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<![CDATA[ Latest from Golf Monthly in Travel ]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:16:27 +0000 en <![CDATA[ Is Quinta Do Lago The Most Complete Golf Resort In Europe? I Visited For The First Time To Find Out ]]> Having recently read about a number of sports teams staying at the Quinta do Lago resort in the Algarve, Portugal, I was excited to go and try it out for myself recently. For the unaware readers, this southern region of the country has a number of world class golf destinations and Quinta do Lago is unquestionably one of the best because it has everything you could want from a golf break. Situated within 2,000 acres of the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park, the resort has three excellent courses to experience, as well as a whole host of other indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy. Not to mention high quality food of which I will get to later…

South

Travel to the resort is very easy with it being a quick transfer from Faro Airport in roughly 15-25 mins or so. It is on this drive you will see flashes of flowing fairways and greens which give you an inkling of what’s to come on the North and South courses.

We start with the latter which opened for play in 1974. The work of American architect William Mitchell, the course has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times with high profile winners like Colin Montgomerie. The front nine weaves through the parkland trees nicely before transitioning into a challenge-filled back-nine. The last four holes in particular will test your ability to keep your score going, starting with the stunning par-3 15th over a lake. All I will say here is, if in doubt, go long.

Moving to 16, this is one of the most picturesque holes I’ve played. You are faced with a deceptive tee shot before the hole bends to the left revealing a stunning and dramatic view out to the green, seemingly surrounded by water. If you get your drive in the fairway, find the dance floor with your second and take a par.

17 is a straight and reasonably long par-5 whilst 18 is a tricky dog-leg left par-4 to finish. Concluding on the South course, it does an excellent job at being playable for a variety of levels, whilst also having a Tour pedigree as well, which is not an easy thing to do from my experience.

North

Right next door to the South sits the North which I found to be an extremely enjoyable place to play. Right away I should say it is best suited for buggies or carts because if you are walking then there are some long treks between holes and you have to criss-cross the road several times. Redesigned in 2014 by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, the investment brought precision and strategy to the fore, especially off the tee.

I found the importance of finding the fairway was vital because whilst it isn’t particularly long, the green surrounds and bunkering means you have to be hitting your approach from the fairway to avoid trouble and keep a score going. Speaking of bunkering, it is excellent with the bunkers on the par-3’s being of particular note because of their depth and size.

Notable holes to mention include the par-4 12th which wraps around a water hazard in a similar fashion to the 18th at TPC Sawgrass, 14 and 16 are two short and lovely par-3’s putting a premium on a clean strike and correct club selection. Finally I really like 18 being an attackable par-5 to finish, just be wary of going right off the tee as there is a huge modern house there! I know the South has the Tour proven pedigree, but I actually thought the North was more intricate and therefore harder for me, especially off the tee. The green complexes are tricky, especially if you get in the wrong spot or the pin is in a tough spot. I must say the latter was definitely the case when I played it!

Laranjal

Now completing the trio is the Laranjal. I unfortunately didn’t get to play this on my whistle stop trip, but several of my Golf Monthly colleagues have played it a lot and filled me in on what I was missing. I guess I will have to get back to Quinta as soon as possible to play it!

Located two kilometers from the resort, it is routed through orange groves and designed by Portuguese architect Jorge Santana da Silva. It opened in 2008 and has gone from strength to strength, with the greens in particular ranking as some of the best in the Algarve. The design itself winds around trees and water hazards throughout the round culminating in a double dogleg par-5 with ponds seemingly everywhere!

If you don’t feel like the courses have scratched your golf itch then you also have a cool mini golf course at the resort as well as the Quinta do Lago Performance Center in partnership with TaylorMade where you can get lessons and a custom fitting. I for example got a putting lesson and my technique was inconsistent to say the least! But I am committing to the new grip the instructor suggested.

Other Activities

The Campus

If golf isn’t for you but you live an active lifestyle, I recommend heading down to The Campus, a high-performance centre used by rugby teams like the British & Irish Lions, and football teams as well. There are tennis and padel courts, a high performance gym, swimming pools, as well as rehabilitation facilities like the hydrotherapy pool and recovery suite. I definitely needed these with my ailing back! There is also The Bike Shed which is for cyclists to enjoy, as well as large fields for football and rugby too.

Food

With all these activities to choose from, you will undoubtedly need to refuel and you have got plenty of options with 14 bars and restaurants to choose from. I got to experience two of these starting with Casa Velha which served up sublime local and international cuisines and the second establishment was Bovino. I admit, I’m not a huge steak guy but this steakhouse experience was incredible. The cuts were delicious as were the sides and just about everything else - a brilliant meal.

Accommodation

There are also several accommodation options to choose from as well. The Conrad Algarve is for those wanting five-star elegance, there are luxury rental villa options, and I finally got to stay at The Magnolia Hotel. It features a cool, Miami style with style and comfort throughout the different rooms, suites, and cottages. Location wise it is a short hop away from the resorts main attractions and there is plenty to do at the hotel as well a heated outdoor salt-water pool, tennis court, cocktail bar, spa and cinema.

Essentials

How to get there

Faro Airport is well served by flights across the UK, and is just a 20-minute drive from Quinta do Lago. The Magnolia Hotel offers guests transfer services.

Where to play

North course Course stats: par 72, 6,725 yards

South course Course stats: par 72, 7,040 yards

Laranjal Course stats: par 72, 7,083 yards W: quintadolago.com

Where to stay

The Magnolia Hotel W: themagnoliahotelqdl.com

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/portugal/is-quinta-do-lago-the-most-complete-golf-resort-in-europe-i-visited-for-the-first-time-to-find-out Mh7KtsuxQVWSj4SwDveypA Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:16:27 +0000 <![CDATA[ "Beautiful And Challenging" Gloria New Course Review ]]> Over the last 20 years or so, Belek in Turkey has emerged as a firm favourite for European holidaymakers in search of Mediterranean sun and top quality golf. There are a few reasons for this but at the top of those is the natural landscape, which is hard to beat.

To start with, you have the beaches that stretch out from a run of vast, mostly 5-star all-inclusive hotels. Then you have pine forests that lay behind those hotels and provide the ideal setting for the courses themselves (think of some of the pine tree-lined courses on our Top 100 GB&I list for a comparison). Finally, in the distance are the imposing and often snow-capped Taurus Mountains.

Gloria is one of the largest and most established resorts in the area and I recently had the chance to play the New Course (there is also the Old Course and the 9-hole Verde layout). We teed off at first light and seeing the course reveal itself from the shadow of darkness was a real treat. The tall pine trees and well manicured playing surfaces slowly emerged, covered by the early morning dew and I was excited to get started.

Gloria Overhead View — An overhead view of Gloria - this shows the 16th and 17th holes on the New course

The golf course itself is both enjoyable and challenging. Depending on which tees you choose to play from (it can stretch to over 7,000 yards), it’s not overly long. But it is tight. The pine trees perfectly frame each hole and ensnare any wayward tee shots. However, for the most part, you will at least find your ball in the trees and can chip out fairly easily. This makes Gloria fairly playable for a range of abilities. The holes themselves are gently shaped and there are well positioned bunkers to avoid off the tee on most holes.

The first 7 holes are all tree-lined and beautiful - for a rough comparison, picture somewhere like Liphook. However, things change from the 8th hole onwards as water comes more into play - there are 7 lakes in total.

When you arrive on the par-5 9th tee, you see water stretch the entire length of the right hand side of the hole. It requires a good straight hit off the tee and a well positioned second shot to access a relatively narrow green that’s just under 25 yards long. It’s a tough finish to an othererwise friendly and enjoyable first half.

The par-3 3rd at Gloria New — The par 3 3rd hole on the New Course at Gloria

There is more water to negotiate on the back side and again, it provides a very strong finish. The par 5 16th is long, starts in the trees and plays out towards a more open area with water behind and to the left of the green. The 16th is a short par 3 played to an island green. And the 18th is another strong par 5 with water all the way down the left hand side. This combination means that you’ll need to strike the ball well to sign for a good score at the end.

Overall, the new course at Gloria is well worth playing if you are heading to Belek. It is a proper challenge that will test any serious golfer but at the same time, the beautiful natural landscape provides an enjoyable setting, regardless of how well you play.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/turkey/beautiful-and-challenging-gloria-new-course-review vLXRop2nWquC5cFqQ6vMcX Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:40:50 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Visited The Algarve's Two Best Golf Resorts... And They're Both Only Getting Better ]]> The Algarve is one of the best areas for golf in the entire of Europe and I recently visited two of what are regarded to be its finest resorts.

I first arrived to Palmares Ocean Living and Golf, situated to the west of the Algarve, near the town of Lagos before taking the journey some 90 minutes east past Faro airport to the tranquil resort of Monte Rei Golf and Country Club.

I was excited to see why they were considered as the two best in the entire Algarve and two of the very best golf courses in Portugal, and having now spent time at both it's easy to see why they are rated as highly as they are.

I visited in mid-October, where temperatures between 22-28 degrees celsius - perfect golf weather. It was hot but not unbearable and the evenings were very warm, too.

This part of the country had experienced a drought with barely any rain for six months so conditions were dry but both courses were in fantastic condition with fast, true greens.

Here are my thoughts after staying and playing at both Palmares and Monte Rei...

Palmares Ocean Living and Golf

Palmares celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, and it's home to three contrasting and equally spectacular loops of nine.

It's a decent-sized resort with a range of modern apartments and a highly rated five-star boutique hotel as well as 27 holes of golf, a driving range, a Michelin-starred restaurant and an impressive clubhouse which was voted as Europe's Best Clubhouse at the World Golf Awards 2024.

The clubhouse and outdoor seating area at Palmares Ocean Living and Golf — The clubhouse at Palmares - the perfect spot for a post-game tipple (Image credit: Palmares)

It was designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architectural firm RCR Arquitectes, and having spent a good amount of time in and around it I can say it was a deserved winner of the award.

The Michelin-starred Al Sud restaurant is there for world-class gastronomy and the clubhouse food is of very high standard, too.

You certainly won't find many better views from a clubhouse, either, with the ocean in full view beyond the Praia (Beach) nine that sits below.

The three nines are all named very logically, with the Alvor loop facing the town of Alvor to the east, the Lagos nine playing more towards the namesake town to the west and the Praia (Beach) closer to the sea.

I'd recommend playing 54-holes, so perhaps three days to play each nine twice. You can base yourself at the resort for longer, too, to visit Lagos, Alvor and the Portimao to the east.

A hole on the Palmares Praia course at sunset — The Praia course (Image credit: Palmares)

The Alvor, numbered 1-9, is the most parkland-style of the three, the Lagos (10-18) features water in play and is situated closer to the sea while still having parkland qualities, and the Praia (19-27) is almost exclusively set by the coast to play among the sand dunes.

There are too many spectacular holes to really call out a signature hole, with almost every tee box boasting views of the ocean.

The 4th hole on the Alvor is probably the favorite of many, myself included, with the downhill par-5 offering up a phenomenal vista from the tee.

Looking down the 4th hole at Palmares — The stunning 4th at Palmares looking towards the town of Alvor (Image credit: Future)

The 17th is another beauty, with the downhill dogleg-right par 5 playing towards the Praia final nine and again being one where you simply need to get your camera out to take a snap.

There are some stunning par 3s on the property, like the 12th that plays over a lake and the long 14th which sees you tee off next to some impressive ruins.

The 12th hole at Palmares — The par 3 12th (Image credit: Palmares)

The 13th and 15th are very strong par 5s, which again feature glorious views of the ocean.

The opening holes on the Lagos and Praia nines, both downhill dogleg-right par 4s, are beauties, too.

The Alvor's opening trio are possibly the least impressive holes on the property, but they'll quickly be forgotten once you get to the 4th and begin what is a rollercoaster of a golf course that is challenging, varied and very memorable.

The resort is currently undergoing a fair amount of construction, with multiple villas being built and plans for Portugal’s first JW Marriott hotel.

The golf course is also set for renovations, so it is clear that Palmares is set to remain as one of Portugal's greatest golf destinations for many years to come.

For some reason I don't think it's as famous as Vilamoura or Quinta do Lago but it is very easy to see why it's regarded as the Algarve's number two.

Onto number one...

Monte Rei Golf and Country Club

Monte Rei has been on my bucket list for years and I can genuinely say it exceeded expectations.

The resort is located around 45-minutes east of Faro airport and close to the Spanish border.

It's not on the sea but very close-by and a short drive to some lovely quaint towns including the vibrant Tavira, which is well worth a visit.

The resort is home to an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course that is regarded as the very best in the Algarve, while there are four restaurants and the classy, grand clubhouse is a beautiful spot to spend a few hours.

The par 3 11th at Monte Rei — Monte Rei is a tranquil paradise (par 3 11th hole pictured) (Image credit: Monte Rei)

Monte Rei is also home to apartments and a pool to make it one of the best premium stay and play resorts in Europe. I stayed in a two-bed apartment that was modern, light and luxurious, and it was just a 5 minute walk from the clubhouse.

There is no ocean at Monte Rei, but it is so good that is doesn't need it.

Its setting next to the Serra do Caldeirão mountains is stunning and the entire resort feels incredibly tranquil and almost cut off from the outside world.

The first thing you'll notice is that the service is truly outstanding, too, with the helpful staff on-hand to meet your every need.

The 18th green at Monte Rei and the clubhouse beyond — The 18th green and grand clubhouse beyond (Image credit: Monte Rei)

It certainly reminds me of somewhere like Finca Cortesin in Andalucia, where five-star service meets top class facilities on-and-off the course.

As I said, Monte Rei surpassed my expectations and the golf course really should be on everyone's bucket list. It is very easy to see why it's regarded as the number one in the Algarve.

Coupled with the breathtaking views and incredibly peaceful setting is a masterpiece carved into the hills and surroundings, with the course getting off to a strong start courtesy of the dogleg-right par 4 opener.

It's a brilliant scene setter and it simply never lets up with jaw-dropping, and very testing, holes coming thick and fast.

An aerial shot of the 1st hole at Monte Rei — The 1st hole (Image credit: Monte Rei)

It's a demanding test of golf as you work your way up and down hills, over lakes and around testing bunkers.

There were many highlights for me, including the long and straight par 5 8th, which features a huge tree overhanging the front-right of the green as well as the brilliant par 3 9th that plays over a small canyon and is surrounded by multiple intimidating bunkers.

It's a hole I had seen photos of beforehand and was even more special in person.

The 9th green at Monte Rei — (Image credit: Monte Rei)

I obviously found a bunker off the tee but chipped in for par after thinning my sand shot - so I have some very good memories!

The signature hole is either the 9th or the par 4 13th, which plays from a raised tee down a steep hill to a green raised above water with the hills beyond.

A golfer hits out of a bunker — The 13th (Image credit: Monte Rei)

It's a jaw-dropping hole, but there are many others that ensure Monte Rei has huge strength in depth and makes for a very memorable round of golf.

And like Palmares, Monte Rei is only getting better.

A second Jack Nicklaus golf course is on the way, with the goal of creating "the premier golf destination in southern Europe."

Once completed, I am sure that goal will be met.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/portugal/i-visited-the-algarves-two-best-golf-resorts-and-theyre-both-only-getting-better eBmZ6BM7E9EDKwZRmdTMJR Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:31:25 +0000 <![CDATA[ Where In Spain And Portugal Offers The Best-Value Golf? ]]> Travel specialists Leading Courses have set out to examine, using their data, where the best value green fees can be found within Spain and Portugal on a regional basis.

To do this, they analysed the course ratings from verified golfers in the Golfers’ Choice rankings.

Across Continental Europe as a whole, there were 360 golf clubs which achieved a rating of 7.0 and above from golfers.

Of these, 243 fell into the Recommended category and 60 into the Outstanding category. Between them, Spain and Portugal have almost half of the Recommended courses.

Understanding the categories

Outstanding courses (ratings 8.5 and higher) tend to be bucket-list venues that many golfers aspire to play. Often highly priced, they are positioned at the pinnacle of the market. These courses aim to deliver unforgettable experiences that combine prestige, world-class design and exceptional service.

Recommended courses (ratings 7.5 to 8.5) represent the core of European golf. These are more the day-to-day courses that most golfers play, from regional member clubs to high-quality resorts. Although they may lack the prestige of the biggest names, these clubs provide reliable quality and often outstanding value for money.

View from the tee of Pine Cliffs' par-3 6th hole known as Devil's Parlour hole — The par-3 6th, Devil's Parlour, at the nine-hole Pine Cliffs course in the Algarve is one that will linger in the memory and 18 holes here need not strain the budget. (Image credit: Future)

Assessing Value

To access the value of a course, Leading Courses devised a Green Fee Value Index (GVI). This metric was calculated by dividing a club’s green fee by its rating, creating a euro-per-rating-point score. The lower the GVI, the greater the value.

As green fees often vary according to the time of year, Leading Courses used the highest available green fee in September, as that is when demand peaks and clubs reveal the value they attach to their product.

The ratings were taken from verified golfer reviews from the Golfers’ Choice rankings as of 1 January 2025.

Spain: The Findings

With more than 400 golf courses, Spain is Europe’s strongest destination for golf travel, attracting golfers from across the continent. The value for money picture, however, differs greatly by region.

Chart showing the GVI, as calculated by Leading Courses, for the regions of Spain — (Image credit: Future)

For example, Andalusia is the flagship region of Spanish golf. It sets the benchmark for luxury with ultra-high green fees and a concentration of resort and private courses that feature in the Outstanding category. International demand allows these clubs to price at the very top.

But the Basque Country is one of Spain’s most underrated golf regions. Courses such as Real Nuevo Club de San Sebastián Basozabal combine championship-level design with green fees that are far below the national average. This makes the Basque Country one of Europe’s best value destinations, offering top-tier golf in a setting defined by rugged coastline, gastronomy, and authenticity.

In between these extremes lies Catalonia’s market of two halves. On one hand, it has internationally known resorts such as PGA Catalunya, which command prestige pricing. On the other, its regional clubs provide accessible golf at mid-tier levels. This diversity creates one of the widest price spreads in Spain.

Portugal: The Findings

Portugal has a relatively compact golf market with around 80 courses, yet it plays a major role in international golf tourism. The Algarve is the country’s flagship destination where premium resorts dominate.

Chart showing the GVI, as calculated by Leading Courses, for the regions of Portugal — (Image credit: Future)

Around Lisbon and Cascais the market is split, with affordable member-oriented clubs on one side, and world-class venues such as Oitavos Dunes and West Cliffs on the other.

Madeira occupies a niche position where elevated prices are justified by the exclusivity of the island setting, although the number of courses is limited.

In contrast, Northern Portugal is the quiet achiever, with courses priced under €100 that still achieve solid ratings, making it the best value-for-money option in the country.

Five main conclusions

Premium doesn’t necessarily equate to poor value for money. Destinations such as Mallorca and the Algarve prove high-end markets can deliver good value if the experience matches the price.
Northern Spain offers Europe’s best value cluster. The Basque Country and Murcia have a euro-per-point metric which is among the lowest in Europe.
Island golf commands a premium: the Canary Islands and Mallorca operate at higher price levels than the mainland.
The mid-market courses rated between 7.5 and 8.5 consistently deliver the best value for money, offering strong experiences without the price inflation of the elite tier.
Value for money is regional, not national The data shows that regional differences can be larger than cross-border ones — comparing Andalusia to Murcia or Dublin to the Basque Country tells a more accurate story than comparing Spain with Portugal as a whole.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/where-in-spain-and-portugal-offers-the-best-value-golf 3uxEhfurtaRs9vpN8D6gfB Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:10:16 +0000 <![CDATA[ Fancy Sublime And Exotic Golf In A Country That Promotes Eco-tourism? ]]> Reserva Conchal

Reserva Conchal - Hole 9 — Looking back down the par-4 ninth at Reserva Conchal (Image credit: Reserva Conchal Resort)

GF: $155-$175
Stats: Par 71, 6,558 yards
W: reservaconchal.com

Costa Rica is an outstandingly beautiful country with a wealth of wildlife and a very healthy approach to the environment and sustainability. This ethos extends to the Reserva Conchal resort and particularly its Audubon International Certified golf course which is situated on the north-western coastline and stretches out between the mountains and the shimmering Pacific Ocean.

Reserva Conchal - Back 9 — An aerial view of the lush green course at Reserva Conchal (Image credit: Reserva Conchal Resort)

With the onsite hotels, private accommodation, and all manner of health, wellness and leisure facilities, this is a wonderful holiday destination, especially for those with birds, or indeed birdies, in mind. Play at this award-winning course is restricted to resort guests and property owners, and the lush, tropical layout was designed in 1996 by Robert Trent Jones Junior whose creation at Adare Manor will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. There are two loops of nine and the multiple tee placements mean it is playable by all.

Reserva Conchal - Holes 4-7 — Looking down on the stretch from the fourth (right of photo) to the seventh (Image credit: Reserva Conchal Resort)

A real feature of a round here is the chance to observe white-tailed deer, howler monkeys and iguanas, as well as many, exotic and colourful bird species. Water comes into play on a number of holes, with two memorable highlights being the par-3 17th which plays over a lagoon, and the closing hole where anything to the left will sink without trace.

While Costa Rica is not renowned for its golf, Reserva Conchal is a lovely course in an extremely beautiful country that is sure to enhance an eco-minded holiday for any keen golfer.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/fancy-sublime-and-exotic-golf-in-a-country-that-promotes-eco-tourism eHmij5j9vQupUnqYdDTuk4 Sat, 18 Oct 2025 13:59:43 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This The UK's Most Luxurious Golf Resort? ]]> With so many incredible links courses to consider, those planning a golf trip to the homeland often plot a route that hugs the coastline. While this is an obvious and understandable strategy, it shouldn’t be forgotten that Scotland is home to one of the most luxurious and impressive inland golf resorts anywhere in the world.

I am, of course, talking about Gleneagles and my first experience of this epic Perthshire estate was in 2003. Back then, I was on a day trip from university at St Andrews to watch Europe’s best compete in the Diageo Championship. Since then, I’ve returned a few times for various work (if you can call it that) reasons, but never had the chance to stay and play.

That was rectified this spring when I spent a glorious three days experiencing everything Gleneagles has to offer.

I’ll start my review by looking at the courses, of which there are three. The King’s and Queen’s were both designed by James Braid and opened in 1919. There are plenty of commonalities between the two – swathes of beautiful yellow gorse, stunning views of the rolling Perthshire countryside and a good mix of long and short holes. It is the differences, however, that make them a perfect pair.

GLF320.planetgolf.10_1 — (Image credit: Gleneagles Resort)

The King’s Course is slightly tougher and requires good, strong ball-striking to evade well-placed bunkers and keep the ball out of the gorse. To my mind, it has one of the most inviting opening holes anywhere in the world. A perfectly manicured tee plays out towards a generous fairway that stretches up to a green that sits on a ledge. The other hole that really stands out is the stunning, long par-4 15th. From the fairway, you play downhill to a beautiful green complex that sits in a bowl surrounded by gorse, with tall pine trees looming over and with the enticing par-3 16th in the background.

The Queen’s course is well protected by bunkers, with the par-4 8th being no exception (Image credit: Gleneagles Resort)

The Queen’s course is shorter than the King’s but it’s more strategic and, to my mind, one of the most enjoyable courses in our Top 100. A good example of the strategy required comes at the 433-yard par-4 12th. It plays from a high tee down towards a fairway that cuts in at the run-out area (around 280 yards from the back tees). If you can find this narrow stretch, you’re left with a short iron into a green that’s framed beautifully by tall trees. Then, the 18th really is a thing of beauty. You stand on the back tee and look down towards a hole that shapes gently to the left, with nine bunkers and the clubhouse to the left.

The PGA National is the younger sibling, having opened in 1993. Those familiar with Jack Nicklaus-designed layouts will know what to expect – notably annoyingly well-positioned bunkers and large greens that often sit at slight angles, which makes picking the right club one of the big challenges. What’s more, the host venue of the 2014 Ryder Cup offers some of the best views of the majestic countryside. A good example of this is the 8th, a shortish, risk-reward par 4. If you can avoid the collection of bunkers that line the fairway between 230 and 300 yards off the tee, you’re left with a straightforward pitch to the green. It plays downhill and the view from the top is up there with anything you’ll find in the UK.

● Off-course excitement

Eager to throw myself head first into the full Gleneagles experience, I didn’t put my feet up after golf but instead tried my hand at a variety of outdoor activities, including axe-throwing, fishing, falconry and clay-pigeon shooting. I enjoyed them all, but if pressed, my favourite was the shooting. After a brief period of instruction, I was straight into action and even competing against others in my group. It was great fun.

GLF320.planetgolf.gleneageles_strathearn_4_copy — The Strathearn restaurant is an incredible experience (Image credit: Gleneagles Resort)

The final piece of the jigsaw that makes Gleneagles a bucket-list destination (regardless of whether you’re into golf) is the luxurious hotel itself. From the beautifully understated and cosy rooms to the truly incredible experience on offer in the fine-dining Strathearn restaurant, every element is of the highest quality. One of my personal highlights was the glamorous American Bar, which boasts an extravagant cocktail menu.

As a contrast to Scotland’s rugged, windy links offerings, Gleneagles has three beautiful, challenging and fun courses and a hotel experience that oozes luxury every step of the way. Is it the UK's most luxurious golf resort? There are some incredible contenders but this one is definitely up there with the very best.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-this-the-uks-most-luxurious-golf-resort mgpEATebotP5SwDBYrrY6f Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:05:41 +0000 <![CDATA[ How Much It Costs To Play Bethpage Black ]]> Long Island’s Bethpage State Park, venue for the 2025 Ryder Cup, is the home of no fewer than five 18-hole courses.

In order of difficulty (from friendliest to toughest) is the Yellow Course, the Green Course, the Blue Course, the Red Course and the most famous of all, the Black Course.

The layout has acquired an almost mythical reputation for its difficulty, and not just because it is true, as many pros who have struggled during the high-profile events it has hosted through the years would attest.

It’s also because, for decades, a stark “warning” sign has greeted players as they make their way to the first tee (albeit not for the 2025 Ryder Cup as it was temporarily removed to accomodate the grandstand).

It reads: “WARNING - The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers.”

The origins of the sign are unclear, with some believing it was first affixed to an iron railing beside the course in the 1960s, and others dating its appearance to the 1980s.

The warning sign at Bethpage Black — A warning sign greets golfers at the first hole (Image credit: Getty Images)

However, if the intention was to persuade recreational golfers to think twice before booking a round at Bethpage Black, it didn’t work.

In fact, it has likely only added to the layout’s allure, with golfers regularly prepared to queue overnight for the chance to test their skills on a course known for its brutal challenges, including plateaued greens, punishingly deep bunkers and penal rough.

The data backs up its reputation, too. The Slope Rating, which measures the relative playing difficulty of a course for non-scratch golfers compared to scratch golfers, is 155 - the maximum.

Along similar lines, Course Rating indicates the difficulty of a course for a scratch golfer under normal conditions, with Bethpage Black’s set at 78.

The 14th hole at Bethpage Black — Bethpage Black is known for its difficulty (Image credit: Getty Images)

Standout holes include the par-5 fourth, with an uphill approach and huge bunkers. At the other end of the scale, the par-3 eighth features water directly in front of the green, while the putting surface starts out wide before narrowing the further back you land.

Big events the course has hosted include two editions of the US Open. In the first of those, the 2002 edition, winner Tiger Woods was the only player to finish under par.

Meanwhile, Nick Watney remains the only player to finish double-digits under par, at 10-under at the 2012 Barclays.

The course also hosted the 2009 US Open and the 2019 PGA Championship, while it's the venue for the 2025 Ryder Cup.

The fourth hole at Bethpage Black — Deep bunkers are a common feature of Bethpage Black (Image credit: Getty Images)

Unlike many top US courses, Bethpage Black is not limited to elite pros or the wealthy and influential members found at private courses. Rather, it, along with the other five layouts, is open to the public.

Compared to many other top public courses in the US, it's extraordinarily cheap. For example, the most a round at Bethpage Black will cost is $160 for out of state golfers on a weekend.

You can even play it for as little as $47 if you're a senior citizen or junior and reside in New York state.

Green fees for all five courses are listed below.

