Golf in Croatia

Croatia is an emerging golf destination, still small in scale but full of promise, where the game is found along the Adriatic in the region of Istria. This is a coast of clear water, pine and cypress, stone villages and a Mediterranean light that makes for memorable, scenic golf. The country's courses are few, which is part of the charm: a round here feels uncrowded and unhurried, set against a backdrop of sea, hills and a gentle, slow-living atmosphere that suits a relaxed golfing break rather than a packed itinerary.

Istria holds Croatia's golf, with layouts such as the Brioni Golf Course and Adriatic giving visitors a taste of the game in a beautiful coastal setting. The climate is classically Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and mild shoulder seasons, so spring and autumn are especially pleasant for play and high summer rewards early or late rounds when the heat eases. For a travelling golfer, Croatia is best enjoyed as part of a wider trip: combine a round or two with the region's beaches, hilltop towns, seafood and wine, and you have a fresh, scenic alternative to the more established golf coasts of the Mediterranean.