Some Inspiration for 2026

Planning your next rugby tour? Here’s a little inspiration. From classic Rugby Powerhouses like Dublin, Bath and Cardiff, to unique contenders such as Heidelberg and Den Haag, and even a few names you may never have considered — Mallorca, Oostend or Melrose in the Scottish Borders — these ten destinations offer inspiration aplenty.

10. Málaga, Spain

On the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, Málaga combines rugby with Mediterranean flair. Touring sides can expect tough opposition, great facilities, and post-match hospitality under blue skies. Off the field, the city bursts with culture — from the Alcazaba fortress to Picasso’s legacy — while sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife make it perfect for team bonding.

9. Melrose, Scotland

Known as the birthplace of Rugby Sevens, Melrose is a pilgrimage for rugby traditionalists. Local clubs are steeped in history, and fixtures here are fiercely contested. The town’s charm, set against the rolling Borders countryside, makes it a beautiful and inspiring base. Add in the legendary Melrose Sevens, and rugby doesn’t get more authentic.

8. Porto, Portugal

In Porto, rugby meets raw passion. Fixtures against clubs like CDUP deliver gritty contests in front of knowledgeable crowds. Away from the pitch, the city oozes character — from riverside strolls in the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district to indulging in Francesinha sandwiches and port wine tastings. With Atlantic beaches nearby, Porto is a rugby tour with edge and flair.

7. Ostend, Belgium

Belgium’s “City by the Sea” is a rising star for rugby tours. Fixtures here are competitive and welcoming, while sandy beaches, a bustling harbour, and a vibrant nightlife make it ideal for squad bonding. Easily combined with day trips to Bruges or Ghent, Oostend offers rugby, culture, and coastal fun all in one.

6. Cardiff, Wales

Few places live and breathe rugby quite like Cardiff. With Principality Stadium towering in the city centre, rugby isn’t just a sport here — it’s a way of life. Touring sides can expect competitive fixtures and the chance to play at iconic Cardiff Arms Park. Throw in lively nightlife, historic landmarks, and a buzzing waterfront, and you’ve got a city that embodies rugby’s soul.

5. Den Haag, Netherlands

The Hague is a city that balances tradition and modernity. Its rugby clubs are well-organised and welcoming, offering spirited matches for all levels. Off the field, the city’s sandy beaches, buzzing nightlife, and proximity to Amsterdam make it a versatile base. Expect strong rugby, Dutch charm, and a coastal vibe that works for every group.

4. Mallorca, Spain

Sunshine, beaches, and competitive rugby — Mallorca ticks every box for a perfect tour. Fixtures against passionate local clubs are matched by the island’s vibrant off-field offering. From boat trips along the coast to waterparks and buzzing nightlife in Palmanova, it’s ideal for youth and senior teams alike. Rugby and relaxation in one unforgettable package.

3. Heidelberg, Germany

Often overlooked but bursting with rugby heritage, Heidelberg is the stronghold of German rugby. Clubs here are competitive, well-drilled, and eager to host visiting sides. The city itself is stunning — a riverside gem with cobbled streets, a fairytale castle, and vibrant student nightlife. It’s a destination where rugby tradition meets cultural charm, and one that always leaves a lasting impression.

2. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is the beating heart of Irish rugby. The Aviva Stadium is a pilgrimage for any rugby fan, and fixtures with Dublin’s competitive grassroots clubs deliver top-quality opposition. Off the field, Temple Bar’s legendary nightlife, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse provide endless entertainment. For touring teams, Dublin combines fierce rugby with the legendary Irish craic like nowhere else.

1. Bath, England

A city where rugby history and heritage run deep, Bath is home to one of England’s most iconic clubs. The Rec is a cathedral of the game, while Farleigh House — Bath Rugby’s high-performance centre — offers unique training opportunities for touring squads. Beyond the pitch, the Roman Baths, Georgian crescents, and buzzing nightlife make Bath a city with both character and class. With nearby Bristol offering a vibrant alternative, the South West is an unbeatable rugby heartland.