Bethpage Black Green Fees

Out Of State
Course	Weekdays	Weekends
Black Course	$140 ($88 twilight)	$160 ($100 twilight)
Red Course	$90 ($55 twilight)	$100 ($60 twilight)
Yellow/Green/Blue Course	$38 ($23 9 holes/twilight))	$43 ($26 9 holes/twilight))

New York State Residents
Course	Weekdays	Weekends	Senior Citizens/Juniors
Black Course	$70 ($40 twilight)	$80 ($50 twilight)	$47 (weekdays) $30 (twilight)
Red Course	$43 ($26 twilight)	$48 ($29 twilight)	$28 (weekdays) $17 (twilight)
Yellow/Green/Blue Course	$38 ($23 twilight)	$43 ($26 twilight)	$25 (weekdays - 18 holes) $15 (weekdays - 9 holes/twilight)

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Bethpage Black Location

Why Is Bethpage Black So Famous?

The course is famous for several reasons. One is the number of high-profile tournaments it has hosted, including the US Open twice, the 2019 PGA Championship and the 2025 Ryder Cup.

It is also notoriously difficult and has an iconic warning sign near the first tee stating it is only recommended for "highly skilled golfers."

Why Is Bethpage Black So Cheap?

The course is so cheap to play because it's a public course in Bethpage State Park, which is administered by the State of New York.

Green fees range between $47 and $160.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/usa/how-much-it-costs-to-play-bethpage-black yZWnvuSsfxqBRXkGvpfx4n Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:05:00 +0000 <![CDATA[ The Portuguese Golf Resort That Cleverly Blends Five-Star Luxury With A Sanctuary-Like Feel ]]> I’d been to Penha Longa in the Sintra region of Portugal before on a Wilson Golf press trip over 20 years ago, when I was equipment editor. But when I stepped through the entrance this time I remembered little.

Aerial view of Penha Longa Resort — An aerial view of the hotel and pool facilities at Penha Longa (Image credit: Penha Longa Resort)

I was really struck by its grandness, suggesting that it had either undergone a major renovation (almost certainly), that I had only played here and not stayed last time (quite possibly), and that my memory isn’t what it was (undoubtedly).

The monastery at Penha Longa — Looking down on the monastery at Penha Longa (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

But after three nights there in July 2025 with my wife and daughter, I doubt I’ll forget it again for many reasons, not least my first ever (I think) Michelin-starred dining experience in the extraordinary LAB by Sergi Arola restaurant.

More of that later, but first the golf, and I had definitely played what is now the Atlantic Championship course - a Robert Trent Jones Jnr creation and one of the best golf courses in Portugal - before, with clear visual recall (incredible, I know) of the uphill 1^st and memorable closing trio.

The Monastery nine-hole course at Penha Longa — I played the Monastery nine-holer for the first time on this trip... in a strong wind! (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

But I’d not previously played the Monastery nine-holer, which was where I started on the first morning, driving down past some of the resort’s rich monastic heritage to the par-3 opener and surprising myself by finding the green with a 6-iron hire club in a three-club wind (very good Titleist irons that I liked so much I seriously considered buying a set).

There were several good and very varied holes, with the 2^nd a long, very tight dogleg left in a strong crosswind with a steep climb to the green. What could possibly go wrong? Not too much it transpired, thankfully. The par-3 8^th was then all carry over water with the wind into and off the right. I was delighted to successfully guess that 7-iron was the perfect club from 136 yards.

Next morning, I was almost first out on the Atlantic Championship course, which I loved. There’s a great video on YouTube of Robert Rock’s wide-right approach to the par-5 6^th - where there’s water left and an ancient aqueduct right – ricocheting off the aqueduct onto the green, from where he holed for eagle.

The 7th hole at Penha Longa — I managed to grab myself a birdie on the 7th hole at Penha Longa the other side of the aqueduct (Image credit: Penha Longa Resort)

My ball sailed left into the lake from where, not surprisingly, it didn’t enjoy the same fortuitous rebound. But I did birdie the par-3 7^th the other side of the aqueduct, where water flanks the right side all the way.

Beyond the final trio of holes already mentioned – a down-and-up par 4 that’s kind of a mirror image of the 2^nd on the Monastery course, a near-200-yard drop hole and a tantalisingly tempting closing par 5 that allows you to open the shoulders – I would just mention the 11^th, a sharp dogleg right where the green winks at you cheekily and temptingly over the right-hand trees and scrub. Resist her Siren-like call, and stick to the safe dogleg route.

Off-course delights

Away from the fairways, what can I say? Soak up as much as you can of the resort’s monastic history, which gives this place a special retreat kind of feel even amid five-star luxury.

The Interpretive Centre at Penha Longa — This striking building is home to Penha Longa's Interpretative Centre (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

With an extra day over many press trips and only 27 holes of golf on the schedule, I got to extensively experience every pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub and even plunge pool plus most of the resort’s historic sites and eclectic mix of seven excellent restaurants.

The outdoor pool at Penha Longa Resort — Much time was spent in and around the outdoor pool at Penha Longa (Image credit: Penha Longa Resort)

Penha Longa Mercatto, with its informal Italian vibe, provides a light and airy space with a kind of conservatory feel and an extensive menu. It also doubles as the breakfast room, serving what my wife and daughter described as the finest morning spread they’ve ever been given free rein to indulge in at will.

The light and airy Penha Longa Mercatto restaurant doubles as the breakfast room (Image credit: Penha Longa Resort)

I think there may even have been one or two ‘eyes bigger than stomachs’ moments while I was away playing my early-morning rounds of golf.

As for Arola and LAB by Sergi Arola, this was dining on a different level for me and my family, especially LAB by Sergi Arola, which took you on a ride through regional Portuguese specialities upstairs before a five-dish delight downstairs in the main part of the restaurant. Truly different and exceptional.

LAB by Sergi Arola at Penha Longa — A dining experience unlike any my family had ever experienced at the Michelin-starred LAB by Sergi Arola (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

Then there was the chocolate workshop – the resort has a reputation for fine chocolate – which turned out to be a truly fascinating and enlightening experience in which we helped make our own chocolates (well, piped the Nutella into the centres).

Chocolate workshop at Penha Longa — We learned how chocolates are made one afternoon at the resort (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

Sadly, they didn’t ‘set’ in time for us to take them away, but my daughter was delighted to find that they miraculously appeared in the fridge in her room while we were out at dinner later that day.

A Junior Suite at Penha Longa Resort — A Junior Suite looking out over the Atlantic Championship course (Image credit: Penha Longa Resort)

Add in an afternoon trip to beautiful Lisbon plus wonderful spa experiences (massages for my wife and me, plus an elaborate facial for my daughter), coupled with relaxation time in the spa’s outdoor area, complete with Jacuzzi and a lovely walk featuring stepping stones across ponds replete with turtles and tiny frogs, and I like to think that even I won’t forget Penha Longa this time round.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/portugal/the-portuguese-golf-resort-that-cleverly-blends-five-star-luxury-with-a-sanctuary-like-feel dXGhmpHu9DASeM46mKkj4f Sun, 14 Sep 2025 16:54:59 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is Royal Marbella The Hidden Gem Of The Costa Del Golf? ]]> The south of Spain is an absolute no-brainer for a memorable golf trip given the near-perfect weather all year round and the abundance of excellent resorts to base yourself at. While you may naturally gravitate towards those that have golf on site for the sake of ease, this does also have its drawbacks - which is why you should really consider Royal Marbella Golf Resort, to which I travelled in late July earlier this year with my wife and two young children.

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It is situated about an hour from Malaga airport on the west side of Marbella - in truth it is just as close to Estepona further down the coast and Benahavis is also close by. With its terracotta colour scheme and modern design, Royal Marbella does have the luxurious ambience to match the grandeur of the name while also providing golfers, families and couples with a friendly welcome - we encountered all three of these demographics during our stay, demonstrating its versatile appeal.

You stay in modern, self-catering one, two or three-bedroom apartments with spacious rooms and open-plan lounge and dining areas as well as a balcony to soak in the scenery. You can cool off in two outdoor pools or recharge the batteries in a comfortable indoor space called The Hub where you can take a break from the sun, catch up on your emails or enjoy whatever sport is happening on the TV.

There is no restaurant or bar on site, but there is complimentary water and coffee available as well as a small shop to pick up essentials. We were treated to the ‘enhanced welcome pack’ on arrival to our apartment, which comprised a selection of food and drink (including some very palatable local wines) that set us up perfectly for the first day or so of our trip.

The Hub area at Royal Marbella golf resort — (Image credit: Royal Marbella)

There are seven championship golf courses within 10km of the resort and while hiring a car is probably the easiest way to access these (while also being able to experience what the local area has to offer), the resort is able to organise any transfers that you require - doing all the hard work for you and letting you focus on enjoying your golf. Royal Marbella can also book your tee times and in some cases gain small discounts on your green fees - it’s a service I’d recommend taking advantage of!

You can walk easily to El Paraiso golf club, a charming layout suitable for all levels of player. It meanders through the undulating terrain and water features early on before climbing to the top of the Andalusian hills at the conclusion of the 6th hole. The 7th and 12th tees in particular provide stunning views that make for a truly memorable round.

Joel Tadman hitting a drive off the 7th tee at El Paraiso golf club — Me teeing off the spectacular 7th hole at El Paraiso golf club (Image credit: Future)

The course let my family ride with me for my round (I don’t think this is commonplace - expect to be paired up with others if you’re playing solo pretty much everywhere in Spain) but you can expect impeccable conditioning and a huge amount of variety from El Paraiso - it’s a must-play should you base yourself at Royal Marbella and given its close proximity, it’s probably worth visiting more than once during your stay.

The next closest course is Atalaya golf club, which was the second of the two courses I played during our visit in late July (I tried to push my luck with a third but my wife was having none of it!). This course isn’t quite as visually arresting as El Paraiso but it is great fun nonetheless with its strategically-placed bunkers and small, challenging green complexes. While you naturally want to avoid the bunkers, the soft white sand was a joy to play out of and if you hit the ball a decent distance, you’ll have plenty of scoring opportunities.

5th green at Atalaya Golf — The green on the 5th hole at Atalaya Golf lined by trees on both sides (Image credit: Future)

These include the second and the eighth, both of which are par fives that become infinitely easier to score on after a good drive. I demonstrated this on the day by playing them in one under, including an approach shot that defied the laws of physics to pitch a foot from the hole and finish a foot behind directly in line with the cup. It’s quite tight in places, so you need to balance accuracy with distance to avoid both the bunkers and running into the wooded areas, especially on the short par fours, the 4th and 5th.

Other courses nearby include Marbella Golf and Country Club and La Quinta Golf Club, both of which I have had the pleasure of on previous visits to the area and can highly recommend, as well as the stunning Las Naranjos (picture above).

Away from the course you’ll find some delightful restaurants in both Marbella and Estepona if you do your research as well as long sandy beaches with water sports and cafes aplenty. Having experienced all that Royal Marbella has to offer, I know I would enjoy it with friends and family, ideal for those seeking a more relaxing golf break in the near-constant Spanish sunshine.

Visit the Royal Marbella Golf Resort website to find out more.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/spain/is-royal-marbella-the-hidden-gem-of-the-costa-del-golf p2uPUzk6End5d3R4GaC4Un Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:02:41 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Played Golf On An Active Volcano. Here's How You Can Too... ]]> Have you ever thought about playing golf in the foothills of one of the world's most active volcanoes? Well, neither had I until I was invited to explore eastern Sicily and the newly renovated Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa. Sicily isn’t famed for its golf, but luckily, this charming golf course and boutique hotel offer a unique experience that mixes golf and a series of quintessential Sicilian experiences that golfers and non-golfing friends and family can enjoy in equal measure.

The Setting

Mount Etna is the most active volcano in Europe. Sitting 11,000ft above sea level, I arrived in early June, a day after what the British press had described as a ‘major eruption sending tourists fleeing.’ Luckily, the locals, who are far more attuned to Etna’s comings and goings, weren’t too concerned about one of the volcano’s several yearly eruptions, and we headed up to the hotel as planned.

From Catania airport on the southeast of the island, Picciolo is an hour's ride up the curvy coastal and mountain roads. Secluded around 2000ft above sea level, the boutique hotel is a perfect place to base your stay to enjoy some characterful golf as well as everything eastern Sicily has to offer golfers and non-golfers alike.

The hotel

Il Picciolo Etna Hotel — (Image credit: James Hogg)

While Sicily’s charm at Etna’s majesty will be most tourists’ initial pull to the island, it will be Picciolo Etna Golf Resort and Spa that makes the trip all the more memorable. The resort's hotel and golf facilities have benefited from an £18 million renovation over the last five years, covering the clubhouse, the hotel, the golf course and a new collection of private villas dotted around the site.

My newly renovated room was, as one might expect, immaculate, with a charming private veranda overlooking a local vineyard and Mount Etna herself. Whether it was an espresso in the morning or an Aperol Spritz in the evening, there was a real sense of privacy and tranquillity at Picciolo that you don't often get visiting larger golf and spa resorts.

Picciolo Etna Resort pictured from above — (Image credit: James Hogg)

The hotel has recently become a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, a selection of independent, upscale hotels that have been selected for their character, charm and unique experiences. In total, 100 rooms (including suites, deluxe rooms and rooms in the clubhouse) make up the complex, which also benefits from two outdoor pools and a recently renovated spa. Next year, on-site villas will be added to further the options.

The luxury spa boasts a heated pool with hydromassage, a Finnish sauna and a Turkish bath, six private treatment cabins and much, much more for those who would rather put their feet up than walk the golf course. As one would rightfully expect at a Sicilian hotel, the food is plentiful, fresh and beautifully curated. Lunches on the clubhouse patio consisted of meat platters, fresh pasta and more wine than I normally like to enjoy at 2 pm on a weekday afternoon. Dinners were sublime. Our final night’s feast at La Ghiandaia restaurant featured a stunning tasting menu featuring some local dishes and the freshest ingredients.

The golf

A view from above of a fairway at Picciolo golf course — (Image credit: James Hogg)

The golf course is as tight as it is charming. Precision and patience are key around the 5,600-metre 18-holer, but that is easy to come by as you walk the well-conditioned fairways and greens with a more than regular glimpse of Mount Etna’s peak. With the volcano chuffing away above you and fairways occasionally separated by solidified lava fields, it can be hard to focus on the golf at hand and it was certainly one of the most inspiring venues I've ever played golf.

Such a tight course means the driver is very rarely needed. Even on the course's five par 5s, position off the tee significantly outweighs any distance gained with the big stick. I was using one of the many decent-quality rental sets and found the chunky 3-iron in the set was more than enough to take me around the course.

A view of the 18th hole at Picciolo golf — (Image credit: James Hogg)

Highlights include the 10th hole, a 200-yard par 3 with a smoking Mount Etna as your direct backdrop. The 9th and 18th holes stand out as two brilliant ends to either half of the course, with big dog leg tee shots that snake down the hill back towards the clubhouse.

Though quirky in its design, I couldn't fault its condition. The greens ran true and were quick enough to keep you honest, while the fairways were equally well presented. Entering this course with the right mindset will be key to getting the most from it. This isn't your classic resort course or bomber's paradise. Enjoy it as a test of your iron play and short game with some of the best views in Sicily, rather than somewhere to play a longest drive contest.

All abilities will be welcome here. For the better golfer, it's a tough test of your iron play and short game, while less experienced golfers will appreciate the variety of tee options and the lack of length you sometimes get at larger resort courses.

The island

Off the course, my trip was heightened and enlightened by the wealth of off-course activities that truly make Sicily a golf adventure like no other. The nearby towns of Savoca and Taormina are well worth a visit, with at least a day or two's adventuring to be had down on the coast, roughly 30km from the hotel reception. The former is famed for its role in the first Godfather movie, while the latter was the setting for season two of HBO's The White Lotus. Fans of the film or TV series will have a superb time roaming the streets, but these cute towns are absolutely worth a visit in their own right, with picturesque side streets and excellent restaurants and bars to experience, as well as some of the best views on the island.

During my stay, I also had the chance to tour a local vineyard, of which, as you might imagine, there are plenty to choose from in the rich soils of Sicily. A guided hike up the foothills of Etna is also something I would highly recommend during your time. A history and geography lesson all rolled into one, it gave me a far deeper understanding of the events that have shaped the island and an all-new appreciation of the power and majesty of Etna.

This certainly isn’t a likely destination for the lads' golf trip - Spain and Portugal still have you covered there. However, my time in Sicily opened my eyes to a very different kind of golf holiday, one that golfers and non-golfers alike can enjoy in equal measure. With such a wealth of activities off the golf course and a charming, premium boutique hotel to base yourself from, groups of all kinds can expect to enjoy everything eastern Sicily has to offer, with some of Sicily's best golf sprinkled on top.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/i-played-golf-on-an-active-volcano-heres-how-you-can-too KbE9EqiaTTJWgiLoz97PBQ Wed, 03 Sep 2025 18:17:26 +0000 <![CDATA[ We Reveal The World’s Most Exciting 20-hole Golf Course ]]> Barnbougle - Lost Farm

Lost Farm - Hole 4 — A look at the par-3 fourth from a different angle (Image credit: Getty Images)

GF: approx £130
Stats: Par 78, 6,673 yards - 20 holes
W: barnbougle.com.au

Tasmania is a ruggedly beautiful island state off the south-eastern coast of Australia, getting on for the size of Scotland but with a total population of fewer than 600,000. Its north coastline is home to the sensational Barnbougle Resort, whose original Dunes course opened just over 20 years ago and was designed by Tom Doak and Mike Clayton. Not only is it one of the most beautiful golf courses you will find anywhere, but it also features on many lists as one of the best links courses in the world.

Lost Farm - Hole 14 — The fourteenth is a driveable, risk/reward short par 4 (Image credit: Getty Images)

Immediately across the Great Forester River, its second course, Lost Farm, opened in 2010. It is blessed with not 18 but 20 holes of utopian golf from the brilliant and very creative partnership of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. The two are currently working on the eleventh course at Pinehurst, set to open in 2027. Considering its proximity to The Dunes, it could hardly be more different. Here, the sand dunes are significantly more dramatic and visual, but the wide fairways are inviting meaning that unless the wind is really strong, it is very playable and just that bit more forgiving.

Lost Farm - Hole 18 — The closing hole at Lost Farm is a strong par 4 (Image credit: Getty Images)

The bunkering is both visually and strategically strong, the greens will make you think, and the views are to die for. The two extra holes - 13a and 18a - are both par 3s and were simply too good to miss out from the design or for any golfer to play. Compared to many of the world's leading courses, golf here is also surprisingly good value.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/we-reveal-the-worlds-most-exciting-20-hole-golf-course ucsZqZ62Z6MoF24khqV3sU Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:49:56 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This Europe's Most Relaxing Golf Resort? ]]> In my experience, it’s extremely rare for a two-night trip to feel truly relaxing. Whether it’s an early morning start back in the UK, trouble with transfers or settling in, it can feel like the minute you start to unwind it’s time to check out.

This was most certainly not the case at Terre Blanche, the five-star hotel, golf and spa resort in Tourrettes, 45 minutes west of Nice in the south of France. From the moment we drove through the impressive-looking gates, a feeling of calm descended and remained for the duration of the trip.

The 750-acre property has a stunningly tranquil setting among the hills of Provence. It opened in 2004, after German Dietmar Hopp purchased the woodland estate from Sean Connery and set about transforming it into the luxury resort we see today.

He created 115 lavish suites and villas, each with a very secluded, exclusive feel, and employed Welshman Dave Thomas to design two 18-hole golf courses, which have gone on to acquire a big reputation of their own.

Looking down on the resort at Terre Blanche in France — Looking down on the Terre Blanche resort with its two fine golf courses (Image credit: Terre Blanche)

My introduction to Thomas’ work would have to wait until the morning though, as my first port of call was the Michelin-starred Le Faventia, one of four restaurants on site. The tasting menu was billed as seven courses, although that number didn’t seem to do it justice.

Maybe it was down to the accompanying local wine selection, but I’m sure it must have got into double figures by the time we called it a night. Maybe not the ideal preparation for an early morning tee time but quite an experience nonetheless.

Le Faventia restaurant at Terre Blanche in France — David enjoyed a Michelin-starred dining experience at Le Faventia restaurant (Image credit: Terre Blanche)

Onto the golf then, and I began proceedings on Le Chateau, the longer and apparently more challenging of the two layouts, which ranks among the best golf courses in France. It didn’t wait long to bare its teeth, with the par-5 opener requiring a precise drive to reach the corner of the dogleg and ensure a decent start.

The three-hole stretch around the lake from the 4th was the highlight of the front nine for me, with the split-fairway, par-5 6th, overlooked by the eponymous chateau, a real standout.

The advent of the back nine coincided with the end of my golfing form for the day, but unlike me, the course managed to maintain its quality throughout. It was another par 5, the 11th, which took the plaudits coming home.

The elevated tee lets you survey most of the challenge ahead before you descend and the green reveals itself tucked away on the right. The variety of holes continues until the very end of this testing layout, which was in immaculate condition throughout.

Seconds away, round two...

After a well-earned lunch, I had time for nine holes on the Riou course to see if I could turn around my golfing fortunes. This may be the shorter of the two, but it asks a few more strategic questions than the Chateau.

On the advice of head pro Vincent Jouhaud, I took on the back nine as it is laid out on the resort’s highest ground and offers some cracking views.

To carry on the theme of the day, it was another par 5 that caught my eye here, this time the downhill 18th where water is a threat throughout. I managed to walk off with a par and end on a slight high, before heading to the resplendent spa for a couple of hours, where any nagging doubts about my ability to hit a golf ball were soon forgotten.

The evening’s adventure came courtesy of La Gaudina restaurant, which may not have offered the theatre of the previous night, but still packed a real gastronomic punch.

The 18th hole on the Riou course at Terre Blanch — The impressive and testing 18th hole on the Riou course (Image credit: Terre Blanche)

The final morning allowed just enough time for a visit to the Albatros Golf Performance Centre before heading for home. The words ‘state of the art’ get used quite often to describe golf facilities these days, but I can honestly say I’ve not seen a more impressive set-up on my travels.

The driving range is stunning and the technology on offer will help highlight any flaws which need attention. A huge range of tuition options is available to guests of any age or ability.

Practice facilities at Terre Blanche in France — The practice facilities at Terre Blanche are truly impressive (Image credit: Terre Blanche)

Beyond the golf, restaurants and spa, the resort offers a vast outdoor infinity pool, kids’ club and tennis courts. There is also access to hiking and biking routes if you want to explore the nearby hills and villages.

The infinity pool at Terre Blanche resort in France — Relaxing in or around Terre Blanche’s infinity pool takes some beating (Image credit: Terre Blanche)

Everything about Terre Blanche says high-end and it’s the perfect set-up for couples or families looking to de-stress. No matter how short your stay, you’ll come away refreshed, even if your golf game can’t quite live up to the very grand surroundings.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/is-this-europes-most-relaxing-golf-resort xesVafyc1RgNJ5tAGMi5jw Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:01:09 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Found Portugal’s Best New Course… And Sergio Garcia Is Behind It ]]> There’s a part of Portugal I’d never seen before, and it felt a world away from the bustling fairways of the Algarve. To get to the new Terras da Comporta resort and the much-anticipated Torre course, Sergio Garcia’s first major design project, you journey approximately an hour and a half south of Lisbon on Portugal's Alentejo coast.

Once you leave the motorway, you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, heading down a straight, flat road in the middle of the countryside. As you get closer, endless rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see. I had no idea Portugal was so famous for them, but it was a surprise that set the tone for this evolving golf destination.

We were part of a media group, and were among the first to play the new Torre course ahead of its official opening. Afterwards, we got to chat with designer Sergio Garcia via video link, sharing our thoughts with him and hearing his perspective on his first solo design.

It's no secret that Garcia’s favourite golf course is Valderrama, and he's taken some of its best elements into his design at Torre. While it doesn't have Valderrama’s famously dense trees, the course features small greens, challenging bunkering, dog-leg holes and blind tee shots that add to the variety of the layout.

Torre Golf Course — (Image credit: James Hogg)

The first hole is very reminiscent of Valderrama, a downhill par-4 featuring a couple of tall pine trees that you have to negotiate on the approach to the green. At this point, it’s worth mentioning that there are six tees to choose from, allowing you to make this course as much of a risk-and-reward challenge as you like.

There are plenty of natural undulations and sandy waste areas, but what really struck me was the sheer beauty and expanse of the land, which is just incredible. It's certainly not a boring course, thanks to the mix of holes. And the best part is that it's playable for all abilities, which is exactly what Garcia wanted to create. It’s a thoroughly fair and enjoyable test, so there's no fear of coming off the 18th feeling demoralised, you'll want to have another go!

The par-3s at Torre are a highlight, and I'd describe them as some of the most fun and varied holes on the course. It's a deliberate design choice by Garcia to force you to think strategically about your shot and club selection.

Take the 5th hole, for example. It's the shortest of the four par 3s, but its challenge is far from straightforward. The green features a deep swale running through the middle and protected by bunkers, demands a precise shot to avoid a tricky up-and-down.

In complete contrast, the downhill par-3 13th hole, which Garcia highlights as one of his favourite holes, features one of the largest greens on the course. But from the elevated tee, all I could see was a putting surface completely surrounded by bunkers. This leaves absolutely no room for error, and a slightly wayward shot will almost certainly result in you finding the sand, just like I did.

Comporta Cafe's beachside setting (Image credit: Alison Root)

A buggy is a good idea on this course, especially for the climb between the 11th green and 12th tee. This stretch rewards you with a stunning view before you have to think your way around the 12th hole with its narrow fairway and small green with surrounding bunkers.

The round finishes on a high note, as the par-5 18th features a sweeping left-to-right fairway off an elevated tee. I had no option but to take the safer route, but more daring big hitters can take a chance over the sandy waste area to set up a potential eagle.

While a new clubhouse is in the works, a must-visit whether you play Torre or its sister course, Dunas, is the beachside setting of Comporta Cafe. The food and ambiance are fantastic, and it's the perfect way to cap off a great day of golf.

Quinta da Comporta Hotel infinity pool — Rustic meets refined lifestyle at Quinta da Comporta (Image credit: Frederic Ducout)

For our stay, we were based at Quinta da Comporta, one of the area’s luxurious boutique hotels. Located on the edge of the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, it’s a perfect wellness retreat where a rustic aesthetic meets a refined lifestyle. This feeling is everywhere, from the simplistic yet luxuriously decorated bedrooms to the first-class high-beamed restaurant using fresh ingredients from the hotel’s garden.

There was not time to experience the Oryza Spa or the infinity pool, which looks out over the rice fields, but I particularly liked the look of these. It's the kind of place where you feel immediately relaxed and at ease. I'd say it's most suited for couples looking for a tranquil escape rather than large groups of golfers.

As Garcia said about his golf course, “Our goal was to make a golf course that was beautiful, challenging, but at the same time the kind of course that when you finish playing, you can’t wait to come back and play it again.” He’s achieved that and this fast growing destination is doing that too.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/portugal/i-found-portugals-best-new-course-and-sergio-garcia-is-behind-it UwQYEhiS2h5uTPHJ9HPsKe Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:48:05 +0000 <![CDATA[ The Portuguese Golf Club Cristiano Ronaldo Wanted To Buy ]]> Oitavos Dunes

GF: €169wd, €201we
Stats: Par 71, 6,526 yards

Oitavos Dunes - Hole 7 — Looking back down the par-5 seventh hole (Image credit: Oitavos Dunes Golf Club)

Portugal is quite rightly a strong magnet for the holiday golfer. While much of the attention is focussed on the Algarve, the area around Lisbon has more than its fair share of golfing delights and sits south of Hidden Portugal, golf away from the crowds, further north beyond Porto.

Oitavos Dunes - Hole 13 — The par-5 thirteenth is well protected (Image credit: Oitavos Dunes Golf Club)

The capital is a beautiful destination city in its own right and highly recommended, while just a relatively short drive along the coast takes you to the westernmost point in mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca. Situated just below it in the lee of the Sintra Mountains is one of the very finest courses in the country; the challenging, dramatic and very scenic links at Oitavos Dunes.

