GOLF ESCAPES

GOLF 

ESCAPES 

2015-2016 

IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FOR UNFORGETTABLE GOLF HOLIDAYS 

INSIDE 

FIRST LOOK 

AT ABACO – THE 

RISING STAR OF 

THE BAHAMAS 

Abaco Club, Bahamas 

DISCOVER...FRANCE > SLOVENIA > ITALY > TUNISIA > TURKEY > PORTUGAL > ABU DHABI 

DUBAI > BULGARIA > MAURITIUS > SOUTH AFRICA > SCOTLAND > ENGLAND > IRELAND 

PLUS: FOCUS ON THE CANARY ISLANDS, A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION

Fancourt – one of South 

Africa’s iconic destinations. 

Welcome 

Irrespective of your particular taste, we are confident there is something 

for everyone in this year’s travel supplement. You might be a lover of 

pure links, and if so, you will fi nd heaven at Machrihanish Dunes and 

the superstars of Ireland. Serene inland golf may get your juices flowing, 

and in which case St Mellion is for you. Dumfries & Galloway ticks 

both of those boxes – and we haven’t even left GB&I yet... 

If you want lush, sun-kissed fairways, we take you to the Algarve, to Belek and, in an 

in-depth focus, to the Canary Islands. If you want to soak up some culture or create a 

holiday – perhaps for a family or a couple – that encompasses more than merely golf, 

we detail how especially easy that is in France, Slovenia and Tunisia. 

And we begin and conclude this annual guide to the best in golf travel by taking 

you to exotic locations such as the Bahamas, Dubai, Mauritius and Abu Dhabi. 

The common theme running through all these destinations are the golf courses. 

While we like to promote the idea of a golf holiday offering more than just enjoyment 

on fairways and greens, we do not do so by compromising the quality of golf. 

The disappointment you feel on the 1st tee of that long-awaited golf break when 

you fear what’s on offer is not going to live up to expectations is not one we would 

want any of our readers to experience; we’ve been there ourselves. 

We’re confident every destination in this guide will avoid that feeling. In fact, we are 

confident each one will provide a golf holiday you’ll be recalling fondly forever. 

Chris Bertram 

Editor, Golf Escapes 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

Golf Escapes is published by Bauer Media in 

England. Tel: 00 44 1733 468000 

www.bauermedia.co.uk 

PUBLISHER/TRAVEL DIRECTOR Ken Gill 

Tel: 00 44 7810 377146 

ken.gill@bauermedia.co.uk 

EDITOR Chris Bertram 

DESIGNER Paul Ridley 

PRINTERS PCP Printers, Telford, Shropshire 

GOLF WORLD IS EUROPE’S PREMIER 

GOLF MAGAZINE 281,000 READERS 

(NRS 2013) 

GOLF ESCAPES COVER IMAGE: 

The Abaco Club, Bahamas. 

ENJOY GOLF 

WORLD DELIVERED 

TO YOUR DOOR 

EVERY 4 WEEKS! 

Call 01858 438884 or visit 

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SOME OF THE DESTINATIONS WE TAKE YOU TO... 

04 Abaco Club: Pride of Bahamas 

12 Play where the pros compete 

16 Focus on Dumfries & Galloway 

22 Mach Dunes: A modern classic 

26 Special guide to the Canaries 

32 Argentario – Italy’s rising star 

34 France is a quiet superpower 

50 Slovenia’s surprise heritage 

54 Enduring allure of Portugal 

62 Presenting Thracian thrills 

64 Belek just got even better 

72 Winter sun on offer in Tunisia 

78 Dubai & Abu Dhabi uncovered 

82 Murtoli – The future of golf? 

GOLF ESCAPES 2015 03

LONG HAUL 

The Abaco Club 

This rising star of the picture-postcard Bahamas is poised to get even better. 

It’s not hard to understand why 

Christopher Columbus ordered his 

crew to drop anchor when he stumbled 

upon The Bahamas back in 1492. 

The real question is: how did he ever 

convince those hardy sailors to leave? 

This is Paradise with a capital P. 

It was paradise way back then, and it 

remains so today – especially when you 

eschew the glitz and bustle of Nassau and 

make your way to the archipelago’s more 

unspoiled islands. 

The warm, gentle climate and beautiful, 

natural environment found in The 

Bahamas have long made these islands a 

dream destination for people from all over 

the world, who come to shrug off the cold 

shoulder of winter and warm their bones. 

Here, buffeted by the fragrant tropical 

breezes, all the cares of the world just seem 

to evaporate – to be replaced by hours of 

splashing around in crystal-clear waters, 

enjoying rum drinks accented by exotic 

fruits, sampling seafood so fresh it’s still 

flapping, and partaking in all manner of 

holiday leisure activities. 

And of all the wonderful getaway spots 

in this sunny part of the world, there’s one 

that does the paradise thing just a little 

better than the rest: The Abaco Club on 

Winding Bay. For years a Ritz-Carlton 

Destination Club, The Abaco Club is now 

owned and operated by Southworth – one 

of the world’s leading resort and 

residential real estate firms. 

What was a magnificent property to 

begin with is now in the process of 

becoming even better. 

“The Abaco Club has everything money 

can’t buy,” said David Southworth, 

President and CEO of Southworth 

Development. 

“It’s a gorgeous setting, with a well 

thought-out master plan and a passionate 

club membership. We’re very excited to be 

here and look forward to taking this 

amazing facility to an even higher level.” 

What makes The Abaco Club such an 

4 GOLF ESCAPES 2015

Wish You Were There? 


amazing facility? For starters, its one-of-akind 

setting. The Club is located on the 

most charming of The Bahamas’ Outer 

Islands – Great Abaco – and is graced by a 

2.5-mile powder-soft beach that stretches 

as far as the eye can see. 

But perhaps the club’s greatest charm is 

that while you can visit and avail yourself of 

its many amenities, it’s really not a resort. 

There’s no towering beachfront hotel at 

The Abaco Club. 

In fact, there’s no hotel at all. 

Instead, you have your choice of the 

luxurious, freestanding cabanas and 

charming pastel-coloured cottages that are 

spread throughout the property. For a 

night – or a week or month – you can enjoy 

The Abaco Club just as the club members 

and homeowners do. 

And like Columbus’ crew, chances are 

you will never want to leave. 

The Abaco Club was created to be a true 

sporting club. Its Scottish-style links golf 

course, designed by Englishman Donald 

Steel and Scotsman Tom Mackenzie, is a 

great test and has perennially been ranked 

as the No.1 course in The Bahamas. 

It offers quite a bit of elevation change, 

which is unusual for an island course, and 

the overall design has been described as 

“roll-in-the-haystack good”. 

There are pot bunkers everywhere, 

tumbling fairways, and the green complexes 

that approach shots must contend with 

would not be out of place at North Berwick 

or Muirfield. Hardly surprising when you 

consider the calibre of the architects: Steel 

As you’d expect, the club also offers 

water sports galore – from kayaking, sailing 

and snorkeling to bonefishing and deep-sea 

fishing. 

Some of the best deep-sea angling in the 

world can be found within minutes of the 

club’s shoreline, where trophy marlin, 

wahoo, mahi-mahi and yellowfin tuna 

await. Spending time on the tennis courts 

‘For those who think holidays in the tropics cannot include 

superb golf, Abaco Club provides a hearty rebuttal. Many 

holes offer jaw-dropping views of the dazzling blue sea’ 

is an icon of British golf with a stellar career 

as a player, writer and architect; Mackenzie 

is co-owner of the firm the R&A now uses 

to revise the courses on The Open rota. 

Many holes offer jaw-dropping views of 

the dazzling blue sea, making the job of 

concentrating on your shotmaking an 

exercise in determination. 

For those who think that holidays in the 

tropics cannot include superb golf, The 

Abaco Club provides a hearty rebuttal. 

When you hole out after 18 holes here, 

you’ll know you’ve been in a battle. 

or in the fitness centre are other 

invigorating options, as is visiting the club’s 

luxurious spa. 

And all the while, the pristine white sand 

beach beckons to you every day, just waiting 

to be explored. 

Cap it all off with an open-air breakfast 

or lunch at Buster’s Beach Bar, or by sitting 

down and enjoying the exquisite local 

cuisine offered daily at The Cliff House 

restaurant, and you have the makings of 

a holiday that you’ll want to never end. 

Fortunately, for those with the means to 



purchase a home or club membership at 

The Abaco Club, it doesn’t have to. 

The residences for sale at the club are 

magnificent, and come in a variety of shapes 

and sizes ranging from cozy cabanas and 

charming cottages to stately villas and 

grand oceanfront estates. 

Each home is within steps of the beach, 

and each is meticulously appointed with all 

of life’s necessities. 

Wake to the sound of crashing waves, 

stroll to the golf course or spa, or just relax 

on your private patio and look out over the 

sparkling, turquoise sea while the feisty 

Abaco parrots chirp their warm morning 

welcome. 

It’s an atmosphere of quiet sophistication, 

where you, your family and your friends 

can enjoy total relaxation when you want it 

– and a wealth of wonderful activities when 

the spirit so moves you. 

“The Abaco Club is truly a world unto 

itself,” said Kristi Hull, the club’s real estate 

sales director. “It’s an enclave that offers the 

perfect antidote to modern-day life. 

“People from all over the world become 

club members and buy homes here because 

they fall in love with The Abaco Club and 

want to establish a permanent connection 

to this place. 

“They want to be able to return year 

after year to enjoy the beauty and 

tranquility of the club with family and 

friends. And they make new friends here, 

too – people from every corner of the world 

who share their appreciation for the 

incredibly special experiences this club has 

to offer. It’s a completely unique place – and 

one that sells itself at a glance.” 

Off property, the Abacos offer all 

manner of other diversions. A few minutes 

down a narrow, sandy road brings you to 

Little Harbour, where you’ll find Pete’s 

Pub, a lively but low-key spot that’s famous 

for its rum ‘drink of the day’ and for 

serving the world’s freshest seafood. 

Nearby Hope Town on Elbow Cay is a 

beehive of shopping and dining activity, 

while the many other cays (small sandy 

islands on the surface of the coral reef) 

surrounding Great Abaco – Treasure Cay 

and Great Guana Cay being two favourites 

– are popular mingling spots for visitors 

and locals alike. 

A stopover at Nipper’s on Great Guana 

Cay is de rigeur for any Abaco explorer. 

The frozen Nippers and Sunday pig 

roast at this celebrated beach bar are reason 

enough on their own for you to make your 

way to this part of the world. 

Even if you have to sail the ocean blue in 

a dinghy and risk a bout of scurvy to get 

there. n 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE: It’s absolutely lovely 

and hardly varies all year round. 

Between September and May, the 

temperature averages 21-24°C while 

the rest of the year is a bit warmer – 

higher humidity and temperatures 

between 27 and 29°C. 

GETTING THERE: Great Abaco’s Marsh 

Harbour International Airport (MHH) is 

served by several airlines, including 

American, Bahamas Air and Silver 

Airways. You can make connections to 

Abaco in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West 

Palm Beach, Nassau, and seasonally 

in Orlando. 

TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT -5 

MORE INFORMATION: Visit 

www.theabacoclub.com 


LONG HAUL 

Yas Links, 

Abu Dhabi 

When Abu Dhabi began to follow Dubai’s lead in the golf 

market, it started promisingly with Abu Dhabi Golf Club 

and Saadiyat Beach. Then along came a course that took 

Abu Dhabi’s offering to a new level. Yas Links is one of the 

fi nest courses in the Middle East, with only the very best of 

Dubai able to compete with it. It’s what we expect of Kyle 

Phillips; he just doesn’t seem to create poor courses. 

