Portugal is the Best Golf Destination in the World
Portugal clinched the prestigious title “Best Golf Destination in the World” at the 10th edition of the World Golf Awards, held in Abu Dhabi. This remarkable achievement, secured for the second consecutive year, reaffirmed Portugal’s position as the unrivaled “Best Golf Destination in Europe,” highlighting the country’s global leadership in golf tourism. Portugal had previously achieved this dual distinction from 2014 to 2018.
Factors Driving Success
Integrated Tourist Experience
Portugal’s success as a golf destination stems from its commitment to providing an integrated tourist experience. With excellent air and land accessibility, outstanding hospitality, and top-notch sporting and hotel infrastructure catering to various player profiles, Portugal offers golf enthusiasts a seamless and unforgettable experience. Presently, Portugal boasts 89 golf courses spread across its seven tourist regions, focusing on the Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, and North regions.
Growing Demand and Record Figures
Internationally recognized and firmly established as a tourist product, golf tourism in Portugal experienced unprecedented demand in the first half of 2023. Surpassing figures recorded during the same period in 2019 (one of Portugal’s peak tourism years) and 2022, the average number of rounds played by foreign players surged by over 13% compared to 2019 and 14% compared to 2022.
Golf as an Economic Driver
Traditionally attracting tourists with high purchasing power, golf tourism significantly boosts tourism revenues and fosters year-round tourism activity across Portugal’s entire territory, in line with the objectives outlined in the Tourism Strategy 2020-2027.
Best Golf Destination: Commitment to Sustainability
Mindful of environmental concerns and dedicated to sustainability, Portugal’s golf sector embraces responsible practices to preserve the country’s distinctive assets. Initiatives are underway to enhance water efficiency, optimize waste and energy management, and reduce plastic usage on golf courses. In partnership with the Portuguese Golf Federation and the National Golf Industry Council, these collaborative efforts have cemented the golf industry’s pivotal role in advancing Portugal’s tourism sustainability strategy.
Recognizing Excellence in Golf Tourism
The World Golf Awards, part of the esteemed World Travel Awards, recognize outstanding achievements in golf tourism, with votes cast by industry professionals from over 100 countries.