Oitavos Dunes - Hole 14 - 1 — Looking down on the par-3 fourteenth with the turquoise Atlantic beyond (Image credit: Oitavos Dunes Golf Club)

It was designed by American Arthur Hills just after the millennium, very much with ecology as a primary concern. It subsequently became the first course in Europe to be recognised as an Audubon Gold Signature Sanctuary course. It is remarkably natural and unspoiled, and packed with excellent holes, especially the par 3s.

Oitavos Dunes - Hole 14 - 2 — The fourteenth is the first of two lovely, back-to-back short holes (Image credit: Oitavos Dunes Golf Club)

The course has hosted the Portuguese Open on four occasions and runs through an enjoyably contrasting mixture of mature forest with umbrella pines as well as some gently undulating dunesland that serves up far-reaching views of the ocean and the nearby mountains.

Oitavos Dunes - Hole 15 — The par-3 fifteenth is the final short hole at Oitavos Dunes (Image credit: Oitavos Dunes Golf Club)

Not so long ago, there was talk of footballing megastar Cristiano Ronaldo looking to buy the club so that he could knock it down as it is right next to one of his homes. Let's hope this doesn't happen as Oitavos Dunes is undoubtedly one of the best courses in Portugal and well worth seeking out if you are over in this lovely part of the world.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/the-portuguese-golf-club-cristiano-ronaldo-wanted-to-buy K2eLARUYumUu4oTMvQUhok Sat, 07 Jun 2025 17:16:00 +0000 <![CDATA[ Erin Hills Green Fees: How Much It Costs To Play The 2025 US Women’s Open Venue ]]> Erin Hills, located around 35 miles from Milwaukee in Wisconsin, is a relatively young course, having only opened in 2006, but it hasn’t taken it long to become established as one of the best in the US.

The course was built by a local developer and, over time, the ambition to bring the US Open to the venue grew. Just 11 years after it opened, that was realized when the Major was held at the course for the first time, when Brooks Koepka won the title.

However, that wasn’t the first big tournament to be held there, with test runs in the form of the 2008 US Women’s Amateur Public Links and 2011 US Amateur.

Five years after Koepka’s maiden Major triumph, it hosted the US Mid-Amateur, while in 2025, the US Women’s Open will come to the course for the first time, where the likes of Nelly Korda, Jeeno Thitikul and Lydia Ko will tee it up in a star-studded field of 156.

But what is it about the course that has already attracted some of the game’s most famous events?

The course is a links-style layout, which, if you didn’t know better, might trick you into thinking you were in Ireland or Scotland rather than the US Midwest. Even though it is inland, there are several elements that certainly resemble the famous links courses of those countries, including wide, treeless fairways, fescue and natural rolling terrain.

The 6th at Erin Hills — The course opened almost 20 years ago (Image credit: Getty Images)

When Koepka won the US Open at Erin Hills in 2017, he equaled the US Open’s lowest winning score of 16 under, leading some to suggest the course didn’t offer a test stern enough for a Major typically known for its brutal difficulty, but one of the reasons was that the wind was generally low that week. However, anyone wishing to play the course shouldn’t expect similarly calm conditions.

Whether benign weather tames the course or wind allows it to bear its teeth, it is open to the public. Reservations can be made online, with 2025 green fees ranging from $375 to $455, depending on the time of year you play. Meanwhile, it is $265 for active or retired military personnel, with the cost for juniors set at $195.

The base service fee for a caddie is $55 with a suggested gratuity of $75, while a forecaddie is $55 for a group with a suggested gratuity of $35. Golf clubs can be rented for $85 per player.

The 13th at Erin Hills — Erin Hills is open to the public (Image credit: Getty Images)

There are also options to stay at Erin Hills, with a night in it’s Irish country-inn style accommodation, The Lodge, costing between $250 and $1,360 depending on time of year and suite chosen. There are also cottages with costs ranging between $2,000 and $2,350.

Those staying overnight will be charged a $375 green fee with a $190 fee for a second round at the course.

Erin Hills Green Fees

Player	June 7 – September 28	September 29 – October 18
Adult	$455	$375
Military (active or retired)	$265	$265
Junior	$195	$195
Erin Hills Guest 1st Round	$395	$395
Erin Hills Guest 2nd round	$190	$190

Erin Hills Location

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/usa/erin-hills-green-fees D4VudRBVwtmXmDJB6Lyb45 Thu, 22 May 2025 19:47:16 +0000 <![CDATA[ Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca Stands Out For Many Reasons... And It May Be My New Favorite Golf Resort ]]> When I received the invitation to check out Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca I was intrigued, especially as Mallorca is an area I had heard good things about, but never visited.

For such a small island, there are 24 courses at its disposal, with three of those falling under the Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca umbrella, which also boasts the 9-hole Palma pitch and putt, as well as two stunning hotels - Castillo Hotel Son Vida and Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel.

What's more, its hillside location couldn't be more prime as it's positioned just 15 minutes from the airport, with the bustling capital of Palma sandwiched between the two.

A view of Palma from the balcony at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

Making the short journey from airport runway to hotel driveway, I was greeted by the visually stunning castle-style hotel of Castillo Hotel Son Vida, which dates back to the 13th century.

Sitting on a cliff-top, it provides a view that would have you wanting to soak up the sunlight with an ice cold beverage in hand.

The sun was beaming and, with the hotel overlooking Palma and its Bay, I was a guest at the beautiful, five-star accommodation that has hosted numerous celebrities, royalty and now a 27-year-old from Oxfordshire.

The pool and view of the hotel at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

The Castillo Hotel Son Vida possesses 164 rooms and suites, and I was lucky enough to stay in one of the Deluxe Rooms, which provided incredible views of the Resort's gardens, as well as the Bay of Palma.

Classic and Grand Deluxe Rooms are also available, with all three options beautifully decorated in stylish, warm colorways and themes that immediately make you feel comfortable and relaxed.

A general view of a room in Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

Castillo Hotel Son Vida is the more 'adult' option of the two hotels; however, if you are wanting a more family-friendly option, or are a golfing group, the Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel is just a stone's throw away.

Adjacent to Son Vida Golf Course, this hotel has 93 rooms and, option-wise, these include Superior, Junior and Family accommodation, with all featuring a contemporary, light interior.

The Sheraton Hotel at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

Both hotels offer multiple dining options and, in total, there are seven restaurants to choose from that serve-up a range of fresh, delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

The Resort also boasts an array of spa facilities, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and paddle courts and health facilities, including gyms and wellness programs.

Most importantly though, for golfers, there is direct access to the Resort's golf facilities via a complimentary shuttle bus service.

This bright gold bus, which you can't miss, runs regularly between the two hotels and the three golf courses of Son Muntaner, Son Vida and Son Quint, allowing for stress-free travel when your tee time draws near.

A golfer hits a putt on the green at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

In addition to the stunning scenery and the aesthetic of the accommodation, all three golf courses are unique in their own way and, personally, present a non-typical resort-like challenge.

What I mean by this, is that all three courses are challenging in their own way and, unlike some resorts that provide much of the same in terms of layout, Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca has a variety of courses for different skills and ability levels.

To begin with, Son Vida is the oldest course on the island of Mallorca and, as part of its history, has had a certain Seve Ballesteros win around its layout.

The front nine is a tough, but fair, test of golf, as positional play is a crucial part. The challenge is softened, though, by the view from the tee boxes as the Bay of Palma and natural landscape appears before you.

After the tough opening stretch, the back nine, particularly the final third, becomes more scoreable, with plenty of chances available to come in with a strong result.

The 18th green at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca's Son Vida course — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

It's a delightful test and, like the other courses Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca possesses, the clubhouse is a perfect location for chatting to your buddies after your round, in a relaxed atmosphere.

Moving to the Resort's championship course offering, Son Muntaner, which has hosted tournaments on the DP World and Ladies European Tour as recently as 2023.

Equipped with a Toptracer driving range, feature-packed buggies and clubhouse views of the course, it's once again an excellent layout with some superb holes and a different test to that of Son Vida and Son Quint.

For example, water is in the fray on numerous tee shots throughout and, when it comes to the design, it uses the natural landscape brilliantly, with very well-framed, picturesque tee shots one of the main stand-outs.

An aerial shot of Sun Muntarer at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca — (Image credit: Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca)

The final course of the three is Son Quint and, although I was unable to play it on my visit, I have been informed it is the more friendlier of the three in terms of scoring and walkability. Also, back in July 2022, Tiger Woods played the course with his son, Charlie, so if it's good enough for a 15-time Major winner, it's certainly one to try out.

Put simply, you'll be hard pressed to find a better location and offering than Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca, which is perfect for both the golf-lover and non-golfer.

Not only is it easily accessible, in a perfect setting and stacked full of restaurant options catering for every pallet, its range of activities on, and close to the Resort, make it a must-visit not just in Mallorca and the Mediterranean, but the whole of Europe.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/arabella-golf-resort-mallorca-stands-out-for-many-reasons-and-it-may-be-my-new-favorite-golf-resort oncke3Lg4ejYJcrzW2dxPj Sat, 17 May 2025 15:22:26 +0000 <![CDATA[ A Nation Known For Its Stunning Coastal Golf Is Also Home To This Must-Visit Parkland Beauty ]]>

GF - Approx £125

Stats - Par 72, 6,728 yards

Royal Wellington

Dating back to 1895, the club shares a birthday with several courses in the Golf Monthly Next 100, including Crowborough Beacon. It relocated to its current site a few miles to the north of the capital alongside the beautiful Hutt River in 1908. It has hosted the New Zealand Open seven times, and in 2004 became the first club in the country to be awarded Royal patronage.

Despite being highly-rated, it was generally felt that the course didn’t quite live up to its potential. As a result, there was a long-term upgrade by Turner Macpherson Golf Design which officially opened in 2014. There are now 27 holes, the 18-hole championship Heretaunga course, and the Terrace nine.

Royal Wellington - Hole 5 — The par-4 fifth is flanked by a stream which must be crossed from the tee and on approach (Image credit: Royal Wellington Golf Club)

This lush course offers a terrific mix of the old and the new on an ever-changing landscape. Many holes run through mature trees and all manner of exotic flora. The bunkering throughout is visually striking.

Royal Wellington - Hole 17 — The penultimate hole is a short, but tight, par 4 (Image credit: Royal Wellington Golf Club)

Each of the four par 3s is excellent and different from the others, and one of the most significant features is the characterful, undulating greens. This is especially the case at the par-3 8th where there is a valley of sin between the front and back.

Royal Wellington - Hole 18 — The closing hole is a par 5 that is well bunkered and overlooked by the lovely, colonial-style clubhouse (Image credit: Royal Wellington Golf Club)

From every perspective, this is a fabulous course to play, and if you are lucky enough to visit this lovely part of the world, a game at Royal Wellington Golf Club comes highly recommended. This is undoubtedly one of the best golf courses on the North Island, and there are plenty more to try out in the area.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/a-nation-known-for-its-stunning-coastal-golf-is-also-home-to-this-must-visit-parkland-beauty 2fxhNHrtfBbvksCq9Tpm2d Thu, 15 May 2025 17:05:07 +0000 <![CDATA[ Want The Luxury Of A Dubai Golf Trip Without The Intense Buzz Of The City? Al Zorah's Celebrity Hive Might Be Exactly What You're Searching For... ]]> What do legendary British comedy duo, Ant and Dec, four-time F1 World Champion, Alain Prost and little old me all have in common? The answer most certainly does not involve high fame or rich golfing ability, I can assure you - I'm quite confident I let the group down (badly) in that regard.

Instead, it's that we all experienced the breathtaking new clubhouse at Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club in Ajman earlier this year - the first GEO-certified establishment in the area. We didn't go together, I should quickly point out, but instead happened to briefly cross paths during late March.

Officially opened in February, just in time to host a successful HotelPlanner Tour event - won by Italy's Renato Paratore - Al Zorah GC's fresh jaw-dropping structure is both eye-catching yet subtle and sits proudly at the golf course's highest point.

The positioning and grandeur of said clubhouse makes it the obvious crown jewel in Al Zorah's golf complex. Neatly tucked away inside the spacious multi-purpose building, guests can make use of a chic lobby, dining area, boutique-style pro shop, meeting rooms, changing rooms and gym as well as the beautiful patio or balcony which overlooks the outdoor pool.

Located on the outskirts of Ajman, a 30-45-minute drive up the coast from Dubai International Airport, Al Zorah possesses the ideal level of tranquility without feeling isolated from the major city hubs nearby.

The inside of Al Zorah's new clubhouse (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

As well as entertainers and racing drivers, golf-enthused cricketers and soccer players are also known to have stopped by in a bid to enjoy the serenity this authentic slice of the UAE has to offer.

If you're looking for the luxury of Dubai but with a slightly more peaceful tone, Ajman and Al Zorah are the places to go.

Another key element to the site's appeal is its award-winning golf course and one million square feet of surrounding mangrove forest, with Ajman neatly tucked in behind. Best experienced from the clubhouse balcony, it's the kind of view which gives you a clearer picture of what a golfing nirvana might look like, especially during the golden hour.

Opened in 2015, the par-72 course is a Jack Nicklaus design which examines every part of your game courtesy of 88 bunkers, two lakes and a host of elevation changes. It was named the Middle East's Best Golf Course at the 2024 World Golf Awards and - unsurprisingly - was far too tough for this mid-handicapper. But then again, most places are...

A general view over the 18th green and of Al Zorah's clubhouse at sunset — Al Zorah's 18th green and clubhouse (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

My favorite hole was the long par-4 ninth. The view up towards the clubhouse is simply sublime and almost makes you forget what a long and tough hole you have in front of you. For what it's worth, I think the two nines are the wrong way round and the course should finish with said view, but I won't argue with the experts and Al Zorah is a wonderful place to play nonetheless.

A vital part of the aforementioned wonderment involves the comforting blanket of mangroves which wrap around much of the golf course. The shrubs are particularly important to Al Zorah as the circa 400,000 plants with roots in the ground store vast amounts of carbon and thrive in a climate most other timber could barely cope with.

A general view of the mangrove forest surrounding Al Zorah and Ajman in the background (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Central to the Golf and Yacht Club's passionately-executed sustainability initiative includes the doubling of that current number, and thanks to the dozen or so more that our group of 12 added, it has already made steady progress.

Said trees and multiple interconnected natural lagoons are also home to a plethora of various wildlife species, from birds to fish and small mammals. The changing tides, which stretch from the nearby Persian Gulf, help enrich life in the area and ensure wildlife lovers can enjoy their trip as much as the avid golfer. The moving waters also give two contrasting looks to large parts of a course which is already incredibly special.

Flamingos in a lake at Al Zorah — Flamingos in a lagoon at Al Zorah (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

In the coming months and years, Al Zorah plans to greatly expand its nature reserve while continuing to operate ecological initiatives four times a year. As someone who not only loves golf but is incredibly conscious of the environment and climate change in particular, Al Zorah's attempt at striking this balance provides me with a huge amount of comfort.

And as if I had any doubt, the golf club's quest to put the natural environment first was perhaps summed up when I enquired whether the increasingly-popular night golf would be implemented at some point in the future. Al Zorah's General Manager, Philip Henderson, told me that aside from the club's 350m floodlit driving range, golf would not take place after sunset while he was in charge as the excess light and noise pollution would upset the very ecosystem he takes such great pride in overseeing.

PGA pro Charlie Dell during a coaching session — Al Zorah's PGA pro, Charlie Dell, during a coaching session (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

After sampling almost everything that the golf club had to offer - including the immense food and a much-needed on-course lesson with the club's gem of a pro, Charlie Dell - we headed back to the outstanding Oberoi Hotel, just a five-minute drive away and down far quieter roads than the ones we had painstakingly navigated when departing the airport.

Stay-and-play rates at the Oberoi, which include breakfast at the hotel and 18 holes at Al Zorah, start from AED405pp per night, an absolute snip when you consider the quality of the accommodation on offer.

A general view of the Oberoi Hotel in Al Zorah (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Ocean view apartments with more than enough space to house a family, two restaurants, the longest pool in the UAE (75m) and a private beach are just some of the luxuries on offer at this sublime location.

While I can't guarantee that you will bump into any celebrities while you're there, I can promise that Al Zorah possesses a wonderful mix of privacy and style which will make you feel like a star. It's an absolute must-visit in the United Arab Emirates and somewhere I will remember forever.

For more information, visit the Al Zorah website.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/uae/al-zorah-golf-dubai-new-clubhouse zR4ViNvqCaWk3DCoHpphJm Wed, 07 May 2025 15:33:25 +0000 <![CDATA[ Bohemian Rhapsody: Why This Undiscovered European Golfing Destination Deserves Far More Attention ]]> Until last October I had only once played in the Czech Republic. That was back in 2007, and it hardly stopped raining which meant we barely squelched our way out onto any of the courses near the capital and over to the east. I was therefore excited to be returning to a country now preferring its post-revolution name, Czechia. After flying to Prague, this time I would be heading west in the country’s largest region, Bohemia.

Karlovy Vary

Travelling with four other golf writers - from France, from Sweden and two from the States - our first port of call was Karlovy Vary. This is the oldest club in the country dating back to 1904, and its original course was a 9-holer. In 1933, it relocated to its current, densely-wooded site and a full 18 holes. Now, when I say densely-wooded, I do mean densely-wooded! If you’ve played it, then by comparison I would describe the Duchess’ at Woburn as very forgiving off the tee. Despite that, it’s a classy and interesting course with five par 5s and five short holes.

Karlovy Vary - Hole 13 — The thirteenth green with the clubhouse beyond (Image credit: Karlovy Vary Golf Club)

Here we were joined by Czech professional, Klara Spilkova, winner of the 2022 Women’s Irish Open and a former world Top 100 golfer. Charming, funny and very friendly, she is a perfect ambassador for golf in her country. Witnessing my flailing, faltering attempts to get out of a greenside bunker on the penultimate hole, she kindly gave me a bunker lesson that has really paid dividends… for now, at least. Buoyed by this, I narrowly missed my birdie putt on the uphill par-5 closing hole, and I look back on this as a course that keeps improving all the way.

Karlovy Vary - Rob and Klara — Rob with leading professional Klara Spilkova and optimistically-attired Swedish golf writer, Bobbi Holmen (Image credit: Rob Smith)

That night, following an excellent dinner at the nearby award-winning Le Marché, we stayed at the Grand Hotel Pupp. This historic and stately spa hotel dates back to 1701. The English name for Karlovy Vary is Carlsbad, and the town is home to one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals with many of its visitors such as Morgan Freeman and Renee Zellweger staying here. Scenes from Casino Royale with Daniel Craig were filmed at the hotel, although bafflingly they didn’t ask me to pose for their star-studded gallery. The following morning, we enjoyed a guided walking tour of the picture postcard town under a bright blue sky, sampling the spa waters and the Carlsbad wafers, a local speciality.

Cihelny

It’s a short drive through the wooded hills to Cihelny Golf and Wellness Resort, but everything seems to change as you leave sophisticated suburbia for this pretty, rural location and its modern hotel and course. Originally known as Astoria, it is the only Gary Player Design creation in the country and opened for play in 2001. There are two quite different loops of nine, with the opening holes on the southern, slightly more undulating side. You need to have your wits about you, especially when crossing the railway line following the tiny, downhill par-3 5th.

Cihelny - Aerial 2 — An eagle's eye view of the back nine at Cihelny (Image credit: Cihelny Golf Resort)

There are plenty of doglegs where positioning from the tee is important, as well as a number of ponds, lakes and the snaking River Teplá which is the same river that goes on to bisect Karlovy Vary. I very much enjoyed the local food and the friendly service, while my room was spacious, comfortable and peaceful. Its spa includes Thai massage, a herbal sauna and much more. The nearby village of Loket and its scenic and historic castle are well worth visiting, as is its St Florian restaurant and brewery.

Sokolov

A few miles further west and the landscape changes again. Up on the plains at about 1,500 feet, Sokolov is an old industrial town. Its golf course is a remarkable transformation of an old coal mine 20 years ago by German architect, Christoph Städler. The exposed setting means that wind is more of a feature here, and again there are five par 3s and five par 5s offering variety and the chance of a birdie.

Sokolov - Hole 9 — The front nine closes with a par 3 played towards the old, industrial town (Image credit: Rob Smith)

There is plenty of space with far-reaching views of the distant mountains. I particularly enjoyed the elevated par-3 5th and the serpentine par-5 8th which claws its way up to a well-sited green. The back nine is just as strong, especially the short 13th which plays over a pit of doom, and the excellent three-shotter at 15 which keeps veering right for so long that you think you must be heading back towards the tee.

Sokolov - Hole 15 - RS — Looking back down the snaking par-5 fifteenth hole (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The atmosphere in the clubhouse was lively and friendly, and it was clear that plenty of non-golfing locals like to come along to enjoy the food and atmosphere. Following a very enjoyable lunch, we headed down to the lovely spa town of Mariánské Lázně, also known as Marienbad. Here we stayed at another exquisite, old-school, grand spa hotel, the Nové Lázně. Wellness is a major feature of this region with plenty of international travellers arriving to take the waters and many treatments on offer.

Royal Mariánské Lázně

Royal Marianske Lazne - Hole 6 — Looking down on the sixth green at Royal Mariánské Lázně (Image credit: Royal Marianske Lazne Golf Club)

Having a passing interest in the many regally-endowed clubs dotted around the world, Royal Mariánské Lázně was a name I already knew. If Karlovy Vary is the oldest club in the country, then this is the oldest course, opening in 1905. It has a rich history and has hosted many important events. Seve Ballesteros and Bernhard Langer competed in the Czech Open in 1994, while Rory McIlroy represented GB&I here in the St Andrews Trophy in 2006. And now it was my turn!

Royal Marianske Lazne - Hole 2 — A bird's-eye view of the signature second hole (Image credit: Royal Marianske Lazne Golf Club)

The par is 72 with three par 5s and three short holes. Unusually, two of the par 3s are consecutive and they close the front nine. The signature hole might just be the par-5 2nd which is one of two newer holes from 1978 that are sequestered away outside the original boundary of the course. It plays down to an attractive green with a pond to the left from which a stream crosses to enforce an aerial approach.

Royal Marianske Lazne - Clubhouse — The characterful clubhouse at Royal Mariánské Lázně (Image credit: Royal Marianske Lazne Golf Club)

I also very much enjoyed the par-4 7th with its awkwardly positioned ditch, and throughout the round you feel that you could be playing in Scotland. En route to our final destination, we stopped off at the Pilsner Brewery for a fascinating tour of this huge multinational enterprise while sipping some tasty samples.

Greensgate

Prior to playing our final course, Greensgate, we enjoyed another very good dinner in the clubhouse before an overnight stop in its dormy hotel. Formerly the Pilsen Golf Club but now saddled with one of golf’s less enticing names, my expectations hadn’t been high. Happily, apart from a Hollywood style sign festooning the hillside behind the otherwise excellent par-3 7th, everything exceeded expectations.

Greensgate - Hole 16 — The sixteenth at Greengate is a beautiful par 4 (Image credit: Greensgate Golf Resort)

Greeted in the morning by a thick mist, our start was delayed and so the first few holes are literally a hazy memory, though I do remember thinking they were probably very good! The mist lifted after an hour or so to reveal an attractive, undulating and pleasingly varied course in fine shape. There are plenty of memorable holes, none more so than the par-3 11th played to an island green out in the lake.

Greengate - Hole 18 and Clubhouse — With the clubhouse and dormy house beyond, the eighteenth at Greengate is a strong par 4 (Image credit: Greensgate Golf Resort)

My favourite was the two-shotter 16th that skirts the River Klabava. You drive from way up high while the green is flanked by the river on the left and a steep bank on the right. A real beauty of a hole on a lovely course. And no, I’m not just saying that as I managed a par!

Greensgate - Hole 11 — Rob with fellow writers on the island green at the eleventh at Greensgate (Image credit: Rob Smith)

From a personal and quite subjective perspective, I would say that the courses improved every day with the final one being my personal pick of the bunch. Others, I am sure, would feel quite differently.

For more information, please visit the Czech Tourism golf website.

For those keen to visit somewhere new and unexpected, where golf is reasonably priced, varied, of good quality and plentiful, and where there is history, culture and much more besides, Bohemia is an ideal golf and wellness destination.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/bohemian-rhapsody-why-this-undiscovered-european-golfing-destination-deserves-far-more-attention JmFAm46PDtJvrkMbe3yBpN Mon, 07 Apr 2025 18:52:09 +0000 <![CDATA[ Europe's Original Golfing Playground Has It All... So When Are You Visiting? ]]> Spain’s fabulous Costa del Sol, or Sun Coast, stretches for the best part of 100 miles as the black-headed gull flies, all the way from Gibraltar across to Nerja. It is home to many of the best golf courses in Spain. Starting with the contrasting Links and Heathland courses at Alcaidesa in the west, all the way to Baviera Golf in the east, there are something like 70 courses of varying style and magnitude. Such is the wealth and variety on offer, it is sometimes now known as the Costa del Golf. It is home to some of the very best golf courses in the country including Real Valderrama, site of the 1997 Ryder Cup, as well as former hosts of the Spanish Open such as San Roque and Torrequebrada.

Valderrama - Hole 17 — The famous par-5 seventeenth at Real Valderrama (Image credit: Real Valderrama Golf Club)

Many familiar names have established themselves since the arrival of the Real Club de Golf at Sotogrande which is still going, stronger than ever, after more than 60 years. The region is filled with golf of every conceivable type, suiting all budgets and tastes.

La Reserva - Hole 18 — The closing hole at the excellent La Reserva (Image credit: La Reserva Golf Club)

Not far from Valderrama, the Costa’s western end is home to more top-quality golf at La Reserva, an excitingly varied Cabell Robinson creation, and at Finca Cortesin, home of the tied Solheim Cup in 2023. The Puerto Banus region just to the west of Marbella is a particularly strong hotbed of golf with several excellent courses including the 27-hole complex at La Quinta. This was designed by Manuel Pinero and has panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Sierra Blanca mountain range. Sloping fairways and deep bunkers add to the challenge but water also comes regularly into play.

Aloha - Hole 1 — Looking back up the opening hole at Aloha (Image credit: Aloha Golf Club)

Close by are two of the very finest courses in the district; Real Las Brisas where Nick Faldo won the Spanish Open in 1987 and which was revamped by Kyle Phillips just over a decade ago, and beautiful Aloha with its two very different loops of nine and which this year celebrates its 50th birthday. The Costa del Sol is an ideal holiday destination for golf and a great deal more.

Las Mijas

Lagos - Par 72, 6,897 yards
Olivos - Par 70, 6,111 yards
W: mijasgolf.org

Mijas is one of the biggest golfing names on the Costa del Sol as well as one of its oldest clubs. There are two strong and interesting courses, with the Lakes the longer and more demanding. As you would expect from Robert Trent Jones Senior, water features extensively, as does his bold and distinctive bunkering.

Las Mijas - Lagos - Hole 9 — The ninth hole on the Lagos Course at Mijas (Image credit: Mijas Golf Club)

The Olives is shorter with the emphasis on accuracy rather than length. It has five short holes and three par 5s, as well as further expansive bunkering and a large double green shared by the tenth and seventeenth.

Real Sotogrande

Par 72, 6,404 yards
W: golfsotogrande.com

Back in the 1960s, Sotogrande became one of the very first well-known holiday destinations for sun-seeking golfers. Also designed by Trent Jones Senior, his first creation in Europe, it has constantly reinvented itself to meet the ever-increasing expectations of its visitors.

Real Sotogrande - Hole 7 — The par-4 seventh is a tough hole with a relatively small green (Image credit: Real Sotogrande Golf Club)

The course is kept in tip-top condition and benefited from a comprehensive refurbishment a decade ago. Many consider it to be a worthy rival for nearby Real Valderrama, and while not especially intimidating from the tee, its main defence is the elevated and sloping greens which mean that the golfer must plot a route strategically and carefully.

San Roque

Old - Par 72, 6,590 yards
New - Par 72, 6,648 yards
W: sanroquegolfresort.com

This is another of the region’s leading clubs boasting two fine courses. The Old was designed by Dave Thomas and Tony Jacklin, with Seve Ballesteros later adding his flair to the bunkering. It twists and turns through housing and apartments, and a substantial upgrade five years ago has been met with widespread acclaim.

