Recently, golf has become more than just a game — it’s now a one-way ticket to a getaway. The world of golf tourism is on the rise (it’s projected to drive past $41 billion by 2030, according to Research and Markets), turning tee times into luxury escapes and fairways into full-fledged travel experiences.
From rolling hills in Georgia to windswept Scottish links, avid golfers and travelers alike are chasing sun-drenched fairways, misty highlands, and a healthy dose of luxury along the way. What was once a weekend hobby has exited the clubhouse and entered into the realm of luxury travel, where gorgeous grounds, high-end spas, and fine dining are now part of the itinerary. Ahead, discover the best boutique hotels with golf courses on property, and where every stay is always on par.
Barnsley Resort (Adairsville, Georgia)
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northwest Georgia lies Barnsley Resort. A 19th-century manor set on 3,000 acres of lakes, gardens, and walking trails, this hotel features cozy cottages, farm-to-table dining, and a full-service spa. For those who love to be on the green, the 18-hole Jim Fazio course stretches across 378 acres of fairways, lakes, and forests, and has fast greens, tricky par-3s, and views that are truly a hole-in-one. Later this summer, a 14-hole Himalayas putting course and four-hole green by Bergin Golf Design will add even more reasons to play.
Siringit Villa (Usa River, Tanzania)
Framed by Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, Siringit Villa is a luxury safari with a side of golf. Six breezy bedrooms, a splash-worthy pool, and alfresco dining make the property just as incredible as the experiences outside of the gates. Golfers can tee off at Kiligolf, where impala and gazelle may join them on the fairways, while views of the surroundings just might be more distracting. Between Land Rover safaris, days on the course, and a stunning stay, Siringit is worth the journey.
Marine North Berwick (North Berwick, United Kingdom)
Right on Scotland’s East Lothian coast, Marine North Berwick is pure Victorian charm. The rooms are all unique, the spa is a dream, and the dining offerings are both welcoming yet upscale. Plus, the hotel looks out over the 16th hole of the West Links at North Berwick Golf Club, and is just a short drive from Muirfield and other famous East Lothian courses.
Cabot Cape Breton (Inverness, Nova Scotia, Canada)
It’s a fact: Cabot Cape Breton will take your breath away (twice, maybe three times) before you even tee off. This cliffside retreat pairs cozy rooms, fine dining, hiking trails, and endless Atlantic views with a golf offering that’s nothing short of legendary. Think 47 holes, including two world-renowned courses, and an 11-hole short course.
Lodge at Torrey Pines (La Jolla, California)
Perched above the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, The Lodge is warm, inviting, and California cool. As for golf? It’s in a league of its own. It has two championship 18-hole layouts that have hosted the U.S. Open (twice) and countless PGA TOUR events. The South Course stretches over 7,800 yards, while the North Course has some of the best ocean views around. Even non-golfers will agree: The Lodge always delivers a winning scorecard.
Another Place, The Machrie (Port Ellen, United Kingdom)
Perched on the windswept coast of Islay, The Machrie has a mix of rugged Scottish beauty and refined luxury. It has sleek, contemporary rooms, a full-service spa, and a restaurant serving locally sourced ingredients. Golf lovers will appreciate the Machrie Links – a Willie Campbell design, dating back to 1891. Whether here for golf or the views, The Machrie isn’t just a place to play golf; it’s a destination where the course and the stay are equally unforgettable.
Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux (Gullane, United Kingdom)
Just a short 20-minute drive from Edinburgh, Greywalls is classic yet comfortable. Cozy fireplaces, timeless furnishings, and views of the Muirfield links next door give it a laidback vibe, while Chez Roux, the hotel’s French-inspired restaurant, offers a fine dining experience. For golfers, the location couldn’t be better. Muirfield Golf Links is home to the world’s oldest golf club, which is right on the doorstep. Even if you’re just here for the views (or the food), Greywalls has that perfect mix of history, luxury, and, of course, golf.
Casa Colonial Beach & Spa (Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic)
Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is Caribbean cool with a Colonial twist. All-suite rooms sit in private gardens with a secluded beach, while a rooftop infinity pool and two restaurants offer lovely hangout spots. The 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Sr. course is equally stunning and challenging, with tropical views all around.
