Discovering Europe’s New Golf Gems for 2026 and 2027
Every April, the world seems to turn its attention to golf. For many, it’s a time to dust off the old clubs and imagine themselves on picturesque fairways, surrounded by water hazards and perfectly manicured greens. This year is no different, as fans of the sport watch the Masters and dream of playing alongside top professionals like Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, and Justin Rose.
While major championships may not be accessible to every golfer, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the thrill of a great course. Europe is home to some of the finest golf destinations in the world, with thousands of courses offering a variety of experiences. The sheer number of options means that even if you retire early or win the lottery, you’ll still only scratch the surface of what’s available.
To help make your next golf adventure more exciting, here are some of Europe’s most anticipated new courses to add to your travel bucket list for 2026 and 2027.
Old Petty at Cabot Highlands, Scotland
Set along the Moray Firth in the Scottish Highlands, Old Petty is one of this year’s most eagerly awaited golf course openings. Part of the Cabot Highlands resort, the course is designed to embrace the rugged coastal terrain, with dramatic sea views and natural contours shaping the play. Early previews suggest a classic links-style layout, but with modern routing that maximises the wild landscape. The grand opening is set for 15 May, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Le Golf National (Redesign), France
Known for hosting the 2018 Ryder Cup, Le Golf National near Paris is undergoing a major redesign ahead of its planned reopening in September 2026. The Albatros course is being refined to enhance both the spectator experience and course playability. For travellers, it offers a rare opportunity to play on a championship venue that has been refreshed for a new era.
Torre Course at Terras da Comporta, Portugal
At the 2025 World Golf Awards, the Torre Course at Terras da Comporta in Portugal was named the overall winner in the category of world’s best new golf course. Opened in June 2025, the Torre Course was designed by 2017 Masters winner Sergio Garcia, marking the Spaniard’s first signature golf course. “We tried to make it challenging, but at the same time, a place that draws you back in and makes you want to play more and see if you can play differently,” Garcia said. Located one hour south of Lisbon, the Terras da Comporta complex also features the world-class Dunas Course, which opened in October 2023.
Trump International, Scotland
Named Europe’s best new golf course for 2025 at the World Golf Awards, the New Course at the Trump International golf resort in the north east of Scotland was officially opened in July last year. Spanning miles of coastal terrain, the New Course boasts panoramic North Sea views and features the world’s largest natural bunker.
Ponta do Pargo Golf Course, Madeira, Portugal
Portugal is set to welcome its first new course in Madeira for more than two decades with the opening of Ponta do Pargo expected in 2027. Designed by Nick Faldo’s Faldo Design team, the layout is carved into the island’s rugged western coastline, boasting dramatic cliffs and sweeping Atlantic views. For travellers, it marks a significant addition to Portugal’s golf offering, positioning Madeira alongside the Algarve.
Curracloe Links, Ireland
Located on Ireland’s southeast coast, Curracloe Links is expected to open for play in April 2027, bringing a new links experience to a region better known for its beaches than golf. Designed by American architects Dana Fry and Jason Straka, County Wexford’s first championship course is part of the €20 million Ravenport Resort golf holiday destination and is “unlike any existing Irish links”, according to Top100GolfCourses.com.
