Off-the-Beaten-Path Golf Courses to Watch for 2026
The most memorable golf experiences aren’t always the ones everyone’s talking about.
By 2026, well-traveled golfers-and the clubs, captains, and group leaders who organize trips for them-will be looking past the usual headliners in search of something more distinctive. Less predictable. More personal.
That’s where off-the-beaten-path golf courses come in.
These are places that reward curiosity. Courses that feel discovered rather than overexposed. They offer exceptional golf, yes-but also a strong sense of place, fewer crowds, and natural opportunities to build a trip around shared experiences beyond the scorecard.
Here are five courses worth keeping firmly on your radar as you look ahead to future travel.
1. Castlemartyr Links - County Cork, Ireland
Opening 2025 | A rising star for 2026
Ireland’s golf scene is famously deep, but truly new additions are rare. Castlemartyr Links, set within the historic Castlemartyr Resort estate in East Cork, is poised to become one of the country’s most talked-about modern courses-quietly.
Designed with classic links principles in mind, the course blends rolling dunes, strategic bunkering, and a coastal feel that’s refined rather than flashy. Its location makes it ideal for pairing with Cork city, Kinsale, or the culinary highlights of East Cork.
Why it’s worth watching: It offers all the appeal of Ireland’s great links-without the congestion. For small groups or club-based travel, it fits naturally into a well-balanced itinerary.
Thracian Cliffs - Kavarna, Bulgaria
Clifftop drama without the crowds
Dramatically set above the Black Sea, Thracian Cliffs is visually breathtaking and surprisingly under-traveled. Designed by Gary Player, the course winds along rugged cliffs with uninterrupted sea views on nearly every hole.
Despite its scale and setting, it remains refreshingly uncrowded-making it ideal for golfers who’ve already explored Western Europe’s classics and are ready for something unexpected.
Why it stands out: Bold architecture, strong value, and a destination that still feels like a discovery. It’s particularly well-suited for adventurous groups looking to do something different without sacrificing quality.
Askernish Golf Club - South Uist, Scotland
Pure links golf, reclaimed and reborn
Askernish is golf in its rawest, most honest form.
Originally laid out by Old Tom Morris and later lost to grazing land, the course was rediscovered and restored using traditional links principles. There are no unnecessary flourishes here-just wind, terrain, and thoughtful shot-making.
Why it resonates: Askernish appeals to golfers who appreciate authenticity over polish. It’s a compelling addition for groups seeking a deeper connection to Scotland’s golf heritage, especially when paired with the Outer Hebrides’ landscapes and culture.
4. Leopard Creek — South Africa
Championship golf with a wild edge
Leopard Creek is known, but it remains surprisingly underutilized in thoughtfully curated itineraries-particularly for 2026 planning.
Bordering Kruger National Park, the course delivers elite golf alongside genuine wildlife encounters. It’s not unusual to spot elephants, hippos, or crocodiles during a round, adding an unforgettable dimension to the experience.
Why it works so well: Leopard Creek shines when combined with safari lodges, wine regions, and cultural experiences. For mixed groups of golfers and non-golfers, it offers a natural balance that keeps everyone engaged.
5. Lofoten Links - Lofoten Islands, Norway
Golf beneath the midnight sun
Located above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Links offers one of the most visually striking settings in world golf. Towering mountains, rugged coastline, and summer rounds played in continuous daylight create an experience that feels almost surreal.
Yet the course itself remains grounded and enjoyable, with thoughtful design that complements the landscape rather than competing with it.
Why it’s unforgettable: This is destination golf for travelers who value story and setting as much as the game. It’s an inspired option for small groups looking to combine golf with photography, nature, and exploration.
Why These Courses Belong on Your 2026 Radar
Golf travel is becoming more intentional. Travelers, and the leaders who plan for them, are prioritizing experiences that feel meaningful, well-paced, and thoughtfully designed.
These courses reflect that shift:
- Fewer crowds, more atmosphere
- Destinations that support shared experiences off the course
- Itineraries that feel curated, not rushed
They also reward early planning. Access, accommodations, and tee times at lesser-known courses often require foresight-but that’s part of what keeps them special.
For those thinking ahead to 2026, now is the time to start paying attention to the courses just beyond the spotlight. They’re often the ones you remember longest.