Yas Links has elements of traditional seaside golf – 

rippling fairways lined by rough-edged bunkers – with 

spectacular views. Afterwards, visit the F1 circuit and 

Ferrari World, which you can see on the left of this image. ■ 

Visit www.yaslinks.com 





GREAT BRITAIN & IRELAND 

Trump Turnberry, Ayrshire 

It will be fascinating to witness what Donald Trump does 

with Turnberry. In the Ailsa it has always had one of the most 

spectacular courses in Britain and with the input of Martin 

Ebert, it is likely to be tightened up and toughened up even 

more. The Kintyre, too, will be improved. Off the course, the 

changes are likely to be even more radical, with a ‘joining up’ 

of Turnberry’s offering and a level of opulence likely to rival 

any golf resort in the land. It is already one of Britain’s most 

special golf experiences – and one that is likely to get even 

better. Get there quickly though; the Ailsa will close over the 

winter until June 2016 as Ebert’s masterplan is carried out. ■ 

www.turnberry.co.uk 


The 1 st premium golf chain 

FRANCE • BENELUX • MOROCCO • SPAIN 

MARSEILLE LA SALETTE Golf Club (Provence - Côte d’Azur) 

www.roseetpiment.com - Crédits photos : Open Golf Club 

LES YVELINES Golf Club (Paris - Ile de France) 

The Suites at San Roque Club ★★★★ 

From Le Touquet to Marrakech, outstanding golf courses 

and resorts for your golf breaks 365 days a year 

CONTACT & INFORMATION : 07 956 863 358 - www.opengolfclub.com 

Nigel JIBSON: nigel@opengolfclub.com

Black Mountain Golf Club, Thailand 

Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort, France 

Your European Tour sta 

Have a Tour pro experience with a golf break at one of the 14 world class destinations and courses that make up th 

Watching a European Tour 

event on television, have you 

ever pictured yourself 

walking the pristine fairways, 

putting on perfect greens and enjoying the 

international lifestyle of a Tour pro? 

If so, the tournament experience may be 

closer than you think. European Tour 

Properties is a network of 14 world class golf 

venues, all with a close association to The 

European Tour and offering a stamp of 

tournament quality. They include World 

Top 100 golf courses, award-winning resorts 

and residential communities, and feature the 

home of the DP World Tour Championship 

and Race to Dubai finale, The 2015 Solheim 

Cup host course and The 2018 Ryder Cup 

venue. Now, thanks to a special partnership 

between European Tour Properties and 

Golfbreaks.com, there are special packages 

and offers to stay and play at many of them. 

Where will you start your European Tour? 

Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai 

Home to The European Tour’s seasonending 

DP World Tour Championship, 

Jumeirah Golf Estates epitomises the 

European Tour Properties ethos. Featuring 

two Greg Norman-designed Championship 

courses, a spectacular new clubhouse and 

the Middle East’s first European Tour 

Performance Institute, everything is 

tournament quality. 

Location: 30 minutes from Dubai Int airport 

European Tour events hosted: DP World 

Tour Championship, Dubai 

Website: www.jumeirahgolfestates.com 

Black Mountain Golf Club, Thailand 

The first European Tour Destination in Asia 

and Thailand’s only course to feature in Golf 

Digest’s Best 100 Courses outside the US. 

Set amid verdant hills and valleys, with an 

abundance of water, where golfers enjoy Tourconditioned 

fairways and greens. The resort 

also has a spectacular par-3 course, practice 

facilities, and private-pool holiday villas. 

Location: 15 minutes from the coastal beach 

town of Hua Hin, Malay Peninsula, Thailand 

European Tour events hosted: True 

Thailand Classic 

Website: www.blackmountainhuahin.com 

Le Golf National, France 

Host of The 2018 Ryder Cup, L’Albatros 

Course is a globally recognised stadium design 

with slick greens, links-style bunkers and vast 

undulating fairways dotted with water 

hazards. Ranked in the World’s Top 100 

Courses, it is regularly praised by European 

Tour professionals. You’ll also enjoy the 18- 

hole L’Aigle and nine-hole L’Oiselet. 

Location: Outskirts of Versailles, near Paris 

European Tour events hosted: Alstom Open 

de France 

Website: www.le-golf-national.com 

Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort, France 

IAGTO’s 2013 European Golf Resort of the 

Year oozes luxury and at its heart are two 18- 

hole Championship courses, ‘Le Château’ and 

‘Le Riou’, by Dave Thomas. A Leading Hotel 

of the World, a European Tour Performance 

Institute, a magnificent spa and the coolest 

infinity pool complete the five-star picture. 

Location: 45 minutes from Nice airport; 90 

minutes from Marseille airport 

European Tour events hosted: French Riviera 

Masters (European Senior Tour) 

Website: www.en.terre-blanche.com 

London Golf Club, UK 

Boasts two dramatic, Jack Nicklaus-designed 

courses that ride Kent’s North Downs and are 

consistently presented immaculately; the 

greens in particular are renowned for their 

speed and trueness. The club has a reputation 

for excellent levels of customer service. 

Location: 20 miles south east of London 

European Tour events hosted: Volvo World 

Match Play Championship; European Open 

Website: www.londongolf.co.uk 

PGA Catalunya Resort, Spain 

IAGTO’s 2015 European Golf Resort of the 

Year has two courses – the enjoyable, resortstyle 

Tour Course and the dramatic Stadium 

Course, a World Top 100 Golf Course (Golf 

World). The resort is home to one of 

Europe’s finest short game practice areas and 


Worldwide destinations 

Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai 

London Golf Club, UK 

rts here 

e European Tour Properties network. 

the Sergio Garcia Junior Golf Academy. 

Location: One hour from Barcelona; 10 

minutes from Girona airport 

European Tour events hosted: Open de 

España; European Tour Qualifying School 

Website: www.pgacatalunya.com 

Diamond Country Club, Austria 

Situated in the picturesque Lower Austrian 

countryside, the highly regarded Diamond 

Course was designed by renowned architect 

Jeremy Pern and opened in 2002. A number 

of holes have since been remodelled by 

Miguel Angel Jiménez and the layout offers 

both a scenic but challenging test. 

Location: 50 minutes from Vienna airport 

European Tour events hosted: Lyoness 

(Austrian) Open 

Website: www.countryclub.at 

Golf Club St Leon-Rot, Germany 

The 2015 Solheim Cup venue features two 

Championship courses, a nine-hole course, 

a five-hole bambini course and incredible 

indoor facilities. The Rot was named the 

‘Most Popular Golf Course in Germany’ 10 

times in a row while from 2011 to 2014 it 

was accorded to the St Leon. 

Location: Near Heidelberg; 100km from 

Frankfurt international airport 

European Tour events hosted: Deutsche 

Bank SAP Open 

Website: www.gc-slr.de 

Fleesensee G&CC, Germany 

This impressive golf facility fuses golf, 

leisure and nature and features three 18-hole 

courses, two nine-hole courses and one of 

Europe’s largest golf academies. Part of the 

Land Fleesensee resort which offers a range 

of accommodation and leisure activities. 

Location: 90 mins from Berlin/Hamburg 

European Tour events hosted: Qualifier for 

European Tour Q School 

Website: www.golfclubfleesensee.de 

The Dutch, Holland 

A Colin Montgomerie 

Signature Design, this 

superb 18-hole linksstyle 

layout is a high-end 

golf club reserved for 

members and their guests 

and was created specifically 

to meet the standards required 

to host major pro tournaments. 

Location: 80km south of Amsterdam; 

44km east of Rotterdam 

European Tour events hosted: Venue for 

KLM Open in 2016-2018 

Website: www.thedutch.nl 

Estonian Golf & Country Club, Estonia 

Features the stunning Sea Course, with views 

of the Gulf of Finland, along with the ninehole 

Stone Course, hewn from an ancient 

archaeological site. The Sea is a Top 100 

Course in Europe, and The Stone is soon 

set for a redesign by Annika Sörenstam. 

Location: 30 minutes from capital Tallinn 

European Tour events hosted: Omega 

Mission Hills World Cup Euro Qualifier 

Website: www.egcc.ee 

How 

To Play 

Golfers can enjoy a European Tour 

Properties experience through Golfbreaks. 

com with a selection of packages available to 

destinations and courses across the 

network. For more information on these 

packages visit www.golfbreaks.com/ 

european-tour-properties 

Linna Golf, Finland 

Set amid beautiful pine and birch forests and 

making full use of this natural environment, 

exquisite Linna Golf was Finland’s first 

USGA-standard course. Often recognised as 

Finland’s best course by amateurs, pros and 

national and international media, the venue 

is complemented by the Vanajanlinna Hotel, 

a former hunting lodge. 

Location: 62 miles from Helsinki 

European Tour events hosted: 

SK Golf Challenge (Euro 

Challenge Tour) 

Website: www.linnagolf.fi 

Quinta do Lago, 

Portugal 

Set within 2,000 acres of 

the Ria Formosa natural 

park, the three 18-hole 

courses sit beautifully in the 

natural surroundings. The 

revamped North won Europe’s 

Best New Course while the South won 

Portugal’s Best Course at the 2014 World 

Golf Awards. 

Location: 15 minutes from Faro airport 

European Tour events hosted: Portuguese 

Open 

Website: www.quintadolago.com 

Kungsängen Golf Club, Sweden 

The Kings is surrounded by pine forests and 

natural water features and has hosted the 

Scandinavian Masters four times. The 

Queens has tight fairways and small greens. 

Location: 35km from downtown Stockholm 

European Tour events hosted: Scandinavian 

Masters; Senior Tour Scandinavian Intern’al 

Website: www.kungsangengc.se n 


RefReshingly Relaxed 

Dumfries & Galloway 

Top 100-quality courses plotted on a variety of landscapes make this Southern region 

of Scotland one of the best in Britain for a low-cost, high-class golf break. 

Welcoming clubs, beautifullymaintained 

courses and tee 

times that suit you – golf in 

Dumfries & Galloway is 

refreshingly accessible yet consistently 

satisfying. It offers a wide variety of golf 

experiences, from championship to fun, and 

from parkland to links. The common 

denominator is the picturesque countryside, 

the inspiring views and the amazing value. 

Indeed, there is perhaps no other part of 

Scotland that contains such a diverse range 

of landscapes, with Dumfries & Galloway 

boasting more than 200 miles of sweeping 

sandy coastline, lush rolling hillsides, 

stunning clifftops, and mature woodland. 

These various landscapes have been used to 

great effect by some of the great designers. 

So, there are courses to suit all tastes and 

all standards. Beginners and families will 

discover fun Par-3 courses as well as nineholers 

that don’t daunt, so they can develop 

their game in a relaxed environment. 

Incorporating a round or two as part of a 

short break or family holiday is an excellent 

way to add challenge and fun to your stay. 

For more experienced golfers, D&G has 

courses of the standard of world-class 

Southerness (pictured) to build a break 

around. This fabulous links is a fixture in 

Golf World’s Great Britain & Ireland Top 

100 Courses ranking. It is joined in Golf 

World’s Scottish Top 100 Courses list by 

nearby Powfoot – another terrific links – as 

well as clifftop classics Portpatrick and 

Stranraer in the west of the region. 

