceptional.
Golf in Tunisia
North African coastal countries have long attracted visitors thanks to their abundant sunshine, rich culture, history, and proximity to Europe. More recently, golfers have begun to arrive in increasing numbers, joining those who have already discovered the understated beauty of their courses.
Although best known for its beaches and climate, Tunisia offers much more. It hosts vibrant festivals such as the International Festival of Dougga, held in a 1,800-year-old Roman amphitheater, and the Ulysses Festival on the island of Djerba, which celebrates Tunisian music, dance, and theater while exploring the country’s folkloric roots. There is also the lively nightlife of Sousse and Hammamet, desert safaris inland, and water sports ranging from sailing to diving. Altogether, golfers have more than enough reasons to pack their clubs and head to this green haven in North Africa, where the long Mediterranean coastline adds to its appeal.
Located on the island of Djerba, Djerba Golf Club stands out as one of the most exotic places on the continent to play. It's three nine-hole courses, which can be combined and are connected by a tunnel, wind through a striking desert landscape dotted with oasis-like hazards and dunes filled with palm trees, all framed by traditional white Tunisian architecture. A great example of its beauty and challenge is the seventh hole of the La Mer course, where the fairway runs along the coastline and the Mediterranean breeze becomes both a relief and a test. The Caddy Master service provides every amenity a golfer might need, while the island itself offers long beaches enriched by Berber culture once the round is complete.
In Sousse, visitors come to enjoy its famous sunsets, pristine beaches, and warm desert climate tempered by constant sea breezes. At the exclusive El Kantaoui Golf Course, covering 32 acres, beginners and professionals share one of the highest-quality courses on the international circuit. The elegant clubhouse overlooks the greens, and its two 18-hole courses, Panorama and Sea Course, stretch among palm trees, fountains, and carefully maintained landscapes, with the Mediterranean always in view. For children and beginners, the club’s Golf Academy offers courses and lessons led by PGA professionals.
For those looking for the best golf hotel in Tunisia, Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir is hard to surpass. This five-star beachfront resort, located near the Flamingo Golf Course and within easy reach of El Kantaoui, is an excellent choice for couples thanks to its Star Prestige area with exclusive services, while also being ideal for families who want to combine golf with a private beach, pools, a full spa, and cuisine inspired by local traditions. Its palm-filled gardens and Tunisian-inspired architecture create the perfect setting to unwind after a round, making it one of the most complete all-inclusive hotels in the Mediterranean.
Golf in Mexico
Sun-drenched landscapes, constant ocean breezes, and swaying palm trees blend with Mexico’s renowned sense of calm and relaxed atmosphere, making any visit a pleasure for many reasons. In the land of margaritas, mariachi, and mole, visitors have come to appreciate the warmth and hospitality of its people. The historical wonders of the Riviera Maya have drawn explorers and adventurers for generations and remain deeply impressive. Beyond the iconic pyramid of Chichén Itzá, the Tulum temple stands out, perched above silky sands with views of the Caribbean Sea. Natural wonders also abound, such as cenotes that offer exceptional diving experiences. And among all these attractions, golf plays its part.
Coastal golf courses in Mexico hold a special appeal, making every tee-off an unforgettable experience. Lush, undulating landscapes and links-style holes are just part of what makes the PGA-level Litibú Golf Club stand out internationally. Designed by Greg Norman, the course reflects a strong commitment to environmental care and minimal impact on its surroundings. In the Riviera Nayarit, this translates into thoughtfully spaced tropical trees, small lakes, and over 1,080 feet of coastline. With its bunkers and crosswinds, Litibú challenges even the most experienced players while offering a unique connection with nature. It showcases the very best of Mexico’s stunning Pacific coast.
Year-round sunshine and the tropical setting of the Riviera Maya make it an ideal destination for golf. In Quintana Roo, Playa Paraíso Golf Club stands out for both its outstanding design and the way it reflects the region’s natural beauty. Designed by the renowned P.B. Dye, the course features rolling fairways, Paspalum grass, and a layout that challenges players of every skill level. Known for its excellent course conditions and welcoming staff, Playa Paraíso offers an exceptional golfing experience. Beyond the fairways, nearby beaches, iconic attractions, pools, spas, shopping, and dining provide plenty of ways to unwind after a day on the course.
Right beside this course are some of the best golf hotels in the Riviera Maya. The Iberostar Playa Paraíso complex brings together several of the finest all-inclusive hotels in Mexico, all located along the Caribbean beachfront and offering privileged access to the P.B. Dye-designed course. Iberostar Waves Paraíso Beach is a standout among beachfront hotels with a golf course, ideal for families who want to combine a Caribbean getaway with a memorable golf vacation. For a more refined experience, JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar is a five-star, adults-only resort offering reduced green fees, butler service, and gourmet dining, making it one of the top choices for couples seeking luxury and golf in perfect balance. For those looking for a middle ground between exclusivity and a family-friendly atmosphere, Iberostar Selection Paraíso Maya Suites offers an all-inclusive experience with a golf course, water park, and spacious suites, placing it among the best golf hotels in the Mexican Caribbean.
SHAWN MOKSVOLD
Photography by Cordon Press
