The History of Golf in Slovenia: From Its Beginnings to Today 

The Early Days: Royal Beginnings at Bled 

While golf originated in Scotland in the 15th century, it reached Slovenia in the early 20th century. The country’s oldest golf course, Royal Bled, was established in 1937 under the patronage of  King Alexander I of Yugoslavia. 

Originally built as a 9-hole course, Royal Bled was designed to cater to European royalty, diplomats, and elite travelers who visited the enchanting Alpine region of Lake Bled. The stunning natural beauty of the area, combined with its royal connections, gave the course a unique prestige. 

Following the disruptions of World War II, the course underwent periods of neglect but was later restored. In the 1970s, Royal Bled was expanded to a full 18-hole championship course, gradually reclaiming its status as one of Europe’s most scenic and challenging golf destinations. 

Golf in the 1980s: Keeping the Game Alive 

During the 1980s, golf remained a niche activity in Slovenia, enjoyed mainly by foreign tourists and expatriates. One notable location during this time was Lipica, where a golf course was established alongside the famous Lipizzaner stud farm. 

Lipica provided visitors with the opportunity to experience golf in a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere, helping to maintain interest in the sport during a period when dedicated golfing infrastructure was limited. 

A New Era: Growth After Independence 

Slovenia’s independence in 1991 opened the door for rapid growth and modernization across all sectors, including sports. As the country embraced new opportunities, interest in golf began to rise significantly. 

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, several key golf courses were established, helping to lay the foundation for a vibrant golfing community. Courses such as Arboretum Volčji Potok, CUBO Golf Ljubljana, Golf Ptuj, and, of course, the ever-evolving Royal Bled became popular venues for both local players and international visitors. 

This period also saw the formation of golf clubs, federations, and tournaments that helped foster a passionate and growing community of Slovenian golfers. 

CUBO Golf: Zgodba o viziji in uspehu 

Among the stars of Slovenia’s golf scene is CUBO Golf Course. Located just a short drive from Ljubljana, CUBO Golf has become a flagship destination for golfers seeking quality, a good atmosphere, and challenge. 

Designed with both beauty and playability in mind, CUBO Golf offers a superbly maintained 18-hole course, surrounded by the picturesque Slovenian countryside. The club prides itself not only on its facilities but also on its vibrant community and welcoming atmosphere. 

The construction of the golf course started at the beginning of 2007, according to architect Peter Škofic’s instructions. In the first year, the team led by Marko Štirn, the author of the entire project, performed all the rough terrain work, drainage of the greens and the teeing grounds, the irrigation system and, as early as the autumn had put grass on the first nine holes. The golf course was opened in 2009.  

Today, CUBO Golf regularly hosts national and international tournaments, offers golf academies for all levels, and provides opportunities for both competitive and recreational play. 

But CUBO Golf is not just about sport, it is also a social hub where people connect, network, and celebrate. Through creative open-space events, evening gatherings and engaging corporate team buildings, many Slovenians, even those who had never held a golf club before, have unexpectedly fallen in love with the game and the unique lifestyle that surrounds it. 

Conclusion 

The story of golf in Slovenia is one of passion, resilience, and transformation. From the royal fairways of Royal Bled to the modern elegance of CUBO Golf, the sport has evolved into a dynamic part of Slovenia’s cultural and sporting landscape. 

Whether you’re a seasoned player or taking your very first swing, there has never been a better time to discover the joys of golf in Slovenia. And if you’re looking for a place to start, CUBO Golf warmly invites you to be part of this exciting chapter in Slovenian golf history. 

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