Golf travel operator identifies seven underrated European golf destinations for 2026
As interest in golf package holidays grows, travel operator Golfbreaks has identified seven European destinations it considers underrated. Data current to September 2026 indicates a 750% year-on-year increase in UK Google search interest for golf package holidays. The operator suggests that choosing less conventional locations can provide quieter courses and better value. The list includes regions in Bulgaria, Portugal, Spain, Norway, France, and Greece, with specific booking data showing increased demand for several of these areas.
Key points
- UK Google search interest for golf package holidays rose 750% year-on-year as of September 2026.
- Golfbreaks identified seven underrated European golf destinations based on internal booking data.
- Varna, Bulgaria, leads the list with a 173% rise in demand in 2025 and a 47% increase in 2026.
- Other featured destinations include the Tróia Peninsula in Portugal, north-east Majorca in Spain, and Lofoten in Norway.
- Demand for golf travel to Costa Navarino in Greece reportedly increased by 140%.
Rising interest in alternative golf destinations
Golf travel is experiencing a shift as enthusiasts seek alternatives to traditional hotspots. According to Golfbreaks, UK Google search interest for golf package holidays increased by 750% year-on-year, while searches for quiet golf courses rose by nearly 140% over a three-month period ending in September 2026.
Cameron Ritchie, Head of Product - Europe at Golfbreaks, noted that while golf is traditionally judged by reputation, less conventional destinations often offer better value and a more authentic experience.
Featured locations
Varna, Bulgaria, is highlighted as a primary destination, with the Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort cited as a key attraction. Golfbreaks reported a 173% rise in demand for Bulgaria in 2025, followed by a 47% increase in 2026.
In Portugal, the Tróia Peninsula and Comporta have seen an 85% year-on-year increase in demand. Other recommended regions include north-east Majorca in Spain, the Lofoten Islands in Norway, and various sites in France and Greece. Specifically, demand for Costa Navarino in Greece has risen by 140%.
Why it matters
Rising demand for golf travel suggests a shift toward quieter, value-oriented destinations, though these trends are based on internal data from a single operator.
What we know
- UK Google search interest in golf package holidays increased 750% year on year as of September 2026.
- Golfbreaks reported a 173% rise in demand for Bulgaria in 2025 and a 47% rise in 2026.
- Demand for golf travel to the Tróia Peninsula and Comporta increased 85% year on year.
- Demand for golf travel to Costa Navarino in Greece increased 140%.
