The German-speaking countries of central Europe offer golf in spectacular settings: courses beneath Alpine peaks, beside sparkling lakes and among forests and vineyards. Germany has hundreds of courses, Austria combines golf with mountain resorts, and Switzerland offers some of the most scenic, and expensive, golf in Europe. Summers are warm and pleasant, and the standard of course maintenance is often excellent.
Germany
- Bavaria: courses around Munich and in the foothills of the Alps, with lakes and mountain views.
- The Rhine and Mosel: golf among vineyards and river valleys.
- The big cities: Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne and Düsseldorf all have many courses nearby.
- The coasts: the Baltic and North Sea coasts offer seaside golf with resort towns.
- Spa towns: traditional spa resorts with golf, wellness and relaxation.
Austria
- Tyrol: mountain golf around resort towns such as Kitzbühel and Seefeld, with ski villages becoming golf resorts in summer.
- Salzburg region: golf among lakes and mountains near the city of Salzburg.
- Carinthia: warm lakes in the south, such as the Wörthersee, with resort golf.
- Vienna: city golf combined with culture.
Switzerland
- The Alps: high-altitude courses in resort towns such as Crans-Montana, St Moritz in the Engadine valley, Davos and Gstaad, with stunning mountain views.
- The lakes: courses near Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, Lake Zurich and Lake Lugano.
- Ticino: the Italian-speaking south, with a milder climate.
When to go
| Area | Season |
|---|---|
| Lowland Germany and Austria | April to October |
| Alpine resorts | June to September |
| Swiss and Austrian lakes | May to October |
Practical tips
- Handicap and competence: many clubs require a handicap certificate or proof that you can play to a reasonable standard, and some have maximum handicaps. Read the World Handicap System explained.
- Etiquette and pace: clubs are often formal and expect good etiquette. Read golf etiquette 101.
- Dress codes: smart golf clothing. Read what to wear on the golf course.
- Costs: Switzerland is expensive; Germany and Austria vary.
- Guest cards: some Alpine resorts offer guest cards with green-fee discounts.
- Language: English is widely spoken; a few German words are appreciated.
Playing tips
- Altitude: the ball flies further on high Alpine courses. Read golf at altitude.
- Elevation changes and sloping lies. Read how to play uneven lies.
- Mountain weather: afternoon storms are possible; leave the course when lightning approaches. Read golf course safety.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a handicap to play golf in Germany?
Most clubs ask for a handicap certificate or proof of competence. Carry your details.
When is the best time for golf in the Alps?
June to September, when Alpine courses are open.
Is golf in Switzerland expensive?
Generally yes, especially at famous mountain resorts.
Can I combine golf with a summer holiday in the Alps?
Yes. Many ski resorts become golf, hiking and biking resorts in summer.
The bottom line
Germany, Austria and Switzerland offer well-kept courses in beautiful Alpine and lake settings. Travel in summer for mountain golf, carry your handicap details, respect the etiquette and enjoy the scenery. For more European golf, read golf in Italy and best-value golf in Europe.