A wave of new and redeveloped golf courses across Europe is expected to strengthen the region’s appeal as a leading destination for golf tourism, according to a report from Euronews. The trend comes as major tournaments such as The Masters continue to inspire interest in the sport and drive travel to premier golfing locations.
Scotland: Coastal Expansion in the Highlands
In the Scottish Highlands, the Old Petty course at Cabot Highlands is scheduled to open in May. The course features a traditional links-style design that incorporates natural terrain and sweeping sea views, offering a layout shaped by the coastal environment.
A separate development in north east Scotland saw the opening of a New Course at a golf resort associated with the current President of the United States in July of the previous year. The course features extensive coastal views and a large natural bunker, and it was named Europe’s best new golf course for 2025.
France: Redesign at a Ryder Cup Venue
Near Paris, the Albatros course at Le Golf National—known for hosting a past Ryder Cup—is undergoing redesign work. The course is scheduled to reopen in September 2026 following the completion of renovations.
Portugal: Award-Winning Courses and Future Projects
Portugal continues to expand its golfing profile. The Torre Course at Terras da Comporta, which opened in June 2025, received a global award for best new golf course. Designed by Sergio Garcia, the course is intended to provide both a challenging and engaging playing experience.
The same resort also features the Dunas Course, which opened in 2023.
Looking ahead, the island of Madeira is preparing to open the Ponta do Pargo course in 2027—its first new course in more than twenty years. The design, created by a firm founded by Nick Faldo, makes use of the island’s cliffside landscape.
Ireland: New Links Course on the Southeast Coast
Ireland’s southeast coast is set to welcome Curracloe Links in April 2027. The project is described as a new type of links course and forms part of a larger resort development aimed at attracting international golf tourism.
Growing Appeal of European Golf Tourism
With multiple openings and redevelopments underway, Europe’s golf sector is positioned for continued growth. New courses across Scotland, France, Portugal, and Ireland are expected to attract both seasoned players and new enthusiasts, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a global hub for golf.
Source: https://www.indexbox.io/blog/new-golf-courses-open-and-set-to-open-across-europe-in-2026/