The region’s capital, Dumfries, also has 

two parkland courses in the ‘Next 50’ of 

the Scottish Top 100, Dumfries & County 

and Dumfries & Galloway. 

These established highlights of D&G’s 

golf are backed up by a number of other 

fine courses, mostly immaculate, mature 

parklands but also quirky seaside courses 

such as Scotland’s most southerly golf club, 

St Medan. It’s one of Golf World’s 

favourites, along with Colvend, a charming 

‘holiday’ course whose beauty disguises a 

need to play well to score well. 

Another is Brighouse Bay, which neatly 

sums up the reason you need to visit 

To sTarT 

planning your 

golf break To 

DUMFRIES & 

GALLOWAY 

www.visitscotland.com/ 

dumfriesgalloway-golf 

History, mountain biking & ice cream... enjoy them all in the region 

Dumfries & Galloway has an 

abundance of attractions besides 

golf – if you want to spend some 

time away from the fairways. 

History and heritage are found 

in the imposing form of 

Caerlaverock Castle, a medieval 

fortress surrounded by a moat that 

was the scene of some famous 

sieges. Meanwhile Threave Castle 

is an impressive 14th century tower 

on an island, while Sweetheart 

Abbey is a striking ruin with a very 

romantic back story. 

The Solway Firth is dotted with 

picturesque fishing villages – and a 

lovely way to spend a summer’s 

evening is to make the coastal 

walk between Rockclife and 

Kippford then enjoy a meal in one 

of the inviting pubs. Kirkcudbright 

is another coastal spot, an artist’s 

haven with studios and galleries. 

For the especially active, there is 

world-class mountain biking – the 

7stanes mountain biking centres – 

as well as ideal opportunities for 

hillwalking, angling and wildlife 

watching. The stunning Galloway 

Forest Park is the largest forest 

park in Britain and is the UK’s only 

designated Dark Sky Park. 

Foodies will relish local produce, 

from Buccleuch beef – raised on 

the Drumlanrig Castle estate near 

Thornhill – to Galloway lamb, and 

Galloway Smokehouse salmon. Try 

ice cream from Cream o’ Galloway 

or take a tour of Bladnoch 

Distillery while playing St Medan. 

Photography: Dumfries & Galloway Golf Partnership and VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint.

GB&I: Scotland 

Three key reasons 

to head for D&G 

Stranraer is a seaside classic in 

Scotland’s Top 100 ranking. 

Year-round golf 

With an unusually mild Scottish climate 

thanks to the warming influence of the 

Gulf Stream and many of the courses 

enjoying excellent drainage due to 

their coastal locations, D&G is a 

genuine year-round destination. OK, in 

the winter it will be chilly, but follow up 

a crisp round with a hearty meal and a 

warming malt and you have the perfect 

recipe for an out-of-season (very good 

value) golfing adventure. Then, with 17 

hours of daylight at the height of the 

summer and great tee time availability, 

you can cram a lot of top-quality 

Scottish golf (still at great prices) into a 

holiday in Dumfries & Galloway. 

The brilliant last hole at 

Colvend, an undiscovered gem. 

Castle Douglas. 

Dumfries & Galloway. Cut and paste 

Brighouse Bay into Fife and it would cost 

10 times the green fee – that is how good it 

is (and how cheap it is). It offers the thrills 

of Kingsbarns without the price tag. Miss 

it off your itinerary at your peril. The 

aforementioned Portpatrick (Dunskey) is 

another thrilling adventure on the clifftops, 

and Wigtownshire County is another. 

Thornhill, 14 miles north of Dumfries, 

is now an 18-hole woodland-parkland with 

bags of class; it was the course on which 

Ryder Cup player Andrew Coltart learnt 

the game. Lochmaben, Lockerbie, 

Kirkcudbright and Newton Stewart are 

four more parklands that will also not 

disappoint. There is also a fabulous 

modern heathland at Lagganmore in the 

west and a mature moorland at Moffat. 

The variety really is extensive. 

Driving ranges and par-3 courses await at 

Solway Links Pay and Play near Dumfries, 

Craigieknowes near Dalbeattie, Tongland 

Family Golf Centre near Kirkcudbright and 

Green Valley Golf Academy. They combine 

accessible par-3 courses with club hire and 

friendly advice to help novices get up and 

running. Castle Douglas, Hoddom Castle, 

Sanquhar and the nine-hole Par-3 courses 

at Portpatrick and Brighouse Bay all give 

beginners and families a warm welcome. 

Golf in Dumfries & Galloway is high 

quality yet refreshingly relaxed. This friendly 

corner of Scotland – where great value, 

accessible golf on some of Scotland’s true 

hidden gems – is waiting to be discovered. n 

Incredible value 

As we note above, green fees in D&G 

are very, very good value anyway. And 

the Gateway to Golf Pass makes them 

even more reasonably priced. A threeround 

pass costs from £90 and a sixround 

pass from £130 (additional 

charges apply to some courses). To 

purchase, go to www.visitscotland. 

com/dumfriesgalloway-golfpass 

WIN a golf break in Dumfries & Galloway 

VisitScotland is ofering you the chance to win: 

• A two-night bed & breakfast stay for two people, with dinner on one night, at The King’s Arms 

Hotel, Castle Douglas 

• A round of golf for two at Southerness Golf Club 

ENTER NOW AT WWW.VIsITscOTlANd.cOm/gOlfdumfRIEs 

Dalbeattie. 

Variety of accommodation 

Knowledgeable golfer-friendly hotels 

are waiting to welcome you, such as 

the Cairndale in Dumfries, Kings Arms 

in Castle Douglas, and Selkirk Arms in 

Kirkcudbright. In addition, the Cally 

Palace in Gatehouse is an opulent hotel 

with its own picturesque golf course, 

laid out around the hotel and the 

prettiest cricket ground in Scotland. 

There are also a wealth of guesthouses 

and self-catering properties in D&G. 


GB&I: England 

THE COURSE THAT JACK BUILT 

St Mellion 

This Cornish complex has a Top 100-ranked Jack Nicklaus design as well as a chic four-star hotel. 

St Mellion is a unique blend of 

contemporary style, exceptional 

facilities, golfi ng heritage and 

wonderful Cornish hospitality. 

The resort boasts a stunning AA four-star 

80-bedroom hotel and a Health Club & 

Spa as well as a variety of dining 

experiences – from the simple to the elegant 

– in an award-winning restaurant. 

St Mellion is renowned as one of 

England’s fi nest golf venues, being a regular 

in GB&I Top 100 Course rankings and 

having hosted 12 European Tour events. 

The Nicklaus Signature Course 

celebrated its 25th Anniversary in 2013 and 

was the fi rst European course personally 

designed by Jack Nicklaus. “I knew it was 

going to be good, but not this good... it’s 

everything I hoped for and more,” said the 

legendary American of the fi nished course. 

At 6,300 yards it is not long, but using 

the amazing Cornish landscape and 

inspired by Augusta, Nicklaus created a 

UK version of Amen Corner with holes 10 

through to 13 being quite brilliant both to 

play and look at. But before you get to that 

now-celebrated back nine, you are also 

served a treat on the front half with one 

classic golf hole after another; the 5th is 

regarded as the best par 4 on the course and 

when the sun shines is one of the most 

beautiful holes in the country. 

The Signature hole is the remarkable 

11th, a par 3 inspired by the 12th and 16th 

short holes at Augusta. It combines the 

narrow green of the 12th with the sweeping 

lake that protects the green from the underclubbed 

shot. It is regarded as one of the 

classic short holes in British golf. 

If you could have a second signature hole, 

the 12th would be it. It is another visually 

stunning test that is cut through a forest of 

conifer trees, a true par 5 that requires three 

accurate shots to reach the green. Running 

parallel to the fairway is a stream that then 

cuts across in front of the green. This hole 

completes the loop of three holes that is 

compared to Augusta’s infamous ‘Amen 

Corner’ – high praise indeed! 

St Mellion also has a ‘gem’, the Kernow 

Course. It opened in 2010 and was 

instantly commended as the perfect 

complement to the Nicklaus. It offers wide 

fairways, big greens and great variety. 

Yet another reason a trip to St Mellion 

should be on every golfers’ bucket list. ■ 

Contact: st-mellion.co.uk, 01579 352001 

or stmellion-golfdays@crown-golf.co.uk 

Below: The hotel is the 

perfect base for a 

Cornwall golf break.

a scottish cLassic 

Machrihanish Dunes 

When this new links opened in 2009, it made the Kintyre peninsula in Scotland a ‘must visit’ for golfers. 

Every July, a unique 18-hole 

tournament is held on the southern 

tip of Kintyre, Scotland, in the tiny 

village of Machrihanish. What 

makes this event so special is that it’s played 

over not one, but two courses. You tee off on 

the 1st hole of mighty Machrihanish, with 

its knee-knocking opening drive across a 

corner of the beach, then play the rest of the 

front nine of that world Top 100 track 

before jumping a fence (literally) and playing 

nine more holes on the Machrihanish Dunes 

course next door. 

Called The Shepherds Cross, this sell-out 

event epitomises why this corner of Scotland 

is so renowned for its links golf. 

Here, in a place that time has all but 

forgotten, you play among, around and over 

towering dunes on holes the likes of which 

you simply won’t find anywhere else. 

Machrihanish has been labelled (actually 

mis-labelled) one of golf’s hardest places to 

reach. But despite that – or maybe because of 

it – it’s unquestionably one place every golfer 

should make a point to visit. 

Of course, Machrihanish isn’t new to the 

golf map. Old Tom Morris laid out 

Machrihanish links in 1876, travelling from 

St Andrews and staying an unheard-of three 

days to do his design work there. But it 

wasn’t until 2009 that the area became a 

bona fide golf holiday destination, when 

Machrihanish Dunes gave visitors two top 

links to play. And as anyone who has played 

in the Shepherds Cross will tell you, a better 

one-two punch you will not find. It was to 

another Scotsman, David McLay Kidd, that 

the design responsibility at ‘Mach Dunes’ 

was given. And a fitting assignment it was. 

Kidd had spent summers in the area with his 

family, and had inherited a love for golf and 

golf courses from his father, Gleneagles’ golf 

course manager Jimmy Kidd. 

David grew up playing the Machrihanish 

course, and both father and son recognised 

the even brawnier dunes to the north of the 

old course would be a fine place for a second 

18. How right they were. 

The 17th green beautifully illustrates 

the natural, fun side of Mach Dunes. 


GB&I: Scotland 

If anything, this ‘new’ course plays “older” 

than its antique neighbour; this is because it 

was built on a Site of Special Scientific 

Interest, which meant many of the shortcuts 

and tricks modern course designers often use 

were not at Kidd’s disposal. Instead, he 

identified 23 natural holes on the existing 

primordial landscape and chose the best 18. 

Then the course was ‘built’ by hand. Of the 

275 acres upon which the course was created, 

only seven – that’s right, seven – were 

disturbed in the making of Mach Dunes. 

It’s a throwback to the way its renowned 

neighbour was laid out by Old Tom – and 

the result is every bit as enthralling. 

“The hardest part of creating 

Machrihanish Dunes wasn’t the build,” said 

Kidd. “God laid it there, we just planted the 

pins where they fell. The hardest part was 

being able to work golf through the 

incredibly fragile environment and to protect 

it forever and always. In my world, 

conventional golf construction requires you 

take down all the vegetation, take up all the 

The Ugadale is yards from 

Machrihanish’s iconic 1st tee. 