San Roque - Old - Hole 17 — The penultimate hole on the Old Course is a par 5 (Image credit: San Roque Golf Club)

The New, or San Roque II, was designed by Perry Dye, again in collaboration with Seve, just over 20 years ago. This is quite different and has recently been undergoing a significant refurbishment to bring it up to the standards of the Old.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/europes-original-golfing-playground-has-it-all-so-when-are-you-visiting t9ZGh3wE3RpTFe8pRyPjSN Sat, 05 Apr 2025 11:43:24 +0000 <![CDATA[ Hidden Portugal - Golf Away From The Crowds ]]> While many of the most famous and best golf courses in Portugal are in the resorts further south, there is a different story to tell relating to heading off piste and centring a tour around Porto. This enchanting and romantic city sprawls along the hillside lining the Douro river as it emerges into the Atlantic. It is the nation’s second-largest city and the ideal start, end or both for a golfing trip to the region. It is packed with remarkable buildings, superb restaurants and enough attractions to warrant a visit in its own right. Just on the southern outskirts of the city is Oporto.

Oporto - Hole 16 — The short sixteenth at the oldest course in the region, Oporto (Image credit: Rob Smith)

Dating back to 1890, this is the oldest club on the Iberian peninsula. It is a traditional links along flat ground with a clubhouse that oozes history and bygone times. The opening holes are closest to the shore, but the back nine is the stronger of the two, especially the closing four which are more dramatic with water coming into play on them all. Also close to the city centre, Miramar is a fun 9-holer that was founded in 1932.

Estela - Hole 6 — Looking back down the par-4 sixth hole at Estela (Image credit: Estela Golf Club)

From the traditional to the new, and around 30 minutes up the coast is the excellent modern links at Estela. Opening in 1989, it hosted the Portuguese Open two years later and is the toughest course in the north of the country, particularly when the wind is up… as it is most days! There are two loops of nine either side of the light and airy clubhouse, with the par-3 4th played from an elevated tee down to a green by the beach, and the super-tough 10th with a long approach up to a very small target. The two snaking par 5s at the 13th and 15th run in opposite directions and are also great fun. Inland there are plenty of lesser-known clubs dotted about, and a real bonus is that compared with green fees in the hotspots, golf in this region represents excellent value for money.

Amarante

Par 68, 5,501 yards
W: golfedeamarante.com

Hugging the hills above the picturesque town of Amarante due east of Porto, this hilly but beautifully situated golf course is full of interest and charm. The reward for your leg work is several elevated drives and a host of outrageously good panoramic views. The seemingly low yardage is down to no fewer than seven short holes, and with three par 5s there is plenty to keep everyone interested.

Amarante - Hole 13 — The short thirteenth plays from an elevated tee over a deep valley with OOB waiting on the left (Image credit: Rob Smith)

There are several wow-factor holes with the par-3 thirteenth a genuine stunner. Unusually, it’s also well worth stopping for the halfway lunch, a selection of appetising and authentic local dishes.

Axis Golf Ponte de Lima

Ponte de Lima - Hole 8 — The par-3 eighth at Ponte de Lima has a wonderful setting and far-reaching views (Image credit: Axis Golf Ponte de Lima)

Par 71, 6,567 yards
W: axisgolfe.com

Ponte de Lima is the oldest village in Portugal, an hour or so to the north of Amarante. The course runs over a similar landscape, and the front nine is as hilly as it gets with long walks between some of the holes. The 3rd is a massive 680 yards from the back tee while the par-3 8th is an absolutely cracker which needs no defence other than nature itself.

Ponte de Lima - Hole 12 — Stroke Index one, the twelfth is a maximum distance par 4 with water short and to the left (Image credit: Rob Smith)

By contrast, the back nine is less extreme but still very enjoyable, and the on-site hotel provides modern accommodation just a stroll from the clubhouse.

Vidago Palace

Par 72, 6,456 yards
W: vidagopalace.com

Up in the mountains, not too far from the Spanish border, the course at Vidago Palace was originally designed by Philip Mackenzie Ross, who was also heavily involved in the evolution of the Ailsa Course at Turnberry, in 1936. The holes closest to the excellent, accompanying hotel run through mature woodland, while others are on more open, elevated land.

Vidago Palace - Hole 15 — The fifteenth, a three-shotter, is the longest hole on the course (Image credit: Vidago Palace)

An ancient welI is still visible by the 6th green, and various other architectural features including the unusual stone-walled teeing complexes all add to the originality on this thoughtfully-designed and thoroughly enjoyable parkland test. The closing hole is a tough par-3 played back down towards the hotel.

Porto is a couple of hours by car north of several great modern courses such as the exciting West Cliffs, and is more than worthy of a golf trip in its own right.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/hidden-portugal-golf-away-from-the-crowds wZR8XK7qzzPgXoahzCpi36 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:06:30 +0000 <![CDATA[ Golf, History and Culture In One Great Middle-Eastern Package ]]> Jordan is a beautiful and mountainous country in the Middle East, much of which is desert. It is largely landlocked other than where it borders the Dead Sea and its southernmost outlet into the Red Sea.

Packed with history, especially up in the hills at Petra and Wadi Rum, it is ideal for those wishing to combine this with golf and relaxation. Ayla is a resort in Aqaba that makes for the perfect place to stay and play. Due to its relatively more inaccessible location, the course is seldom busy with the bonus that it is therefore presented in pristine condition throughout the year.

Ayla - Hole 3 — As is the whole course, the third green is overlooked by the beautiful mountains (Image credit: Ayla Golf Club)

There are film-set backdrops on either side looking to the mountains where the light constantly changes, while the Red Sea shimmers to the south. The Greg Norman design has been created with both holiday golf and competition in mind, and in 2019 it hosted the groundbreaking Jordan Mixed Masters with competitors from the Challenge, Legends and Ladies European Tours. Norman's other designs include Trump Links Ireland.

Ayla - Hole 6 — The dramatic par-3 sixth is very well protected by water (Image credit: Ayla Golf Club)

There is plenty of variety and interest all the way at Ayla Golf Club, and the 9-hole par-3 Academy course is floodlit and also great fun.

Ayla - Clubhouse — The clubhouse pays homage to the ancient architectural heritage of the Bedouins (Image credit: Ayla Golf Club)

It is blessed with one of the most distinctive clubhouses in golf, and along with its luxury accommodation, Ayla makes for a pleasingly different golfing destination.

GF: £90-£110
Stats: Par 72, 6,656 yards

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/golf-history-and-culture-in-one-great-middle-eastern-package qS4GtJ4Pfc9v8WuTQY4DS3 Sat, 08 Mar 2025 16:55:31 +0000 <![CDATA[ Fancy Something Different? Why Not Combine Golf With Safari In This Incredible African Country! ]]> Nairobi, Kenya

Many golfing travellers are aware of golf in Africa’s extremes, the north and the south, especially the southern coastline of South Africa. Substantially fewer know too much about the sport in its more central countries. Kenya straddles the Equator on the eastern coastline and with just a 2-3 hour time difference from the UK, jet lag should not be a feature here. Its bustling capital is Nairobi, a name derived from the Maasai for ‘cool water’, and at over 5,500 feet above sea level, the air is more refreshing than you might expect. With the majority of the nation’s golf within easy reach, it makes for the perfect base for a golfing safari.

Great Rift Valley - Hole 9 — Looking back from the ninth green at Great Rift Valley (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The three courses featured below are all close to the city, as is the excellent Karen Golf Club in the south-western suburbs. The district and club were named after Karen Blixen, author of ‘Out of Africa’, which was published in the same year as its foundation, 1937. North from Nairobi is the Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort, just beyond and looking back over Lake Naivasha. You approach via a lengthy track glimpsing warthogs and wildebeest along the way, and the rustic accommodation is dotted throughout the grounds. There are some really good holes such as the par-4 9th and the long 17th, and you feel as though you are playing in paradise, perhaps waiting for a zebra to move out of your line of play, or watching a black-headed oriole.

Great Rift Valley - Hole 3 — Great Rift Valley offers the perfect combination of golf and safari (Image credit: Rob Smith)

A short flight from Nairobi across to the east coast will get you to Mombasa on the Indian Ocean. Here, there are several good courses including Nyali and Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, while the star of the show is the excellent Vipingo Ridge. This is a relative youngster which opened for play in 2009, 20 years after its architect, David Jones, won the Kenya Open.

Muthaiga

Par 71, 6,863 yards
W: muthaigagolfclub.com

This historic, colonial club on the outskirts of Nairobi was one of the first to open in the country with its original 9-hole course dating back over a century. Soon expanded to a full 18, it was the beneficiary of a substantial upgrade in the early 2000s. It is the current host of the Kenya Open, a championship won here by the likes of Seve Ballesteros and Ian Woosnam.

Muthaiga - Hole 13 — The thirteenth at Muthaiga, host of the 2025 Magical Kenya Open on the DP World Tour (Image credit: Muthaiga Golf Club)

The course twists and turns through the tallest trees, with water a regular and very attractive feature, and there is a welcoming and lively atmosphere in the clubhouse.

Sigona

Par 72, 6,591 yards
W: sigonagolfclub.com

Sigona is another club with history, opening just before the start of WWII. It was designed by the eccentric but brilliant Tom Simpson who worked with Herbert Fowler, designer of many courses including both at The Berkshire. Although you are in the suburbs, there is a real feeling of being out in the wild with frequent sightings of antelope and oryx.

Sigona - Hole 17 — The seventeenth is the shortest par 4 on the course at Sigona (Image credit: Rob Smith)

There are some tight drives and tough angles, with the pick of the holes perhaps being the par-4 7th which doglegs uphill and to the left. The drive at the next might just be the narrowest in Africa, but there are plenty of elevated tees that are more forgiving.

Windsor

Par 72, 6,365 yards
W: windsorgolfresort.com

Windsor is home to an elegant and substantial hotel made up of a cluster of Victorian-style buildings. Once away from the clubhouse, the course runs through gently undulating woodland bordered by coffee plantations.

Windsor - Hole 9 and 18 — The ninth and eighteenth greens at Windsor are overlooked by the hotel (Image credit: Windsor Golf Hotel)

It opens with a tough par 4 to a green protected by water and trees, and thereafter there is great variety with dog-legs left and right, attractive and strategic bunkering, and a supremely tough and memorable signature hole at the 14th which calls for a committed and fearless approach over the river.

Windsor - Sykes Monkey and baby — A Sykes monkey and her baby walking alongside one of the holes at Windsor (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The unobtrusive presence of Sykes’ monkeys is a real bonus.

Quiz! Can You Name Which Countries Have The Most Golf Courses?

More courses are dotted around this beautiful, lush country, where the scenery, the food and the wildlife, not to mention the very reasonable prices, make for an excellent and very different golfing holiday.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/fancy-something-different-why-not-combine-golf-with-safari-in-this-incredible-african-country xb6ydrPkJUt8iGgV3VS8MU Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:18:29 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This The Most Beautiful Inland Golf Resort In America? ]]> Ozarks National

GF: $190-$275
Stats: Par 71, 6,510 yards

Opening for play in 2019, this outrageously attractive course is one of five brilliant and very different designs at the expansive Big Cedar Lodge resort in Missouri. It is another creation from the extremely fertile imaginations of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the pair responsible for globally acclaimed designs at the likes of Bandon Dunes (Bandon Trails and Sheep Ranch), Barnbougle (Lost Farm) and Cabot Cliffs.

Ozarks National - Hole 3 & 4 — Looking down on the third and fourth holes (Image credit: Big Cedar Lodge)

Here, their canvas was a series of dramatic ridges with panoramic views. Imagine Cape Kidnappers transported to a lush, green, inland location.

Ozarks National - Hole 6 — The sixth hole at Ozarks National is a tough par 4 of 216 yards (Image credit: Big Cedar Lodge)

The design deliberately showcases the region’s fabulous natural beauty, with plenty of inviting drives as well as visually appealing but strategically questioning approaches. One of many unusual highlights is the 400-foot wooden beam and plank bridge which connects the tee box to the fairway on the long, dogleg left, par-4 13th.

Ozarks National - Hole 8 — The par-3 eighth at Ozarks National - don't be short ! (Image credit: Big Cedar Lodge)

This transports you some 60 feet over a flowing creek. This is a design that will keep you thinking all the way and call for plenty of improvisation. It will also live long in the memory.

Ozarks National - Hole 16 — The sixteenth is a long par 4, justifiably stroke index one (Image credit: Big Cedar Lodge)

Quiz! Name The 10 US States With The Most Golf Courses

According to Crenshaw, winner of two green jackets as well as the Irish Open at Portmarnock Golf Club in 1976, “We’ve built a lot of golf courses, but there’s something special about this piece of ground… it’s gorgeous!” He is not wrong.

Ozarks National - Hole 17 — At just 144 yards, the penultimate hole at Ozarks National is the shortest on the course (Image credit: Big Cedar Lodge)

With so much golf in such a stunning setting as well as excellent and varied accommodation, Big Cedar Lodge makes for a brilliant inland golfing desination.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-this-the-most-beautiful-inland-golf-resort-in-america duMvd4JspWbXkNH7aLQQvg Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:14:04 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This The World's Best All-Round Golfing Destination? ]]> The Western Cape

Situated in the extreme south-west of South Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, the Western Cape covers 50,000 square miles of beautiful mountains and rugged shoreline. Most visitors focus on the southern stretch from Cape Town across to George, a holidaymakers’ dream that is also home to many of the nation’s finest courses. This is a region renowned for its wine-making, small towns with excellent accommodation and restaurants, and sunny disposition. On top of this, the exchange rate means that it is one of the world’s best-value golfing destinations.

Arabella - Aerial — Arabella is one of the finest golf estates in the Western Cape (Image credit: Getty Images)

Often recognised as the finest course in the country is one of three at the superb Fancourt Estate in the suburbs of George. Surrounding a terrific golf hotel bordered by two rivers, the Montagu and Outeniqua courses are both very good, especially the former which is also extremely pretty. But it is Gary Player’s amazing Links, host of the 2003 President’s Cup, that has established itself as a true bucket-list attraction. It is one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. Improbably, this has been built over land that was formerly an airfield but which is now a wild, spectacular, modern, inland links running through the most natural-looking marshland. With five par 5s, there is variety and drama all the way, and although you have to stay at the hotel to access tee times, it is more than worth it. Nearby, the course at George Golf Club is also well worth a game and great value.

Fancourt - Links Course - Hole 15 — The Links Course at Fancourt is regularly featured in lists of the world's best courses (Image credit: Rob Smith)

To the south of Cape Town, Clovelly dates back over 90 years and has excellent views of the mountains and out over False Bay, with Steenberg and Westlake making this a stronghold of entertaining golf. At the eastern end of the Cape, Plettenberg Bay is a Fred Hawtree creation running through an old nature reserve, while Goose Valley is a lovely Gary Player signature design that has views of lagoon, mountains and the Indian Ocean. With roughly 70 courses to choose from, the Western Cape is a perfect destination for a golfing holiday and more.

Arabella

Par 72, 6,357 yards

Arabella is a fine golf resort overlooking the Botrivier Lagoon, home to spectacular waterfowl. It is peacefully situated on the Whale Coast to the east of Cape Town where the migration is a joy to behold from June to November.

Arabella - Course View — The approach on the eighth needs to be straight! (Image credit: Getty Images)

It was designed by Peter Matkovich with the local environment very much in mind, and there are several spectacular holes including the 8th, a brilliant par 5 to a green sandwiched between the lagoon and a pond. The closing hole is another full-length three-shotter skirting the water with a 400-yard bunker flanking the right.

Pinnacle Point

Par 72, 6,664 yards

Boasting a sensational, elevated coastal setting close to Mossel Bay, Pinnacle Point is understandably one of the most photographed courses in South Africa. It is also probably the most dramatic with plenty of holes bordering the towering cliff edges including the breathtaking par 3s at 7, 9 and 13.

Pinnacle Point - Aerial — The closing hole and clubhouse at Pinnacle Point (Image credit: Getty Images)

Even when slightly further from the edge, you are still accompanied by glorious views that can easily distract from the task at hand. The par-5 18th makes for a suitably thrilling climax as it slaloms along the edge overlooking Eden Bay.

Simola

Par 72, 6,499 yards

Jack Nicklaus signature designs are known for their bold and creative flair, and this lush, parkland course way up in the hills is certainly no exception. There is variety and opportunity in abundance with five short holes and five par 5s, and the 2nd to 7th holes are played away from the clubhouse on the far side of the Simola Ridge.

Quiz! How Well Do You Know Jack Nicklaus?

Simola - Aerial View — A view over the undulating Jack Nicklaus course at Simola (Image credit: Simola Golf Estate)

The undulating terrain means that many will want, or even need, a buggy, but the reward for this is a wealth of elevated tees and the most wonderful panoramic views over the Knysna River and the mountains.

There is no doubt that the Western Cape makes for one of the most compelling and appealing golfing destinations in the world.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-this-the-worlds-best-all-round-golfing-destination 8go8SB67KTf4RMtqp4jmg5 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 09:40:13 +0000 <![CDATA[ The Only World Top 100 Golf Course Where You Can Play Under The Midnight Sun... ]]> If everything were easy to accomplish for minimal effort, where would life’s challenges lie? In the case of the stunning Lofoten Links, a dramatic course within the 68th parallel of northern latitude on the spectacular Lofoten Islands in northern Norway, the logistics challenge of simply getting there is richly compensated by the sight that greets your eyes on arrival.

Lofoten Links with mountains beyond — It's impossible not to be wowed and overawed by the setting at Lofoten Links (Image credit: Jeremy Ellwood)

There’s a very real spiritual presence here linking all the elements that help make Lofoten such an amazing place, from the magnificent snow-capped mountains to the majestic local sea eagles who love to perch on the moody rocks behind the signature par-3 2nd hole. The Vikings, too, fully appreciated this stunning setting with several burial grounds respectfully integrated into the layout between the holes.

Both winter and summer bring spectacular light and weather conditions that can change in the blink of an eye. If you see a front coming in and think you’ve got time to reach shelter, think again! I’ve been soaked a number of times at Lofoten having been caught out by sudden changes in the dramatic forces of nature.

The 1st hole at Lofoten Links — Shades of the 1st at Machrihanish on overdrive on the opener at Lofoten Links (Image credit: Jacob Sjoman)

The 24-hour daylight in the summer can throw your body clock into another time dimension, but teeing off at midnight is surely a unique thrill that any true golfer will want to tick off the wish list and proudly boast about, while the shorter winter daylight hours present an ideal opportunity to witness the Northern Lights.

The vision of owner, Frode Hov, Lofoten Links has come a long way in 26 years, growing from six to nine holes, then finally 18 in 2015, and more recently expanding the on-site accommodation offering with the addition of cosy, Nordic-style lodges.

The 18-hole layout that celebrates its 10^th birthday in 2025 is a true one-off, playing over lush green slivers that weave through moody rocks and lakes, with the ever-present dual backdrop of strikingly craggy mountains and the Arctic Ocean.

Lofoten Links' spectacular setting — A setting like no other with mountains one side and the Arctic Ocean the other (Image credit: Jacob Sjoman)

The latest chapter sees The Cabot Collection come on board via a strategic investment. "We are thrilled to join forces with Lofoten Links, a spectacular property that effortlessly aligns with our vision of delivering world-class golf and experiences across the globe’s most remarkable destinations," says Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and co-founder of The Cabot Collection.

The alliance comes fairly hot on the heels of other investments that have seen the former Golf Du Médoc Resort in France rechristened Cabot Bordeaux and, of course, Castle Stuart in Scotland now going by the name of Cabot Highlands.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-europe/the-only-world-top-100-golf-course-where-you-can-play-under-the-midnight-sun VCdzs3kKyRQsYL93KsHgQL Wed, 08 Jan 2025 13:34:01 +0000 <![CDATA[ How To Play The Plantation Course At Kapalua Resort - Venue Of PGA Tour's The Sentry ]]> Kapalua Resort has two simply breathtaking layouts at its disposal - the premier of which is the Plantation Course - and it's the dream of many a golfer to tee it up there one day.

Framed by the Pacific ocean and many of Hawaii's other 137 recognized islands, Kapalua's location on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains offers up dramatic views from virtually every hole.

Measuring at a maximum of 7,596 yards, the site of the PGA Tour's season-opening event - The Sentry - can be reduced down to either 7,284, 6,701, 6,077 or 5,181 yards depending on your ability level. As a result, all amateurs can fulfil a bucket-list ambition and complete 18 holes there.

The Plantation Course was originally co-designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw - the same pair who breathed new life into Pinehurst No.2 - and opened in 1992, undergoing a significant restoration in 2019 following Xander Schauffele's success at The Sentry. Those alterations made for extremely low scoring the next time tour pros returned, and 2022 saw a bumper year in terms of broken records.

Cameron Smith knocked it around in just 258 shots (-34) on his way to winning to clinch the 72-hole record, while Jon Rahm (third round), Justin Thomas (third round), and Matt Jones (fourth round) all managed rounds of 12-under in the same year to secure the 18-hole low.

Kapalua 18th hole pictured — A general view of the Plantation Course's 18th hole (Image credit: Getty Images)

Speaking of breaking records, the Plantation Course has regularly been the site of the PGA Tour's longest-ever drives as a result of its steep and sloping 18th hole. In the third round of the 2002 Mercedes Championship at Kapalua, Tiger Woods’ drive was recorded at 498 yards. The 15 longest drives of that season were all recorded on that hole during that round, but all those drives were later excluded from the official records.

Of the 10 that have stood, four took place on the Plantation Course - including the longest official drive in PGA Tour history. In 2024, Max Homa smoked one a whopping 477 yards down the seventh during round three of The Sentry. Homa's record eclipsed Davis Love III's 20-year record by just one yard.

The season before, Ryan Brehm managed just 455 yards on the 18th hole which secured him eighth on the list of big hits. In the same year as Brehm, Luke List rocketed a drive 459 yards down the seventh to put himself sixth.

So, if you're looking to break your all-time record for longest drive down these wide fairways, then it might be worth considering a trip out to Hawaii. But, fair warning, a tee time at Kapalua's Plantation Course is not among the cheapest PGA Tour green fees you will find. Although, they are very easy to sort if you have the required funds.

An aerial view of the golf course from over the ocean prior to The Sentry at The Plantation Course at Kapalua on December 31, 2023 in Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii — An aerial view of the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort (Image credit: Getty Images)

You only have to visit the Kapalua Golf website and click on 'book a tee time' - much the same as you would at many other venues. From there, you can reserve your tee time anywhere between one and 90 days in advance. It must be noted, though, that reserving tee times from between 31-90 days in advance require golfers to pay what the resort calls an "upcharge fee" - standard rate plus 15%.

A standard tee time at any time of the week - aside from 'Sentry Season' (December 23 - January 10) when premium pricing is in effect - is currently $469 per person. Otherwise, tee times can be reserved from $539.35pp. The price does not change depending on the number of golfers per tee time, nor the time or day on which you play.

If you would like to stay at Kapalua Resort and take advantage of both the Plantation and Bay Courses, the Aloha package offers two rounds at the latter and one at the Plantation from $949 plus tax. Additional rounds at the Plantation Course can be booked from $429 plus tax on a different day, or from $249 plus tax on the same day, but that is space dependent and does not guarantee another full 18.

Kapalua Plantation Course Location

Kapalua Plantation Course: Key Stats

Location	Kapalua, Hawaii
Par	73
Yardage	7,596
Designed By	Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw
Opened	1992
18-Hole Scoring Record	Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas, Matt Jones (-12) in 2022
72-Hole Scoring Record	Cameron Smith (-34, 258) in 2022

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/usa/how-to-play-kapalua-resort-plantation-course kL6bBbekp3yxcJuHkqhiZA Fri, 03 Jan 2025 17:48:34 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This The Finest Course In A Country Where You’ve Not Played Golf? We Reveal All… ]]> PGA National - Oaks Prague

The Czech Republic, or Chechia, is now home to more than 100 golf courses. Situated just a few miles south-east of the historic and cultural city of Prague, the course at PGA National Czech Republic is part of the upmarket Oaks Prague country estate, a modern development of high-end property. It was designed by leading architect Kyle Phillips, the man responsible for some of the UK’s finest newer and more recent developments such as Kingsbarns, The Grove and Dundonald Links. All three of these are in the Golf Monthly Top 100 courses of the UK and Ireland.

GF: £110-£125
Stats: Par 72, 6,616 yards

Oaks Prague - Hole 2 — The second hole is a strong par 4 with a lovely pond beyond the green (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Fully opening in 2020, it has quickly gained a reputation as one of, if not the very best courses in the country. As you would expect from the name, oaks and plenty of other specimen trees do feature, but there is much of the course that is on far more open terrain as well. Never is there the slight sense of claustrophobia you sometimes get at more tree-lined courses.

Oaks Prague - Hole 7 — The seventh is another long two shotter played to a 2-tier green, low on the left, high on the right (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Unusually, and refreshingly for a modern design, water is conspicuous by its almost complete absence. Instead, the architect’s bunkering is the greatest defence here with his bold, larger-than-life statements key to the strategy and the visual framing of the holes. Avoid them, and there is still much to think about on the large, contoured greens.

Oaks Prague - Hole 18 — The closing hole at Oaks Prague is a suitably tough par 4 with a steep approach to the green (Image credit: Kevin Murray)

The course is kept in magnificent shape with carpet-like fairways and greens that are true and fast, and it received glowing praise from the DP World Tour professionals in the 2024 D+D Real Czech Masters which was won by Frenchman David Ravetto with a mightily impressive score of 23 under par. With plenty of golf courses in the Prague area, the city makes for a fascinating and quite different golfing destination. The Oaks Prague also has stay and play deals that will appeal to the travelling golfer looking for somewhere new and different.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-this-the-finest-course-in-a-country-where-youve-not-played-golf-we-reveal-all viVoMukp8VjQbekYZUkk27 Sat, 07 Dec 2024 13:31:26 +0000 <![CDATA[ I've Played Over 500 Golf Courses Worldwide. This One Went Straight Into My All-Time Top 10 ]]> In 40 years playing the game, I’ve been lucky to play a lot of golf in Portugal, mostly in the Algarve, but I also have plenty of fond memories playing closer to Lisbon, at the likes of Quinta da Marinha and Oitavos Dunes. I was keen to head further north and play West Cliffs and Praia D’El Rey.

I’d heard a few of my Golf Monthly colleagues raving about these courses, especially West Cliffs, after being on press trips and photo shoots, and I’d seen the pictures of this incredible Cynthia Dye layout hugging the wild Atlantic coastline.

As a lover of rugged seaside golf, this course had all the ingredients to get the pulse racing; I can only imagine how excited Dye and her team were in seeing the project unfold. It’s a truly spectacular piece of land.

Since opening in the summer of 2017, West Cliffs has received glowing praise. Named World’s Best New Golf Course at the 2017 World Golf Awards, it takes golfers on a spectacular journey through 200 hectares of rugged coastal vegetation. The routes between the greens and tees are beautiful, constantly upping the anticipation levels as you move to the next hole.

I’d ran out of superlatives as early as the par-3 5th, located on top of a huge dune and played directly towards the Atlantic. After that, the back nine starts with a superb run of holes that take you close to the eponymous cliffs, before a truly memorable finale.

The par-3 16th is located on the highest point on the course and offers spectacular panoramic views, while the 17th doglegs around another dramatic dune on the right (be aggressive with your line and you’ll be rewarded). All the while, it feels as though you are building towards something extra special – which you are.

West Cliffs 18th hole — The challenging 18th hole at West Cliffs (Image credit: James Hogg)

The 18th plays downhill from an elevated tee, presenting you with one final dramatic view. Your options are to take on another dune on the left to leave a straightforward second, or go right to leave yourself a more demanding approach over water.

I had a good day with my driver and managed to play the whole round with one ball, but I heard stories of golfers losing a few sleeves during a round. The penalties for being wayward with the driver are usually severe, but to counter that there are lots of forward tee options that make it more playable. My advice is leave your ego at the door and move forwards a little, because you’ll love the course.

My first thoughts on retiring to the clubhouse were around where I would place West Cliffs on my own rankings list. I’ve played over 500 courses worldwide. It’s a top 10, as is the clubhouse, a stylish, glass-fronted building that offers panoramic views of the course and the Atlantic Ocean.

West Cliffs golf clubhouse — The clubhouse at West Cliffs offers stunning panoramic views (Image credit: James Hogg)

The Grill Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy an informal meal, with plenty of mouth-watering dishes on the menu, as well as lots of light snacks and healthy options.

