TOP COASTAL GOLF TRIP DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE: WHY PORTUGAL STANDS OUT
Golf In Europe
Europe is home to some of the world’s most iconic golf trip destinations, especially along coastlines shaped by dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and year-round mild weather. From Scotland’s windswept links to Spain’s sunlit shores and Italy’s Mediterranean charm, golfers are spoiled for choice. Yet among these celebrated locations, Portugal has emerged as one of Europe’s leading coastal golf destinations, offering outstanding courses, perfect playing conditions, and a truly elevated holiday experience by the sea.
Here’s why Portugal should top your list when choosing the possible golf trip destinations for your holiday, and why the Cascais-Sintra region, paired with a stay at Dream Guincho, offers one of the most exclusive and memorable golf escapes in Europe.
What makes coastal golf trip destinations so special?
There’s something unique about playing golf by the sea. Coastal golf trip destinations blends sport with sensory experience: fresh ocean breezes, panoramic blue horizons, and natural elements that add character and challenge to every shot. These destinations are also known for pleasant temperatures year-round, vibrant local culture, and outstanding food and scenery to enjoy between rounds.
While Scotland’s rugged coastline, France’s Côte d’Azur, and Spain’s Costa del Sol each have their appeal, Portugal combines all these advantages and enhances them, making it a standout choice for coastal golf travellers.
Why Portugal Stands Out Among Europe’s Coastal Golf Trip Destinations?
1. World-class courses framed by the Atlantic
Portugal’s shoreline is lined with award-winning courses designed by renowned architects such as Robert Trent Jones, Rocky Roquemore, and Sir Henry Cotton. The country offers everything from traditional links inspiration to modern championship layouts.
In the Lisbon region, especially around Cascais and Sintra, golfers can enjoy courses shaped by ocean vistas, forested hills, natural dunes, and protected parkland, creating an impressive diversity within a compact area.
2. Ideal weather for golf all year long
One of Portugal’s greatest strengths is its climate. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, coastal regions deliver mild winters, long daylight hours, and pleasant summer breezes that keep temperatures comfortable. Few European golf trip destinations can offer such consistency for year-round play.
3. Easy accessibility from anywhere in Europe
Lisbon Airport is just a short flight from London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or Rome. Within 30 minutes of landing, golfers can arrive in Cascais and be minutes from some of Europe’s best coastal golf courses, making Portugal ideal for both short golf breaks and extended stays.
4. A safe, welcoming and culturally rich destination
Portugal charms visitors with its hospitality, fresh seafood, award-winning wines, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Between games, golfers can enjoy historic palaces, pristine beaches, scenic nature reserves, and charming seaside towns. Here, a golf trip naturally becomes a fully rounded holiday enriched with culture, gastronomy, and nature.
The Cascais-Sintra region: Portugal’s coastal golf trip destinations
Just west of Lisbon lies one of Europe’s most extraordinary golfing hubs. Between the Atlantic Ocean and the lush slopes of the Sintra mountains, Cascais and Sintra offer a unique combination of coastal scenery and refined golfing experiences.
Some of Portugal’s top coastal golf courses are located here:
Quinta da Marinha Golf Course
A stunning Robert Trent Jones design with sweeping views over the Atlantic, challenging bunkers, and a dramatic seaside layout.
Penha Longa Golf Course
Ranked among the best in Continental Europe, with 27 championship holes integrated into Sintra’s Natural Park.
Beloura Golf Club
A scenic course with views of the Sintra mountains, perfect for players who enjoy generous fairways and a calm environment.
Estoril Golf Club
A historic course with more than 70 years of tradition, set within elegant gardens and eucalyptus groves.
Belas Country Club Golf Course
A technically demanding course that blends natural forest surroundings with modern, strategic design.
Together, these courses make the Cascais-Sintra area one of the most diverse and complete golf trip destinations in Europe. Ideal for travellers seeking both challenge and beauty. If you would like to know more about Portugal’s golf courses check our page.
Where to stay: Dream Guincho, your coastal golf retreat
For golfers seeking tranquillity, comfort, and exclusivity, Dream Guincho is the ideal place to stay. Located between Cascais and Sintra, it offers luxury accommodation, personalised service, and peaceful natural surroundings.
One of its greatest advantages is the proximity to all major local golf courses, ranging from 15 to 35 minutes. After a day on the green, guests can relax with refined in-house Portuguese cuisine and enjoy the serene atmosphere that defines the Dream Guincho experience.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a training-focused trip, or a full coastal golf holiday, Portugal by offering everything for an unforgettable golf journey, both on and off the course, is for sure a top 1 golf trip destinations in Europe.
Portugal: An Unmissable Choice Among Europe’s Leading Coastal Golf Destinations
Whether for a short weekend escape, a focused training stay, or a holiday entirely dedicated to golf, Portugal offers all the conditions for a truly memorable experience, both on and off the course.
A country that rightfully positions itself among Europe’s most complete and inspiring golf destinations.