Rooms to match the golf 

The Village at Machrihanish Dunes 

boasts luxurious two-bedroom cottages 

and two recently restored and historic 

four-star hotels – The Ugadale Hotel, 

adjacent to the 1st tee at Machrihanish, 

and The Royal Hotel overlooking 

Campbeltown Harbour. Each of these 

early 20th-Century marvels ofers 

world-class comfort and a rare level of 

service. Fine dining is provided in The 

Kintyre Club and Harbourview Grille 

restaurants, while it is impossible not to 

enjoy food and refreshment in the Old 

Clubhouse and Black Sheep pubs. 

soil, re-grade everything how you see it, build 

up the tees, put drainage in, put very 

extensive irrigation in, build greens, plant 

lots of plants. What did we do at 

Machrihanish Dunes? We did almost none 

of that. It is as I found it. What you will play 

out there is almost the same as when I 

Inside a typical bedroom at the 

stylishly-refurbished Ugadale. 

The 18th green brings an 

unforgettable round to a climax. 

wandered across there as a boy. 

“We mowed the fairways – there was no 

reseeding. We stripped off some turf for the 

greens, that’s true, but we really didn’t build 

greens at all. There’s no drainage underneath 

them. The irrigation system is the simplest it 

could possibly be – pop-ups around the 

greens and some hose points here and there. 

“What you’ll play at Machrihanish Dunes 

today really is the way golf began.” 

From its driveable, dog-leg-left opening hole 

to its uphill, tough-as-nails finisher, playing 

‘Mach Dunes’ is an 18-hole thrill ride full 

of rolling fairways, blind shots over dunes, 

vexing bunkers fashioned out of old rabbit 

scrapes, green sites that defy the imagination, 

and greens and tees perched at the ocean’s 

edge that provide endless opportunities for 

gaping at the sheer beauty of the setting. 

In short, it offers the makings of an 

unforgettable day. 

In 2014, Mach Dunes brought in Simon 

Freeman from The Machrie to be the 

course’s new head greenkeeper, and the 

results have exceeded all hopes. 

An expert in the nurturing of links turf 

and someone with intimate knowledge of the 

vicissitudes of the weather patterns on the 

west coast of Scotland, Freeman’s knowledge 

and guiding hand have taken the young 

course to a wonderful new level. 

If you haven’t played the course in a while, 

you’ll be amazed at the dramatic leap 

forward taken at this young links gem. 

It’s said that links can take up to a decade 

to settle into their best form; at ‘Mach 

Dunes’, they arrived well ahead of schedule. 

When you do visit, you will also be 

amazed by the standard of accommodation 

now on offer in this cozy little corner of 

Scotland (see side-box). 

In short, whether you are visiting this 

magical area for the first time or making 

your 20th pilgrimage to Machrihanish, the 

golf holiday that awaits you there is destined 

to be one of the most memorable you will 

ever enjoy. And like the players in the annual 

Shepherds Cross, don’t be surprised if you 

find yourself returning again and again. n 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE Well, it is typically 

British, so not worth trying to second 

guess. But while the west does get its 

fair share of rain, the Gulfstream helps 

it escape really cold weather. 

GETTING THERE Three options: an 

amazingly picturesque drive up and 

round Loch Lomond; a boat from the 

mainland; or fly to Campbeltown. 

MORE DETAILS 

www.machrihanishdunes.com 


GB&I: Ireland 

Ireland beckons 

Let the Irish golf break experts help you get the most from your trip to the Emerald Isle. 

Thinking of taking a golf break in 

Ireland? The choice of world renowned 

golf courses set amidst stunning scenery 

can be bewildering, so you’d be wise to 

consult local experts to help you get the 

most from your trip. 

Swing Golf Ireland is just that – owned 

by the premier golf clubs in the South 

West of Ireland, the company has been 

satisfying customers worldwide for over 

28 years. 

With special relationships with all the 

clubs and service providers, their 

knowledgeable staff ensures the customer 

experiences the ultimate golf break to the 

famed South West and all other regions 

of Ireland. Their level of engagement, 

response time and attention to detail – 

not to mention competitive prices – sets 

them apart. 

They organise all aspects of the golf 

itinerary including booking tee times, 

caddies, carts, accommodation, car hire, 

coach hire, non-golfing itineraries. 

They also advise and assist with all 

other activities such as dining, pubs and 

night time entertainment. 

Their quality of service is illustrated by 

the customer feedback section of their 

website. n 

Contact: t: +353 66 7125733, e: 

reservations@swinggolfireland.com 

w: www.swinggolfireland.com 

Dooks Golf Links. 

Belfast 

LAHINCH (L) 

Galway 

DROMOLAND (P) 

Dublin 

TRUMP DOONBEG (L) Shannon Airport 

Limerick 

Cork 

ADARE (P) 

BALLYBUNION (L) 

TRALEE (L) 

Kerry Airport 

DINGLE (L) 

KILLARNEY (P) 

DOOKS (L) 

RING OF KERRY (P) 

CORK (P) 

WATERVILLE (L) 

Cork Airport 

OLD HEAD (L) 

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LIFETIME 

EXPERIENCE THAT THE SOUTH WEST 

OF IRELAND HAS TO OFFER! 

“The trip exceeded our expectations. The hotels, food and 

drink and night time entertainment could not be faulted. 

The good weather helped and the beautiful scenery shortened 

the journeys to the courses. Our sons will return next year. 

- Larry Catney, UK Aug 2014 

Photo: Killarney Mahony’s Pt. 

Come share the Golfing Magic! 

+353 (0)66 71 25733

FOCUS ON 

The Canaries 

This collection of islands is blessed with year-round sun – so are open for play 365 days a year. 

With an average winter 

temperature of 18C and an 

average summer temperature 

of 23C, any of the Canaries’ 

seven islands are perfect destinations for 

holidays 365 days a year. The good news 

for golfers is that five of the seven islands 

have high-quality courses on them. 

The archipelago enjoys one of the most 

privileged climates in the world with 

winters that are gentle, with little rain and 

summers that are stable without excessive 

heat. The Canary Islands is actually the 

part of Europe with most hours of daylight 

– more than 3,000 hours of sunlight a year. 

It is entirely possible to head to the islands 

off the west coast of Africa in January – 

when the weather is unremittingly bleak in 

Britain – and not see a cloud all week. 

The best thing about this highlydesirable 

climate? It is actually not that far 

away, or at least it feels like it isn’t – because 

it has never been easier to get to the Canary 

Islands. There are no long-haul flights to 

reach the Canaries’ year-round sunshine – 

little more than four hours takes you from 

Britain to one of the seven islands, which all 

have airports. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, 

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura have the 

biggest, with lots of direct international 

flights. And travel between the Canary 

Islands is quick and easy thanks to the 

modern daily inter-island transport by sea 

and air. Flights between islands take a 

maximum of 45 minutes and ferry rides no 

more than three hours. So, it’s easy to 

experience two or three Canary Islands 

during the same holiday and to make the 

travel between them part of the adventure. 

So you can plan a day trip to the island 

next door, an especially attractive option for 

those whose eye is taken by the golf courses 

and attractions on offer in more than one 

of the islands. With the variety of 

landscapes on each island there is a whole 

world to discover in the Canary Islands. 

There are more than 20 courses in the 

Canary Islands and every year they host 


Short Haul: Canary Islands 

Abama, Tenerife. 

OPEN 365... 

THE CANARY ISLANDS 

IS A PARADISE FOR GOLF 

Visit www.hellocanaryislands.com 

to take a step closer to discovering 

its magnificent courses with 

unique features. 

Golf del Sur, Tenerife. 

Salobre North, Gran Canaria. 

prestigious professional tournaments. 

Perhaps more importantly to us travelling 

golfers is the fact they are all in unique 

settings with views ranging from 

spectacular sand dunes and majestic 

volcanoes to green mountains and deep 

ravines. Many overlook the Atlantic. 

This variety of settings gives the Canaries 

an advantage over many other destinations 

and means golfers are keen to return for 

more, but just in a different environment. 

Britain is one of the countries that sends 

the most tourists to the Canaries, as we are 

lured to these beautiful islands by their 

climate and the beauty. With an average 

stay of 9.2 days, British tourists come to the 

Canaries to rest and relax, staying in good 

hotels and enjoying the restaurants. 

We leave happy too, with ‘High Tourist 

Loyalty’ – one in five of us who visit has 

already been more than 10 times to the 

Canaries, with couples, families and groups 

of friends especially regular return visitors. 

It’s hardly surprising that golf awards 

have been forthcoming, with the highlight 

being Gran Canaria being named IAGTO’s 

2013 ‘Best European Destination’. The golf 

travel industry will converge on Tenerife in 

2015 when the island hosts the annual 

IGTM meeting, including IAGTO Awards. 

Tenerife 

Tenerife has a European Top 100 course in 

the shape of Abama, which is as close to a 

European Augusta as we are likely to find 

on this side of the Atlantic. Beautifully 

manicured and populated by colourful 

shrubs and bushes, the views of the Atlantic 

and La Gomera from its Dave Thomasrouted 

elevated fairways are outstanding. 

Abama Golf & Spa Resort is a 

150-hectare estate located in Guía de Isora 

that has 22 lakes connected by impressive 

waterfalls, bunkers of white sand and 

25,000 palm trees. 

Las Americas is a beautifullyconditioned 

course that was designed by 

former Ryder Cup captain John Jacobs and 

is part of a complex in the heart of Playa de 

Las Américas that includes the five-star Las 

Madrigueras hotel. The two loops of nine 

are surrounded by lush gardens and exotic 

wildlife, and while there are some villas in 

view, they are not overly intrusive. The lakes 

and rivers which meander through the 

course are though! 

Founded in 1932, Real Club de Golf de 

Tenerife is the second oldest golf club in 

Spain and still has a typically British air 

of distinction about it. Situated at 600m 

above sea level it boasts 18 holes on 

undulating fairways that ascend with a 

spectacular view of Teide. The dry stream 

beds play a part in several holes. 

Buenavista is in the north-west corner of 

the island but is still only a short drive up 

the coast from the central hub of Las 

Americas. Opened in 2003 and designed 

on clifftops by Seve, Buenavista allows you 

to drink in views across the Atlantic. It is 

routed close to the cliffs so players 

experience the incredible sensation of 

driving towards the ocean in a manner not 

unlike iconic Pebble Beach – especially on 

the 10th and 13th greens. 


Short Haul: Canary Islands 

Class golf backed 

up by lots of great 

tourist attractions 

The Canaries offer the complete 

golf holiday... on and off the course. 

Accommodation 

There is a full range of accommodation 

available on every island, as befits one 

of the most popular tourist 

destinations in the world. These 

options are complemented by a firstclass 

and varied selection of other 

amenities such as spas, leisure, 

museums and shopping centres. 

Cuisine 

Whether in your hotel or a restaurant, 

you can savour a myriad foods from 

around the world. You should certainly 

try typical Canarian food, which has 

Portuguese and Spanish flavours as 

well as Latin American and African 

influences. You’ll love the traditional 

stews, fish and amazing desserts. 

Other activities 

There is an endless choice to combine 

your golf holiday with activities from 

fun on the amazing beaches to taking 

cycle rides and watersports. There are 

water parks, dolphin centres, boat trips 

and volcano excursions. 

Relax and unwind 

The seven islands are an ideal place to 

switch of from the routine, recharge 

your batteries and return home with 

mind and body renewed. Visit www. 

shineagain.com for more details... 