It’s somewhere you could spend hours just relaxing and enjoying the views of the course with the Ocean in the background. Just like the golf course, the clubhouse is not somewhere I'll forget in a hurry.

There was more golf to be played the next day, with a round at West Cliffs’ sister course, Praia D’El Rey, which also occupies a lofty spot in Portugal’s best courses rankings. West Cliffs can leave you feeling a little beaten up, but Praia d’El Rey is much more playable, so you still have time to post a respectable 36-hole total.

Praia D'El Rey Golf & Beach Resort — The oceanside back-nine stretch at Praia D'El Rey will live long in the memory (Image credit: James Hogg)

Renowned for its memorable oceanside back-nine stretch, the Cabell B. Robinson design provides another thrilling ride. It boasts a terrific mix of holes, both tree-lined and those of a links-style. All the while, you’re treated to more memorable views of the Atlantic and the nearby Berlenga Islands.

Although you’re far less likely to lose a ball here, the sprawling bunkers and large greens ensure it’s no pushover. Much like West Cliffs, it’s wild and wonderful, and it boasts plenty of wow factor of its own.

The superb standard of golf at West Cliffs Ocean and Golf Resort is matched by its luxurious accommodation options. Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort has benefitted from a multi-million pound investment in recent years, and you know you’re somewhere special from the moment you arrive.

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The rooms were spacious and well appointed, the resort facilities superb and the food on offer at the numerous restaurants was outstanding. All of that was matched by the service, which was absolutely first class. Every single member of staff we met managed to strike that perfect balance between being ultra efficient and incredibly friendly. We enjoyed lots of chats with them while we spent time by the pool and at the bars, which all enjoy amazing views out to the Atlantic Ocean.

The set-up here makes it perfect for small groups and couples. As well as two wonderful courses (Praia d’El Rey is a 10-minute drive away), there is plenty to see and do off course. There’s hiking, biking and body boarding, whilst Portugal’s vibrant capital city is only an hour away, a good option for day-trippers.

We chose to spend one evening in Peniche at Xakra Beach Bar, which is just 15 minutes away from the hotel. If you like your seafood and sunsets, I highly recommend it.

We rounded off the trip with a visit to Buddha Eden, Europe’s largest Asian garden. After the occasional stressful moment weighing up a high-risk approach shot at West Cliffs, and worrying about the consequences of getting it wrong, it was fitting to end the trip in a place of such peace and tranquillity.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/ive-played-over-500-golf-courses-worldwide-this-one-went-straight-into-my-all-time-top-10 QXQAikGG9FoAXmoD4XnXAM Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:07:58 +0000 <![CDATA[ This Award-Winning 5-Star Resort Is The Perfect Place To Stay If You're Playing England's Most Famous Inland Golf Courses ]]> Tucked away in 120 acres of glorious parkland, Pennyhill Park in Bagshot is a luxurious spa and hotel retreat, its location in the heart of the Surrey sandbelt making it a popular place to stay for the discerning golfer.

It had been over 10 years since I last stayed at Pennyhill Park, so I was excited to return and see what had changed at this impressive getaway destination that is part of the Exclusive Collection of luxury hotels.

Pennyhill Park outdoor swimming pool — The outdoor pool is a popular spot to relax (Image credit: Exclusive Collection)

It’s easy to see why the England rugby team kicks back here between bruising matches – the atmosphere is very relaxed and with such a wide range of facilities on site, including a 45,000ft award-winning spa, it’s impossible not to find yourself winding down.

The only downside of my last visit was that I came in the winter. If you’re the brave type, you can still make use of the outdoor pool, but cold water therapy, as good as it is for body and mind, apparently, is something I’ve yet to embrace! I stuck to the indoor pool.

This time, however, with warm sunshine and plenty of blue sky, I headed straight out onto the terrace. It would have been easy to spend a full day by the pool with a book, dipping in and out between drinks and a light bite, but I was keen to make the most of the spa.

This luxurious facility is “the jewel in the Pennyhill Park crown.” If you don’t book a session when you check in, you’ll be missing out. It’s not something that would usually be on my itinerary, but that’s because on most trips away I’m normally dashing to and from golf courses.

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This is not your typical ‘golf resort’, where people are lugging clubs around and rushing outside to the course and practice ground. There’s no buggy noise, loud societies and a general sense of people being on the go. It’s an atmosphere I think the discerning golfer, and certainly non golfers, will appreciate.

The clubhouse at Sunningdale Golf Club — The world-famous Sunningdale Golf Club is just five miles from Pennyhill Park (Image credit: Getty Images)

Talking of golf, with so many fantastic courses nearby, including a number of the best golf courses in Surrey, it wouldn’t be difficult to put together a world-class itinerary with rounds at the likes of The Berkshire, Walton Heath, West Hill, Sunningdale, and Swinley Forest, to name but a few top venues.

Pennyhill Park dining — Dining at Pennyhill Park is also a real treat (Image credit: Exclusive Collection)

I managed to work up an appetite for dinner without swinging a golf club or leaving the hotel – which was all part of the plan. The meal at Hillfield, which has a ‘farm to fork – nose to tail philosophy’, was delightful, as was breakfast there in the morning.

Next time – and I certainly won’t be leaving it another 10 years to visit – I might treat myself to an evening at Latymer for some fine dining. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and 5 AA Rosettes. Maybe that’s one for the 60th.

As for getting a good night’s sleep, that’s pretty much a guarantee. Each of the 124 rooms and suites located within the 19th century, ivy-clad country house is super spacious and offers something different. No doubt there will be regulars who have their favorite room – it’s that sort of place. I stayed in the Sunningdale garden suite and it was pure luxury.

Aside from so many world-class golf courses on the doorstep, some of which Pennyhill Park has partnered with to offer stay and play packages, there are a host of other attractions nearby, including Windsor Castle, The Savill Garden, and Hampton Court Palace, whilst racegoers will often stay at Pennyhill Park during big meetings, such as Royal Ascot.

The Berkshire Golf Club is also close by (Image credit: Getty Images)

London, too, is easily accessible via train, and Heathrow airport is only 15 miles away. Should you be travelling from further afield, you could arrange yourself quite the trip to England, made all the better with a few rounds of golf. Did I mention the quality of golf in this part of the world?

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/this-award-winning-5-star-resort-is-the-perfect-place-to-stay-if-youre-playing-englands-most-famous-inland-golf-courses TFWVWoJrZCkknah4XTDP7Z Sat, 23 Nov 2024 19:38:25 +0000 <![CDATA[ Treasure Island - We Discover One Of Planet Golf’s Finest Holiday Destinations ]]> While Mark Twain is often misquoted as saying “Golf is a good walk spoiled”, what he almost certainly did say was that "you gather the idea that Mauritius was created first, and then heaven; and that heaven was copied after Mauritius." And he’s right. This is a sumptuously gorgeous island, even without its dozen and more lovely courses. Most of the golf is dotted along the beautiful, jagged coastline, although the oldest club is a few miles inland at Vacoas, the historic Gymkhana Club.

Ile Aux Cerfs - Aerial — The course fits perfectly onto its idyllic island setting (Image credit: Ile Aux Cerfs Golf Club)

Probably the real star of the show is one of the most photogenic courses in the world, the amazing Ile Aux Cerfs at Le Touessrok. It perfectly fits on a tropical island, and can only be reached by a short, gentle boat ride from the adjacent hotel over the clear waters of a shallow lagoon. Bernhard Langer , who was also responsible for the excellent course recently upgraded and rebranded as Jameson Golf Links at the Portmarnock Resort, designed this fantasy island course just over two decades ago. And while it’s certainly demanding, it’s also exhilarating and spectacular. On many shots there is the need to carry the ball over sea, swamp or lagoon, and it is kept in fine condition with every hole separate, framed by trees, shrubs and water.

Heritage - La Reserve — The newest course on Mauritius, La Reserve at the Heritage Club (Image credit: Nick Reinis-Keightley)

On the south coast, the Heritage Club at Domaine de Bel Ombre is home to two superb and very different courses. The Chateau offers fine views in every direction, including over the neighbouring Valriche Nature Reserve where you may catch glimpses of all manner of interesting wildlife. The design takes full advantage of the two rivers that run across the property and there are several lakes which come into play offering plenty of risk and reward.

Its newer offering, La Réserve, is a collaboration between the original architect, Peter Matkovich, and former Open Champion, Louis Oosthuizen. Enjoying a more elevated setting, there are sea views from every hole and the course is packed with drama, risk and reward. Elsewhere, there are several further lovely courses such as Avalon and Tamarina, making Mauritius a wonderful location for an exotic golfing holiday.

Anahita

Par 72 - 6,656 yards

Set along the shoreline by the sparkling waters that are home to Ile aux Cerfs, Anahita was designed in 2008 by 4-time Major champion, Ernie Els. While it stretches to an enormous 7,500 yards from the back tees, the Big Easy has provided plenty of alternatives to cater for golfers with less DeChambeau-esque powers.

Anahita - Hole 17 — The short seventeenth at Anahita is on a headland jutting out into the lagoon (Image credit: Getty Images)

Running over an old sugar plantation, there are tough, deep bunkers as well as a number of natural streams and a drystone wall. There are six beauties that run right along the palm-fringed shore, with the closing trio, one of each par, providing a very dramatic sting in the tail.

Belle Mare Plage

Legend - Par 72, 6,579 yards
Links - Par 71, 6,500 yards

There are two exotic, lush courses at Belle Mare Plage with the Legend designed 30 years ago by South African Hugh Baiocchi. The course runs through an old deer reserve where they are still frequently seen, and water is a constant challenge.

Belle Mare Plage - Hole 17 — The penultimate hole on the Legend Course plays over the lagoon (Image credit: Getty Images)

This is especially so at the signature 17th; a thrilling par 3 played across the lagoon to a very tricky green. The Links was designed by Peter Alliss and Rodney Wright in 2002 and is a touch more open at the same time as being a very enjoyable and different experience in its own right with water an intimidating but scenic distraction.

Paradis

Par 72, 6,478 yards

In the extreme south-west of the island, the striking Mourne Mountain peninsular is home to the delightful and very appropriately-named Paradis Hotel and Golf Course. The opening holes run behind the hotel and its equally appealing sister, the Dinarobin. The course has been regularly improved over the years, most recently with an eco-friendly watering system.

Le Paradis - Hole 16 — The pa-5 sixteenth at Paradis hugs the shore of the lagoon as it sweeps from left to right (Image credit: Getty Images)

Following holes played through fragrant bougainvillea and poinsettia, you reach more open golfing terrain where water takes over with lakes, ditches and the dreamy-looking lagoon that borders the superb long 16th. Both hotels offer spas, deep-sea fishing, and delicious, gourmet fine-dining as well as plenty of other holiday pursuits.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/treasure-island-we-discover-one-of-planet-golfs-finest-holiday-destinations QkkU5V7GADMBwG8H5YSkWU Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:29:56 +0000 <![CDATA[ How Much It Costs To Play Yas Links ]]> Since 2019, the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship has been one of the most prestigious of the season after it was elevated to a Rolex Series event.

In 2024 it was destined to generate even more attention than usual, with the tournament becoming the first of two season-closing Play-Offs before the traditional conclusion with the DP World Tour Championship at the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai.

However, even though the DP World Tour now has a UAE double-header as its season finale, the host of the first of its Play-Offs events owes as much to courses almost 5,000 miles away as its Middle East location.

In 2022, it was announced that the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship was leaving its regular home of Abu Dhabi Golf Club to head to Yas Links, which is situated on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island.

The course was designed by Kyle Phillips, the man responsible for a modern-day Scottish classic, Kingsbarns. Yas Links, which opened 10 years later, takes plenty of inspiration from the rugged beauty of the earlier masterpiece as well as other famous British and Irish links courses.

Yas Links is rich with rolling fairways, clever strategical bunkering, challenging green complexes and breathtaking views of the sea to offer a sublime mix of tradition and contemporary design.

The closing three holes are particularly special. The par 4 16^th has water running along the left side, a huge bunker guarding the right of the fairway and bunkers around the green.

The par 3 17^th is arguably the best of the lot, and it's all carry over the water from tee to green. Finally, the 18^th is a par 5 with the water along the left of the fairway.

Rory McIlroy takes a shot at Yas Links — The 17th features a carry over water from tee to green (Image credit: Getty Images)

If it all sounds as though Phillips somehow pulled off the implausible task of creating an authentic Scottish-style links experience against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, it’s because he did, making the course very unique for the region and one that has to be experienced to be believed.

Luckily, members of the general public can. Depending on the time of year, green fees range between around 880AAD (approximately $217) and 1100AAD (approximately $300) if tee times are booked via the Viya Golf official website.

Yas Links Location

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/uae/how-much-costs-play-yas-links jWuvzWC8EuXsU7fgcxNUjd Wed, 30 Oct 2024 21:37:12 +0000 <![CDATA[ How Much It Costs To Play El Cardonal At Diamante Cabo San Lucas ]]> The PGA Tour’s World Wide Technology Championship had been held at El Camaleon Golf Club at Mayakoba since its inception in 2007. However, that all changed in 2023 when bitter rival LIV Golf secured the course for the Mexico leg of its big-money League.

Undeterred, that March, the PGA Tour unveiled a course designed by one of its all-time greats, Tiger Woods, as the new home of the FedEx Cup Fall tournament, El Cardonal at Diamante Cabo San Lucas.

The course, which opened in 2014, was Woods’ maiden foray into design. Woods promised the course would "remind people of the old-style California courses” where he had grown up, while challenging players to “think and make choices.”

While that was the intention, it had mixed reviews after the event. Players including Andrew Putnam, Kelly Kraft and Michael Kim all had their say. Putnam remarked that the course was too easy, while Kraft suggested the PGA Tour hadn’t made the best choice to replace the Mayakoba course.

Thomas Detry also came a cropper at the par 3 16 when his ball rolled off the front edge of the green and into a steep native area below. That led some fans to question the design while others argued it was to do with the course set-up for the tournament,

It wasn’t all bad, and Kim perhaps had the most balanced view. While he said the fairways "could be some of the widest fairways on tour, if not the widest” he complimented Woods' design on the varied layouts of the greens, while he felt the 15-time Major winner had designed a course that "fit his own game," something "famous players" often do when turning their hand to design.

The fourth green at El Cardonal at Diamante — The greens offer plenty of variety (Image credit: Getty Images)

Whatever the pros and cons, it was retained for the 2024 tournament, and it’s likely to remain part of the PGA Tour for some time to come, with the arrangement set to hold for five years.

The course was never meant to be particularly penal, and Woods has admitted he had his pro-am partners in mind when conceiving it. However, it is also intended to test players of most abilities.

The wide fairways were a conscious choice to ensure options and leeway for players with higher handicaps, while its length – a hefty 7,452 yards off the back tees, including the 601-yard sixth – is meant to challenge even the best players.

Its location is also a talking point, with stunning views over the Pacific Ocean, while it has mature vegetation and utilizes the area’s natural arroyos and native dunes. The course also has cacti and palo verde trees, while it’s hilly too, with a 240-foot drop between the 17th tee and third fairway.

The sixth hole at El Cardonal — The course is intended to test golfer of all abilities (Image credit: Getty Images)

During his appraisal of the course, Kim also wondered how it would play on a windy day, and that is definitely a factor capable of making a round one day an altogether different experience to one the next.

Ultimately, perhaps the only way to assess the merits of the course is to experience it, and the good news is that it’s open to the public.

The course is part of the luxury Diamante resort, which has another Woods layout, the Oasis Short Course - a 12-hole par-3 course - on-site. There is a second championship course at the location, too - the Dunes Course by Davis Love III.

To play El Cardonal, you need to be a guest of the resort, with tee times to be arranged once your reservation is confirmed.

There is a minimum three-night stay at the resort, and El Cardonal has a green fee of $400 per player, with a mandatory forecaddie.

Rental of a four-seater golf cart costs approximately $120, with a cost of approximately $140 for a six-seater golf cart.

The par-3 course costs $35 per round.

Rates to stay at the Golf Villas vary, but they typically start at $1,450 per night depending on the season.

El Cardonal at Diamante Cabo San Lucas

Green Fee	$400
Golf Cart (four-seater)	$120
Golf Cart (six-seater)	$140

El Cardonal at Diamante Cabo San Lucas Location

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/cost-el-cardonal-diamante-cabo-san-lucas uugrN29CQTWSsnrhZdYH83 Wed, 30 Oct 2024 19:26:35 +0000 <![CDATA[ The 7 Undiscovered Destinations That Caught My Eye At The International Golf Travel Market ]]> Unless you work in the golf industry, you probably won’t have heard of the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM). It’s an event for golf travel professionals, providing destinations, resorts and courses with the chance to connect with golf travel agents and tour operators.

If it were open to the public, I’m pretty sure a lot of business would have been done there on the spot in Lisbon last week, for it’s a Disneyland for golf travel lovers – of which I am one. Having attended the exhibition in Portugal’s capital, I found myself itching to book a golf holiday. I knew I would. In fact, I spent most of the flight home thinking about where to go next.

I’m a travel enthusiast. In recent years, I’ve enjoyed several trips to South America, albeit without golf clubs. I like to try new places, and I find long haul trips particularly appealing. I’ll admit, one or two of the following destinations are a little ambitious for someone who lives in London, but they’re still on my radar.

If the idea of going somewhere really different appeals to you, I seriously recommend that you add these destinations to your shortlist. I’m confident that I’ll have ticked at least one of the following off the list within the next couple of years. I might start planning...

Slovakia

The longest hole at Penati Golf Resort — (Image credit: Penati Golf Resort)

If you were planning a golfing getaway in Europe, it’s probably safe to say that Slovakia would not be on your list, certainly not if you like your tried-and-tested favorites, such as Portugal and Spain. I’ve only ever seen pictures of Slovakia’s best tracks, but these have left quite an impression.

One resort in particular stands out, for it has the look of a classic Surrey sand belt course. You’ll find Penati Golf Resort about an hour’s drive to the north of Bratislava, the county’s capital, and it’s home to two wonderful looking layouts – Heritage and Legend.

The former, which is rated inside the top 100 courses for Continental Europe, features two returning nine-hole loops. Set amongst tall pine trees, it reminds me a little bit of West Hill, somewhere where I have played a lot of golf.

The latter is a Nicklaus Design. Jack’s layouts can be pretty unforgiving, and the great man does like a water hazard. One of his most devilish comes on the 18th, a terrific looking par 4 that plays downhill to an island green in front of the clubhouse terrace.

Some will say the par-6 15th – one of the longest holes in world golf – is a bit of a gimmick (it can be stretched to 787 yards off the back tee), but I’m all for something quirky. If I’m on holiday, I want to remember where I’ve played – and I don’t think I’d be able to forget this hole!

Slovakia might be a bit of a baby compared to Europe’s more established golf destinations, but it still has around 30 courses. Personally, I think I’d be happy basing myself at Penati Golf Resort, but there are a number of other courses that look well worth visiting, such as Tále (Gray Bear), which was the first 18-hole championship course to open in the country.

I like the fact that Vienna is only 90 minutes away, too, which would make for a wonderful day trip. The fact that Slovakia is considered one of the cheapest countries in the European Union is also a bonus.

Kenya

Muthaiga Golf Club — (Image credit: Getty Images)

For many people, going on a safari is on the bucket list. Having got a taste of what Kenya has to offer as a golf destination at this year’s IGTM, personally I’m now more interested in taking the clubs to Africa than I am seeing the ‘Big 5’.

You can do both, of course – play golf and go on a sightseeing adventure in the bush. And you’ll see plenty of wildlife when you play, too, because the animals will often roam the fairways, like the giraffes, zebras and wildebeest at Vipingo Ridge, which many regard as Kenya’s finest course.

Located approximately an hour’s drive from downtown Mombasa, Vipingo Ridge boasts stunning coastal views. The PGA Baobab Course was designed by former Kenya Open winner David Jones, and it features a number of lakes, streams and native coastal trees (Baobab), from which it gets its name.

If it were a choice between the coastal city of Mombasa and the capital city of Nairobi, I’d opt for the latter, although if you were staying for a fortnight or longer, the two cities are not a million miles apart.

The reason being is because I’d like to tee it up at Muthaiga (pictured above), a club that will soon be celebrating its centenary. It boasts a fascinating history, with the Kenya Open being played here from 1969 to 2002. The likes of Seve Ballesteros, Ian Woosnam and Trevor Immelman, all Masters champions, lifted that trophy. I’d settle for a stroll around its famous clubhouse.

Pirin Golf & Country Club, Bulgaria

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Bulgaria has been on my radar for some time. A couple of my Golf Monthly colleagues have been to Thracian Cliffs, BlackSeaRama and the Lighthouse Golf Resort, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. As of yet, I don t believe anyone on the team has been to Pirin – so I could be the first.

I’ll take my skis and my golf clubs, for this special destination, huddled in a valley surrounded by mountains, is just minutes away from Bansko ski resort. In short, Pirin Golf & Country Club provides the unique opportunity for a golf, ski and spa vacation.

As well as a boutique 5-star hotel, apartment complex and private luxury chalets, Pirin boasts more than 20 themed restaurants, supermarkets, bars, and shops, plus a choice of seven swimming pools.

The course was designed by Ian Woosnam in conjunction with Gary Johnston of European Golf Design. Located within the Razlog Valley, holes are routed around several lakes and a mountain creek, which winds its way through the property.

It’s a shame that Gary Player’s spectacular Thracian Cliffs is a little too far away to make it viable to play both on the same trip, but Pirin has everything you need – and more.

Argentina

My only regret about my last trip to Colombia was that I didn’t take my golf clubs. When I do venture to South America again, I most certainly will.

I’ve long been eyeing up a trip to Buenos Aires, although the main reason for that is a strong desire to take in a Boca Juniors or River Plate game. Now, though, having received Argentina’s golf pitch, I have another good reason to go.

Argentina, the second largest country in South America, is home to around 300 golf courses, a good number of which are located in and around the capital city. And there are as many different courses to admire there as there are Lionel Messi turns.

Top of the list, or very close to it, would have to be The Jockey Club. I’m going to allow myself to believe it possible to get a tee time at this exclusive club that attracts very wealthy types as well as horseracing and polo fans. Both the Red (Colorada) and Blue (Azul) were designed by famous architect Alister MacKenzie and opened for play in 1935, a year after his death.

They both look incredible, as do many others, such as the Robert von Hagge-designed Buenos Aires. The club hosted the EMC World Cup in 2000, which was won by Tiger Woods and David Duval, and it’s a venue that has hosted a number of other big championships.

Mar del Plata Golf Club also has a fine reputation, with many who have played there saying that’s it’s certainly one visitors should make time for, especially for those who like their links golf.

Putting together an itinerary would be great fun itself. Taking an internal flight wouldn’t be necessary if you fly to the capital, although I wouldn’t be against a bit of extra travel.

PGA National, Croatia

Croatia is not the secret it used to be – the cat is out the bag in that regard. It’s stunningly beautiful. I’ve been fortunate enough to holiday in the Adriatic. Next time I do, I’ll make sure that I have a tee time to look forward to.

Until recently, I hadn’t associated Croatia with golf, but I was taken aback when I learnt about PGA National on my visit to the IGTM. Located near Savudrija, amongst the Umag countryside of north-western Istria, Golf Adriatic is a PGA National venue. Not only does it boast a near 7,000-yard course, which looks incredible – it has a private beach and a five-star Kempinski Hotel.

Ayla, Jordan

Jordan boasts stunning natural landscapes and world-renowned historical sites. The city of Petra, meanwhile, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s also home to one of the Middle East’s finest golf courses.

Ayla Golf Club is located close to Aqaba, a city with a rich history that dates back to pre-biblical times. Designed by Greg Norman, the course sets up like a links, but also features numerous ponds and lakes.

Dubai aside, I’ve not played a lot of golf in the Middle East. To play and stay at Ayla, which looks magnificent, would allow me to get out and satisfy my itch to explore. Close by, there’s also Marina Village, which offers a range of dining, shopping, recreational and leisure experiences. There’s the beach, too, where you can rent a hammock. Sounds good to me.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Situated at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos is a popular destination for American visitors. I envy those who can pop across the US border with their clubs, because this 30km stretch of coastline is prime golf real estate.

Diamante Cabo San Lucas (Dunes) sits amongst some of the most dramatic sand dunes in the world. This is Davis Love III’s work, and the American compared it to St Andrews when he first arrived at the site. We’re talking about a course that some publications have ranked inside the world’s top 50, so this would be a treat to play, as would the other course on site, Tiger Woods’ El Cardonal.

There are a host of other beauties in this part of Mexico: Puerto Los Cabos Golf Club, Solmar Golf Links, and Cabo del Sol, to name but a few. In fact, the list of world-class golf courses in this corner of the world is fairly lengthy.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/the-7-undiscovered-destinations-that-caught-my-eye-at-the-international-golf-travel-market kbnA9k45RPBEv6etNSctne Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:38:01 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is This The Most Exotic Coastline In Golf? ]]> Central Vietnam

Vietnam is in the midst of a golfing boom with more than 50 courses currently under construction. Arguably its greatest hotspot is the central section of its glorious eastern coastline. Here, where the sparkling South China Sea laps up onto its golden beaches, the country is packed with historic cities and sites, spectacular scenery and cultural diversity. It is also home to more than enough strong courses to warrant its billing as Vietnam’s Golf Coast.

The par-3 sixteenth at Ba Na Hills, an island green in a lush, tropical setting (Image credit: Rob Smith)

From Hanoi in the north or Ho Chi Minh City in the south, it’s just a short flight to the heart of the action, the French colonial port of Da Nang. Within easy reach are several excellent courses including the outstanding and multiple award winning Ba Na Hills. This was designed in 2016 by Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, and it works its way through an undulating jungle-scape overlooked by lush, green mountains. It is packed with drama, variety and interest. The front nine is on more level ground, but the bunkering and water features keep you thinking, while the back nine is more hilly, and somehow even more photogenic. The food and welcome in the cool and stylish clubhouse are also brilliant.

Hoiana Shores From The Air — The vast sandscapes at Hoiana Shores with the spacious clubhouse in the distance (Image credit: Gary Lisbon)

The recently re-branded Legend Danang and Montgomerie Links are both on the outskirts of the city, while a few miles further south along the coast is the superb new Robert Trent Jones Junior design, Hoiana Shores. This thoroughly modern links is full of the architect’s trademark grand statements and expansive bunkering, and enjoys a spacious, attractive and very sandy setting down by the beach. Nearby is the IMG development at Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An, while at the very southern end of the central belt, KN Golf Links is a Greg Norman design with attractive and subtle greenside run offs, and catchment areas that lead into distinctive and bold bunkering.

Laguna Lang Co

6,437 yards, par 71

This tropical beauty is just over the hills to the north of Da Nang and is a Nick Faldo signature design. It opened for play in 2013, since when it has built a deserved reputation for its scenic but testing setting. The course runs over a surprising variety of terrain taking in forest, rice paddies tended by water buffalo, jungle, beach, river and dunes.

Laguna Lang Co - Hole 10 and 9 — At the far end of the course, the ninth at Laguna Lang Co borders the beach before the tenth heads back into the jungle (Image credit: Laguna Lang Co)

It’s a sumptuous feast with plenty of strong holes, and is at the heart of an extensive development by the upmarket hotel company, Banyan Tree, that includes everything the holidaymaker could want.

Legend Da Nang

Norman Course - Par 72, 6,660 yards
Nicklaus Course - Par 73, 6,958 yards

There are two excellent courses at what was formerly known as BRG DaNang, an acronym for banking, real estate and golf. The Greg Norman design was his first to open in the country in 2010 with its standout hole being the short 16th, played towards the ocean with the dreamy backdrop of the Cham Islands. The bunkering is strong, intimidating, and visually very impressive.

The Jack Nicklaus course opened in 2020, where timber bulkhead posts imported from the States line the numerous water features. A complete contrast from one another, they combine to make a compelling golf resort.

Montgomerie Links

6,620 yards, par 72

European golfing legend Colin Montgomerie, a member at this year's Open host Royal Troon, has a global design portfolio including courses in Dubai, Marrakech and Bahrain. Including an excellent on-site hotel, his 2010 creation here runs over linksy turf with gentle undulations and is very walkable. Water is a regular feature without overstaying its welcome, and there are some testing par 4s, especially from 7 to 10 and the excellent 13th.

