Bologna Golf Club

Imagine 18 holes winding through the rolling hills of Monte San Pietro—a par-72 course, approximately 5,949 meters long, and the very first golf course the Emilia-Romagna region has ever seen. That’s exactly what the Bologna Golf Club is, less than a 20-minute drive from the center of this gourmet metropolis.

Since 1959, the course has been one of Italy’s most historic golf destinations—the country’s 20th club and the region’s number one. The parkland course, situated at an elevation of about 116 meters, was designed by the English architects C.K. Cotton and J.D. Harris and later revised by Ryder Cup legend Peter Alliss. You can feel that level of excellence on every hole.

Mature trees, undulating terrain, and a clubhouse featuring one of the best restaurants in Italian golf make this course a year-round experience. If you’re looking for history, nature, and fair play, this club is a strong addition to your Golf Vacations in Emilia-Romagna.

The Course: 18 holes winding through the hills of the Apennine foothills

The championship course measures approximately 5,949 meters (par 72) and lies about 116 meters above sea level—nestled among the first hills of the Apennine foothills west of Bologna. The gently undulating terrain features elevation changes, slopes, and shots from uneven lies that will test your skills on every hole. Nothing here is flat or straightforward.

Old, dense trees line the fairways and demand precise tee shots, while well-placed bunkers and small water hazards add extra pressure. The greens have matured over decades and roll fast. Players who think strategically and navigate the doglegs correctly will be rewarded on this course.

Who designed the Bologna Golf Club?

The course was designed by English golf architects C.K. Cotton and J.D. Harris, who designed numerous courses in Europe during the 1950s and 1960s. The course opened in 1959—as Italy’s 20th golf club and the very first in Emilia-Romagna. This makes Bologna one of the true pioneers of Italian golf.

Around the year 2000, Ryder Cup legend and course designer Peter Alliss redesigned the course and made adjustments to individual holes. The result is a classic, mature parkland course where its more than 60-year history is evident on every hole.

Clubhouse, kitchen, and summer pool: more than just golf

The Bologna Golf Club’s clubhouse is considered one of the most beautiful in the country—and its cuisine is regularly ranked among the top ten club restaurants in Italy. After your round, you can enjoy Bolognese specialties and a panoramic view of the driving range. The facility also features a bar, a pro shop, meeting rooms, and rentals of golf carts, trolleys, and sets of clubs.

A bonus that many clubs don't offer: a spacious summer swimming pool, open from June through mid-September. This turns a day of golf into a full-fledged outing for the whole family. Practice facilities such as a driving range, pitching and putting greens, and a golf school with pros round out the offerings.

Getting There and the Best Time to Visit

The Bologna Golf Club is located in Monte San Pietro, in the Chiesa Nuova district, about a 20-minute drive from the center of Bologna. Bologna Marconi Airport is only about 15 kilometers away, and Bologna Centrale train station is about 20 kilometers away. The A1 and A14 highways provide excellent access to Italy’s national highway network.

The course is open year-round, with Mondays as the day off. The most pleasant conditions are in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the hills surrounding the course are a vibrant green. In the height of summer, it’s best to tee off early—and then cool off in the pool afterward.

Who would benefit from joining the Bologna Golf Club?

This course is well worth a visit for anyone who appreciates classic, time-honored golf with a rich history: With its slopes, rows of trees, and fast greens, this hilly parkland course challenges both ambitious tournament players and advanced recreational golfers. If you also want to enjoy good food and the proximity to the cultural city of Bologna, this is the perfect place for you.

The course is less suitable for absolute beginners looking for a completely flat, easy route—the undulating terrain requires solid basic technique. If, on the other hand, you want to combine tradition, nature, and a challenging ride, Bologna should be on your list for 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.