The world’s most beautiful golf resorts

A little birdie told us that the Masters Tournament has been getting golf aficionados in the mood to book their own sporting stays. Known as the 'Wimbledon of golf', this four-day championship is the first of the four majors and takes place at Georgia’s Augusta National Golf Club each year. 

But you don’t have to head for the southern state to experience wanderlust-worthy stays and world-class courses. So, we’ve spilled the tee on the postcard-perfect hotels and courses where we can guarantee you’ll live in a golfer’s paradise – but we can’t promise the puns won’t drive you crazy… 

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand 

The stay: Arriving at this colonial-style lodge is half the fun – just hop on a helicopter transfer from Auckland. Round off the day the Kiwi way with a glass of something sparkling on your suite’s private balcony. But if you really want to up your game, book the four-bedroom villa, rocking a 25ft saltwater swimming pool and golf buggy for cruising around the estate. 

The play: If you’re after perfectly manicured greens and Pacific Ocean views as par as the eye can see, then this 18-hole championship course will be your cup of tee. Wedged between coastal gorges and glittering clusters of islands scattered across the ocean, it’s as charming as it is challenging. Just be prepared to pause your game to snap plenty of pics. 

rosewoodhotels.com  

One&Only Palmilla, Mexico 

The stay: Don’t be fooled by the name – this isn’t Los Cabos’ only hotel. It is, however, the only one that will hit the sweet spot. Although it’s a favourite with famous faces, the stars of its show are the swim-up bar and hacienda-style villas, featuring private infinity pools, on-par-with-perfection views of the peninsula, and direct access to a peaceful strip of sand. 

The play: Why settle for 18 holes when you can play 27? Jack Nicklaus’ first Latin American signature course is split into a trio of distinct nines – think deserts, canyons, and beachside greens. Hole 3 of the Ocean Course is hard to beat – you’ll be within a pitching wedge of the waves. And if you need to get into the swing of things, practice on the driving range. 

oneandonlyresorts.com 

Adare Manor, Ireland 

The stay: Once upon a time, in a land of emerald-coloured countryside, there stood a gorgeous 19th-century Gothic castle with gargoyles, stained-glass windows, and a grand porte-cochère (a castellated entrance). Guests stayed happily ever after in Georgian-style rooms as mist waltzed over the mirror-like lake. And to this day, the same fairytale lives on, with additions like a Michelin-starred restaurant serving honey from the estate’s own hives. 

The play: With flawless fairways, winding woodlands, and the River Maigue meandering through the grounds, this championship course feels almost too good to be true. So good, in fact, that it’s hosting the 2027 Ryder Cup. But if golf isn’t your bag, you can have a shot at other activities like clay pigeon shooting, archery, and fishing. 

adaremanor.com 

Four Seasons Resort Lanai, USA 

The stay: Ignore TLC’s advice, you can go chasing waterfalls – you just need to know where to find them. Hint: they’re at this heavenly oceanfront hotel on Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island, alongside koi ponds, rescued parrots, and lagoon-style pools. From topping up your tan beneath towering palms or bunkering down in rooms that peek out at the Pacific Ocean, this spot is tropical down to a tee. 

The play: Built on black lava outcroppings, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course will have you fired up for a challenging round. While every hole offers ocean views, the real showstopper is the par-3 12th, which requires a shot over open water with no fairway. But be warned: breaching humpback whales in winter will make keeping your eye on the ball difficult. 

fourseasons.com 

qualia, Australia 

The stay: This adults-only Aussie retreat proves that placing last isn’t always a bad thing. In fact, with killer views of the Great Barrier Reef, qualia comes out on top. A hotel you can arrive at by helicopter, book the Beach House: a property sporting a private infinity pool, outdoor shower, and even a golf buggy for getting around the resort to get your stay off to a flying start. 

The play: It doesn’t get much better than this. No, really – how many golf courses are the only thing on an uninhabited island? Brought to life by five-time British Open champion Peter Thomson, this ridge- and valley-ridden course on Australia’s Dent Island is a winner in its own right. And with plenty of hazards to keep you on your toes, it’s a true test for golfers of all skills. 

qualia.com