Our Guide To Teeing Off In The Alps

Introduction

Imagine teeing off amidst snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and pristine lakes. Golfing in the Alps is a unique and challenging experience. The Alps includes a variety of courses ranging from steep, high-altitude courses to picturesque valley floors. 

The Alpine region is home to some of the most stunning and well-maintained golf courses in Europe, attracting golfers from all over the world.

The Alpine Golfing Experience

At high altitudes in the Alps, the thin air can cause your shots to travel about 10% farther. This means you may enjoy some extra yardage off the tee! However, it can be challenging to judge your approach shots and determine which club to use.

The scenery is definitely one of the main attractions, and playing in the mountains and valleys means you'll encounter diverse terrains. From rolling hills to steep inclines, your game will demand precision and strategy. The courses are often designed around the natural landscape, making each hole a new alpine adventure.

Top Golf Courses in the Alps

Throughout the French, Swiss, and Austrian Alps, golfers can expect to navigate similar surroundings. Natural obstacles like alpine forests, crystal-clear streams, and rocky outcrops add both beauty and complexity to the game.

French Alps

With around 40 golf courses scattered across the region, golfers have plenty of choice and variety.

Alpine Property Finders Pick: Golf Club de Chamonix (4.5/5)

Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, this course offers 18 holes of challenging play with stunning mountain views. With a mix of flat and undulating terrain, this course would be most enjoyable for handicappers below 15. 

Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps also offer a range of golf courses that test all levels of golfers. The Swiss Alps are home to around 60 golf courses, known for their impeccable maintenance and stunning settings. 

Alpine Property Finders Pick: Andermatt Swiss Alps Golf Course (4.7/5)

An 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by Kurt Rossknecht. The course can be challenging, with significant elevation changes and strategic water hazards. The course is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, offering a world-class golfing experience amidst the Swiss mountains.

Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps offer around 30 golf courses, ranging from beginner-friendly courses to those that challenge even the most experienced golfers.

Alpine Property Finders Pick: Golf Club Kitzbuhel-Schwarzee (4.5/5)

The course’s proximity to the charming town of Kitzbühel and its scenic layout make it a favourite among golfers. Offering panoramic views and a world-class golfing experience, this course is a stunning 18-hole course set around Lake Schwarzsee. 

Known for its tricky undulating fairways and challenging water hazards it is one of the most beautiful courses in Austria!

Noteworthy Hidden Gems

Golf Club Les Gets (4.3/5)

This course has a varied terrain and is not too difficult but has to be on our list with the panoramic views of Mont Blanc. The combination of challenging play and stunning scenery makes this course a hidden gem.

Golf Club Verbier (4.2/5)

A challenging 18-hole course set at high altitude with steep inclines and strategic bunkers.  Right in the famous Swiss resort of Verbier, this course has challenging fairways but a rewarding golf experience as you can relax with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Golfclub Wilder Kaiser (4.6/5)

Located in Ellmau, Tyrol, this is one of the few 27-hole courses in Austria. Even if you find yourself having a bad round of golf, the Wilder Kaiser backdrop will keep you going. The well-maintained fairways, rolling hills, and pristine greens make this a must-visit for golfers in the Austrian Alps.

Best Times to Golf in the Alps

The golf season typically runs from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the weather is mild, and the courses are in prime condition.  Late spring offers blooming flora, while summer provides the warmest temperatures and the longest days. Early autumn is also a great time to visit, with cooler temperatures and the beautiful fall colours adding to the scenic beauty. Keep an eye on weather conditions and local events.

Alpine Property Finders Tournament Pick

The Alps host several prestigious golf events and tournaments throughout the year. The most notable one includes the Omega European Masters held in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. These events attract top golfers from around the world and offer spectators the chance to see high-level golf amidst stunning Alpine scenery.

Conclusion

Whether you’re playing a round at a renowned course like Golf Club de Chamonix or discovering a hidden gem like Golfclub Wilder Kaiser, the Alps offer something for every golfer. With its unique challenges, breathtaking scenery, and world-class courses, the Alps is a premier destination for golfers looking to explore new challenges and immerse themselves in nature.