Five minutes from Reina Sofía airport, 

there are three loops of nine at Golf del 

Sur, all of which were designed by Pepe 

Gancedo and remodelled by former Tour 

star Manuel Pinero. 

The sea is almost always visible while 

there are numerous deep ravines bisecting 

the fairways, which are lined by palm trees 

and the famous black volcanic soil. There is 

a pleasing contrast between the lakes and 

the spectacular bunkers of volcanic sand. 

By the shore that surrounds the southern 

coast of Tenerife is Amarilla, with 

marvellous views of the Teide – the highest 

peak in Spain – and the ocean. On a varied 

Donald Steel design populated by 

indigenous plants and with views of the 

exclusive San Miguel marina, this is a lovely 

spot. With the sea as its fairway, the 5th is 

the jewel in the crown. 

Costa Adeje by Pepe Gancedo in the 

south has been designed within natural 

features. It is defined by small plateaus and 

more than 5,000 yards of distinctive stone 

walls that were restored and used to border 

the banana plantation. 

Other options include the hilly nine-hole 

La Rosaleda in the north. Surrounded by 

banana trees, it offers panoramic views of 

the La Orotava valley, the Teide and the 

Atlantic. Another nine-holer, Los Palos by 

Jose Maria Olazabal is in the southern 

borough of Arona. It is dominated by 

vegetation, lakes and streams. 

La Gomera 

Tecina Golf is located on a spectacular cliff 

in the south of tiny La Gomera, with 

magnificent views of the sea. Very playable 

but with tricky elevation changes, the 

attractive design, unique landscape and 

peacefulness makes this Steel design a real 

‘must experience’. 

Gran Canaria 

As with Tenerife this year, Gran Canaria 

was also the host of the International Golf 

Travel Market, back in 2005. 

It boasts arguably the most impressive 

collection with eight terrific layouts around 

its territory. The circular nature of the 

island and the motorway that tracks the 

coastline makes it especially easy to get 

from course to course, and they are also 

helpfully neatly grouped together. 

The southern part is the best, including 

Salobre (New Course and Old Course) 

which is a terrific base for your trip. Salobre 

has a lovely hotel and two wonderful 

courses in a desert setting. 

Just 10 minutes drive away is Anfi Tauro 

Golf, one of the most outstanding courses 

you will enjoy on a golf holiday. Designed 

by the legendary Robert Von Hagge in 

Lanzarote Golf Club. 

2006, it is an exacting challenge with 

outstanding views. Don’t miss it. 

Maspalomas Golf was designed by 

Mackenzie Ross – who designed the Ailsa 

at Turnberry – and is situated next to the 

Maspalomas Dunes but is generally a flat 

easy-walking experience fringed by palms. 

Lopesan Meloneras Golf is the south’s 

final highlight, an aesthetically-pleasing 

Ron Kirby design among palms and lakes 

with several holes perched on the coast. 

Further north, just past the airport but 

still easily within an hour of Salobre, is El 

Cortijo Club de Campo, the closest course 

to the airport. Designed by American Blake 

Stirling El Cortijo features intimidating 

lakes and hundreds of mature palms. 

Set among the mountains further inland, 

the Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas is the 

oldest club in Spain. It is laid out next to 

Bandama, an extinct volcano, in a typically 

Gran Canarian landscape. 


Anfi Tauro, Gran Canaria. 

Tecina, La Gomera. 

Playitas Golf, Fuerteventura. 

Las Palmeras Golf Pitch and Putt is 

more than the kind of ‘Pitch and Putt’ we’d 

expect at home, a beautifully manicured 

short course with lakes and bunkers. 

Lanzarote 

Costa Teguise is located at the feet of an 

old volcano, in the north-east of the island, 

with extraordinary views of the sea. 

Incorporating over 3,500 palm trees, it 

was designed in 1978 by John Harris and 

has a number of dog-legs while the ‘picon’ 

(volcanic sand) and the wind add an extra 

ingredient. It has numerous dog-legs while 

the fairways are lined by over 3,000 palms. 

Lanzarote Golf Resort is situated 

between Puerto del Carmen and Tias, and 

is surrounded by volcanoes with the only 

outlet the Atlantic Ocean. 

The 18-hole course is over 6,700 yards 

long and was designed by well-known 

American architect Kirby among numerous 

mature palms and other indigenous plants. 

The original setting has been respected in 

its design, with gentle slopes and old stone 

walls. It has spectacular views of the ocean 

and neighbouring Fuerteventura. 

Fuerteventura 

Fuerteventura Golf Club was the first 18- 

hole course on the island and was the venue 

for the Spain Open in 2004. 

The course is located in a UNESCOprotected 

reserve with a plethora of lakes, 

palm trees and natural vegetation. 

Bunkers add a man-made hazard and 

there are gorgeous views of the Atlantic. 

Situated just 8km from the island’s airport, 

a full range of services are nearby including 

the Elba Palace Golf, a five-star hotel. 

Elsewhere, La Oliva, Salinas de Antigua 

– with hillocks and dunes that provide 

protection from the wind, desert-like areas 

and four lakes – Las Playitas – in the 

southern part of the island with an 

entertaining, dynamic course with 

magnificent views of the sea and wide 

fairways – and Jandia are other alternatives. 

La Palma and El Hierro do not have golf 

courses but both are stunning settings for a 

day trip during your golfing getaway. n 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE: In a word, superb. 

Faultless from March to October 

inclusive and even the winter is 

perfectly warm. 

GETTING THERE: Lots of low-cost 

carriers fly (in four hours) to all of the 

main islands now so it is very 

straightforward. 

TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT 

MORE INFORMATION: 

www.hellocanaryislands.com 


Your opulent tuscan retreat 

Argentario Golf 

Resort & Spa 

Breathtaking design, delicious food and wonderful golf... all under the warm sun of Tuscany. 

For decades, the beautiful Italian 

region of Tuscany has been a 

popular destination among 

holidaymakers who enjoy history, 

culture, art, and beautiful landscapes. 

However, over the past few years, it has 

also started to establish itself as a favourite 

destination for golfers too. That is down, in 

no small part, to the spectacular Argentario 

Golf Resort and Spa. It is located in the 

heart of the Maremma – a beautiful and 

still-unexplored part of Southern Tuscany, 

only 90 minutes away from Rome’s 

Fiumicino International Airport. 

It comprises 73 designer bedrooms and an 

independent golf villa, all featuring a private 

terrace with views of either the stunning, 

lush Monte Argentario landscape, or the 

resort’s 18-hole championship golf course. 

Golf under the Tuscan sun 

The Argentario course was designed by 

former European Tour player Baldovino 

Dassù, an Italian, and architect David 

Mezzacane, with holes subsequently shaped 

and revised by Brian Jorgensen. 

Thanks to the surrounding hills, the 

Orbetello Lagoon (a WWF-managed nature 

reserve) and the Tyrrhenian Sea, Argentario 

has its own microclimate, meaning golf is 

possible all year round. 

At the on-site teaching academy, one of 

the instructors who works there, Emanuele 

Special 

packageS 

Golf & Wine, including green fees, a 

Tuscan dinner with Argentario wine selection 

and a visit to the historic Le Mortelle Winery: a 

three-night package from €470 per person 

Golf & Wellness, including green fees, two 

50-minute spa treatments per person and a 

welcome dinner: a three-night package 

from €540 per person. 

For further details visit www. 

argentarioresort.com 


Short Haul: Italy 

The course at Argentario 

was laid out by Tour player 

Baldovino Dassu. 

Canonica, is well known to British golfers as 

a past winner of the Johnnie Walker 

Championship at Gleneagles. In his lessons 

he uses the latest technology and equipment 

to ensure that you leave Argentario a better 

player than when you arrived. 

There is a calendar of golf competitions at 

Argentario Golf Club – and you could be 

part of unique sports and gastronomy events 

such as Maremma Wine Shire, a 

competition followed by tastings of local 

wines and typical products. Other challenges 

are sponsored by prestigious brands, such as 

Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes, Fendi and 

Damiani. 

Away from the golf course… 

Argentario Resort also has a spa: the stylish 

Espace Wellness Centre is a 2,700sq/m 

oasis of tranquillity, leisure, and indulgence. 

Its style is somewhere between retro and 

modern. Here you have the opportunity to 

get a relaxing treatment or simply use one of 

the range of other facilities. These include a 

heated indoor swimming pool, an outdoor 

pool, a hi-tech gym and areas for outdoor 

activities, such as tennis, jogging and 

football. 

The on-site Dama Dama Restaurant 

offers delicious Tuscan and Mediterranean 

cuisine, with many of the ingredients having 

been grown on-site in the resort’s own 

organic vegetable garden. During the warmer 

months, you can enjoy breakfast, meals and 

cocktails on the panoramic terrace with 

stunning views of the golf course up to the 

lagoon and the sea. 

Breathtaking design 

Argentario Resort is the only golf resort in 

the Design Hotel’s group. In fact, the 

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa is an allencompassing 

luxury retreat with design at 

its heart. Old world glamour is given a 

contemporary makeover, as state-of-the-art 

facilities meet the seductive charm of a movie 

star’s decadent Tuscan retreat. 

The rooms express their individual 

personality through a sophisticated and 

comfortable design, ranging from the 

minimalist look in a contemporary artgallery 

style to the most glamorous and 

metropolitan spirit with chrome plating and 

stone tubs. 

Exploring Maremma Tuscany 

Tuscany is undoubtedly one of the most 

beautiful parts of Europe to explore. With 

Argentario Golf Resort and Spa as your base 

for your trip, you will certainly not be short 

of things to see and do. 

Exploring the wider Tuscan area is easy to 

do, with most of the main towns and cities 

all within easy reach of the resort. Day trips 

to Florence, Pisa and Siena, in particular, 

come highly recommended. 

The golf resort is located close to idyllic 

little towns like Orbetello, Porto Ercole, 

Porto Santo Stefano and Capalbio, which 

means that you can get to know hidden gems 

away from mass tourism. Argentario’s 

fairways alternate with the vineyards and the 

pristine beaches, both sandy and rocky. 

Yours will be a golfing holiday with all the 

best that Tuscany has to offer. n 


FOCUS ON 

France 

Variety and quality in every corner of this quiet superpower of European golf. 

North, South, East or West – no 

matter where you point your 

radar when visiting France, you 

will be exceptionally well catered 

for. There are, inevitably, areas with more 

strength in depth in a golfing sense than 

others, but every corner of France has 

enough quality golf to satisfy even the most 

discerning travelling golfer. 

Every corner of this quiet superpower of 

European golf has a stellar venue – and in 

addition to this quality is a variety of 

courses few countries outside of Great 

Britain can come close to matching. 

The reason we suggest France is a ‘quiet 

superpower’? How else to describe the 

unusually humble attitude towards their 

golfing riches? 

France had as many entries in Golf 

World’s 2013 Continental Top 100 – as 

many as 17 – as anyone apart from Spain. 

Not only that, France also had the top two 

courses plus six of the top 20. The biggest 

names, Morfontaine and Les Bordes, are 

sadly so exclusive they are usually only 

playable with a member. 

And while some of the rest are very 

traditional clubs – akin to our ‘Royal’ clubs 

in this country – they can be accessed (seek 

the help of Private Golf Key, details for 

which are on p40, for guaranteed access). 

Let’s make a whistlestop tour of the very 

best of French golf... 

The North 

Unlike around Paris, there is no difficulty 

in getting a game in the north of the 

country, in either Normandy or Brittany. 

