Choosing A Golf Holiday For A High Handicap

So you’re planning a golf holiday, despite not necessarily being the best player. Maybe you’re a beginner, maybe you’re out of practice, maybe you’re just prone to hitting your ball into lakes by accident. Yet despite having a higher handicap then some, you’re in love with the game – and for good reason! There’s nothing more relaxing than spending the day out on the green.

You don’t need to be Tiger Woods – or even someone with a low handicap – to enjoy your golf holiday. There are some world-renowned courses out there for golfers of all skill levels. Here are some that are a blast to play on, and perfect for those with a high handicap.

Monte Rei

Even novices are sure to have heard of Monte Rei, a course often thought to be the best in Portugal and a favourite destination for those bookinggolf holidays. Its stunning backdrop of mountains and indigenous fauna make it lovely to play on. Players with less experience may have to concentrate a bit more on this winding green (watch out for the lakes), but there’s no reason they won’t be able to achieve a good score.

Perfect For: those who want to play on one of the most esteemed courses in Europe.

Bom Sucesso

For a successful golf breakno matter your handicap, head to Bom Sucesso. The most challenging aspect of this course is trying to avoid hitting the bunkers that are dotted around, making it an ideal green for those who are less experienced and looking to improve their accuracy. Located just a few hours away from Lisbon and complete with gorgeous views, there’s no better place for those who aren’t experts to enjoy a round and still get a decent score.

Perfect For: those who want to get better at golfing.

Oceanico Victoria

In the Algarve lies a mostly flat course filled with natural beauty – Oceanico Victoria. Unlike many greens, this one doesn’t undulate, making it an easier putt if you’re new to the game. The water fountains and features, although pleasant to look at, can be the hardest part. Don’t let that scare you, though; if you feel intimidated by the water hazards, easier routes are available. Large enough to be forgiving to error shots but still a good size for a fairly fast game, this course is a wonderful choice for those who may not have years of experience under their belts.

Perfect For: those who are looking for a fairly relaxed putt. You won’t find anything high stress here.

Don’t let your skill level stop you from doing something that you love – after all, it’s not about winning, it’s about how you play the game. And with these lovely courses perfect for those who have high handicaps, you are going to be a playing a very good game.

Steve Frewin is the Managing Director of A Golfing Experience, a company with more than 29 years experience organising bespoke golf holidays and escapes throughout Europe for individuals, societies and groups. If you're looking for a truly great golfing holiday we operate in all the major European golf destinations, and if you'd like to explore options further afield, we can arrange holidays to the world's greatest golf courses in The Caribbean, Mauritius, Bermuda and USA.