Bulgaria

If you were to pick your top 3 countries to play golf in Europe, I can almost guarantee that Bulgaria would not feature on this list. However, underestimate this magnificent place at your peril! Rich in culture, blessed with unbelievable scenery and home to arguably Europe’s most picturesque course.

Bulgaria is a place every golf fanatic should want to travel. It might not have the wealth of courses that Spain or Portugal have to offer but the saying ‘good things come in small packages’ is very apt when talking about golf in Bulgaria.

Tucked into Eastern Europe, the country has a climate similar to that of the U.K except with nice hot summers. So for those looking for a new and exciting place for their summer golfing trip be sure to check out Bulgaria for your next destination.

Read on to discover the courses our experts have played and consider the best in Bulgaria or check out some of the best golf holiday deals in Bulgaria

Arguably the world’s most dramatic golf course, Thracian Cliffs quite literally leaves you living life on the edge. The course skirts the stunning coastline with its’ fairways running parallel to breathtaking drops, players are simply left in ore at the completely unique and unforgettable views that they are treated to upon a round at Thracian Cliffs.

It is not just the views that make this place so special but the course isn’t half bad either - designed by Gary Player the course reached its pinnacle in 2013 when it hosted the Volvo World Matchplay. With Thracian Cliffs receiving critical acclaim for its design and layout it is quickly becoming a must play destination for golfers.

Any course designed by a former Masters Champion and Ryder Cup winning captain is sure to be a great place to play and Lighthouse Golf Course created by Ian Woosnam is no exception to this.

The course is laid out in classic parkland fashion but still incorporates Bulgaria’s spectacular natural landscape as it overlooks the limestone cliffs of the Black Sea. Although it may not be as striking as Thracian Cliffs, Lighthouse is still no less beautiful as the course is always in immaculate condition and is a must play for any golfer.

Black Sea Rama is also designed by legendary South African golfer Gary Player and is a true test of golf. With its wispy rough and sea views, the course is reminiscent of some of the UK’s finest links layouts.

With relatively flat terrain to work worth, Player has still managed to create a course which is full of incredible features from towering hillocks to strategically placed sand traps. With an excellent summer climate, those looking to experience golf in one of Europe’s fastest growing tourist hotspots should act now!

Designed by renowned golf course architect Peter Harradine, this 7,000 yard parkland course is seriously impressive. Set amongst mountains and streams, the course glides across the natural terrain to create clever undulations that are enough to challenge even the most skilled golfer’s course management.

The 18th hole is a fantastic way to finish your round and is sure to leave Riu Pravets etched in your memory with an island green that is a dangerous as it is inviting.