This is a very welcoming part of France for 

British golfers, perhaps as a result of the 

affinity from the landing, whose 70th 

anniversary was marked last year. 

In Normandy, Etretat is one of France’s 

oldest courses and sits on the famous 

chalky cliffs of the Alabaster coast while 


Short Haul: France 

Saint Endreol. 

Granville is one of France’s closest versions 

of a British links with sand dunes, plateau 

greens and wispy rough. St Julien, close to 

Pont l’Evêque, and Vaudreuil, a Hawtree 

design, are other fine options. 

In Brittany, Pleneuf Val Andre is one of 

France’s top 30 courses and offers a hint 

of links, a bit of parkland golf and a 

suggestion of heathland, while Dinard was 

laid out by feted Tom Dunn and is the 

second-oldest course in France, dating back 

to 1887. St Malo is laid out in the ancient 

hunting grounds of Mesnil Forest. 

We are huge fans of the Opal Coast area, 

where two clubs with 80 magnificent holes 

between them – plus excellent 18-hole 

venues – make for a superb trip. 

Brits have been holidaying in this Pas de 

Calais region of Hardelot and Le Touquet 

for over a century and more, lured by the 

clean beaches, better weather and fine food 

in small towns that cater for visitors’ 

demands while still remaining charming. 

Hardelot and Le Touquet are the multicourse 

venues in the area and both boast a 

Ryder Cup 

2018 host 

Golf National. 



Revitalised 

Hardelot Pins. 

Top 100 perennials in their armoury. Both 

belong to the Open Golf Club group and 

both have been revitalised by Frank Pont to 

heights not reached for half a century. 

Backing them up is a terrific links at 

Wimereux, 15 minutes from the 

EuroTunnel, and Belle Dune, a picturesque 

course laid out on rolling, sandy terrain 

among thousands of pines. 

Around Paris 

The capital city has a wealth of options, 

from the new kid on the block Golf 

National to classics such as Chantilly and 

Fontainebleau. 

Le Golf National is the venue for the 

2018 Ryder Cup despite being around for 

only a couple of decades. Built on farmland 

as flat as a pancake, it was moulded and 

sculpted beautifully using landfill – rubbish 

to you and I. It is a triumph for designers 

and shapers who have made it an interesting 

test of parkland, American-style golf. 

It’s a long way round and L’Albatros’ 

numerous water hazards will make it a 

thrilling Ryder Cup stage. Its sister L’Aigle 

is a solid venue too. 

WHY WE LOVE 

EUROTUNNEL 

TRAVEL TIPS 

Low-cost carriers go to lots of regional 

airports all over the country, but if you 

are not visiting anywhere south of Paris, 

we advise taking the EuroTunnel. It’s 

cheap, flexible and having your 

own car with you is just so 

convenient. 

To the north-east near Morfontaine is 

the very English-feeling Chantilly, a French 

version of Little Aston, while to the south 

east of the city is a woodland classic at 

Fontainebleau. 

To the west, just past Le Golf National is 

Harry Colt’s quirky Saint Germain as well 

as St Nom La Breteche, scene of the most 

recent Seve Trophy matches in 2013. 

So, as many as six Top 100 venues dotted 

around the capital to choose from – plus an 

excellent play-and-stay venue named Crecy, 

near to Disneyland. Crecy is an ideal base 

for a trip soaking up all the Top 100 golf 

around Paris as well as offering a family 

break where the sights, Mickey Mouse and 

cafe culture can be soaked up. Perhaps even 

a trip to watch a Six Nations game or Paris 

St Germain... 

The South West 

This area is a real surprise to the 

uninitiated, with four Top 100 courses 

very close to each other and a fifth, Golf 

du Medoc a few miles up the coast on the 

outskirts of Bordeaux. A sixth option, 

Chateau des Vigiers, sits further inland 

in vineyard country. 

The quartet that are packed exceptionally 

close to each other are Seignosse, Chiberta, 

Hossegor and Moliets. 

Seignosse was designed by Robert Von 

Hagge back in 1989. 

It is a beautiful course among mature 

trees and natural water features – but it is 

also an exacting challenge, even if it is 

mixed up well with several short 4s among 

the longer-hitting tests. 

Chiberta is for the most part parkland in 

nature but enjoys a nice section next to the 

ocean. Located between Bayonne and 



Biarritz in Anglet, a fishing port with an 

upmarket marina. 

Hossegor is routed among mature trees 

with large but low-lipped bunkers dotted 

around its lush parkland fairways. The soft, 

receptive greens are lovely to putt on. 

Moliets is a Trent Jones design that really 

comes into its own with a fabulous fourhole 

stretch by the ocean. The parkland 

holes are good, but these seaside tests are 

out of this world. 

There are more very attractive courses in 

the area and through the Golf Pass Biarritz 

(golfpassbiarritz.com), you can make real 

savings on playing Seignosse, Le Phare, 

d’Arcangues and Makila – they’re available 

from not much more than £150. 

Further north, but still within an hour, 

is Golf du Medoc. There are two courses 

here, with Le Chateaux the No.1. 

Laid out by Bill Coore in 1989 – when 

he was not the big draw in golf course 

Golf du Medoc. 

The clubhouse at 

Hardelot Dunes. 

design he is today – it is one of the classiest 

venues on the Continent. 

A heathland very much in the ilk of 

Walton Heath, it is complemented by the 

equally attractive Vignes. 

To the east is Chateau des Vigiers, where 

three lovely loops of nine are routed around 

the breathtaking castle – all of it set in 

classic vineyard country. A truly special 

place for a golf break. 

The South East 

On the opposite end of the south coast, 

Terre Blanche is arguably France’s premier 

resort, with a European Top 100 course – 

one that is closing in on the top 10 – as 

well as a second course that is a very, very 

solid complement. 

Equally as impressive is the attached 

hotel, which is not just one of the best golf 

hotels in France, it is one of the best hotels 

in France full stop. It boasts every amenity 

Golf’s leading 

premium chain 

The Open Golf Club phenomenon... 

Open Golf Club originates from a 

strong family tradition in tourism and 

high-end leisure sports over more than 

50 years. With a presence in five 

countries – France, Benelux, Spain, 

Portugal and Morocco – the Open Golf 

Club group ofers a choice of 40 topquality 

golf courses including several 

which are recognised internationally. 

Many are classed among the Top 

100 in Europe such as Le Touquet, 

Hardelot, Biarritz le Phare, Opion 

Valbonne, Pont Royal, Les Yvelines and 

Ormesson in France as well as Golf 

National, venue for the 2018 Ryder 

Cup. Open Golf Club’s portfolio is a bit 

like a group in Britain being able to say 

they had Alwoodley, West Sussex and 

Prestwick under their umbrella. 

Further well-renowned courses 

include Bercuit and Cleydael (a 

Challenge Tour 2014 venue) in Belgium 

and San Roque in Spain. 

Close to all the courses, a selection 

of hotels can provide golfers with a 

range of accommodation for their stay. 

These three and four-star hotels are 

very experienced in welcoming golfers 

and provide an attentive service that 

also reflects the local culture and 

lifestyle, especially in terms of the 

splendid food and wine. Open Golf can 

take care of packages, green fees, golf 

passes, gift certificate, leaving you free 

to enjoy your golf break. 

Examples of packages: 

• Two nights midweek in a double 

room with breakfast at Le Manoir in Le 

Touquet including a welcome dinner 

(excluding drinks) and three green fees 

in Le Touquet from €245 to €310 per 

person (valid until October 17, 2015). 

• Seven nights at Le Roque suites on 

the Costa del Sol in a double room with 

four green fees at San Roque New club 

and two green fees at San Roque Old 

club from €777 per person depending 

on the time of year. 

For more information, get in touch 

with Open Golf Club’s UK contact Nigel 

Jibson by calling 07956 863358, 

emailing nigel@opengolfclub.com. 

For general information on Open Golf 

Club visit www.opengolfclub.com. 


OPIO VALBONNE 

RESORT 

LA GRANDE BASTIDE Golf Club 


One of the finest golf resorts in the South of France 

Discover our SPECIAL OFFERS for your golf break at Le Château de la Bégude ★★★★ With golf 

in Opio Valbonne or La Grande Bastide and other famous golf courses on Côte d’Azur 

on : +33 4 93 12 37 00 - www.opengolfclub.com 

The 1 st premium golf chain


The Majorhosting 

course 

at Evian. 

pLaY THE bEsT 

Of fRaNcE WiTH 

PRIVATE goLf kEy 

PGK are an ofcial travel operator 

specialising in golf. They have access to 

ALL French courses, even the most 

prestigious, and propose concierge 

services for clients seeking to 

discover hidden France. Visit 

privategolfkey.com 

and luxury, and go here in August and it is 

clear to see why it is so popular with British 

families on holiday. 

Other excellent options in the French 

Riviera include St Endreol, which boasts a 

fine golf course as well as spa and treatment 

facilities, tennis courts, a jogging trail, 

restaurant, bar and café, as well as a healthy 

dash of Provencal art de vivre. 

The final venue in this trio of resorts in 

Provenceis Barbaroux, set in a magnificent 

woodland and stretching across 215 acres. 

This resort has a prestigious course 

designed by Pete Dye and PB Dye. 

Last but by no means least is the Evian 

Resort, further north on the border with 

Switzerland on the banks of Lake Geneva. 

This is one of Europe’s finest venues, 

with tonnes of charm and opulence as well 

as a course that has been revised to great 

effect and now hosts a Major in the ladies’ 

game. The views here are sensational. 

Why not make it a family trip to France? 

You can go to France and do nothing but 

play golf, rest, travel and play a bit more 

golf. But France can offer a lot more than 

that. Here are four options in the key parts 

of the country to combine with golf and 

make a great trip for families and couples. 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE 

France can of course have harsh 

winters – it is a key ski destination after 

all. But it is also blessed with long, 

warm summers that start in May and 

eventually disappear in late September. 

TIME DIFFERENCE GMT +1 

QUICK TIP If you drive to France you’ll 

need a hi-vis vest, a GB sticker on your 

car (or GB on your number plate) and a 

red warning triangle. 

1 Around Paris 

A brilliant way to combine a family holiday 

with a chance to play some of Europe’s best 

courses. Stay at Crecy in the east of Paris 

and enjoy EuroDisney next door. Then 

travel to the centre to visit Tour Eiffel, 

Champs Elysses, L’Arc Triomphe, Notre 

Dame, the Sacre Couer et al. 

2 In the south east 

A day in Monaco; walk the iconic Formula 

One track in the fabled Principality, visit 

the casino and gaze at the opulence of it all. 

Just don’t expect a cheap lunch! 

3 In the south west 

Millions of Christians flock to Lourdes, 

whose most sacred site is the Cave of 

Apparitions. Pilgrims immerse themselves 

in the allegedly healing waters. 

4 In the north west 

Naussica is Europe’s largest aquarium on 

the outskirts of Boulogne and houses 

almost everything that lies under the water. 


A VINTAGE EXPERIENCE 

Château des 

Vigiers 

Seven reasons to head for this fabulous golf destination in France’s legendary wine region in 2015. 

Château des Vigiers is the perfect 

place for those seeking intimacy 

and a feeling of total relaxation. 

From the moment you sweep down 

the grand driveway and first set eyes on the 

magnificent 16th century château and its 

lake, you enjoy the feeling of time slowing 

down and nature awakening your senses. 

The tranquillity and contentment begins 

now, and is continued in gastronomy, wines, 

golf and well-being – all enjoyed in authentic 

surroundings. A visit to Chateau des Vigiers 

is a wonderful feast for the senses. 