Montgomerie Links - Hole 9 — It's important not to go right with your approach shot on the par-4 ninth at Montgomerie Links (Image credit: Montgomerie Links)

The par 3s are also memorable, particularly the elevated 11th where the green is fronted by a necklace of bunkers, and the 14th with water on the right and three huge bunkers left, right and long.

With its mouthwatering cuisine, its markets and its many other attractions, Central Vietnam offers golf in paradise.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-this-the-most-exotic-coastline-in-golf 8hcgojfjXZRxN8buoghS3J Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:00:16 +0000 <![CDATA[ Why The Destination You've Probably Never Considered Is The Perfect Place For Your Next Golfing Getaway... ]]> The brown circles stretching across the grass didn’t initially grab my attention as the caddie drove down the fairway at Khao Yai Country Club.

My partner and I were in the midst of a tight match on day five of my first ever trip to Thailand. However when the caddie gave me a nudge , pointed and said: ‘elephant’ , my eyes instantly lit up.

Elephants are a sacred animal in Buddhist Thailand , where around 8,000 Asian elephants currently live in the wild. This particular one clearly enjoyed thundering around fairways before stopping for drinks in the water hazards judging by the footprints.

We never did catch up with the roaming elephant but I discovered dozens of other memorable experiences, golf courses and tastes in the country dubbed ‘Amazing Thailand’.

The golf holiday, from the moment we checked into the Lancaster Bangkok after touching down in the capital at Suvarnabhumi Airport, was superb. In Thailand you get five star luxury for Premier Inn prices with our hotel even having a rooftop swimming pool and jacuzzi.

After a refreshing dip to revive our group following the journey, it was straight off into night. Here you will find food, alcohol and fun for everyone’s tastes - though I did pass on the grilled crocodile, insects and scorpions at the market.

Instead we opted for a delicious meal at ‘The Original Fried Curry Crab’ , where they pluck your seafood fresh from tanks outside the restaurant. We finished off the night at a live music bar before retiring in good spirits ahead of our opening tee time at Siam Country Club.

James Nursey enjoys Thailand — James Nursey at Riverdale Golf Club (Image credit: James Nursey)

The biggest revelation I found about golf in Thailand, wasn’t the fine courses or hot weather, which I had been expecting, but rather the caddies. As someone who has practically never had a caddie, I was blown away by how much help they can be assisting with club selection and the line on putts.

Your green fee of approximately £100 includes a buggy and a caddie who drives you around, finds your ball , ensures play flows promptly and advises you on your shots. In a land where the minimum daily wage is £8, being a caddie is a reasonable job as the usual tip per round is 500 Baht, which is about £11.

The caddies, who are always all female, were extremely professional, well-trained and helpful. Siam CC proved a good loosener after the 12-hour direct flight on Thai Airways from Heathrow as it is a new course with wide fairways , big greens and young, staked trees with free drops.

I was on track to break 80 and play to single figures when the heavens opened after 16 holes and we called it a day - which is the risk of playing in the rainy season from May-October.

After another night out in Bangkok, there was a chance for sightseeing the following day at the Grand Palace, which is home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Then we enjoyed a 90-minute full body massage at the top Oasis spa which was invigorating and therapeutic.

James Nursey visits the Grand Palace in Bangkok (Image credit: James Nursey)

Thailand promotes itself as a ‘health and wellness’ destination and the massage helped my game improve the next day as I began to acclimatise on and off the course. The fact motorists in Thailand drive on the left hand side of the road and use yards on the golf course probably helped too.

Riverdale Golf Club was our second course, which measured 6213 yards off the middle set of five tees. This track featured beautiful undulating slopes with an island green on the 100-yard par 3 eighth, which is the signature hole.

The eighth bizarrely has two greens on the same hole to give golfers a choice but I took on the challenge over the water and walked off with a regulation par. The course also featured another first for me which was a ‘gimme circle’ drawn around the cup measuring about two feet in diameter.

Anything in it was picked up which helped speed up play on a day when temperatures were well into their 30s. The caddies play a crucial role helping with the heat too as they held umbrellas to keep you shaded when waiting to play a shot.

Most courses in Thailand also have ‘comfort stops’ every three-four holes where you can get some ice, drink, food or use the restroom in facilities akin to a plush halfway house back home. It all makes playing in searing temperatures do-able if you let the buggy do the donkey work and refuel regularly.

After a final night in Bangkok at the cool Akara Hanuman Sky Bar, we headed for the hills on a three-hour road trip to Khao Yai, where temperatures are cooler. We stayed in the DusitD2 hotel with infinity pool but for train enthusiasts, the nearby railway-themed the InterContinenal also looked a jaw-dropping option.

After ditching the bags, we headed to Khao Yai Country Club , which was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This was another step up in calibre , set amidst the backdrop of forest-covered hills by the national park , which clearly was home for lots of wildlife, including elephants and er..snakes, if you strayed far off the fairway.

James Nursey visits Thailand — (Image credit: James Nursey)

Here I learned another valuable lesson about golfing in Thailand: beware playing the keen-gambling locals for money! I had a sub 80 round, including three birdies, and my partner and I still managed to lose on the last in fourball betterball to a couple of Thais, whose caddies appeared to even give them preferred lies in the deep rough.

Nevertheless the stunning scenery and 6285-yard course off the whites was still a joy with four par 5s and four par 3s so we took defeat gracefully....I think. After shaking hands and handing over 500 Baht, the local Singha beer, which they tend to drink with ice, hit the spot as we all reflected on a memorable game.

Dinner followed at Midwinter in Khao Yai, where the nightlife in the region is noticeably more subdued than Bangkok - but then again most places are. Here local specialities included raw shrimp, which was another first, but there were no repercussions ahead of our final course in the mock Italian village of Toscana.

Toscana Valley Country Club is nestled in the hills with beautiful views over the valley. The immaculate course had a wow factor from the moment we stood on the first tee and looked down to a par four with a green heavily guarded by water.

At Toscana they claim every hole is a signature hole and it was hard to argue with water in play at every turn as the course weaved through narrow gorges and over ravines to greens on plateaus. They also didn’t just have island greens but island tees too.

Assisted by my fantastic caddie ‘Aoi’ - pronounced ‘oi’ she said - I was really chuffed to play my best golf here. Not only did ‘Aoi’ give perfect reads on putts, but her club selection usually matched my own thoughts and probably gave me more confidence to commit to the shot.

With her help, I played the four par 3s in two-under and finished with a four-over 76 in a five-ball - yes the Thais play as they like - to win the Baht which went back in the kitty for dinner at the clubhouse. Here we were treated to delicious squid and steak, accompanied by more live music with drinks provided by renowned Thai importer BNK Pattaya Wine, who supported the trip by the Thailand Tourism Authority.

Around 600,000 Brits visit Thailand every year but there are plans to grow numbers to around 1m annually using golf as a big attraction. That was a message at the 2024 Thailand Golf Travel Mart which we attended in the capital as guests of Chatree Selahom from the London office of TTA.

James Nursey visits the 2024 Thai Golf Travel Mart — The 2024 Thai Golf Travel Mart (Image credit: James Nursey)

Here we met a number of representatives from resorts from all over the country plus exhibitors including Scotsman Michael Moir , who quit a potential life on tour to set-up his own successful golf clothing brand Fenix, which is based in Thailand and exports to the UK.

He is one of thousands of ex-pats who have made Thailand their home and I can see the appeal as your money goes so far over there. But personally I would be quite delighted just to visit again as a tourist using the 60-day visa free entry to check out more of its 250 golf courses.

Or if you are struggling with your game, just leave the clubs at home and you will still have a brilliant time enjoying the climate, food, nightlife, scenery and affordable luxury experiences.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/why-the-destination-youve-probably-never-considered-is-the-perfect-place-for-your-next-golfing-getaway Rrr6XTvGozFfQfgiPDorS9 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:01:02 +0000 <![CDATA[ Why Thailand Is The Perfect Destination For Your Next Golfing Getaway ]]> Golfers looking for their next break away to discover some of the world's most scenic courses along with incredible culture should look to Thailand for their next long haul adventure.

Thailand is one of the world's most beautiful countries, from its bustling cities like Bangkok to the culture and history in Kanchanaburi and Chiang Mai, its stunning mountains and nature in Chiang Rai and Khao Yai to its beaches and islands in the south like Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Phuket and Khao Lak.

But did you know that it's a haven for golf? It's where Major winners like Ariya Jutanugarn and Patty Tavatanakit hail from, as well as former World No.1 Atthaya Thitikul, eight-time European Tour winner Thongchai Jaidee and four-time European Tour winner Kiradech Aphibarnrat.

A Thai golf course seen from above — (Image credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand)

"It's one of the most scenic countries on earth with plenty to keep you busy away from the golf course."

The country is home to over 300 golf courses that come in all shapes and sizes no matter your ability, including one in the middle of Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport! You'll also find incredible layouts with backdrops of the mountains, national parks, beaches and islands, as well as many courses that have hosted professional tournaments.

The Thailand Open, Thailand Classic, Thailand Golf Championship and Honda LPGA Thailand are all prestigious events that have been played on the country's top courses, which include recent hosts Black Mountain in Hua Hin, Amata Spring Country Club in Bangkok, Siam Country Club in Pattaya and Riverdale Golf Club in Pathum Thani.

There are a number of hotbed areas for golf, including Hua Hin, Phuket and Pattaya, where you’ll find luxurious resorts and courses with premium facilities and service that have been designed by renowned global architects.

A Thai golf course seen from above at sunset — (Image credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Away from the course

And as well as the world class courses and huge variety, there are plenty of other reasons to choose Thailand.

It's one of the most scenic countries on earth with plenty to keep you busy away from the golf course. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of the cities that you're looking for or perhaps the serenity of the beaches and islands or adventure of the mountains, you're sure to find what you’re looking for in Thailand to enjoy a holiday to remember.

It's also where you'll experience the most authentic Thai cuisine as well as top hospitality and the famous Thai smile from the welcoming locals. There's great shopping and nightlife to keep you entertained in the evening, including colourful night markets, street food stalls and Michelin star dining. By day, when you’re not on the course, you can simply relax on the beach with an idyllic view, swim, snorkel, hire bikes to explore local neighbourhoods or indulge in a relaxing massage.

The country is also extremely affordable to visit, especially compared to the UK, Europe and the USA, so you can have the luxury 5* experience for less. It's easily connected, too, with flights to Bangkok available from most Major global cities.

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A golf green seen on the edge of water — (Image credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Domestic flights and trains are plentiful too with connections nationwide meaning you can tick off as many courses as you like with relative ease of travel.

So whether you're looking to get away in a large group or in just a couple, you can find your perfect golfing getaway in Thailand. There really is a Thailand golf holiday for everyone.

Book a Thailand golf holiday with Golf Breaks

For more travel inspiration and advice visit Fan Club Thailand and follow @fanclubthailand on Instagram

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/why-thailand-is-the-perfect-destination-for-your-next-golfing-getaway ZzCYEpZhZkJwWMuhZFQDn3 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:35:45 +0000 <![CDATA[ Fantastic Setting, Great Golf… And I Almost Came Home With A Natural Facelift! ]]> Even if you haven’t visited Lake Garda in northern Italy, it likely brings to mind a beautiful lake, stunning landscapes, and charming surrounding towns. And of course, Italy and gastronomy go hand in hand. But when it comes to golf, while Italy has made a significant mark on the map in recent years, it still might not be the first place you consider for a golfing trip. However, QC Villa Arzaga Garda, which combines golf and spa, might make you think again.

This former Renaissance villa is just a 10-minute drive from Lake Garda, tucked away in the town of Calvagese della Riviera. It only opened as a resort and wellness centre in 2022 and is the latest addition to the Spa of Wonders group, which has 12 centres and 7 hotels across Europe, as well as one in New York. All are designed to promote fulfilment through relaxation and rejuvenation, and in the case of QC Villa Arzaga Garda, golf too. After an approximately hour-and-a-half transfer from Milan Bergamo Airport, I was about to find out if this rings true.

The hotel makes a striking impression with its entrance featuring an elegant oval archway framed by classical pillars that showcases its timeless beauty. The reception area is fairly modest, it’s the enchanting courtyard behind that immediately draws your attention, although the choice of décor with aromatic diffusers, lush plants, and nature notes, as well as a few people milling around in white robes, means that there’s no mistake that you’re in the right place to unwind.

I always love the anticipation and excitement of opening a hotel bedroom door for the first time. There's 78 bedrooms and mine was spacious and airy with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a huge window, guaranteeing plenty of natural light. It led to a luxurious marble bathroom with a beautifully painted forest-themed wall in the shower and one of the best selections of toiletries. A surprising touch was the delicate flower floating in the toilet bowl – something new to me!

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QC Villa Arzaga Garda Bedroom — (Image credit: QC Villa Arzaga Garda Resort)

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After unpacking, I was ready for golf, but not before lunch at the golf clubhouse, which is conveniently accessible from the hotel. This isn't your ordinary clubhouse or lunch menu. The Bistrot features an elegant, yet relaxed restaurant and bar area, with a lovely terrace dotted with lemon trees overlooking the golf course. I opted for a light salad, which turned out to be a work of art. The waiter spent a few minutes preparing the dressing at the table, prompting a photo and video session from the group.

The Bistrot is open for lunch and dinner, while a buffet breakfast with everything you could possibly want, especially if you’ve got a sweet tooth (now I realise why it was listed as a Sweet Breakfast on my itinerary) is available in the Café.

There are 27 holes at Arzaga Golf Club, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus design that opened in 1998, with Gary Player adding a further 9 holes. It’s a short walk through a cedar woodland to reach the Player course, although it’s uphill, so you have to catch your breath when you arrive at the elevated 1st tee. This par-4 dog-leg offers a stunning view and sets the scene for what’s to come on this parkland and undulating layout with a mixture of interesting and picturesque holes.

Personally, I found the fairway and greenside bunkers more challenging than the few water hazards, although you have to focus on the par-3 6th to avoid a watery grave where the green stands on a peninsula jutting into the lake. From the forward tees, this is a very friendly course and if you play with accuracy you’ll post a confidence-boosting score.

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The 9-holer is a gentle introduction to Arzaga Golf Club, but in typical Nicklaus style, the 18-hole course is a whole different kettle of fish. It's longer and more challenging, with wide fairways, more water hazards, and large, tricky greens. After making the turn to the 10th, with lakes separating the 9th hole on one side and the 18th on the other, the course gets better and better and is a pleasure to play in such a naturally beautiful area.

I particularly remember the par-5 14th - it's a spectacular hole, but full of danger. Water runs almost the entire way down the left side, and even if you avoid that, bunkers guard the multi-tiered green. The bunkers also posed a problem for me on the short par-3 17th. You definitely don’t want to be short here, and although it’s a short hole, I’d bet this one wrecks plenty of scorecards. After a stern test of golf, I was pleased to head for home, appreciating the scenic 18th, with the villa as the backdrop.

Walking the course was manageable, but I would take a buggy if there's a next time. I also want to commend the practice facilities that include a separate short game area, as well as the overall running of the golf section. I couldn’t fault the quality of the hire clubs - I only had myself to blame for bad shots.

So, after a strenuous 18 holes and another gastronomic feast (it would have been rude not to complete a meal with homemade Tiramisu), my thoughts turned to the spa, which is also accessible directly from the hotel, passing by a series of characteristic archways, marble stairways and ancient frescoes.

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QC Villa Arzaga Garda Spa — (Image credit: QC Villa Arzaga Garda Resort)

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The variety of spa experiences is incredible. In fact, there's over 30 to choose from, so it's busy, offering everything from various steam baths and saunas to beauty rituals and a barrel room with infrared rays. There's also an atmospheric pool that transports you to new places, evoking the sensations of bathing in the rain. I should have spent more time in the face training booth, where you can watch a series of facial exercises for a natural facelift, but I was more eager to relax outside. There, you can choose between two outdoor pools, one of which is a peaceful oasis situated among the extensive gardens.

Feeling totally chilled, QC Villa Arzaga Garda did its job. It’s a charming resort, providing excellent service and exceptional food, and I would say it’s ideally suited to golfing couples for a luxury treat.

For further information, visit the website.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/italy/fantastic-setting-great-golf-and-i-almost-came-home-with-a-natural-facelift eoWa2HSb5hvAvGmj9hLNwg Tue, 06 Aug 2024 14:46:25 +0000 <![CDATA[ The Surprise European Golfing Destination That's Building Quite A Reputation ]]> If you travel about as far to the south and east as it is possible to journey in Europe, Cyprus is an ancient and mountainous island offering history, culture, cuisine and more. For many years it has been a popular holiday destination, with many even choosing to up sticks and relocate here. Unlike many such locations, golf hasn’t taken off in terms of volume of courses, but what is lacks in numbers is made up for by an eclectic mix which is also on offer at rates that are favourable to many of the more famous golfing hotspots.

Aphrodite Hills - Hole 7 — The dramatic par-3 seventh at Aphrodite Hills (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The country itself has a chequered history with conflict a regular feature, perhaps ironically as it is by legend the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The southern two-thirds of the island is under self-rule, and is a delightful destination for European holidaymakers as well as home to a large population of ex-pats. With the exception of the highly-rated Korineum Golf and Beach resort which is on the northern coast, all of the golf in Cyprus is towards the south and west of the island. The modern road system makes travel from the main airport in the east, Larnaca, very easy.

Elea - Hole 16 — The sixteenth green at Eléa with the classy clubhouse waiting beyond (Image credit: Rob Smith)

As well as the three featured courses, all of which come highly recommended, there are a couple of others not too far from them. Minthis Golf Club was designed by Donald Steel and used to be known as Tsada. It is the beneficiary of a Mackenzie and Ebert upgrade which included two new holes as recently as 2018. Vikla is further to the east near Larnaca and only uses water to irrigate the tees and greens leaving nature to do the rest. Cyprus has a wealth of archaeological sites as well as the superyacht marina at Limassol and is an excellent destination for a family holiday.

Aphrodite Hills

Designed by Cabell Robinson, the man responsible for many fine European courses such as Las Colinas in Spain. This excellent and very varied course runs either side of a deep gorge. The challenging landscape is home to a thrilling course over high ground and cliff-tops, with both the 7th and 8th absolute stunners. The former is a breath-taking par 3 played over a gorge, while the latter is an eye-catching short par 4 to the edge of the cliff with the distracting backdrop of the shimmering sea and an ancient olive press in the middle of the fairway. Aphrodite Hills and its accompanying charms make for a very enjoyable stay.

Par 71, 6,302 yards

Eléa

Elea - Hole 2 — There are beautiful panoramas at the Faldo-designed Eléa (Image credit: Rob Smith)

This desert-style course was designed by Sir Nick Faldo and opened for play in 2010. It features plenty of his bold, trademark bunkering, and runs over a gently-sloping and elevated hillside setting which results in some beautiful panoramas out to sea.

Elea - Hole 18 — The closing green looks out over the entire estate (Image credit: Rob Smith)

It is kept in fine condition and there are plenty of challenging holes with a lake separating the greens at the 5th and 9th. The penultimate hole is a super-tough par 4 with a long approach at an angle over a rocky wasteland.

Par 71, 6,313 yards

Secret Valley

Bordering on the sprawling Aphrodite Hills estate but hidden away below it, Secret Valley is less well known and provides a very attractive and enjoyable alternative. It runs along an old river valley that is flanked by steep, rocky hills. A key factor here is the wind that blows in from the sea and can swirl up through the river basin.

Secret Valley - Hole 12 — The short par-4 twelfth at Secret Valley (Image credit: Secret Valley Golf Club)

There are also plenty of bunkers and pine trees as well as rocky outcrops, and a friendly and informal atmosphere both on and off the course.

Par 71, 5,921 yards

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/the-surprise-european-golfing-destination-thats-building-quite-a-reputation mw7tRSkCpmQw7j4bDaUEeX Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:35:14 +0000 <![CDATA[ Golf To Dye Fore In This Tropical Caribbean Paradise ]]> The Dominican Republic is one of the largest countries in the Caribbean and is blessed with a tropical climate that makes it a year-round tourist destination. There are miles of golden beaches along its coastline which is also home to the majority of its highly regarded golf courses, including the world-famous Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo. This Pete Dye masterpiece has been a bucket-list favourite for more than half a century and is one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

Dye Fore - Chavon - Hole 1 — Looking back over the opening green to the Altos de Chavon (Image credit: Rob Smith)

Not so widely known is that the vast Casa de Campo with its huge array of accommodation and recreational facilities has further golf options of a quite different nature, especially the three excellent loops of nine that comprise the improbably-named Dye Fore. They are beautifully located up in the hills to the east, but each has something different from the others.

Dye Fore - Chavon - Hole 6 — The par-3 sixth on the Chavon 9 at Casa de Campo (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The Chavon hugs the high cliffs looking down over the river that runs to the coast from the mountains. Five of the holes on the Lagos nine flirt tantalisingly with one of several large lakes.

Dye Fore - Marina - Hole 3 — The short third on the Marina nine with views out to the Caribbean Sea (Image credit: Rob Smith)

The Marina works its way between some very impressive villas with the middle section offering fabulous views out over the harbour and Caribbean sea.

Dye Fore - Marina - Hole 5 — The fifth hole take you down close to the modern marina at Casa de Campo (Image credit: Rob Smith)

Casa de Campo is a luxurious and complete golfing resort with a wide array of thrilling, attractive and testing golf. It offers some of the very best golf in the Caribbean.

GF: $325 to $450
Stats: Chavon Par 36, 3,303 yards
Lagos Par 35, 3,268 yards
Marina Par 36, 3,286 yards

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/golf-to-dye-fore-in-this-tropical-caribbean-paradise fnKdfN2toRFkZp3qniaddR Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:33:57 +0000 <![CDATA[ Is Europe's Original Golfing Playground Still A Must-Visit Region? There Are Plenty Of Reasons Why It Is! ]]> From Isla Canela on the Portuguese border in the west, all the way across to Desert Springs in the east, the 300-mile expanse of Andalucia is home to a terrific array of golf. It is now 60 years since the Costa del Sol reinvented and established itself as a favourite European golfing destination. Blessed with a welcoming climate and only a short flight from the UK, Andalucia has since been a golfing holiday favourite. The region became the first such stronghold, bursting on to the scene in 1964 when Robert Trent Jones designed his first course this side of the Atlantic. The Real Club de Golf at Sotogrande is still going strong and will host this year’s Andalucian Masters on the DP World Tour. The area is packed with courses of every size, shape and description, ranging from great-value and relatively unknown pay-and-plays to the lofty heights of courses that have hosted European Tour events. As you drive along the fast-flowing highways, the signposts are a roll-call of recent golfing history.

The most famous and generally most highly-rated course in the area is the 1997 Ryder Cup venue, Real Valderrama. Elsewhere, well-known holiday golf names trip off the tongue such as Atalaya, El Paraiso, Estepona and Torrequebrada. There are two particularly good courses at Mijas Golf, the Lakes and the Olives. Close to the Puerto Banus marina in Marbella are several excellent courses, including the 27-hole complex at La Quinta, designed by Manuel Pinero and with panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Sierra Blanca mountain range that surrounds its valley location. Sloping fairways and deep bunkers add to the challenge but water also regularly comes into play, as it does at so many Andalucian courses. Close by are two of the finest courses in the district; Real Las Brisas, and Aloha. It would be impossible to run out of new, different and very enjoyable golf in Andalucia.

Finca Cortesin

Finca Cortesin is up in the hills just minutes from the porcelain-white beaches of Marbella and Sotogrande. Last year, it hosted the Solheim Cup, and the development is described by its designers as a place where nature gently vanishes into the deep blue sea. For many holidaying golfers, it may also turn out to be a place where your golf ball vanishes into a deep blue penalty area, but it is really the bunkering that defines this lush, green, expansive paradise.

Par 72, 6,434 yards

La Reserva

Adjacent to Real Valderrama, La Reserva was designed by Cabell Robinson. Despite their proximity, the courses are remarkably different with La Reserva more forgiving and also more undulating. It offers spectacular, far-reaching views, and there are two evenly matched loops of nine, each providing an enthralling mix of risk and reward, drama, variety, and most of all, fun. One of its great joys is that no two holes are the same; the golfer constantly changes direction and leaves each hole not knowing what to expect next.

Par 72, 6,614 yards

San Roque

San Roque boasts two very fine courses with the Old designed by Dave Thomas and Tony Jacklin. Seve Ballesteros added his flair to the bunkering, and five years ago it was treated to a significant upgrade that included changes to all of the key features and a reversal of the nines. The New opened in 2003 and was designed by Perry Dye, son of Pete. It covers a relatively compact site and is visually very impressive with its heavy and distinctive bunkering a real feature.

Old - Par 72, 6,589 yards
New - Par 72, 6,649 yards

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/is-europes-original-golfing-playground-still-a-must-visit-region-there-are-plenty-of-reasons-why-it-is DuYYXevBJ6bJYX86yDMEVH Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:34:03 +0000 <![CDATA[ How My First Solo Golf Holiday Opened My Eyes To An Emerging Golf Haven ]]> To many of my peers, Turkey is often the butt end of a joke thanks in part to it being a popular destination for Brits searching for discount cosmetic surgery. However, when I told them I wasn’t heading to Turkey for a new head of hair or teeth, they were somewhat surprised to hear of the wealth of quality golf courses located on the country’s southern Mediterranean coast.

You wouldn’t blame them either. Turkey isn’t particularly famed for its golf, with the whole country only having 20 golf courses to its name - stunningly sparse for a nation of nearly 85 million people. Over half of Turkey’s 20 courses are located in and around the purpose built Belek region, which has embraced its tag as the home of golf in Turkey with the likes of Colin Montgomerie and Sir Nick Faldo designing some of the courses in the area.

All 11 of Belek’s golf courses are attached to one of the many luxury hotels that dot the coastline and I had the pleasure of playing both courses at the brilliant Antalya Golf Club and staying at the Kempinski Dome which it is attached to.

Sultans of Swing

The Sultan course at Antalya golf club (Image credit: Solos)

The main course at Antalya Golf Club, The Sultan, hosted Justin Rose’s 2012 victory at the Turkish Airlines World Final in 2012 and was my first slice of Turkish golf for the week. An immaculately maintained facility, the clear cuts from fairway to semi rough to rough was a welcome sight as I escaped the mud and rain of my home course - contouring, carpet-like green complexes took some getting used to when the flat stick came out.

On the particular day I was playing, the wind was gusting upwards of 40mph, making what was already a tough test of golf that bit harder. Six of the first nine holes featured some kind of water hazard, while the second par-5 played directly into a howling gale, where I successfully hit driver, 3-wood, hybrid, wedge onto the green, and then duly three putted. Measuring 6477 meters, the course requires strong play off the tee and an equally strong long iron game to make the most of the layout - but plenty of teeing options mean you can adjust the difficulty to your liking.

The middle of back nine briefly takes you away from the water and 12 and 13 in particular present two beautifully tree lined holes, with 12 claiming to be the toughest par-4 in the country. The 16th hole, my favourite, gives golfers the tantalising ability to either access the green in two, or face finding one of two water hazards protecting the long but narrow green. The 18th, a brilliant finishing hole dog legging over water, sees you turning back towards the Taurus mountains and the art deco clubhouse in the distance, a facility that many will be glad to see if the wind whips up quite as much as it did on that particular day.

The tree lined Pascha course at Antalya golf club (Image credit: Solos)

Antalya GC’s second course, the Pascha, is a more friendly test of golf. No less well maintained than its bigger brother, it measures in at an inviting 5731 meters and, as a par 72, offers up plenty of birdie opportunities. Mercifully, the wind had subsided by this point, and some slightly warmer weather made the game feel easy in comparison to the previous day. Long hitters needn’t get their driver out more than a couple of times, but it still makes for an incredibly enjoyable round thanks to its clever dog legs, sunken green complexes, tree lined par-4s and par 5s hugging the lake on the back nine. Drivable par 4s are one of golf’s great joys, and the Pascha features two that will tempt plenty to try and find the dance floor in one. After my battering on the Sultan, it was a wonderful antidote and an equally enjoyable, but wholly different, golf course to its sibling.

