The Italian Riviera is famous for its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and luxurious resorts. But beyond the breathtaking scenery, it is also home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in Italy. With a mix of seaside views, lush landscapes, and world-class course designs, these courses provide a truly unique golfing experience. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a casual player, these are the top 5 golf courses on the Italian Riviera that should be on your must-play list.
1️⃣ Circolo Golf degli Ulivi – Sanremo
Why It’s a Must-Play: Located in the heart of Sanremo, Circolo Golf degli Ulivi is one of the most historic golf courses in Italy. Established in 1932, this course offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, framed by rolling hills and olive trees. The course is known for its tight fairways and strategic doglegs, demanding accuracy and precision from every golfer.
Course Details: ✅ Designer: Peter Gannon
✅ Course Length: 5,203 meters (5,692 yards)
✅ Slope Rating: 130
✅ Signature Hole: The par-4 12th hole features a dramatic downhill approach with a breathtaking sea view.
Best For: Golfers who enjoy a historic and technically challenging course with stunning Riviera views.
2️⃣ Golf Club Garlenda
The Reason it’s a Must-Play: Located near the town of Alassio, Golf Club Garlenda is a hidden gem offering a mix of wooded hills, wide fairways, and natural water hazards. The course is beautifully set in the Lerrone Valley, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy Riviera coastline.
Course Details: ✅ Designer: John Morrison & John Harris
✅ Course Length: 6,085 meters (6,657 yards)
✅ Slope Rating: 141
✅ Signature Hole: The par-5 8th hole, featuring a long dogleg with a stunning approach to an elevated green.
Best For: Golfers looking for a serene, nature-filled round with a balance of challenge and playability.
3️⃣ Golf Club Rapallo
Here is why it’s a Must-Play: A short drive from the glamorous town of Portofino, Golf Club Rapallo is a stunning course known for its tight, tree-lined fairways and strategic water hazards. The course is compact but offers a fun and rewarding experience, with dramatic elevation changes and stunning views of the surrounding Ligurian countryside.
Course Details: ✅ Designer: Peter Gannon
✅ Course Length: 5,430 meters (5,940 yards)
✅ Slope Rating: 133
✅ Signature Hole: The par-3 7th hole, requiring a precise tee shot over water to a well-guarded green.
Best For: Golfers who enjoy a tight, strategic course with plenty of natural beauty.
4️⃣ Golf Club Arenzano
Why It’s a Must-Play: Perched on the Ligurian hills with panoramic views of the Riviera coastline, Golf Club Arenzano is a 9-hole course that offers an enjoyable challenge for all skill levels. While it may not be the longest course, its strategic layout makes up for it with elevated greens and tight fairways.
Course Details: ✅ Designer: Luigi Rota Caremoli
✅ Course Length: 2,190 meters (2,395 yards) – 9-hole layout
✅ Slope Rating: 125
✅ Signature Hole: The par-4 5th hole, featuring a dramatic downhill tee shot with spectacular sea views.
Best For: Golfers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic round with stunning coastal views.
5️⃣ Castello di Tolcinasco Golf Resort
Why It’s a Must-Play: A luxurious 27-hole golf resort, Castello di Tolcinasco offers one of the most complete golf experiences on the Italian Riviera. The course is set around a historic 16th-century castle, providing a stunning and unique backdrop for an unforgettable round of golf.
Course Details: ✅ Designer: Arnold Palmer
✅ Course Length: 6,450 meters (7,054 yards)
✅ Slope Rating: 144
✅ Signature Hole: The par-4 14th hole, featuring a long carry over water to a beautifully manicured green.
Best For: Golfers looking for a premium golf experience with a mix of championship-level design and luxury.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Play?
If you’re planning a golf trip to the Italian Riviera, here’s a quick breakdown of the best course for your style:
- For historic charm and technical challenge: → Circolo Golf degli Ulivi – Sanremo
- For a peaceful round surrounded by nature: → Golf Club Garlenda
- For a compact but strategic challenge: → Golf Club Rapallo
- For stunning coastal views in a relaxed setting: → Golf Club Arenzano
- For a luxury championship-level experience: → Castello di Tolcinasco Golf Resort
No matter which course you choose, playing golf on the Italian Riviera offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, strategic course designs, and a touch of Mediterranean elegance. So pack your clubs, soak in the views, and enjoy some of the most scenic and rewarding golf rounds in Italy!