The region 

At the heart of authentic France, this is a 

region full of history and tradition. Situated 

at the gateway of the Dordogne Valley, in the 

heart of ‘Purple Périgord’, it is perfectly 

located for visiting the region’s châteaux, 

grottoes and gardens. 

Discover the fantastic markets full of 

colour, sounds and seasonal smells. Stroll 

along the streets of medieval, fortified towns 

and cobbled back streets of Bergerac, Sarlat 

or Périgueux. Taste the local delicacies, like 

truffles, caviar, foie gras. 

The château 

Simple luxury and French charm is exuded 

in 25 personalised rooms containing antique 

furniture that reflects the history of the 

château. Relax in the library while flicking 

through an old book, savour one of the 

delicacies in the tea room or enjoy an old 

Armagnac during a game of billiards. A 

minute’s walk from the château are exquisite 

suites made from traditional stone and 

wood, each with their own terrace 

overlooking the magnificent lake. 

The Relais 

Clad entirely in wood, this is a tranquil 

haven in the heart of the grounds. With its 

40 rooms, The ‘Relais’ has been built to the 

highest quality eco-friendly standards in 

sympathy with the local, traditional 

architecture of tobacco-drying barns. 



The pool area is 

perfect for a 

relaxing day. 

Enjoy Michelinstarred 

gastronomy. 

Play golf 

alongside the 

iconic vineyards. 

The Lac loop 

finishes with a 

risk-reward hole. 

wine and 

Each room is decorated in a contemporary 

style, with all modern comforts, including 

large Italian showers and exceptional views 

over the grounds. Perfect for families. 

Michelin-starred restaurant 

This gastronomic restaurant has one 

Michelin star and passionate about products. 

Les Fresques restaurant symbolises French 

gastronomy. Didier Casaguana, ‘master of all 

seasons’, cooks the best local and regional 

products with dexterity and delicacy. Didier, 

an ambassador of French gastronomy, prefers 

to use local, small producers so as to offer 

you authentic dishes, passionately prepared. 

Even breakfast is an occasion here, 

offering anything from local fresh meats, 

cheeses and fruits to the simple pleasure of a 

piece of fresh bread toasted to perfection. 

Vineyards and wine experience 

Château des Vigiers is the ideal starting 

point for a complete sensory immersion at 

the heart of the finest vineyards in France. 

Bergerac, Bordeaux, Duras, Monbazillac 

golf in 2015 

The Saint-Emilion Crus Classés 

Trophy is an event that brings together 

the finest French “Art de vivre” with top 

class golf. You can immerse yourself in a 

world of famous wines, glorious golf 

and classic French style! 

It is held from June 5-7, 2015. 

and Saint-Emilion stretch along the banks of 

the Dordogne river. 

Stroll among the vines and meet the men 

and women who epitomise a unique and 

ancient savoir-faire. Then savour the pleasure 

of tasting their produce, accompanied by 

CdV’s sommelier to guide you. 

The golf course 

In a unique setting, this is a feast for the eyes 

as you play. The 27-hole course is considered 

a benchmark in Aquitaine. The three loops 

have been perfectly routed round the lake 

and the Valley of Vines by architect Donald 

Steel. Orchards, plum trees, oak forests and 

vineyards provide magnificent backdrops, 

with a spectacular, unforgettable view over 

the Château at the finish of two of the loops. 

Well-being centre 

To help you relax is CdV’s greatest pleasure. 

At The Relais or at the Château’s Beauty 

Centre, relaxing around the swimming pool 

or enjoying your chosen treatment, you will 

find somewhere to unwind. Allow yourself 

to be pampered by our beauticians at the 

Maria Galland beauty centre. Indulge 

yourself with face and body treatments, 

where everything is done to ensure your 

serenity. 

Their dedicated relaxation areas include 

everything you need to relax, including 

sauna, hammam and jacuzzi. 

n Telephone 00 33 553 61 5000, email 

reserve@vigiers.com or visit vigiers.com. 

Chateau des Vigiers is in the Dordogne – fly 

to Bergerac and drive 20 minutes west or to 

Bordeaux and drive an hour to the east. 



chic venue, Major credentials 

Evian Resort 

One of most opulent destinations in Europe that now hosts one of the game’s Major championships. 

Evian is one of the most exclusive 

resorts in the world, set in a 42-acre 

park at the foot of the Alps 

overlooking Lake Geneva. And in the 

heart of the Resort, you can discover two of 

the most beautiful hotels in Europe. 

Created during the Belle Epoque, the Hotel 

Royal has retained its majesty and is today a 

temple of refinement, good taste and Frenchstyle 

‘art de vivre’. After a total refurbishment 

in the last few months, the five-star Hôtel 

Royal will re-open in July 2015. 

Guests are also captivated by the unique 

charm of the four-star Hotel Ermitage, a large 

turn-of-the-century hotel in an English 

cottage style, where luxury is discreet and the 

atmosphere is intimate yet relaxed. 

The Evian Resort is located in a preserved 

natural environment and includes the Evian 

course, where golfers can tread in the footsteps 

of the world’s greatest women golfers. Wholly 

redesigned in 2013 to enhance its technical 

quality while preserving its unforgettable 

views and signature style, the 18-hole course 

is one of Europe’s most beautiful. 

It annually hosts The Evian Championship, 

which has become even more prestigious as a 

result of gaining status as a ladies’ Major. 

This mystical golf course is complemented 

by a comprehensive and unique golf training 

centre concept, the Academy. 

You can also devote time to your well-being 

and to restore perfect harmony. For a unique 

experience, the Spa Evian Source – attached to 

the Hotel Royal – offers 1,200m² of serenity 

and well-being in a place that is soothing and 

deeply energising. It is a place of lasting 

revitalisation for body and mind. 

The spa’s professional and passionate staff 

expertly help the body regenerate itself, using 

secrets and rituals of health and youthfulness 

from all over the world. The Spa Evian 

Source® offers a selection of exclusive 

treatments with the brands ‘La Prairie’. 

Meanwhile the Spa Quatre Terres, located 

within the Hôtel Ermitage, offers a veritable 

cocoon of comfort surrounded by stunning 

natural scenery. It invites its clients to discover 

its treatment journeys, which are directly 

inspired by this natural process. 

Four incredibly pure elements – clay, semiprecious 

stones, crystals and oils rich in trace 

elements – are the basis for deep-reaching 

treatments. They have been designed like a 

succession of slow journeys to the heart of the 

elements, leaving the body detoxified, 

energised and revitalised. 

The effect of the treatments is strengthened 

by the virtues of ancestral American-Indian, 

Tibetan and Chinese techniques performed 

by the skilled hands of our therapists. 

Everything at the Evian Resort has been 

brought together for a perfect holiday in an 

exceptional location. n 

For further information telephone 00 33 4 

50 26 50 50, email reservation@ 

evianresort.com or visit www.evianresort.com 


A MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE 

IN THE HEART OF THE FRENCH ALPS 

WWW.EVIANRESORT.COM 

EVIAN - LAKE GENEVA 

23 MILES FROM GENEVA


where 

to stay 

Formerly the summer mansion of 

Napoleon III and Empress Eugenia, the 

Hotel du Palais overlooks Biarritz’s main 

beaches and boasts 120 rooms and 30 

luxurious Suites, three restaurants, an 

outdoor sea-water swimming pool and a 

Spa including sauna, hammam, fitness 

and treatment rooms. Visit 

hotel-du-palais.com 

The secreT of france 

Biarritz 

South-east France has some of Europe’s best golf – available for an amazing price with a special pass. 

Arcangues is a terrific 

Ron Fream design. 

The Basque Coast is a privileged area 

that attracts golfers from around the 

world, seduced by the quality, 

diversity and beauty of the courses. 

The area boasts an exceptional 

concentration and variety of courses in 

addition to a mild climate, fascinating history 

and heritage, as well as a laid-back lifestyle 

that make it a paradise for visiting golfers. 

So golfers from far and wide have 

discovered four of the most beautiful courses 

on the Basque coast: Arcangues, Biarritz Le 

Phare, Makila Bayonne and Seignosse. 

Seignosse is the best known to British 

golfers by virtue of it being consistently in 

Golf World’s Top 100 ranking of 

Continental European Courses – but the 

other three are extremely worthy colleagues. 

And you can play the quartet for an 

astonishingly low price through the Biarritz 

Golf Pass. It allows you to play two rounds 

Biarritz Le Phare was designed by the Dunns... in 1888! 

for €100 (low season) up to €130 (high 

season), three from €150 (low) to €195 (high) 

or four from €200 (low) to €260 (high). 

Contact one of the four clubs to book the pass 

or via the website www.golfpassbiarritz.com. 

These are the courses you could be playing... 

Arcangues 

Designed by Ron Fream in 1991, this 6,756- 

yard course offers nice views on the Basque 

countryside and the Pyrenees. 

There is a good flow between the holes, which 

sit nicely in the diverse landscape. After your 

round, you can enjoy the wonderful view from 

the restaurant which overlooks the 1st and 

10th tees and the 18th green. 

Makila Bayonne 

Prolific American Rocky Roquemore laid this 

splendid course out in 1993. Slightly longer 

than Arcangues, it is routed around 

Exacting Seignosse is one of Europe’s very finest courses. 

magnificent oak trees yet provides large 

fairways so is not overly punishing. 

Roquemore made a terrific job of assimilating 

the course in this large natural woodland site 

in front of the Pyrenees. 

Biarritz Le Phare 

This is a course of immense history, dating 

back to 1888. It was designed by the famous 

Tom and Willie Dunn and is a cute sub- 

6,000-yard course in a prestigious 

environment in the heart of Biarritz city. 

Biarritz Le Phare was later tweaked in 1920 

by Harry Colt, making it one of the most 

illustriously-designed courses in Continental 

Europe. Oozes French golf history and the 

sports tradition of the Basque Country. 

Seignosse 

Celebrated American architect Robert Von 

Hagge created Seignosse in 1989, and it has 

been a fixture in Golf World’s European Top 

100 for many years. It is under 7,000 yards 

but is one of the most challenging courses in 

France as a result of narrow fairways lined by 

mature trees and numerous water features. A 

real masterpiece, its undulating layout covers 

a natural mixture of pines and cork oaks. n 

Contact details: 

t: +33 (0)5 59 03 71 80 

w: www.golfpassbiarritz.com 

e: info@golfpassbiarritz.com 


Arcangues 

Biarritz 


Seignosse 

golfpassbiarritz.com 

Côte Basque 

Discover 

the Golf Pass Biarritz 

Côte Basque 

and play the most prestigious golf courses of the Basque Country 

Golf Pass 2 courses : LS 100 € / MS 110 € / HS 130 € 



For every Biarritz golf pass purchased (four courses), 

we offer free entry to the International 

Golf Training Center of Ilbarritz. 

Low season : jan-feb-nov-dec 

Mid season : march-april-may-june-sept-oct 

High season : july-august 

Offer available upon reservation and subject to availability. 

Rates in Euros including taxes 

créa - www.izeecom.com 

Arcangues 

Biarritz 


Seignosse 

Details & Reservations : www.golfpassbiarritz.com


Golf du Médoc’s courses are two of 

Continental Europe’s Top 100 finest. 

Golf du Médoc Resort 

Golf and fine wine combine in the Bordeaux-Médoc region. 

