Hello, dear friends and lovers of good vacations! Today I want to tell you about perhaps the most unexpected entertainment in Croatia — golf. Yes, in the country of a thousand islands, azure sea, and ancient fortresses, there's room not only for beach relaxation but also for elegant club swinging!
A Bit of History: Century-Old Traditions in the Shadow of Nogomet
Golf in Croatia has a century-old tradition, and the first Croatian golf course was opened in Brijuni National Park. However, golf is not the most popular sport among local residents of Croatia. Although Croatia is a country of many sports, golf is not very popular among Croatians. It's considered an elite sport, and most people are not familiar with the locations of golf courses and golf tournaments. After all, it's not nogomet (football, soccer), which the entire country follows with bated breath!
Croatian-Style Golf: When Your Ball Can Fly to Italy
Imagine: you swing your club, hit the ball, and it... flies over the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea! At some coastal courses in Croatia, there's a real chance of sending your ball on an international voyage. Perhaps that's why beginning golfers love to play here — there's always a great excuse: "My ball? It's probably halfway to Venice by now!"
Top Golf Courses Where Your Club Will Be Happier Than You
1. Royal Golf Club Zagreb
The oldest golf club in the country, located near the capital. Here you can combine play with a visit to Zagreb's historic center. Local golfers joke that you need to be careful with strong shots — your ball might reach Ban Josip Jelačić Square and end up in someone's beer mug!
2. Golf & Country Club Brijuni
If you want to feel like a true VIP, head to the Brijuni archipelago. Tito himself once played golf here! They say if you miss the hole, you might accidentally wake up one of the local deer, who will be happy to watch your struggles.
3. Kempinski Golf Club Adriatic (Golf Club Adriatic, Savudrija)
Website: https://www.golf-adriatic.com/
Located on the Istrian peninsula, this club offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The only downside — sometimes you get so captivated by the scenery that you forget about your ball! Local caddies tell stories about tourists who complete all 18 holes without taking a single shot — the views from the course are that beautiful.
4. Golf Club Sveti Martin
In the continental part of Croatia, you'll find this cozy club with thermal springs nearby. After a particularly unsuccessful round, you can always "wash away" your shame in the healing waters. Locals joke that the water is so therapeutic that it even improves the accuracy of your shots — the next day, of course!
5. Golf Club Split 1700, Split
Website: https://golfsplit.hr/igraliste/
This modern club is located near the historic city of Split, offering the perfect combination of sport and culture. After your game, you can head to the beach or take a walk through Diocletian's Palace. An ideal combination for those who can't choose between history and sport!
6. Golf Course Zaprešić, Zaprešić
Located near Zagreb, this course offers excellent playing conditions surrounded by picturesque nature. Locals say it has the greenest lawns in all of Croatia — so green that sometimes it's difficult to find your ball even when it's right in front of you!
7. Golf Club Dubrovnik
A project that is still in development but promises to become a gem among European golf courses. Located near the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, this club will combine historical atmosphere with modern design. Just imagine explaining to your friends that you couldn't hit the hole because you were distracted by a dragon from "Game of Thrones" flying by!
Croatian-Style Golf: Practical Tips Golf in Croatia
Season: The best time for golf in Croatia is from April to October when the weather is ideal for playing.
Booking: During high season, courses can be busy, so it's better to book your tee time in advance.
Equipment: Most clubs offer equipment rental, so you don't need to drag your clubs across Europe.
Language: Don't worry about the language barrier — staff at most golf clubs speak English.
Dress Code: Yes, even in relaxed Croatia, golf clubs maintain a dress code. No flip-flops or shorts, no matter how much you'd like to wear them!
Locals: Don't be surprised if locals ask about your hobby with curiosity — for most Croatians, golf is still exotic!
Golf with a Sea View Is Something Special
If you thought Croatia was only about beaches, historic cities, and national parks, it's time to add another entertainment to your list. Golf in Croatia is not just a game; it's an aesthetic pleasure that combines sport, nature, and culture.
And remember: even if you don't hit the hole, you can always say you were distracted by the stunning sunset over the Adriatic. After all, not every golf club can boast such views! And if locals are surprised by your choice of sport — just smile and invite them for a trial round. Who knows, maybe you'll be the reason for a new sporting passion in Croatia!
P.S. And if you accidentally send your ball into the sea, don't worry — consider it your contribution to the dolphin games of the Adriatic!
Map of Golf Terrains in Croatia
Comments