Ever tried hitting a golf ball under the stars? Or walked the same fairways as Tiger Woods? Belek’s got both and it’s just 35 minutes from Antalya Airport. This little town might not look like much on a map, but trust me, it’s a big deal for golf lovers.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year and that warm Turkish breeze coming off the Mediterranean, it’s the kind of place golfers dream about. The best golf courses in Belek aren’t just beautiful, they’re among the top-rated in all of Europe. People come from across the world to play here, not just for the game but for the full experience. You’ve got luxury resorts steps away from the greens, pine forests framing the fairways, and views that make you want to slow down between shots
So what’s the deal with this place? Let’s take a look at the top courses that make Belek one of Europe’s favorite golf destinations.
Top Golf Courses in Belek: A Detailed Overview
Belek isn’t just full of golf courses-it’s full of character. Some courses are built for bold shots under the stars, some come straight from the minds of golf legends, and others are designed to really test your game. Each one brings something a little different to the table, and that’s what makes golfing here so addictive.
1. Carya Golf Club
There’s something surreal about playing golf after the sun goes down. At Carya, that’s totally possible-it’s the first fully floodlit course in Europe. The 18-hole, par-72 layout winds through tall pines, with a calm but competitive feel. It’s rated 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor from over 560 reviews. The island green on the 18th hole is the kind of thing you don’t forget.
2. Cornelia Golf Club
Designed by Nick Faldo himself, this course gives you options. It’s a 27-hole setup divided into three loops-Prince, Queen, and King-so you can mix it up each day. Food and drinks are included, which makes post-round chill time even better. It holds a 4.2/5 rating on Tripadvisor with 340+ reviews. The 10th hole on the King course has a water feature that catches more balls than you’d expect and this golf course works well for all levels.
3. Antalya Golf Club (PGA Sultan)
This one’s no joke. PGA Sultan is a tough, smart course with fast greens and narrow targets. Designed by David Jones, it hosted Tiger Woods back in 2012-and it still carries that big event energy. The 17th hole, a scenic par 3, is a highlight. With a 4.3/5 on Tripadvisor and over 220 reviews, it’s one of the go to spots for serious golf players.
⛳ Antalya Golf Club (PGA Sultan)
4. The Montgomerie Maxx Royal
If you like your golf with a touch of luxury, this is your spot. Wide fairways, tall pines, and a peaceful vibe meet top level design. It’s hosted major events and is tied directly to the Maxx Royal Resort, so it often comes bundled with your stay. The 9th hole is full of well-placed bunkers that can shift your score in seconds. Best suited for mid-to-advanced players.
5. National Golf Club
This one’s got a classic feel. It’s one of the first courses in Belek and still holds its charm. The 14th hole takes you through a line of eucalyptus trees. You'll smell them before you even swing. It’s calm, well kept, and perfect for anyone who wants a more relaxed, traditional round.
And the best part? All of these courses are close to some of the top resorts in Belek-Regnum Carya, Kempinski The Dome, Maxx Royal, and Gloria Serenity. You can be on the fairway in the morning and sipping something cold by the pool before lunch.
What Makes Belek’s Golf Courses Stand Out
Belek isn’t just another golf destination on the map. It’s one of the few places in Europe where top-level courses, Mediterranean nature, and five-star comfort all come together. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Nature is part of the game: Courses here are built into pine and eucalyptus forests, not just placed on empty land. At National, the trees bring a calm atmosphere you’ll feel from the first hole. At times, you might even see a Tyto Alba owl gliding above the fairway.
- Home to global golf events: Belek earned international attention when Tiger Woods played at PGA Sultan in 2012. Since then, the town has hosted the Turkish Airlines Open and several PGA European Tour events. It’s not just pretty-it’s proven.
- Each course has its own personality: Some are wide and open, others are narrow and technical. Night golf is even possible at select clubs. You never feel like you're playing the same layout twice.
- Close and easy to reach: Located just 35 minutes from Antalya Airport, Belek is one of the most accessible golf destinations on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast. No transfers, no stress-just golf.
- Resort life is built in: Most courses are connected to luxury hotels like Regnum Carya, Maxx Royal, and Kempinski The Dome. You can step off the course and be in the spa, at the beach, or by the pool in minutes.
Planning Your Golf Trip to Belek: Tips and Insights
Golf in Belek is easy to enjoy-but with a few smart choices, it can be even better. From timing your visit right to picking the golf course that fits your style, here are a few tips that go beyond the usual travel checklist:
- Look beyond the big names: Everyone talks about Carya and PGA Sultan, but there are hidden gems too. Lykia Links is one of the only links-style courses in the region, with dramatic sea views and a different kind of challenge. It’s quieter, less polished, but very memorable. Nobilis Golf Club is another underrated pick. Tucked along the river, it offers a calm, wooded atmosphere and tends to be less crowded.
- Book mid-month for better rates: Some courses quietly lower their green fees around the middle of each month, especially in May, June, and October. Fewer groups, better tee times, and more room to breathe on the course. Not always published online, so it’s worth emailing ahead.
- Choose hotels with actual golf perks: At Cornelia Diamond, for example, golfers get free shuttle transfers, unlimited range balls, and even club cleaning after the round. Maxx Royal guests playing Montgomerie enjoy food and drinks included during the game-yes, even beer. Ask for golf-inclusive packages when you book.
- Use shuttle services instead of renting a car: Most resorts offer transport from Antalya Airport and daily shuttles to the courses. If you're staying in Belek town or inside a resort, you’ll rarely need to drive anywhere.
- Try a twilight or night round: In summer, daytime heat can be a lot-so book a late-afternoon tee time, or even play after dark at clubs with floodlights. It’s cooler, quieter, and has a special atmosphere you won’t find during the day.
- Pack smart, shop local: Pro shops at resorts can be pricey. In Belek town, you can find well-priced second-hand premium balls and gear in golf outlets. Perfect for warm-ups or just saving a bit on your extras.
- Watch for winter packages: November to March might be off-season for beach tourism, but it’s a sweet spot for golfers. Courses are in great shape, rates are lower, and you’ll often find unlimited golf deals with four- or five-night stays.
Why Belek Should Be Your Next Golf Destination
Golf in Belek isn’t just about the courses-it’s about the feeling you get while you’re here. Everything is easy. The airport’s close, the sun’s almost always out, and the fairways feel like they were meant to be part of the landscape.
You play in the morning, grab something good to eat, and then maybe hit the beach or just unwind at the hotel. One course challenges your focus, the next lets you just enjoy the walk. Every round has its own mood, and somehow, none of it feels rushed.
That’s what makes Belek special. It’s relaxed but refined. Warm, but never boring. And once you’ve played here, it’s hard to think of anywhere else the same way.
And hey-if you do find yourself in Belek, after a week of perfect swings, a private yacht day off Belek’s coast is your reward. The coastline is just as stunning as the golf, and a private yacht tour is the perfect way to wrap up your trip in style.