Portugal has been named “World’s Best Golf Destination” at the World Golf Awards 2025, the leading international event that recognises excellence in golf tourism. The Madeira archipelago was also named “World’s Best Emerging Golf Destination”, confirming Portugal’s continued momentum in the industry.
Sir Nick Faldo, a six-time major champion, was named “Golf Designer of the Year” for his practice, Faldo Design,’s ongoing work on course developments in Vietnam, Brazil, Pakistan and Madeira.
In Scotland, Trump International Scotland won three major awards: The New Course was named “Best Golf Course in the World” and “Best New Golf Course in Europe,” while the resort itself was honored for “Greatest Contribution to Golf Tourism Hospitality.”
At the same event, The Els Club Vilamoura in the Algarve was named “Best Private Golf Club in the World” and announced that it will host a new PGA Champions Tour tournament in the summer of 2026.
The results were announced after a year-long voting process involving industry professionals, media representatives and golf enthusiasts from around the world. The winners were determined by the highest number of votes in each category.
Chris Frost, Managing Director of the World Golf Awards, said:
“We are thrilled to present the top golf companies and destinations of 2025 – those who are taking the industry to new heights. This year’s winners reflect the strength and innovation of the sport, combining excellence, sustainability and passion. We received a record number of votes from consumers and golf professionals worldwide, confirming the ever-growing appeal of golf tourism.”
Other honorees included:
LIV Golf Adelaide – The Grange Golf Club as “Best Golf Event of the Year”
54 Limited as “Best Golf Management & Consulting Group”
Fairways and FunDays (Ireland) as “Best Golf Tour Operator in the World”
At the regional level, the following were also honored:
Madinaty Golf Club (Egypt) – “Best Golf Course in Africa”
Terras da Comporta – Dunas Golf Course (Portugal) – “Best Golf Course in Europe”
Augusta National Golf Club (USA) – “Best Golf Course in North America”
Sentosa Golf Club – Serapong Course (Singapore) – “Best Golf Course in Asia”
Heritage Golf Club – La R?serve Golf Links (Mauritius) – “Best Golf Course in the Indian Ocean”
The World Golf Awards, established in 2014, are a sister institution to the World Travel Awards and aim to highlight and reward excellence in golf tourism, recognising the leading facilities, destinations and professionals in the industry worldwide.
