Held in Madeira, the 11th World Golf Awards was a glamorous event, which brought together the top global golf industry leaders to celebrate excellence in golf tourism and hospitality. Portugal was awarded the top title of “World’s Best Golf Destination 2024,” and various golf courses in the country were also celebrated.

Portugal wins prestigious title of ‘World’s Best Golf Destination 2024

The 11th World Golf Awards was hosted at the Savoy Palace in Madeira, Portugal on November 22, 2024, and was held to mark the end of a two-day event showcasing the finest golf courses. Once again, Portugal solidified its reputation as a top-tier golfing destination, winning the title of World’s Best Golf Destination 2024.

Meanwhile, Chris Frost, Managing Director of the World Golf Awards praised Madeira at the event as a “magnificent host” for the international gathering that recognizes top-tier golf courses, clubs and facilities around the world.

Moreover, the island of Madeira itself secured the title of World’s Best Emerging Golf Destination 2024. The region’s golf facilities were also highlighted at the awards for the following:

Santo da Serra Golf Course

The Santo da Serra Golf Course received two awards, namely the World’s Best Par 3 Hole and the World’s Best Sustainable Water Capture System.

Palheiro Golf

With breathtaking views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean, Palheiro Golf received the prestigious award as the World’s Best Panoramic Clubhouse.

Eduardo Jesus, Regional Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Culture in Madeira spoke of the awards, hailing them as “a reward for the work that has been carried out in favor of the development, promotion and communication of this sport.”

Moreover, Jesus emphasized Madeira’s commitment to golf tourism, noting the region’s three exceptional courses and plans to build a fourth golf course on the western tip of the island.

Portugal and the World Golf Awards 2024

While Portugal snagged the best golf destination award and Madeira showed its worth, other awards went to the European nation.

Terras da Comporta

One historic win came as Terras da Comporta on the Alentejo Coast was dubbed the World’s Best Golf Course 2024. Voters were captivated by the course’s unique blend of natural beauty and its challenging design.

Quinta do Lago, Portugal

Meanwhile, Quinta do Lago in Portugal was awarded the World’s Best Golf Real Estate Venue 2024.

Other notable winners

Portugal’s close neighbor, Spain also came up in the results with La Hacienda Links Golf Resort awarded World’s Best Halfway House 2024.

Among other notable winners, Trump Turnberry in Scotland was awarded World’s Best Golf Hotel. Meanwhile, Costa Navarino in Greece won the World’s Best Golf Venue award.

Readers can view the full list of winners in the annual awards for 2024 on the official website here.