I spent my time off the course exploring the vast extremities of The Kempinski Dome hotel. Only one of the region’s 11 courses benefits from sea views, with the beachfront being allocated to the hotels. The views from the sea-facing rooms are stunning with the vastness of the Mediterranean and the towering figure of Taurus mountain range to the east offering plenty to gaze out at in the mornings. Accompanying the pool facilities is an extensive spa, highlighted by a decadent Turkish Hammam, which was a quick and easy way to banish any physical or mental demons you may have accrued from a day on the golf course.

I barely had to move for food during my stay and the all inclusive Kempinski Dome boasts 12 restaurants and bars serving food and drink from dawn until well after dusk. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is well served by a large buffet offering a range of international cuisine with fresh fish, meze, calamari, sushi and Mexican food all making its way onto my plate over the course of my stay. Another option for lunch, and a popular post-golf spot, is the Palm Lounge & Bar offering up an al fresco dining experience on the beach with a huge choice of options.

Outside of meal times, a swim-up bar and indoor cafe offer snacks and drinks while, in the high season, the Pier Bar is open from afternoon until late evening, offering a stunning view for a drink above the ocean. Back in the hotel, the Piano Bar and Karaoke Bar offer an evening’s entertainment accompanied by music while Putters Bar is a stylish golfers-style bar popular with guests for after dinner drinks and a game of pool while sport plays in the background.

Solo traveling

A view from the pool area at The Kempinksi Dome hotel in Belek, Turkey (Image credit: Solos)

I was tagging onto a group who were traveling out with the travel agency Solos. Founded in 1982, Solos has been the go-to agency for solo travelers either looking for some winter sun or organised trips with tennis, walks & treks or golf. The only thing guests need in common is a zest for life and a desire to travel. The agency is keen to challenge the assumption that solo travel is purely for single people. Irrespective of age, ability, circumstance, background, gender – there really is something for everyone. Perhaps this could be the key to maintaining a healthy relationship – allowing each other the freedom to find their own path, embrace their differences, and make new friends. Its modern remit is likely what took me - aged 26 - on this particular adventure.

Its golf program is award winning, and rightly so, with the ever younger clientele providing a real mixed group of solo travelers with ages ranging from mid-40s into the 70s. Some single, some married and some widowed, around 40% of the group already knew each other from other Solos adventures to places like South Africa, Morocco and Cyprus.

This still made me the youngest there by some 20 years, something that was duly noted much to my own and everyone else’s amusement. However, by the end of the opening evening’s cocktail hour, I headed to dinner feeling like one of the Solos regulars. It’s a testament to the like minded Solos travelers, all of whom were deeply welcoming and friendly, as well as the tour leader, Nick Fletcher, for making myself and any other newbies on the trip feeling warmly welcomed from the outset.

Many of the group members have been so enamored with the Solos experience that they’ve attended Solos trips once or twice yearly - and I could quickly see why. Camaraderie, competitive golf on beautifully maintained courses, and friendly company - I couldn’t think of a better way to enjoy a golf holiday as a solo traveller. You don’t have to be a social butterfly to enjoy the company either. There was plenty of time to enjoy your own company between golf and dinner and I made sure a nap by the pool or a trip to the spa filled my afternoons truly riding solo.

My trip in late November greeted me with sunny skies and temperatures topping out in the low 20s, ideal golfing weather and a perfect escape from the British winter. Regular travelers to the area recommend visiting golfers to avoid June-August due to the searing heat, with March-May and September-December being the ideal times to visit the region for the best golfing weather.

The Kempinski Dome temporarily closed just a few weeks after my visit for an extensive refurbishment program and reopened again on March 1st, and is due to return to the Solos program in 2025. In the meantime, the company will still be running trips to the Belek region, staying instead at the Sirene Hotel just up the coast.

Having sampled less than 20% of Belek’s array of golf courses and having quickly made around 25 new friends, three of whom were called Steve, hopefully I’ll be able to pop back and see the Solos regulars once again and try out some more of the wealth of golf Belek has to offer.

You can check out all of the Solos golf programmes via its website.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/rest-of-the-world/how-my-first-solo-golf-holiday-opened-my-eyes-to-an-emerging-golf-haven jPa8NnkeuQsX7JeSc7UeYD Fri, 26 Apr 2024 14:02:56 +0000 <![CDATA[ Three Days, Two Courses, One Incredible Hotel… The Golf Trip That Was About More Than Just The Golf! ]]> There comes a point when even the hardiest of all-weather golfers has to admit defeat. For me, this was mid-March 2024. The start of the year had been dominated by one thing - rain - leading to persistent course closures and a truly colossal stockpile of mud.

That’s why, when my alarm burst into life at 4.15am on March 18th, I peeled myself out of bed and made for the airport with a spring in my step. My destination for the next three days was the Spanish island of Mallorca.

After a short two hour flight from London Gatwick to Palma and a 45-minute drive, I arrived at my home for the next few days, Carrossa Hotel & Spa. It lies in a quiet, rural location towards the north east of the island with stunning views across the undulating countryside and out towards the sea. As I settled in after the journey, I was particularly pleased with my junior suite (pictured within the gallery below) that provided a modern, luxurious space to rest.

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Carrossa Junior Suite — A junior suite at Carrossa (Image credit: Carrossa)

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Carrossa Infinity Pool — A view from the infinity pool at Carrossa - complete with cocktails! (Image credit: Carrossa)

There are four golf courses within a 15-minute drive of Carrossa but, as tempted as I was to venture out on my first afternoon, I spent the rest of the day lying by the infinity pool and lapping up some much-needed Mediterranean sunshine.

The following morning, I made the 45-minute drive to Alcanada Golf Club. From the moment you arrive, you get a real sense for what the next few hours have in store. Unlike Carrossa, this is a coastal location but due to the typical topography of Mallorca, you play from the hills above the Mediterranean. This makes for some truly epic views and that’s why, no matter what your golfing ability, there is plenty to enjoy here.

From a golfing perspective, Alcanada is a proper Championship test. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr, it plays host to the annual Challenge Tour Grand Final (the last hurdle between those at the top of the Tour rankings and the next level up, DP World Tour). As such, you’ll certainly need to strike the ball well to register a good score. My advice would be to choose a set of tees that aren’t too far back and give yourself a chance of hitting the large, immaculate greens in the right number.

After Alcanada, it was straight back to the hotel as I had two important appointments to make. The first was a 25-minute Swedish back massage at the hotel Spa. In my experience, some massages can feel like a test of your pain threshold - but not this one. As a way to kick start a relaxing holiday, I couldn’t recommend this highly enough and any lingering thoughts of the bad shots I’d hit during my morning round soon faded. It was bliss.

My second appointment was in the atmospheric Bodega (pictured below) for a local wine tasting. Carrossa’s in-house sommelier took us through the story of Mallorcan wine, stopping along the way to sample a range of interesting varieties. As something of a wine enthusiast (whose knowledge is admittedly fairly limited), this was an intriguing and highly enjoyable part of the trip.

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Bodega at Carrossa — (Image credit: Carrossa)

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Carrossa Hotel & Spa aerial view — (Image credit: Carrossa)

It is also worth saying at this point that the food is one of the stand-out features at Carrossa. Having recently taken on a new executive chef, Angel Zapata Martin, the menu is refined, elegant and lives up to the luxury feel of the overall experience. You can expect to see some creative Mediterranean dishes including a show-stopping knuckle of veal!

My final day in Mallorca was spent at Pula Golf Club which provided an interesting contrast to the challenge of the day before. Where Alcanada is grand and epic, Pula is more compact and quaint. This charming rustic setting is more a test of accuracy and short game skill than brute force. You certainly don’t need to be able to drive the ball 300-yards to enjoy this one but to score well you will need a smart strategy that avoids the many water features around the layout.

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Pula Golf Burger — (Image credit: Future)

The greens are much smaller than at Alcanada and so not getting drawn into taking on tight flags is a must. Either way, it offers seriously enjoyable holiday golf. As I’d quickly come to expect from Mallorca, the hilly landscape provides a memorable aesthetic for a friendly golf course that weaves its way through the countryside. The post round burger (pictured in the gallery above) was pretty good too!

And with my final putt at Pula, so it was time to pack up my things and head back to a soggy London. From this trip I was expecting to enjoy the golf (particularly with the sun on my back) and it certainly didn't disappoint but what took me by surprise was how much I enjoyed the rest of my stay. From the cocktail bar and the food to the relaxed luxury of Carrossa itself, this is a great getaway for golfers no matter how strong your interest in the game is. For me, it provided the perfect respite from a difficult winter but no matter what time of year you choose, Mallorca clearly has plenty to offer.

Carrossa Hotel & Spa: 5-Night Golf Package

You can enjoy a five night, half board stay at Carrossa Hotel & Spa with three rounds of golf (Alcanada, Capdepera and Canyamel) for €1,090 per person.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/three-days-two-courses-one-incredible-hotel-the-golf-trip-that-was-about-more-than-just-the-golf NvZn6ZS8Z3H4ZWA8B3edkK Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:20:43 +0000 <![CDATA[ The Carolinas Are Home To 1,000-plus Courses: We Pick Out Three Of The Very Best In This US Golfing Hotbed ]]> Although everyone rightly associates Augusta National with the state of Georgia, if it was a couple of miles further east or north, it would actually be in South Carolina. The two Carolinas therefore share a similar climate with hot, steamy summers and mild, golf-friendly winters. They are also home to a vast array of varied and interesting courses, old and new, with more than enough choice to suit all tastes and pockets. At the epicentre for the golf enthusiast is the amazing Myrtle Beach that straddles the state line and has more than 60 courses, many if not most of an extremely high quality. Names such Prestwick and Glen Dornoch (obviously not actually related to Royal Dornoch), pay homage to the sport’s heritage, and you could enjoy countless holidays here alone. Elsewhere, there are some big names that have hosted important championships. Some, such as Quail Hollow which is home to the Wells Fargo each May, are for members and their guests only. Happily most, including the three very famous clubs featured here, are open to all. Some, such as Tobacco Road in the heartlands of North Carolina, have gained legendary status as being for the connoisseur.

The two states are also home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the States. This is reflected in the endlessly varied and frequently breath-taking golf on offer. Many designs enjoy an oceanside setting where the wind will usually be a key factor, but some are up to 250 miles from the coast and blessed with a mountainous setting enjoying forest, lake and river. As you might expect, green fees vary enormously with some real bargains available at some of the less well-known courses. As for the featured resorts, then they tend to come with accommodation and all manner of packages that can vary substantially throughout the seasons.

Pinehurst

If you think St Andrews is a complete golfing destination, then take a long intoxicating look at Pinehurst in North Carolina which boasts not nine but ten fabulous, top quality courses. The newest installment opens this month, designed by Tom Doak, and this serves as the perfect hors d’oeuvres before Number 2 stages its fifth US Open in June. This tree-lined, bucket-list championship layout was designed by Donald Ross, while Number 4 has been redesigned several times, most recently by Gil Hanse.

No 2 - 6,307 yards, par 72
No 4 - 6,428 yards, par 72

Harbour Town

Harbour Town Golf Links is on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. It is one of three superb courses at the Sea Pines Resort, and was designed by Pete Dye in 1969. It hosts the RBC Heritage every year, producing champions such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Jordan Spieth. Most holes are lined by mature pine, and the greens are relatively small which puts a premium on your short game. The closing hole is a classic par 4 that is one of the most recognisable in golf.

Stats - 6,681 yards, par 71

Kiawah Island

The Ocean Course will test the very best (Image credit: Getty Images)

The Ocean Course is one of five thrilling designs on Kiawah Island, a luxury resort near Charleston in South Carolina. It hosted the dramatic 1991 Ryder Cup and more recently two USPGA Championships, won by Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson. Exposed to the ever-changing elements, it is said that some holes can play up to eight clubs differently when the wind changes direction. This is one of the toughest courses, but also one of the most exciting, in the world.

Ocean Course - 6,475 yards, par 72

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/the-carolinas-are-home-to-1000-plus-courses-we-pick-out-three-of-the-very-best-in-this-us-golfing-hotbed h93b3cfpjriBWpLvnDj7hm Fri, 29 Mar 2024 16:34:26 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Played The Best 'New' Golf Course in America. Here’s Why It Should Be On YOUR 'Must Play' List ]]> Florida has long been a 'go-to' destination for US and international golfers. The combination of year-round good weather and over 1,200 courses across the state - the majority of which are public access - is a compelling one. However, if there's a negative to golf in Florida it's the fact that the majority of layouts look and play the same.

Courses tend to be either wide open and lacking in visual stimulation, or heavily tree lined and a little claustrophobic. Fairways are usually over-watered with little or no run on offer. Amorphous, highly manicured bunkers line fairways and surround greens and present little in the way of a strategic challenge to escape them. Expansive water hazards (sometimes on both sides of the fairways and greens) intimidate and penalize golfers. Greens are vast but often have little in the way of interesting movement. Target golf at its 'finest'.

Oh, and nine times out of 10 you have no option but to ride in a cart if you want to play them.

There are, of course, exceptions to the rule. Perhaps most notably Streamsong Resort in deepest central Florida about an hour south east of Tampa, where the three 18-hole courses, Blue, Red, Black and a short course called The Chain offer a sensational golfing experience that makes the most of a dramatic landscape that’s part natural, part man made.

You can now add Cabot Citrus Farms to the list of Florida destinations that offer something refreshingly different.

Like Streamsong, Cabot Citrus Farms is off the beaten track. Located in an area known as the Nature Coast, it’s a 90-minute drive from Orlando and 60 minutes from Tampa. The nearest town is Brooksville (population approximately 10,000) and the local economy is founded on agriculture… hence the Citrus Farms name.

Strictly speaking, Cabot Citrus Farms isn’t ‘new’ as it occupies the site that was home to World Woods, which opened in 1994 at the height of the golf course boom that saw hundreds of new layouts spring up across America.

The vision was for it to be one of the best public access golf destinations in the US, and Japanese owner, Yukihisa Inoue, hired Tom Fazio - very much the man of the moment in the 90s - to lay out two distinct courses on the site: Pine Barrens, which took inspiration from Pine Valley, and Rolling Oaks, that sought to evoke echoes of Augusta National.

Both courses were well received and Pine Barrens became a fixture in several of the well regarded US Top 100 courses lists. However, World Woods suffered in comparison to other parts of Florida as it was somewhat out on a limb with little in the way of other courses and accommodation options to allow it to become a destination in its own right.

Green fees were competitively priced to try to attract golfers to make the journey from Orlando or Tampa, but there just wasn’t the volume of business. As a result, the condition of the courses suffered as visitor income couldn’t keep pace with the expenditure required to upkeep such a big property.

World Woods was effectively mothballed until the Cabot Group and its dynamic CEO and co-founder, Ben Cowan-Dewar, bought the courses and surrounding land in 2022.

Cowan-Dewar had apparently first visited way back in 1999 and liked what he saw. It was perhaps no great surprise that when World Woods became available to buy he stepped in and made the investment, seeing the opportunity to create another world-class golf destination to add to the Cabot Collection.

To golf course aficionados, the Cabot name has rapidly grown in stature since the group’s first course, Cabot Links in Nova Scotia, opened in 2011. Set on spectacular land overlooking the Gulf of St Lawrence, the course, designed by Rod Whitman, became an instant classic. A few years later a second course, Cabot Cliffs, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw opened, and both are now highly regarded and rank very highly in all the US and World Top 100 lists.

Cabot Saint Lucia — The spectacular Point Hardy at Cabot St Lucia (Image credit: Jacob Sjöman)

Cowan-Dewar’s next development was on the Caribbean island of St Lucia, where once again he engaged Coore and Crenshaw to lay out the spectacular Point Hardy Golf Club, which Golf Monthly contributing editor, Fergus Bissett, was lucky enough to pay a visit to back in February 2023. He was both mightily impressed not only by the golf course but also Cowan-Dewar and his vision for creating exciting golf courses on spectacular plots of land. Point Hardy officially opened and it has already made its way onto the bucket lists of those in the know.

Following the template for jaw-dropping courses in stunning settings, Cabot Revelstoke in the Canadian Rockies is set to open in 2025. It’s another Rod Whitman design and from a glimpse at the website it looks like it’s going to be another Cabot classic.

In 2023, the Cabot Group also acquired Castle Stuart in the Scottish Highlands. Consistently ranked in the upper echelons of Golf Monthly’s Top 100 GB&I rankings, it is a superb modern links layout set on the Dornoch Firth. When it became part of the Cabot group, there was a name change and it’s now known as Cabot Highlands.

Work is due to start soon on a second course at Cabot Highlands with Tom Doak taking on design duties. There is arguably no more sought after course designer right now than Doak and his brief is to create something special to contrast with the existing Gil Hanse design. It’s fair to say that the Cabot Group is on somewhat of a roll right now.

Anyway, back to Brooksville, Florida…

Ahead my visit I had got myself suitably excited by looking at the Cabot Citrus Farms website and Instagram page. The Cabot Group really knows how to stir the souls of golf course enthusiasts with beautiful imagery, superb video and well written words. The best way I can describe Cabot's content is for golfers, by golfers.

There are expansive plans for the whole development here and the site was a bustling hive of activity when I arrived with the first phase of 36 cottage-style properties and the clubhouse under construction. There’s a second phase planned which includes more cottages and some larger family homes and numerous upscale restaurants, bars and leisure facilities for those staying on site to enjoy. The pro shop was already open for business and has a brilliant array of apparel and accessories all featuring the very cool Cabot Citrus Farms branding. It took A LOT of willpower to not spend big in there!

The phase 1 properties sit in the center of an area that will become known as Cabot Citrus Farms Village with the golf courses surrounding them. At present, one of the 18-hole courses, ‘Karoo’ and the two short courses ‘The Squeeze’ and ‘The Wedge’ (more on these gems later) are open for preview play.

Karoo occupies the site of the former Pine Barrens layout and is named after the distinctive calling sound made by the Sandhill Cranes birds that stride around the fairways.

The course features some of the original holes from Pine Barrens, and retains some of the visual cues, too, but much has changed thanks to the inspirational design skills of Kyle Franz, who is best known for his work in the North Carolina area including restorations of three celebrated Donald Ross courses, Pines Needles, Mid Pines and Southern Pines.

There are distinct similarities between Karoo and typical North Carolina courses, including wide open fairways and towering cathedral pines that are much more prominent after wide scale clearance of lower level trees that has had the dual benefit of opening up views and letting air circulate.

The bold Franz design is rugged in nature with many changes in elevation, double and even triple fairways, cleverly positioned bunkering and waste areas which lead the eye to interesting green complexes that feature lots of options for fun but challenging pin positions. Franz calls it 'Adventure Golf' as it truly lives up to that billing. Karoo is a great golfing experience that will bring a smile to your face and test your game.

There are five different tee box options meaning the course can play as short as 4,223 yards (Royal Blue) right up to 7,562 yards (Black). On the day I visited, we played from the Tangerine tees. At 6,295 yards, it’s a perfect length for a wide range of golfers. Big hitters will be encouraged to make aggressive plays, but it’s not unduly intimidating for shorter hitters.

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One of the most enjoyable things about playing at Cabot Citrus Farms is the fact you have so many options off the tee (there are no forced carries here) and playing into greens. Unlike most Florida golf courses where ‘bomb and gouge’ approach rules, here drives run out and can take big bounces and breaks off mounds and slopes, bunkers are genuine strategic hazards, and golfers can play running shots into and around all of the greens rather than having to take the aerial route and try to stop the ball on a dime. In short, it’s a superbly varied and strategic test of golf.

Better players can take on more aggressive lines from the tee and if they succeed in missing the trouble, they will be rewarded with clearer lines into greens. For less talented golfers, there is always a safe option and while it might mean a less favorable approach to the green, there is normally always an area short of the putting surface to lay up into from where you have a chance of getting up and down. The course manages to achieve the hard par/easy bogey principle that is the hallmark of great golf course design.

With no rough, only two water hazards and out of bounds set well back from the playing area on almost every hole, it’s almost impossible to lose a ball… although I did on the par-3 3rd hole, when I hit a big pull left that disappeared into the trees never to be seen again.

One of the other highlights of Karoo is the fact that you pass a ‘halfway house’ no fewer than four times during the round, meaning you can pick up some refreshments and stop for a comfort break at regular points.

There is a great choice of food and drink to be had here - my personal favorites were the handcrafted hard seltzer by Florida based 3 Daughters Brewing Co and the gourmet hot dogs that you could top with a selection of tasty extras including crispy fried onions and spicy jalapeno peppers.

There genuinely isn’t a weak hole on Karoo and I found it almost impossible to settle on a favorite, so I’ve selected what to me are the best par-3, 4 and 5 on the layout. Yardage quoted is from the Tangerine tees that I played from.

BEST PAR 3 - 7th HOLE, 167 YARDS

Playing slightly downhill, this brilliant one-shotter features just one bunker, some 60 yards short of the front of the green, but don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security, because the putting surface is surrounded by waste areas that come especially close to the back edge of the green making it easy to run into trouble, especially if it’s playing downwind.

The real challenge here is negotiating the severe undulations of the green, most notably a deep ridge that runs through a section in the middle. Get on the wrong side of this and you will have to be a very skilful judge of speed and slope to get your approach putt close enough to the flag to make par. It’s not often in golf that you can have fun four-putting a green, but it’s very possible here!

BEST PAR 4 - 15th HOLE, 282 yards

This brilliant risk-and-reward short par-4 has lots of options. You can play ‘safe’ up the left hand side where a fairly generous fairway is situated, although from here you’ll have to hit a short iron or wedge pitch over a mound that protects to the left hand side of a green with some more dramatic undulations. The brave play is to take aim directly at the green and try to fly it over a pond and sandy waste area, where if you come up short it’s easy to draw a tricky lie and you’ll be left with a fiddly distance to negotiate. I suspect in every fourball there will be as many bogeys and worse made as birdies at this hole.

BEST PAR 5 - 14th HOLE, 511 yards

This excellent long hole plays uphill and doglegs from right to left. Big hitters must keep the ball to the right hand side to avoid a large mound at driving distance that is covered in scrub and bunker beside. Shorter hitters have a wide target to aim for and can open their shoulders.

Depending on how far you’ve driven the ball and the wind direction, the green might be in range but it will require a fairway wood or long iron to reach and you’ll need to skirt four treacherous bunkers on the left hand side of the putting surface. If you play the hole more conservatively as a three-shotter there are a collection of bunkers that need to be avoided and the best route is to keep up the right hand side.

The Roost

The second course at Cabot Citrus Farms is currently being grassed in and is due to open for preview play in June 2024 - and it looks to be an absolute cracker. Designed by Mike Nuzzo and Kyle Franz with input from Ran Morrissett (the founder of the highly respected Golf Club Atlas website), The Roost is the new incarnation of the Rolling Oaks layout and although it sits adjacent to Karoo, it will have a very different feel with holes lined by a combination of rolling meadows featuring flowering dogwoods and native wildflowers, oak trees draped with the distinctive Spanish Moss and sandy, scrubby areas that are reminiscent of courses on the famous Australian sandbelt. The original Rolling Oaks layout took inspiration from Augusta and The Roost retains that with significant changes in elevation challenging the golfer on many holes.

The Squeeze

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This fun, 9-hole 'half-par' inspired layout should be a must-play for every visitor coming to play one or both of the 18-hole layouts. Holes range in length from 100 yards to 550 yards and there are chances for birdies at every single one of them. On my visit, our group managed to get round in under an hour and we had tons of fun shots and plenty of chances at making birdies.

The Wedge

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Last but not least is The Wedge, an 11-hole, par-3 course that can be lit up at night, which means golfers can have an extra fix of golfing fun after daylight has disappeared. You’ll only need a couple of wedges and a putter (and maybe a beer or two) to get round this course with holes varying between 70 and 115 yards in length. The Wedge boasts many of the design features of the other three courses, with waste areas and sloping greens providing a fun examination of your short game.

Practice Facilities

The original World Woods featured a 360-degree driving range and extensive short game facilities and while the driving range layout has changed, there are still lots of options to hone your game at Cabot Citrus Farms.

The new double-ended driving range features Trackman technology meaning you can dial in your numbers and ball flight as you hit premium balls at a wide variety of perfectly presented targets that brings a real focus to your pre-round warm up or a session working on your game.

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There’s also an incredible putting green that covers almost two acres featuring huge slopes where you can get a feel for the type of challenges out on the main courses. For those who have been to St Andrews and enjoyed the unique challenge of The Himalayas, there’s a similar experience on offer here.

Nestled in center of the action - between the putting green, the 1st tee and 11th green of The Wedge and 10th the green of The Squeeze, is a grass area named 'The Porch' where firepits are surrounded by outdoor seating and there's a cool Airstream caravan serving food and drinks. It’s a great spot to close out a memorable day at Cabot Citrus Farms.

How To Play Cabot Citrus Farms

Cabot Ctitrus Farms — Holes, 2, 3 and 6 on The Squeeze course at Cabot Citrus Farms (Image credit: Matt Majka)

Golfers can apply to play ‘preview rounds’ on the four courses via the club's website Cabot Citrus Farms at what are very competitive rates of between $30 and $170 depending on which course and month. Rates will increase when Cabot Citrus Farms officially opens in Autumn 2024 at which point rates will increase to reflect the full experience.

I, for one, can't wait to get back and see how the courses and community will unfold, but be assured Cabot Citrus Farms is here to stay and in time you can expect it to become a genuine rival to the likes of Bandon Dunes, Sand Valley and Streamsong.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/usa/i-played-the-best-new-golf-course-in-america-heres-why-it-should-be-on-your-must-play-list MeSSpqrUxMBj8Rbr8FqZg9 Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:46:32 +0000 <![CDATA[ Golf In The North Of Mallorca ]]> Golf in the north of Mallorca

For some, Mallorca equals partying in Magaluf; for others their destination of choice is the vibrant, beautiful capital Palma de Mallorca. Both of these are in the south of the island where there are many fine golf courses. But Mallorca’s best golf course is probably in the north.

Someone at the airport, who knew only that I was there to play golf, not what I did, told me Alcanada was the island’s best course. I asked how he could be so definite. “Because Golf Monthly says it is,” he replied with a self-satisfied air of someone with the clinching argument.

But first stop was Pula. Well umpteenth stop as it turned out as our driver got lost. We were later told that satnavs often struggle to locate Pula. At one point we were bumping down a potholed single lane overgrown track. Quite why the driver thought our hotel might be at the end of it I don’t know – it was the way to a rubbish dump it turned out – but a while later he was attempting to squeeze the minibus along a golf course cart path, so he was clearly an optimistic fellow.

Alcanada dogleg 1st hole — Doglegged 1st hole at Alcanada (Image credit: Roderick Easdale)

It had been an eventful journey one way and another. I had been booked on Ryanair by a PR company who obviously hated me. The airport automatic gates could not read my boarding pass, so I was directed to Ryanair’s Customer Service (the definition of an oxymoron?) After twenty minutes in their queue, I calculated it would take more than two hours to be served, by which time my flight would have long gone. I pointed this out to a staff member, who sent me to another queue which he said was quicker. It was slower. I barged my way to the front and asked for a new boarding pass which, with bad grace, I was given. Then, by queue jumping at security and running like the wind (well okay, a gentle breeze), I made the gate just in time for the flight. Other airlines are available.

The small resort of Pula may be elusive, but it also really rather delightfully atmospheric and has much of what you’d expect and want from it such as a restaurant, spa, sauna, outdoor swimming pool, three-tier putting green, two-tier driving range with Trackman. If your list of desires include a windmill and an ancient chapel, well it has those, too. The resort is big on sustainability, and has it own 1.5 acre vegetable garden where it grows produce for its restaurant.

Accommodation is spread across two buildings. The old manor house which dates from 1581, has ten individually designed and decorated suites. The newly built accommodation offers purpose-built self-catering accommodation, although guests are also able to use the restaurant for all meals.

Pula 16th hole (Image credit: Roderick Easdale)

The course was, from 2003-2007, the venue for the Mallorca Classic on the European Tour. The layout, which had opened in 1995, was not considered to be of Tour standard, so José María Olazábal carried out renovations to the course – six holes per year, starting in 2004. He certainly got to know his way round here – he won the Mallorca Classic by five shots in 2005. His design is eminently serviceable but perhaps lacks in drama and excitement in places. The 16th hole, offering views of the sea from the tee and with a mountain backdrop, was the favourite hole of our party.

