Acaya Golf Club

A golf course in the heart of Salento, where olive groves, tranquil lakes, and the proximity to the Adriatic Sea set the tone for the round: The Acaya Golf Club Near Lecce is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by the renowned U.S. architectural firm Hurdzan-Fry—and one of the southernmost championship courses in Italy.

Nestled around the medieval village of Acaya, the course is part of a resort featuring a spa, pool, and restaurant. Golfers here can combine their game with wellness and the cultural treasures of Salento—from Lecce’s Baroque facades to the beaches on both coasts.

Here you'll find all the facts about the course, its design, and amenities, as well as information on green fees, how to get there, and tips for your Golf Vacation in Apulia.

The Course: 18 holes nestled among olive groves and lakes

The Acaya Golf Club stretches 6,192 meters across the flat, olive-tree-covered landscape of Salento. The Mediterranean-style parkland course relies less on elevation changes and more on strategic play: lakes, wide fairways, and Mediterranean vegetation call for smart shot placement rather than sheer distance.

One highlight is the Lane 11, which runs along a picturesque waterway and offers you a spectacular experience of nature. Time and again, centuries-old olive trees frame the holes—typical of Salento.

Who designed the Acaya Golf Club?

The square was designed by the renowned American architectural firm Hurdzan-Fry, which is known worldwide for its natural, sustainable golf courses. The course was redesigned starting in 2007 and is now one of the highest-rated courses in southern Italy. The club's own Golf Academy was co-founded by Italian Ryder Cup player Costantino Rocca.

Resort, Wellness, and Dining

The Acaya Golf Club is part of the Acaya Golf Resort & Spa (now operating under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand). After your round, you’ll find a wellness area spanning approximately 1,200 m² with a spa and pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Salentinian cuisine. The golf course features a driving range with 66 tees (6 of which are covered), putting and pitching greens, and a well-stocked pro shop.

Getting There, Best Time to Visit, and Green Fees

The nearest airport is Brindisi (about 60 km); Bari is about 150 km away. Lecce, with its famous Baroque architecture, is about a 20-minute drive away. Thanks to Salento’s mild climate, the course is playable almost year-round; in winter, it is closed on Mondays, and from June through September, it is open daily.

The Green Fee The approximate cost for an 18-hole round is around 90 € (resort guests pay significantly less, starting at about 60 €). It’s best to check current prices and tee times directly with the club. You can find more courses in the region in our overview of the Golf Courses in Apulia.

Who would benefit from joining the Acaya Golf Club?

Acaya is the perfect choice if you want to combine golf with wellness, good food, and culture: The resort makes it easy to stay for several days, and Lecce and both coasts of Salento are within easy reach. The course is fair for players with moderate handicaps and, thanks to the Academy, is also well-suited for beginners.

Acaya isn't the best choice if you're looking for spectacular holes with ocean views like those found along the cliffs—here, olive groves and lakes dominate the landscape instead of cliffs. But if you enjoy the peaceful, Mediterranean parkland atmosphere, you’ll find one of the most beautiful courses in southern Italy. You can find more ideas in our overview of Golf in Italy.

Note: Disclaimer – Italien.news is not the owner or operator of the golf course mentioned and makes no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information regarding prices, tee times, hours of operation, facilities, and events. Changes are subject to change at any time.

Please check all relevant information—especially green fees, tee times, and directions—directly with the golf club before your visit.