The Golf Destinations You Want to Experience in 2022

If you were asked what golfing destination you would most want to visit in 2022, what would you respond with?

Perhaps you have been waiting to play the Old Course at St Andrews for what feels like a lifetime, so any opportunity will be swiftly taken.

Alternatively, you may want to leave Britain and head into the warm sanctuary that the Mediterranean countries can provide all-year round.

We asked the Golfshake Community that exact question and we provide insight into the 12 most popular answers.

Spain

We’ll start with the countries and Spain has always been a coveted destination for British golfers, largely thanks to the alluring climate that is prevalent all-year round. To summarise briefly: Spain has everything you would want from a golf trip. Championship courses, beaches dotted around for those post-recovery rounds and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you experience the Costa del Sol, Costa Brava or Murcia, you are guaranteed one fundamental aspect - unlimited fun.

Portugal

Portugal can offer the same benefits of Spain, although the nation can’t equate the same facilities, in regard to volume. Despite that, the Algarve is one of the most visited areas by European golfers and the collection of outstanding golf courses justifies that outcome. Who can also forget the magnificent Vilamoura, which could have quite easily be designed for the use of golfers alone. If you’re looking for warm weather and fantastic facilities, then Portugal is the place to be.

Scotland

When you have the ‘home of golf’ attached to your land, you can offer a golfing experience like no other - which is exactly what Scotland thrives off. The country’s appeal is far beyond St Andrews, with several other complexes - such as Dundonald Links, Gullane, Carnoustie, Gleneagles and Kingsbarns - helping to elevate Scotland’s general charm to be among the best in the world. Another humungous benefit to Scotland is its accessibility by car, meaning no stress when transporting your clubs - which is unfortunately common when flying.

Turkey

Turkey’s golfing scene may not be as established as the other countries on this list but don’t sleep on this gigantic nation - who have an evident passion for golf. A unique selling point for Turkish golf trips are the resorts that typically boast all-inclusive benefits in the town of Belek. Known for its ancient history, surreal vistas and enticing cuisine, a golfing getaway to Turkey is much more than your daily round of golf.

Ireland

Ireland prides itself on its magnificent collection of championship golf courses, a perk not every country can emulate. The wonderful thing about this untouched country is the two differing experience of golf; Dublin provides a lively trip with Portmarnock Links located conveniently. You may fancy a coastal afternoon and if that is the case, head to the windswept Ballybunion - just make sure you bring enough balls! No matter what holiday you envision, Ireland can accommodate all.

France

When it comes to golfing in France, you are truly spoiled for choice: do you want to visit the revered Ryder Cup venue at Le Golf National or would you prefer to experience the vast beauty found in the south of the country - the choice is up to you. Another obvious benefit of a trip to France is the exquisite cuisine you’ll be treating yourself to every day as the country is renowned for its experimental cooking. Whilst not the traditional golfing destination, France can offer a lively setting away from the course.

Wales

Another country that proudly boasts a Ryder Cup venue - does the influence of golf have any boundaries? The obvious topic is Celtic Manor and the Twenty Ten Course but to focus on this solely will be doing the nation a great disservice. With other tremendous complexes in The Vale and Royal Porthcawl, Wales is beyond a one-stop shop. The country is littered in fascinating natural beauty and cities such as Cardiff and Swansea can play magnificent hosts to lively night-time entertainment.

St Andrews

We move into the venues now and St Andrews is rightfully at the summit of this list. When people speak of the complex, they often mean the Old Course, but there are many alternative layouts that are attached to the site. This prestigious part of Scotland is on everyone’s bucket list and the surrounding environment is home to many bars and pubs. With historical reference around every corner, have you truly golfed if you haven’t visited the most famous and iconic location in the golfing world?

Celtic Manor

If St Andrews is the king of Scotland, you can be sure that Celtic Manor waves the Welsh flag relentlessly. With a collection of three excellent courses - including the Twenty Ten, Ryder Cup powerhouse - you can be assured of an excellent golfing getaway. The resort is further strengthened through a plethora of restaurants and a sports bar showing all live sports. Who would have thought Newport would be the hub for this golfing dynamo?

The Belfry

The Belfry is often regarded as the greatest facility in England and there’s good reason why they have played host to the Ryder Cup on four occasions - the most in the competition’s history. The Brabazon Course is the justified leader but the alternative two can still offer a splendid experience of golf. Through a wide range of bedrooms, restaurants and bars, The Belfry is a lively hub for evening entertainment and with Birmingham in close proximity, you’ll have infinite choice for night-time activities.

Gleneagles

Gleneagles is one of the leading golf resorts in Scotland, boasting a plethora of services that are rarely rivalled across the world - highlighted by the fact it’s been awarded ‘Best Golf Resort in the World’ at the Daily Telegraph UltraTravel Awards on multiple occasions. All three courses qualify for championship standard and all of them are highly accredited by any visitor who has had the pleasure of their distinct and unique experience. If we consider the first-class hospitality and dining options, then this is undoubtedly one of earth’s greatest.

St Mellion

Due to the impressive facilities at St Mellion, it is an excellent stay & play option after heavy renovation elevated the visiting experience further. More than £20 million was pumped into the property, resulting in the Estate being bolstered significantly. If we turn our attention to the golf, visitors will have the choice of two renowned courses, either the Nicklaus or the Kernow Course. The latter has hosted the DP World Tour on many occasions - with both Bernhard Langer and Seve Ballesteros triumphing.

If you manage to golf at any of these locations over the next 12 months, you have undoubtedly experienced a first-class trip.

From the relentless sunshine in Spain to the gloomy, overcast Scottish skyline - golf can be enjoyed in more ways than one.

Let us know in the comments if you plan on taking your dream golf trip this year and where. 

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