Golfers are lucky that this game offers so many special experiences. Travelling afar on a golf holiday is something that everyone should embrace at some point, and there are some tantalising possibilities in 2026.
There are so many resorts and destinations for you to choose from, many of them recommended by our travel partners Golfbreaks, but if you are looking for insightful rankings, then it doesn’t come much better than the Golf World Top 100, which has shone a bright spotlight on venues that are true standouts.
We have picked out four of them – encompassing Scotland, Spain, Mauritius and France. Should you be searching for an unforgettable golfing adventure, it simply wouldn’t come much better than any of these locations.
Let’s take a glance at what comes suggested to you.
Gleneagles
One of the most iconic and revered places in golf, Gleneagles resides in glorious Perthshire, the Heart of Scotland, where you will find a 850-acre estate that was rated the second best golf resort in the world, with only Oregon’s Bandon Dunes ranking ahead of it.
“Gleneagles continues to define the standard for golfing excellence and hospitality worldwide. It delivers far more than three world-class courses – it offers atmosphere, service, and a sense of occasion that make every visit unforgettable. Each return reminds me why it holds such a special place in the hearts of so many,” said Chris Bertram, editor of Golf World’s Top 100 World Resorts list.
You will remember that it has staged both the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup (on the Jack Nicklaus designed PGA Centenary Course), while the ISPS HANDA Senior Open makes a return to the legendary James Braid created King’s Course in 2026. Its sibling Queen’s Course is another enduring classic.
Conor O’Leary, Group Managing Director, commented: “To be named among the world’s finest golf and leisure destinations is a deeply meaningful honour for everyone at Gleneagles. It recognises not only the beauty of our estate and the richness of our experiences, but the passion and care our team pours into every detail, every day.
“To hold the title of World’s No. 1 Golf Resort outside the USA for the sixth consecutive year, and to remain the UK & Ireland’s leading golf destination for a decade, is both humbling and inspiring. These accolades reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence and our pursuit of preserving, and continually elevating, the timeless magic of Gleneagles.”
There is more than just golf at Gleneagles as this venue is renowned for its plentiful dining and leisure options.
If you want to know more, please visit their official website or see Golfbreaks for the best deals and packages.
Camiral
You will have likely heard that Camiral will host the Ryder Cup in 2031 – and you could experience it before then! Golf World once again named it as Spain’s No.1 Golf Resort – a title that it has held for a decade.
Located in Catalonia, near Barcelona and Costa Brava, it’s home to a pair of world-class golf courses and a luxury five-star hotel.
Golf World’s Chris Bertram said: “Spain’s No.1 Golf Resort is a compelling mix of high-end golf, home to the world-renowned Stadium and Tour courses, and ultra-stylish accommodation.
“Over the past decade, Camiral’s evolution from a venue focused primarily on the serious golfer into a truly rounded golf and leisure destination has been incredibly impressive, and this transformation has played a key role in attracting an ever-growing international audience.”
David Plana, CEO of Camiral, added: “Being recognised once again among the world’s top 20 golf resorts, while retaining our position as Spain’s No.1, strongly affirms our long-term commitment to quality, service and continuous improvement.
“With the Ryder Cup coming to Camiral in 2031, this ranking reinforces that the venue selected to host one of sport’s greatest events already meets the highest global standards and is a testament to the dedication of our resort-wide teams.”
Its two courses – Stadium and Tour – are undergoing a €5.5 million upgrade, with all work expected to be completed by October 2026.
Plana added: “This investment in our golf courses, combined with ongoing enhancements to accommodation, sports facilities and service, demonstrates our commitment to delivering an unparalleled golf experience. It represents investment not only in the courses themselves, but in the long-term enjoyment of our guests and the enduring legacy of Camiral as host of the 2031 Ryder Cup.”
Positioned outside Girona and one hour from Barcelona, the five-star Hotel Camiral, and four-star Lavida are fabulous places to base yourself for a golf holiday.
Visit https://www.camiral.com/en/ for more information and https://www.golfbreaks.com/en-gb/holidays/girona/camiral-golf/ for amazing offers.
Heritage Resorts & Golf
Moving on to the breathtaking island nation of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, Heritage Resorts & Golf was ranked 25th in the world by Golf World, based on the opinions of an international panel of reviewers.
Golfers who visit Heritage can benefit from its luxury hospitality and the opportunity to play the remarkable La Réserve Golf Links.
Chris Bertram commented: “The addition of La Réserve Golf Links has unquestionably turned Heritage into one of the finest resorts in the world. Not only do the courses provide a pleasing contrast, the immaculate, flattering Le Château alongside the spectacular, challenging La Réserve, but the hotels are similarly diverse. Heritage Le Telfair’s sophistication sits perfectly alongside the cosy luxury of Heritage Awali.”
La Réserve Golf Links is a spectacular and dramatic layout that is laid out across volcanic contours that are positioned beside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while Le Château Golf Course is celebrated for its superb conditioning and natural character.
Our friends Golfbreaks can take you there in 2026.
Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort
What is the best golf resort in France? The answer, according to Golf World, is Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort.
There are 36 holes to play here, while you can consume the benefits of staying at a five-star luxury hotel, spa and Michelin starred restaurant that complete the very best in French hospitality.
Wherever you’re travelling from, it’s easy to reach, as it’s only 45 minutes’ drive from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport,
Chris Bertram explained: “There are two world-class courses at Terre Blanche: the championship-hosting Le Château, which offers a dramatic playing experience with numerous elevated tees and views across the hills of Provence; and the members- and guests-only Le Riou, a tactical, tree-lined layout that is both challenging and a delight to play.
“With upgrades coming to both courses overseen by European Golf Design, I fully expect these already outstanding courses will get even better. Combined with a sensational hotel and all-round resort, Terre Blanche is the clear No.1 golf resort in France.”
Marc Delauné, President of Terre Blanche, said: “Retaining our position as France’s No.1 golf resort, while once again being recognised among the very best destinations in the world, reflects the long-term vision we have for excellence across golf, hospitality and resort experiences.
“This listing is testament to the work of our dedicated team and our commitment to continually enhancing experiences for our guests.”
Why not check out Golfbreaks, who have some fantastic packages available right now.
If you have always dreamt of spending time on the French Riviera – it doesn’t get better than this.
Kieran Clark is the Digital Editor of Golfshake. He oversees editorial content, community engagement, forums, and social media channels. A lifelong golfer from the Isle of Bute in Scotland who has now lived in St Andrews for a decade, he began playing at the age of five and maintains a passion for exploring courses, with a particular affection for historic layouts. Kieran regularly contributes in-depth opinion pieces and features, drawing on his enthusiasm for the game and its culture.
