Course Review: Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, Bulgaria
Set against the dramatic cliffs of Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast, Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort is often described as one of Europe’s most scenic and challenging courses. Designed by Gary Player, this stunning course offers jaw-dropping views from almost every hole, making it a must-play for any golf lover seeking an unforgettable experience.
Overview
Opened in 2011, Thracian Cliffs has earned a reputation as a “bucket-list” course due to its stunning views, challenging layout, and dramatic elevation changes. Player famously claimed, "You will not find a golf course like this anywhere else on the planet." The course is demanding, with narrow fairways and strategic bunkering. It’s a Par 72 that stretches to nearly 7,500 yards from the back tees, but multiple tee options make it playable for all skill levels.
The Setting
Thracian Cliffs stretches across rugged seaside cliffs with sweeping views across the sea.. The course’s layout skilfully takes golfers on a journey from steep coastal ridges to rolling fairways bordered by rocky outcrops and native vegetation. The design fully embraces the contours of the land, making every hole a visual delight.
Signature Holes
The layout is as thrilling as the views, with several holes that stand out as particularly iconic:
- Hole 6 – Par 3: This is the showstopper. Known as the "Pebble Beach of Europe," Hole 6 offers a 210-yard challenge from the cliff’s edge, where players must hit across a vast chasm to a green perched on another cliff. With nothing but ocean in the background, this hole is as intimidating as it is beautiful – and any shot that finds the green feels like a major victory.
- Hole 7 – Par 4: A hole that many consider the “soul” of Thracian Cliffs, Hole 7 follows the cliff line closely. At 450 yards, it plays along the edge of a steep drop-off, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea. It’s a hole that demands both accuracy and courage; a slight fade off the tee is rewarded, while anything more may send your ball into the depths below.
- Hole 8 – Par 4: Another cliff-hugging hole, this shorter par 4 gives you some respite from long tee shots. A well-placed tee shot sets up a gorgeous approach to a green framed by the coastline, offering a little breather – though still highly scenic – after the intensity of the first few holes.
Hole 18 – Par 5: The grand finale is a reachable par 5 that plays downhill towards the clubhouse. It's a risk-reward hole with a strong leftward dogleg, lined by water hazards and bunkers that challenge your approach. The 18th hole perfectly wraps up the Thracian experience, rewarding those who take risks and closing with a view of the entire cliffside course.