Alcanada 13th hole (Image credit: Roderick Easdale)

Alcanada is a visual feast, with the holes having either as their backdrop the Sierra de Lavante mountains or the sea. It is forgiving off the tee, and the greens, previously notoriously tricky to read, have had their contours softened when the greens were relaid in 2018. The pick of some highly scenic holes is the par-5 13th, played from an elevated tee with a glorious view to the green set against the backdrop of the sea and the lighthouse on the island on Alcanada, 150m offshore.

view from an Inmood Aucanda hotel bedroom — View from my bedroom at Inmood Aucanda hotel (Image credit: Roderick Easdale)

Alcanada has no on-site accommodation but has partnered with the recently re-opened and refitted Inmood Aucanda hotel, which is also on the coast and is a 15-minute walk from the golf through the local village.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/golf-in-the-north-of-mallorca qEkR8SBdadxQ2WcsyBteXc Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:39:04 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Took On 3 Of The UK And Ireland's Greatest Links Golf Courses ]]> I have never been to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland so when the opportunity came up I knew I had to take it. It’s not often you get the chance to play three great links golf courses in some of the world's most wild terrain.

Northern Ireland is just a pebble stone throw away and took no more than 30 minutes to get there via plane. The fact you don't require your passport to enter from England just adds to the ease of this trip and is one of the reasons I will be returning in the New Year! Landing in Belfast we headed off to Bushmills Inn, home of the world famous whiskey, to enjoy a wonderful dinner and a relaxing evening before playing the 2025 Open Championship course the next morning.

Royal Portrush - Dunluce Links

Royal Portrush Golf Club — (Image credit: Getty Images)

Famous for Shane Lowry's memorable victory back in 2019, Royal Portrush has seen its fair share of golfing greatness and now it was my turn to deliver.

Carved through the sand dunes, the course offers great views of both the sea and the town of Portrush, which you can't help but notice when you get up on the third tee box. I needed to get there first before I could indulge in the scenery and in order to do that I called upon Mark - who from henceforth shall be known as ‘The Caddie’. I could not recommend enough how awesome it was to have a caddie and also how important it was.

The course knowledge of these individuals is incredible and I would have been lost without him.

Monty with his Caddy, Mark — (Image credit: Future)

I got the first hole out of the way, hitting a two iron just left of the fairway and opening up my round with a double bogey. Great start. However, for some reason the golfing Gods were looking down on me as I slowly put together what was looking like a semi-decent round. It felt like I hit more fairways off the tee that round than all my other rounds from this year put together.

Of course a good round always helps when judging a golf course, however I couldn't help but be swept away by the rolling fairways and the purity of the greens. The course was in immaculate condition and played exactly as I would want a links course to do so. It's no surprise it's regarded as one of the best links courses in the world.

There were run-offs at every green and if you missed in the wrong places you were more than likely saying goodbye par, hello double.

Royal Portrush greens — (Image credit: Tourism Ireland @ Chris Hill )

The Dunluce links is famous its beauty, challenge and championship pedigree, as well as one particular hole - Calamity Corner - the par 3 16th playing over 200 yards and up to 240 yards from the back. This hole is a nightmare for anyone who may go right off the tee.

I stepped up onto the tee box and the wind was doing everything in its might to send that ball towards The Valley Course - which sat about 70 yards below and right of the Dunluce links. Remember, I was playing some of the best golf I have all year. I started my ball left knowing the wind and my fade would bring it back, i just hoped not all the way back and down the right handside. The ball touched down on the green and I breathed a sigh of relief. A not-so-simple two putt followed and I walked away with par.

Monty on the first tee at Royal Portrush with his playing partners — (Image credit: Future)

I rounded off my time at Royal Portrush with a par up 17 and an outrageous birdie on 18 finishing just one-over-par total for the 18 holes - now turning pro!

Rosapenna St. Patrick's Links

St Patricks 18th Hole — (Image credit: Tourism Ireland)

My tour of Northern Ireland took me across the border into the Republic of Ireland to a quaint little clubhouse tucked away amongst tremendous sand dunes - you could not see this clubhouse unless you were standing next to it.

This lengthy links is called St. Patrick's, part of the Rosapenna Golf Resort. The world renowned Tom Doak design only opened for play in 2021 but is already regarded as one of the UK&I's finest layouts, ranking 61st in Golf Monthly's UK and Ireland Top 100 list. It was absolutely incredible; so vast and wild as it contoured along the coastline. Wild is the only way I can describe this course, shaped by the wind, it was a true test of golf.

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Monty putting out on hole 11 at St Patricks — (Image credit: Future)

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Monty on the tee box — (Image credit: Future)

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Monty and his playing partners for the round — (Image credit: Future)

The day that I played the wind was gusting up to 42 mph, great for any holes straight down wind, a problem for any that were into or off the left and right. The wind wasn’t the only thing sweeping me away, the layout and design of this course was spectacular, each hole had a different character and brought new challenges for you to face.

The fairways rolled into the tee box which were marked out by different kinds of stone, again adding to the wildness of the course. St Patrick's offers incredible coastline views and beautiful, blue water was but then that 42 mph wind would hit with its right hand reality check so I soon remembered I was in Ireland and not a tropical island.

Rosapenna is also home to the Old Tom Morris course and the renowned Sandy Hills course. The Pat Ruddy creation opened in 2003 and ranks 44th in the Golf Monthly top 100.

St Patricks Links — (Image credit: Future)

I truly believe this is the best course I have ever played. If you’re looking for a challenge but also some fun St Patrick's is the course to play. Not to mention the logo is really cool!

The Old Links - Ballyliffin

Ballyliffin Golf Course — (Image credit: Chris Hill Photographic)

The final destination was The Old Links, Ballyliffin. A great routing with some really interesting holes and definitely worth adding to your bucket list. It has previously ranked inside Golf Monthly's UK&I top 100, with Ballyliffin's Glashedy Course ranking 70th.

Rory McIlroy said of the club: "Anyone planning a golf trip to the north of Ireland, the two courses at Ballyliffin are must play championship links.”

My round here was cut short after nine holes as the weather was not playing ball that day. Let’s just say my waterproofs were no longer keeping out water! Despite this, I was continuing my streak of good golf as I was rolling in putts from all over the place. That is something I noticed, the greens were impeccable even with the amount of rain they were soaking up; putts still rolled true.

Monty and his playing partners soaked through but still smiling — (Image credit: Future)

We called it a day after nine and headed into the clubhouse where we were able to shower and get changed ahead of our flights home. The clubhouse itself was lovely with a panoramic view of property and sea.

The staff were extremely polite and the food was really good, washed down with a beautiful pint of Guinness. The perfect way to end a golf trip to this part of the world.

Monty and his playing partners ahead of the round at The Old Links — (Image credit: Future)

It’s More Than Just Golf

I have been talking a lot about golf but there is plenty to do in Northern Ireland, where we were based. You can experience breath taking scenes along the Causeway Coastal Route, which takes you past the famous Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Glens of Antrim. Enjoy a stay at Bushmills and enjoy exploring the village, and maybe the whiskey as well.

That was my first trip to Northern Ireland and Ireland but I can assure you it won't be my last. If you are interested in exploring what Ireland has to offer along with a golfing experience of a lifetime then head on over to www.ireland.com/golf to arrange your trip.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/i-took-on-3-of-northern-irelands-greatest-links-golf-courses ruDZxEbuMTLcXqmyzU7gnZ Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:33:40 +0000 <![CDATA[ Las Colinas Golf and Country Club Course Review, Green Fees And Key Info ]]> Las Colinas Golf and Country Club: Key info


Address	Av. de las Colinas, 2, 03189 Dehesa de Campoamor, Alicante, Spain
Phone Number	34 952 937 883
Website	https://lascolinasgolf.com/en/
Email	reservations@lascolinasgolf.es
Green Fees	€65-€133
Visitor Times	All week
Par	71
Yardage	6,935 (black), 6,562 (white), 6,089 (yellow), 5492 (blue), 5,038 (red)
Slope Rating	140 (black), 138 (white), 135 (yellow), 123 (blue), 114 (red)
Opened	2010
Designed by	Cabell Robinson

When you enter the vast Las Colinas Golf and Country Club, you'll feel like arriving into a city in the Alicante countryside.

The resort, situated under an hour from Alicante airport, is home to hundreds of villas and apartments and has been voted Spain’s and Europe’s Leading Villa Resort in the World Travel Awards.

Every way you turn there's a development or a new one being built, with the resort's seriously impressive real estate projects making it a very desirable destination for international golfers and non-golfers to base themselves in this area of Spain. It's set it a beautiful part of the country, in the hills of the Dehesa de Campoamor with gorgeous views everywhere you turn.

Also on-site is a racquet club, a sports and health club, three restaurants, walking trails and a minimarket. Las Colinas also has its own beach club. Golfers will be drawn to Las Colinas, which translates in Spanish to 'The Hills', by its renowned course and just as the name suggests it's not flat, and because of that there are sensational views on offer throughout.

When it comes to the golf, Las Colinas Golf and Country Club has previously hosted European Tour Q-school and is regarded as one of the best golf courses in Spain. The undulating and varied layout opened for play in 2010 and was designed by Cabell Robinson, the man behind 2023 Solheim Cup venue Finca Cortesin.

Las Colinas' 9th hole — The 9th hole showcases the natural beauty of Las Colinas (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

The course gets off to a tricky start, with a strong dogleg-left opener that requires a solid drive and a mid-iron that plays uphill. The second is a long, straight par 4 with a long green before the downhill par 5 3rd that features a tricky layup with water right and left, which then cuts in to guard the green.

Thankfully, Las Colinas lets up a bit with the short par 4th before a long par 3 with water left that's followed by a beautiful three-hole stretch. The treelined par 4 6th is short, tight and uphill where a drive should leave a wedge into a three-tiered green that is extremely long and narrow.

The 7th in one of the stars on the course, playing a little over 100 yards down a severe slope and over vegetation. It's a gorgeous little par 3 that should offer up a good birdie chance, albeit the green is large and there's a lot of danger if you're wild.

The 8th hole at Las Colinas — The par 4 8th has some of the best views on the property (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

Up next is the par 4 8th, which has arguably the best views on the entire course from the tee box - you won't find many golfers playing the course for the first time not reaching for their phone to snap a photo. It's a beautiful downhill par 4 that narrows the further up the hole you go. The green features a big slope off the back, right where an up-and-down will be tricky for even the sharpest of short games.

The closing hole on the front is another strong par 4 that requires a well struck drive up the left and a short iron uphill into the green. After tapping in, you'll drive by the excellent halfway truck where you can pick up your refreshments to power you through the back nine.

The 10th hole at Las Colinas — The par 3 10th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

The closing half starts with another delightful, short par 3 that is a mere wedge before the 600+ yard 11th that doglegs right and then plays downhill and slightly back up towards the green. It's a beast of a par 5 where five is a great score - and six is a decent one, too. There's vegetation left, trees the whole way down the right and bunkers dotted about along the way.

That's followed by a good birdie chance at the par 4 12th and then another at the 13th, which is a dogleg-right par 4 where the tee shot has to be a good one as it's a tight fairway with native area right and danger lurking left.

Las Colinas' par 3 14th hole — The par 3 14th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

Another glorious par 3 follows at the 14th, where you'll play a mid-iron down the hill over water with views of the Colinas properties and the par 5 3rd. The 15th is a strong par 5 with the green jutted out to the left in a peninsula and surrounded by water before the dogleg-left 16th which plays around the same lake.

The par 3 17th is the longest and toughest par 3 on the course around 200 yards from the white tees to give your long iron/hybrid play a late test, and then the superb closing hole plays towards the clubhouse and is a reachable par 5 for the longer hitters - although watch out for the water short, right of the green.

The 18th hole and clubhouse at Las Colinas — The par 5 18th is an excellent closing hole (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

It's a superb layout that features real variety throughout. From short par 3s to long ones, doglegs, plenty of par 5s and birdie chances. The conditioning is exceptional, the views are just as good and the facilities on offer include a Toptracer driving range to warm up your game beforehand.

Once you've finished your round, you'll be spoilt for choice if you're hungry as Las Colinas is home to three restaurants. In the main clubhouse you'll find unik, for breakfast and lunch, while there's also the Japanese, Mexican and Peruvian fusion restaurant at umawa. Just next to the clubhouse is il Palco for fans of Italian food.

A villa seen at Las Colinas Golf and Country Club — One of the Madrono villas at Las Colinas (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

The vast resort of Las Colinas is home to dozens upon dozens of properties, which are all grouped in developments named after plants. We stayed in one of the stunning Madrono villas, which featured three bedrooms, a roof terrace and outdoor pool with views over the course.

For golfers looking to tick off a few more courses on a trip, Las Colinas makes for a great base as there's Villamartin Golf, Las Ramblas Golf and Real Club de Golf Campoamor Resort all within 20-minutes' drive.

Las Colinas Golf course photos:

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Las Colinas' 6th hole — The par 4 6th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

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The par 5 11th at Las Colinas — The par 5 11th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

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The 15th at Las Colinas — The par 5 15th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

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The 16th at Las Colinas — The par 4 16th (Image credit: Las Colinas Golf and Country Club)

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Las Colinas Golf and Country Club location:

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/spain/las-colinas-golf-and-country-club-course-review-green-fees-and-key-info CkSUjgzJJpNh2nrHMNEtMF Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:10:32 +0000 <![CDATA[ Golf With Unrivaled Views: Why The Dreamy Castelfalfi Resort Should Be On Your List To Play And Stay ]]> With so much hype and attention on the Ryder Cup in Rome this past summer, the golfing world will naturally turn its head to the Marco Simone Country Club when it comes to golfing destinations in Italy. However, situated within the Tuscan countryside you will find the beautiful Castelfalfi Resort with 27 holes of golf, practice facilities and a 5-star hotel with some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever experience.

Located just over an hour south-west of Florence and 45 minutes south of Pisa Airport, Castelfalfi is easily accessible and even the journey from the airport boasts some tremendous views of the Italian countryside.

While there are many resorts in Italy and across Europe that offer superb golf and accommodation, Castelfalfi feels more than just a holiday destination. The exceptional service and friendly nature of the staff made this place feel a little different, providing a luxurious, yet homely feeling to my stay. With multiple restaurants, swimming pools, spa facilities and 27 holes of golf on site, filling your time is just as easy as relaxing at Castelfalfi.

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Golf With Unrivaled Views: Why The Dreamy Castelfalfi Resort Should Be On Your List To Play And Stay — One of the outdoor pools at Castelfalfi (Image credit: Castelfalfi Resort)

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Filling my time with golf was exactly what I did. The 18 hole championship, Mountain Course, at Castelfalfi golf club is both picturesque yet extremely demanding. Measuring in at 6,945 yards and with some serious elevation changes, this golf course will test the best. The tight winding fairways and undulating greens applied pressure on all aspects of your game throughout the round. Some of the best views I have experienced on a golf course came from the signature 9th hole, a demanding 190 yard par-three that plays around 40 yards downhill to an island green - needless to say I was happy escaping this hole with a par! This golf course has a 75.6 course rating and 151 slope rating which has helped establish itself as one of the most difficult golf courses in Italy.

One of the things I particularly liked about this course was the variety of holes and how evenly what I felt were the best holes, were spread throughout both nines’. The brutal 635 yard par 5 5th hole was evened out by the much less daunting 360 yard opening hole for example. One thing remained constant alongside the fast, pure greens and that was the panoramic views across the Tuscan hills and the resort and Castle situated in the preserved medieval village next to the resort, the Borgo.

If 18 holes of golf in a day isn’t enough for you, fear not. The fun and quirky layout of the 9-hole Lakes course will be enough to wet your appetite. The lakes course plays a total yardage of 3,467 yards and is definitely a lot more ‘user friendly’ than its big brother, the Mountain course. There are a couple of demanding holes though such as the 400 yard, par 4, 7th or the par five 9th which has a split fairway and tricky, bottle-neck green.

There is plenty to love about both the condition of the two courses at Castelfalfi as well as the extensive practice facilities, of which features a grass based range with coaching bays also available for use. With the continued rise in temperatures in this part of Italy, the Castelfalfi team are in the process of relaying both courses with Bermuda grass, in order to cope with the extreme heat they are exposed to in the summer. This will certainly help maintain the high quality playing surfaces all year round and please golfers no matter what time of year they visit.

While I was primarily at Castelfalfi to explore the wonderful golf on offer, divulging in the luxury spa and restaurants was also something I couldn’t resist. The vineyards and wealth of olive trees in the area allow Castelfali to produce 5 of their own bottles of wine, 6 different olive oils, an array of Gin as well as perfume and scented oils. The cuisine on offer was excellent and the complimentary mini canopies were a particular highlight of mine while having a glass of wine on the terrace bar in the evenings.

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The Borgo - a small Tuscan village on the same grounds as Castelfalfi features some small shops and restaurants as well as the grounds of the old castle you could see from down on the golf course. A walk around the grounds at Castelfalfi is a relaxing and unforgettable way to take in the sunset over the rolling hills of Tuscany.

With a large selection of rooms on offer at Castelfalfi, there really is something for everyone. The main section of the resort has a modern vibe but the boutique-style rooms across the road from the main building offer you an even more authentic Tuscan feel to your stay. There are numerous styles of rooms available in the main hotel, from prestige rooms, to family suits. My prestige room was immaculate and featured a superb view over the terrace bar and hills in the distance.

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If you’re looking for a Mediterranean golf break or family vacation with world-class golf on the side, Castelfalfi is certainly a place to put high up your list. Breathtaking views, beautiful cuisine as well as exceptional staff and service. It was hard to not be amazed by this rural Italian paradise.

]]> https://www.golfmonthly.com/travel/italy/golf-with-unrivaled-views-why-the-dreamy-castelfalfi-resort-should-be-on-your-list-to-play-and-stay sZzJwVepQDK3skPRa9n6f4 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 15:11:38 +0000 <![CDATA[ I Played One Of The World's ULTIMATE Bucket List Golf Courses. The Experience Was AMAZING ]]> Every golfer dreams of playing the world's most iconic courses. The Old Course at St Andrews, Augusta National and Pebble Beach would be high on the list for most. The trio have all been made famous by hosting epic Major Championships across many decades won by the greats of the game... Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Co.

For the members of the Porsche Golf Circle, those dreams have become a reality in the last two years, with visits to St Andrews and Pebble Beach. In October 2022, Golf Monthly's contributing editor Fergus Bisset had the opportunity to join Porsche's golf community and play at 'The Home of Golf'. A year on and I found myself standing on the first tee at Pebble Beach.

Excited (and nervous) doesn't begin to come close to describing how I felt. The fact I hit a stone cold top off the first with my driver was unsurprising. That I walked off the tee with a smile on my face and laughing with my playing partners for the day - George from New Jersey and Jens and Mark from Germany - was equally predictable. Porsche Golf Circle events are about fun, friendship and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Porsche Golf Circle

The Porsche Golf Circle community was founded in 2017 with the aim of bringing together people from all over the world who share a passion for golf and Porsche. It's open to everyone, with membership benefits including tips and tutorials from brand ambassador Paul Casey, accessed through a free app that can be downloaded for Apple and Google devices. Global membership stands at over 4,000.

The Golf Circle builds on Porsche's relationship with the sport of golf that dates back to 1988 and the introduction of the Porsche Golf Cup where golfers from all over the world who are Porsche customers have the chance to play in national competitions, with winners qualifying for a World Final that has been staged at the stunning Club de Golf Alcanada in Mallorca since 2014.

For the past eight years, the brand has also been the lead sponsor of the Porsche European Open played in Germany, won in 2019 by none other than...Paul Casey!

Day 1 - Hello California!

The famous Lodge at Pebble Beach was the base for the Porsche Golf Circle event and after checking in to my room (complete with a tantalising glimpse of the golf course and the Pacific Ocean beyond), it was time to head to the official welcome and cocktail reception in the card room.

As locations for a welcome event go, this was spectacular. We enjoyed a glass of champagne while overlooking the 18th hole before settling down for a wonderful three-course dinner. Casey was the guest of honor and he took the time to chat to everyone, sharing stories of both his stellar career as a professional golfer and his love of Porsche cars. He has quite a collection of both global tour wins and fast cars from Stuttgart, so the conversation flowed!

As I returned to my room, I looked at my watch and did a quick calculation on the time difference back to the UK and, a snooze on the plane aside, I worked out I’d been up for nearly 24 hours. That's what excitement and anticipation does to the body!

Day 2 - Hidden Delights

Beat The Pro Spyglass — Taking on Paul Casey in a Beat The Pro challenge at Spyglass Hill (Image credit: Porsche)

After breakfast in the gallery café that overlooks the first tee at Pebble Beach, it was time for the short journey to Spyglass Hill.

This Robert Trent Jones Snr creation, which opened in 1966, has been made famous as one of the co-hosts of the annual Pebble Beach Pro-Am event. With its stunning mix of holes that forge out to the ocean before heading inland to weave through the Del Monte Forest, Spyglass is a visual treat as well as being a very challenging golf course.

I was teeing it up with Karen from Mexico and Mark from Germany and, after a warm up on the range under the watchful eye of Casey, it was time to head to the 1st - a sweeping downhill par 5 that eases you into the round.

On the 3rd tee, everybody got the chance to take part in a beat the pro competition against Paul, who was in great form, laughing and joking with everybody in between shots. However, like the true champion he is, he was able to get dialled in and focus on the job in hand when it was his shot - no more so than when it was our group's turn and he produced a world-class wedge shot that finished just two feet from the flag!

Beat the pro Paul Casey Spyglass — Paul Casey and Porsche Golf Circle member Karen Schmidt from Mexico celebrate at Spyglass Hill (Image credit: Porsche)

After the fun of the par 3, it was time to refocus and take on the brilliant par-4 4th. The hole is apparently Trent Jones Snr's favorite par 4 that he designed - it's not hard to see why.

With the Pacific Ocean to your left, you drive to a fairway that gives you a glimpse of a unique green that sits between two dunes and measures just 10 yards wide, but 55 yards deep and with a big step to a lower back level in the middle. The flag was positioned right at the front of the green, making the approach even harder.

After another stunning par 3 that plays back towards the ocean, the course turns inland and in doing so changes in character as it starts to play between the trees of the forest.

Many comparisons have been drawn to Augusta National, and they certainly stand up to scrutiny as holes weave their way between the towering trees and dramatic changes in elevation, whilst white sand bunkers sparkle at the sides of fairways and around greens.

Mark and I put in solid rounds (I managed to par all of the stunning par 3s en route to an 86), but Karen was the undoubted star of our group, playing some superb golf and underlining why she was a single figure index golfer.

In the evening, we headed out to the Folktale Winery and Vineyards, some 20 minutes from Pebble Beach, where we got to try some of the amazing wines the vineyard produces before a wonderful four-course dinner with prizes given out to celebrate the achievements of the winners from Spyglass Hill.

Day 3 - Taking The Racing Line

Porsche Golf Circle Rennsport Reunion — The Rennsport Reunion featured many famous Porsche cars (Image credit: Porsche)

Saturday offered something totally different... a trip to to the WeatherTech Laguna Seca racetrack for the Porsche Rennsport Reunion, which is the largest gathering of Porsche race cars (over 300) and fans (more than 91,000 across four days)

The event had it all, from the unveiling of the new Porsche 911 GT3 R rennsport (of which only 77 will be made, each with price tag of a cool $1m), to a music concert and track races involving vintage Porsche racing cars and even tractors.

The event had a real community feel, with members of the Porsche Golf Circle meeting up with members of other Porsche Clubs, including the Pioneers Circle, a group of enthusiasts who are holders of Porsche NFTs (non-fungible tokens). The diversity of the Porsche community was really something to witness.

The highlight of my day was undoubtedly a 'Hot Lap', sitting in a 911 GTS alongside Porsche factory driver, Matthieu Jamminet. It was actually two hot laps, which was a good job as the first one was frankly terrifying; I didn't know when, or how hard, Matthieu was going to brake around the twisting Laguna Seca track that includes the famous 'Corkscrew' turns, where the track drops down 60 feet in height in just 450 feet of track.

On the second lap, I knew what to expect - like going from 148mph to 35mph to make one turn - and loved every second of it. Exhilarating doesn't come close to describing the experience.

Before heading back to Pebble Beach, I visited the Porsche 'Sonderwunsch' exhibition. The word Sonderwunsch translates to 'special requests' and the programme allows owners to take personalisation to the next level.

There were a host of cars on display that had been through the Sonderwunsch process,. Most notable of all was the 911 Sally Special, which was a collaboration between Porsche and movie makers Pixar to create a real life version of the iconic Sally Carerra, one of the stars of the famous animation film, Cars. It was an incredible work of design and, in 2022, the car was auctioned for $3.6m, with the money going to charity.

Dinner that evening was at the Salt Wood Kitchen, a delightful restaurant tucked away in the Marina Dunes just north of Monterey. The food was superb - the grilled California Trout was my culinary highlight of the trip - and the chat was lively, as guests relived the excitement of the day at Rennsport Reunion and looked ahead to the round at Pebble Beach.

Day 4 - Creating Memories

And so the wait was over - it was time for the Porsche Golf Circle competitors to tee up at the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. The weather was set fine with the morning marine layer burning off to reveal blue skies and just a gentle breeze. Perfect golfing conditions…

Nervous excitement was the order of the day on the first tee as the competitors prepared to take on the course that has hosted so many famous events and witnessed so many historic moments, including Tiger Woods' incredible record-setting, 15-shot victory at the 2000 US Open, the first of the American's three national championships.

Pebble Beach is a fantastic test of golf, but one of the biggest challenges is to keep focused on playing your shots and not get too distracted by the amazing views, especially from the 4th tee onwards as the course breaks out of the trees and runs alongside Stillwater Cove.

From the 4th through to the 10th, the holes tightly hug the coastline with fairways running down to the cliff edges and greens perched on glorious spots overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There can be no finer stretch of coastal golf in the world, and it was an incredible experience playing these holes. The fact I played these seven holes in just two over par made then even more special, but frankly you could be playing poorly and you’d still have a smile on your face.

Walking off the 10th green and up to the 11th tee - a beauty of a short par 4 - you begin a stretch of holes that are slightly inland, and although they are not as dramatic as those you have just played, they are highly strategic designs, rewarding tee shots that are hit to the correct side of fairways. We were fortunate to have caddies - as we did at Spyglass Hill - and their course knowledge was invaluable, especially on those all important lines off the tee and on the tricky greens where putts often broke in different directions than you expected them to!

As with all great courses, there’s a sting in the tail at Pebble - and the 17th and 18th are two of toughest challenges. The famous long par-3 17th - where Tom Watson chipped in for a biride to all but seal the 1982 US Open - demands a precise shot to evade a huge bunker that protects the majority of the front of the green and a necklace of smaller bunkers over the back of the putting surface.

Mike Harris Pebble Beach Porsche Golf Circle — Playing the world famous 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links (Image credit: Porsche)

With the Pacific running alongside the entire length of the hole, the 18th is one of the most iconic, and dangerous, holes in golf. Any pulled or hooked tee shot will meet a watery grave and while this encourages you to play to the right, if your line is too conservative, your second shot will likely need to go over or round a tree that is annoyingly well placed. Even though you’ll be coming into the green with a short iron, there’s another tree and deep bunkers to contend with. Aim for the center of the green and commit to the shot! I had a pleasing par, par finish for another round in the mid 80s.

Before we headed off for a well earned drink, it was time for some pictures. Happy, smiling people with a backdrop of the ocean. Glorious stuff!

The final magic moment of the trip came with our farewell dinner and prize giving at Coastal Kitchen in Monterey, where we enjoyed a six-course tasting menu, toasted the winners, reminisced about the round and took lots of photographs.

Day 5 - Until Next Time…

As I headed up the famous Pacific Coast Highway to San Francisco to get my flight back to London, I had the chance to reflect on what had been quite an amazing few days in California.

Not only did I get to play two of the world's greatest golf courses, and spend the day at the Rennsport Reunion event, but I made new connections with golfers from countries as far apart as Mexico and Germany and got to experience how the Porsche Golf Circle community interacts both in person and virtually through the app.

Passions like golf (and amazing sports cars) really do have a way of bringing people together. You know that, I know that and Porsche most definitely knows that.

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