Romania is an incredibly beautiful country, filled with an abundance of natural wonders! The truth is, most people aren’t very familiar with the country. For example, did you know that it’s home to the heaviest building and the tallest wooden church in the world?
If you’re a golfer, you probably also didn’t realize that they have some stunning golf courses! We’re rediscovering these golf courses in Romania as gems for golfers. Whether you’re here on business or for a vacation, take advantage of the mild climate and catch a round at least one of them!
Theodora Golf Club
Located right along the shore of the Mures River, Theodora is the largest golf resort in the country. Aside from the golf course, it’s home to an array of 4-star villas and restaurants, so if you’re looking for accommodation in close proximity to golf, this is an excellent choice.
At 7,128 yards, this course isn’t just a quick and easy one! It’s sparsely bunkered but features water on multiple holes, as well as a few tricky doglegs which will challenge golfers of all skill levels.
One of the most interesting features of this particular course is its finishing hole. Don’t be misled by the straight nature of the fairway—the hole stretches to a little over 800 yards and is a par-6, the longest in Europe.
Aside from the course, which is well worth a play, the club features an indoor golf simulator plus ample practice areas. A covered driving range with an integrated sound system is a pleasure, and you can also take advantage of the putting greens, chipping greens, and bunkers—complete with an island featuring two greens.
Golf Club Paul Tomita
This club is the creation of Paul Tomita, a Romanian golfing legend! He represented the country for many years and was even crowned the “most remarkable personality” at the 1968 World Cup by Golf Illustrated.
This course began as a 9-hole course, developed in the 90s. It was the only one in the country at that time! It only became an 18-hole course in the 2000s, after Paul’s death.
The on-site hotel is a beautiful accommodation. Golfers looking for luxury, tranquility, and a great round will enjoy it here. The course itself is old-fashioned but a great play.
It’s scattered with a really nice selection of holes, starting off with the longest par-5, which stretches to 550 yards and features a dogleg to the right. There’s no easing you into this one!
You’ll find the par-3s strategically spaced out, with a few short par-4s in between, some of which are considered the most challenging holes on the course!
Bucharest Golf Club
This course was designed as part of a housing development. Although it looks like it’s one flat ground, the course features plenty of curves, keeping golfers on their toes as they move from hole to hole.
Sand-capped fairways, USGA-compliant tees and greens, and a world-class irrigation system make this golf course every bit as good as most in the US. With multiple tee points, every golfer will find that it suits their skill level.
You’ll also find a driving range and a golf academy where you can improve your game. If you’re the sporty type, the facility also includes things like tennis courts, a fitness center, and plenty of walkways.
National Golf & Country Club
This beautiful course is suitable for golfers of all levels. You won’t find anything spectacular here, but it’s a lovely day out on a stunning course and will definitely get you your golf fix!
There are also many ways to golf here. You can play a round on the Championship course, take golf lessons at the academy, or even play some indoor golf if you’re so inclined. Caddies and golf carts are available, as well as practice fasciitis and even a Trackman range.
Take note that you may need to be a member of the resort in order to play here. But it’s beautiful and affordable, so why not!
Transilvania Golf Club
Located in the northwest of the country, Transilvania Golf Club features a 9-hole course and an even shorter 6-hole course. It may be shorter than usual, but it’s still a fun play, so don’t discount it based on its length! Work on the back nine is planned, but it’s unclear when it will begin.
The 9-hole course is surprisingly tricky, featuring hills, valley landscape, and even forest terrain. Aside from the two courses, there’s also a driving range, putting green, bunker practice space, and a golf academy for learning.
Although the course is short, you’ll have the option to choose to rent a golf cart if you wish to drive instead of walking. The walk is nice, though!
Diplomatic Club, Bucharest
The Diplomat Golf Club is the oldest club in the country, opened in 1923 by Prince Nicolae and Queen Maria of Romania. It has just 6 holes, but it’s well worth a play, being an icon in the country! You can play the 6-hole course three times to get in a full 18-hole round.
Open to the public, the course is scattered with trees and not as easy as it may initially seem! It retains the original shaping from back in 1928, which means you’re playing on a piece of history!
Conclusion
Romania may not be known for golf, but these clubs and courses are worth the visit if you happen to be in the area. There’s something unique and exciting about playing a course in a foreign country… Or even just hitting a new course in your own country that you've never played before!
Either way, Romania doesn’t have a lot of courses, but these ones are worth getting excited over. They’re all wonderful courses, worth a day out in the mild Romanian weather, and a lovely way to spend a morning in the country. Whether you’re looking for a way to get some extra steps in and work your muscles or you’re missing the course, play one of these!
About the Author
Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website: Golf Influence.
