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Traveling to Italy any time soon? If you need a break from the smooth blue ocean, pristine beaches, and delectable food, spending a few hours on the golf course could be the perfect way to take advantage of the stunning weather and get some exercise in at the same time. 

Don’t forget to take along your golf clubs! In our golfer’s guide to Italy, find the golf courses you don’t want to miss playing when you’re in the country. Whether you’re a serious golfer or not, it’s the ideal way to spend a day soaking up the fresh air and sun. 

Verdura Resort, Sicily 

This beautiful resort has two 18-hole golf courses for playing. It’s open to the public, although its quality and level of service are more like a private club. Both courses are designed to appeal to golfers of all skill levels. 

The West Course 

The West Course has hosted the Sicilian and European tour events and has been named the top course in Italy. It begins with a challenging trio of par-4s, so there’s no easing you into the flow of things. 

The front nine meanders through the resort, heading towards the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as you get closer to the finishing hole. Beware of the ocean wind, which can easily throw you off your game if you aren’t paying attention. 

The East Course 

The East Course is a Scottish-links-style course, backed by the beach and ocean. It’s a serene environment, but like its sister course, the unpredictable sea breeze is a force to be reckoned with. 

The biggest challenge on this course is the sloping greens. You’ll need to read the greens carefully and putt with precision, but it’s an exciting course that’s well worth playing. 

Keen to play golf in Sicily? Join the Club and you can enjoy a luxurious stay at the 19th century Old Mill between golf rounds. 

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, Tuscany 

The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa is a 5-star facility, and its golf course is woven through ancient olive groves in the grounds. With views over the protected Orbetello Lagoon and a microclimate that’s suitable for golfing year-round, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss. 

It’s the country’s only PGA-licensed golf facility and it’s a technically-challenging one. Beginners might find it tough, but experienced golfers will enjoy the test. Dramatic elevation changes and small, sloped, shielded greens make it a dynamic playing experience. 

Does Tuscany sound like your dream vacation? Join the Club and you can relax at Podere Le Sensaie or Il Bosco, both stunning restored farmhouses in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. 

Golf Club Bogogno, Piedmont 

Bogogno is located close to the Swiss border, in the shadow of the Monte Rosa Massif mountain range, and with stunning views of Lake Maggiore. Their two 18-hole courses are rife with water hazards, and both are hilly enough that newer golfers may find them intimidating. Take a golf cart, because walking this course is tough! 

The Bonora course has a parkland feel to it, while the Conte is their links-style offering. Both are challenging and surrounded by wild nature, so you’ll enjoy the feeling of being out of the city and some lovely panoramic views. 

If the scenery of Lake Maggiore is your idea of a stunning place to stay, we have a beautiful 5-bedroom villa, Casa Paradiso, in Cerro di Laveno, on the lake’s eastern shore. Join the club and this decadent villa could be your accommodation! 

Olgiata Golf Club, Rome 

Olgiata Golf Club features 27 holes—the 18-hole West Course and the 9-hole East Course. If you’re in Rome and have a day or even just a couple of hours to spare, it’s worth your time. 

The parkland layout is sleek and only slightly undulating, but the variety of holes keeps it interesting for players of all levels. It’s a beautiful course, lined with magnificent trees that make you feel surrounded by nature but don’t interfere with gameplay. 

If you’re looking for a lovely place to stay while visiting Rome, we’ve got just the spot. Spanish Steps is a 2-bedroom apartment located on the 4th floor of a magnificent old building on Via Condotti. Close to all the icons, it’s the perfect spot for golf and sightseeing. 

San Domenico Golf, Puglia 

Swing your golf clubs on some beautiful holes running alongside the Adriatic coast. The course itself is fairly flat, but don’t let that fool you—there’s a sneaky ocean breeze coming off the water that can wreak havoc on your game. 

Stretching to just under 6,900 yards, it’s not a course for the faint of heart. You’ll need to drive straight, true, and powerfully to overcome the wind, and don’t get complacent—the subtle undulations can add shots to your game. 

As well as the stunning views over the sea, you’ll also catch the occasional glimpse of the ancient city of Egnathia in the distance as you play. All in all, it’s a lovely place to spend a few hours marveling at the beauty of the Adriatic coast and Italian architecture while getting your round of golf in. 

Need accommodation in Puglia while you enjoy the mix of golf, culture, countryside, and amazing food? Masseria L’Olivo, our stone farmhouse in Puglia, is modeled after a high-roofed 15th-century building built from natural stone. It’s also close to Cutrofiano, where you can find some of the region’s best wines. 

Tips for Your Italy Golf Trip 

Ready to book your trip and go? Here are our top tips for making the most of your Italian golfing trip. 

• Book tee times in advance. 
• Pack clothing for all weather. 
• Bring your own clubs if possible. 
• Protect yourself against the sun. 
• Stay hydrated and fueled. 
• Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. 
• Explore the history and culture as well as golfing! 

Conclusion 

A golfer’s guide to Italy could go on for pages! These courses are ones that we particularly enjoy, and if you’re in the country, we’re confident that you’ll enjoy them just as much. 

So take a break from the beach, a while away from the water, and get on the luxury green fairways for a bit of relaxation surrounded by nature. There’s nothing like a round of golf to help you burn off some of that Italian food, stretch your legs, and spend some time in a different kind of nature. 

About the Author

Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.