There’s nothing more pleasing and pleasurable to the mind than a game of golf. Whilst to some, going abroad for a game of golf is a holiday spoilt, it can be one of the most exciting ways to spend the time in the sun, doing what you do and love best.

Perhaps, you have recently taken up golf as a family and you’re seeking a golf resort abroad in an exotic, stress-free environment? Or you’re arranging a stag do away, with an enjoyable activity to do with the lads, or simply craving a long weekend away from the wife and kids, to clear your mind of the mundane day-to-day worries of life.

The Algarve has been commonly known as the leader of the golfing resort pack, due to its fantastic scenery, world-class courses, and a climate to boast about, as well as being close enough to home without travelling unnecessary hours. From more than 30 courses in the Algarve alone, you can also travel outside of the Atlantic to other luxurious and well-kept golf facilities that are still on your doorstep!

Here are our top pick of summer golfing resorts!

Scotland:

Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa, St Andrews

Where better to holiday, than the home of golf. Golf was first recorded at St Andrews in Scotland and a stay for a long weekend at the Old Course Hotel will surely not disappoint. Okay, it may not have the weather for shorts and tequila, but it boasts a room with a view over West Sands Beach. The resort was voted as one of the top 100 courses in the UK by Golf World Magazine. Not to mention, if you’re other half is dragging you to the golf course with no interest whatsoever, he can find you being pampered on site in their luxurious spa.

Photo credit: Lou Armor/Shutterstock

Gleneagles Hotel

Gleneagles Hotel has been rated the best hotel in Britain and recognised by one of the world’s most beautiful hotels by Conde Nast Traveler 2014 Gold List. Set in 850 acres of Perthshire countryside, it has an award-winning spa for your wives, girlfriends and children to enjoy as well as three golf courses, elegant fine dining restaurants and renowned outdoor activities to do as a family.

Photo credit: Cornfield/Shutterstock  

Turnberry Resort, Ayrshire

The resort first opened in 1906 and has since undergone a multi-million pound makeover as it hosted the 2009 Open on its famous Ailsa golf course. The rooms are Edwardian style and ooze character and decadent glamour. The rooms have a splendid view over the Ayrshire coast line and for those disinterested by golf, there is a range of activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, riding and quad biking to name a few.

Photo credit: turnberry.co.uk

Italy:

Argentario Resort Golf and Spa, Southern Tuscany

This five-star hotel can be found in coastal southern Tuscany that has fantastic panoramic views over its golf course. The 18-hole course was designed by architect David Mezzacane and professional golfer Baldovino Dassu and the holes are shaped by Brian Jorgensen. The rooms vary from vintage classic to contemporary and each room is equipped with its own private terrace overlooking the breath-taking hills of the Mediterranean. Aside from golf, there is also a heated indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath and a range of relaxing massages to conclude your day.

Verdura Golf Resort and Spa, Sicily

This fabulous golf resort is set on 230 hectares, nearly two kilometres of private Mediterranean coastline. There are three golf courses to choose from, in between a relaxing dip in the 60-metre infinity pool, six clay tennis courts, spa, four restaurants and five bars. The Verdura resort has it all and you can enjoy a relaxed holiday with uninterrupted views. With 203 bedrooms on-site, the hotel is situated in the Mediterranean sun and can be a place of relaxation for parents, whilst their children are tutored from PGA qualified professionals at the golf academy.

Photo credit: Rocco Forte Hotels

Portugal:

Vidago Palace, Portugal

The Algarve in particular is meant to be the stunner of golf courses around the world and the Vidago Palace resort, set in a spa town of Tràs-os-Montes, has 72-par, 18-hole course, originally designed by Mackenzie-Ross. It was built in 1936 and the resort sits in a tranquil and picturesque valley. The golf course also has a golf academy for budding young golfers, a chipping area, and two putting greens.

Photo credit: vidagopalacegolf.com

Spain

Elba Palace Gold, Fuerteventura

The average temperature all year round is a comfortable 23 degrees and this stunning five-star hotel has unrivalled sea views, sculptured gardens and a real sense of nature. The hotel has a great range of short golf breaks to suit families, couples and groups of any sizes, whilst enjoying a course designed by architect Juan Caterineau.

Photo credit: hoteleselba.com/

France:

Terre Blanche, Provence

It’s time you recharged your batteries, close enough to home, but far enough you can visit the regions villages and vineyards, whilst playing a spot of gold at Terre Blanche. The 300-hectre luxury resort is in a beautiful estate in southern France that is characteristic of the Côte d’Azur. The two golf courses were designed by Dave Thomas and inspired by the environment around it as it blends into the landscape of valleys.

Photo credit: en.terre-blanche.com

Evian Resort

Evian-les-Bains is home to this golf resort, on the French bank of Lake Geneva. The airport is only 45km and easily reachable for a short weekend away from the city. The 18-hole course has magnificent views over the lakes and mountains and has a charismatic French identity.

Photo credit: evianresort.com