SITUATED among the vineyards 

of the Médoc between Bordeaux and 

the spectacular beaches on the 

Atlantic coast, Golf du Médoc’s 

36-hole four-star hotel and spa 

complex offers access to some of the 

finest Golf and Wine tours in the 

Bordeaux-Médoc region. 

Golf du Médoc resort offers 79 

rooms and suites, two restaurants, 

two 18-hole championship golf 

courses, a fully-equipped gym plus 

Spa and indoor swimming pool. It 

lies within easy reach of hundreds 

of wine chateaux. 

There are two dining options; for 

a more formal meal, La Table du 

Médoc offers top-class food and 

wine while the other option is Le 

Club – ideal before and after golf. 

The wonderful modern spa offers 

massages, beauty care and reflexology 

plus an indoor heated pool, steam 

room and fitness centre. 

Les Châteaux was designed in 

1989 by American architect Bill 

Coore. The fairways on this classic 

heathland are lined with heather 

while the wind off the ocean makes 

this a fantastic challenge. It hosted 

the French Open in 1999. 

Canadian Rod Whitman laid out 

Les Vignes in 1991 in moor and 

pines and it was the stage for the 

European Challenge Tour final for 

three years from 2002. 

Play & Stay deal 

Stay three nights’ B&B, get three 

green fees and two visits to the 

Châteaux in Médoc with wine 

tastings and VIP treatment for 

€429pp (double or twin room 

sharing). Available all of 2015. n 

CONTACT 

Email: h.martinet@golf-du-medoc. 

com or visit hotelgolfdumedoc.com 

Hôtel**** . 2 restaurants & bars . Le Spa . 2 Golf Courses . Training Center 

All the flavor of Golf and Wines by Bordeaux... 

The Golf du Médoc Resort is recognized as one of the ˋnest golˋng 

destinations in France with 2 superb golf courses for visitors to play on. 

Situated amongst the famous vineyards of Bordeaux, it really is the 

perfect place to enjoy ˋne wine and great golf. 

The Golf du Médoc Resor is nestled in the middle of the famous Golf 

courses of Médoc (36 holes on site) offering best accommodation, full 

service and ˋne regional french cuisine in an elegant panoramic setting, 

perfect for a long stay in Médoc and Bordeaux Region, discovering 

Châteaux and wines after a great day’s golf. 

For more information regarding Golf du Médoc’s «Play 

and stay» packages : 

contact@golfdumedocresort.com 

Golf du Médoc Resort 

T. +33 (0)5.56.70.31.31 - www.golfdumedocresort.com

LE TOUQUET Golf Club (La Mer) 


HARDELOT Golf Club (Les Pins) 

The finest golf resort in the North of France 

Discover our SPECIAL OFFERS for your golf break at Le Manoir Hotel ★★★ or Westminster Hotel & Spa ★★★★ 

With golf in Le Touquet or Hardelot on : +33 3 21 06 70 48 - www.opengolfclub.com 

Hardelot, European Tour Qualifying 

School Venue 2011 - 2015 

The 1 st premium golf chain

focus on 

Slovenia 

This relatively young country enjoys significant golfing heritage as well as non-golf attractions. 

It is impossible for Slovenia to have 

enormous golf heritage, because the 

history of the country itself is extremely 

limited. Slovenia has only been 

independent since 1991 when, after more 

than 70 years of living within Yugoslavia, 

almost 90 per cent of voters opted for 

independence in a referendum. 

Yet despite this embryonic status it does 

have golf courses within its relatively new 

borders that have been bringing pleasure to 

locals and visitors for decades. 

These courses benefit from Slovenia’s 

location in the heart of Europe, where the 

Alps meet the Mediterranean and the 

Pannonian Plain meets the Karst. 

This small country measures 20,273 km 2 

in area but the cluster of four major 

European geographies gives Slovenia an 

invigorating green landscape, much of it 

densely forested and precious. More than a 

third of the country is protected. 

The most mountainous region is the 

north, where the Alps begin. The Julian Alps 

and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps have many 

glorious peaks, whereas those of the 

Karavanke, next to Austria, are more gentle. 

Upland terrain forms most of the east of 

the country between Ljubljana and Maribor, 

as are the areas west and south of the capital. 

There are more gentle hills in the winemaking 

areas of the south-east and east, 

while the vines thrive in plains and basins 

between the hills. 

The east of the country is part of the 

Pannonian Plain and underground, some of 

Slovenia’s 9,000 karstic caves are among the 

most beautiful in the world. This spectacular 

natural landscape gives rise to many of its 

most popular tourist attractions. 

One of these is Slovenia’s spectacular 

island at Bled. Sheltered by picturesque 

Photos by Mirko Kunšič

Short Haul: Slovenia 

Bled is the undoubted 

highlight of golf in Slovenia. 

What to do of the 

course in Slovenia 

1 Postojna caves 

This series of passages are 20km long 

and two million years old. Visitors can 

see about 5.7km of the cave on 1½hour 

tours, some of which is covered 

by an electric train. 

2 Wine tour 

Take a car or bike tour of the valley 

from Nova Gorica into the Karst, where 

some world-class red wines are 

produced with the Vipava Merlot 

especially renowned. 

3 Predjama castle 

Begun in 1202, this amazing four-storey 

fortress is built in the mouth of a 

cavern halfway up a 123m clif. Comes 

complete with a drawbridge, boiling oil 

containers, a dungeon, and a chest of 

treasure. 

4 ljubljana 

The capital is perfect for exploring with 

plenty to see and do but not so big that 

you feel intimidated. There are a wealth 

of cafes, restaurants, museums and 

shops to discover. 

5 Visit Piran 

This picturesque town – a gem of 

Gothic architecture – at the tip of a 

slender strip of land is one of the best 

preserved towns on the Adriatic. 

Seafood restaurants add to the allure. 

mountains, the island sits in the middle of an 

Alpine lake and lures visitors from all over 

the world. The town of Bled has existed for 

over 1,000 years and was a place of worship 

for ancient Slavs and pilgrims before it 

became a source of good health and wellbeing 

after Swiss hydropathist Arnold Rikli 

advocated the healing benefits of the gentle 

climate, lake and thermal waters. Guest 

houses and hotels popped up to cater for 

those lured by the spa offering. 

Europe’s aristocratic elite were attracted to 

the area and it remains popular with those 

seeking beauty, relaxation, peacefulness and 

golf. Activities include walking trails around 

the lake, boating, ringing the island’s wishing 

bell, investigating the castle’s treasures, the 

nearby ski pistes, mountain trails, hunting, 

fishing, the casino... and playing golf. 

Ranked in Golf World’s Top 100 courses 

in continental Europe, Bled’s course is the 

highlight of Slovenia’s golf offering. 

It is the work of Donald Harradine, who 

redesigned the King’s course (there is also a 

nine-holer) in 1972 after it had been 

abandoned following the Second World 

War, but it actually dates back to 1937. That 

is because Yugoslav King Aleksander selected 

Bled as his summer residence and requested a 

golf course be built in order that he could 

entertain the wealthy guests and nobility 

who visited him from all over Europe. 

Bled is located beside the eponymous lake 

and among Slovenia’s highest mountains. 

It offers views of the Julian Alps, the 

Karavanke range, Mount Jelovica and the 

more distant Kamnik Alps. Lined by mature 

pine trees yet not overly penal, the par-5 2nd 

is an early highlight. 

Bled is a popular tourist destination, with 

guests so enchanted with this spot that they 

return each year – whether for the golf, the 

scenery, or the original Bled cream cake. 

Bled offers accommodation options 

ranging from the five-star Grand Hotel 

Toplice overlooking Lake Bled to The Kings 

Clubhouse right next to the course – or even 

a new luxury camping experience, Glamping. 

If you visit Slovenia, you can also call in at 

Lipica – just over the border from Italy – a 

lovely nine-holer laid out by the renowned 

Harradine and given definition by ancient 

lime and oak trees. 

In fact there are 11 established venues 

from which to choose and you could happily 

plan a golf holiday in this scenic, youthful 

country alone. 

Golf Ljubljana and Terme Krka are two 

others to consider for an itinerary. 

Finally, the capital Ljubljana, where there 

are plenty of golf and non-golf attractions, is 

not far away from any of the courses as the 

country is so compact. n 

QUICK GUIDE 

GettInG there Fly to Ljubljana from 

London and drive 20 minutes to Bled or 

fly to Venice from various UK airports 

(and drive two hours to Bled) 

tIme dIfference GMT +1 

When to Go March-December 

currency: Euro 

PoPulatIon: Two million 

more InformatIon: www.slovenia.info/ 


eauty and heritage 

Bled Golf 

This heavenly Alpine retreat in Slovenia offers a break in one of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. 

For many centuries, nature lovers and 

sports enthusiasts from across the 

world have been enchanted by 

Slovenia Ð and Bled in particular. 

Today it is visited by thousands of tourists 

seeking to experience for themselves a 

wonder of nature Ð a unique island on an 

Alpine lake surrounded by mountains and 

overlooked by a majestic castle. 

Others visit Bled simply to indulge in the 

original Bled cream cake or to enjoy a 

relaxing walk by the lake. The resort is 

famed for having a number of regular guests 

who have been coming to Bled for decades 

and have inspired a similar love for the town 

in the next generation. 

You can drive across the whole country in 

two hours and Slovenia was named this year 

as among the top 10 tourist destinations in 

the world by Lonely Planet. Within the wellknown 

alpine resort, Bled Golf Course is the 

Photos by Mirko Kunšič 


Short Haul: Slovenia 

oldest and the largest golf course in Slovenia. 

You might be surprised to learn it dates 

back as far as 1937; many visitors claim it 

to be one of the most beautiful courses in 

Europe. With its 27 holes, the two courses 

offer countless challenges. 

The 18-hole King’s Golf Course is a 

masterpiece by the famous architect Don 

Harradine and has been ranked among the 

Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe. 

Visitors enjoy playing among tree-lined 

fairways with spectacular breathtaking views 

of Slovenia‘s highest mountains. 

In the recent past, Bled has hosted many 

important professional and amateur events 

on a Europe-wide level (such as LPGA Tour, 

the Challenge Tour, European Boys Team 

Championship, European Ladies Team 

Championship) and many important 

Slovenian tournaments. 

You can play golf within 30 miles in three 

countries; Slovenia, Austria and Italy. The 

Bled resort alone offers an excellent mix of 

hotels, from the exclusive, five-star experience 

in the famous Grand Hotel Toplice to 

family hotels and a new unique, luxury 

camping experience, ‘Glamping’. The best 

choice for golfers is The Kings Clubhouse, 

which is right next to the Bled course. 

For non-golfers, Bled offers excellent spa 

facilities, outdoor activities like walking, 

biking, trekking, rafting and more. Around 

Ljubljana, you can spend a day exploring its 

immense culture and history. 

The perfect day? Perhaps play golf in the 

morning, have lunch at King’s clubhouse 

next to the Bled course, then walk round 

the Lake or visit Bled castle and enjoy the 

unique view. 

What’s more, getting to Bled is easy; just 

fly to Ljubljana from London (and drive 20 

minutes) or fly to Venice from various UK 

airports (and drive two hours). There is no 

reason not to visit this unique destination. ■ 

Contact details: 

Telephone +386 1 200 99 01, visit www. 

golfbled.si or email info@golfbled.si 


FOCUS ON 

Portugal 

A theme of quality on and off the course runs through the three key areas of this golf-rich country. 

It is easy to let Portugal slip from your 

mind as you ponder a golf break for 

2015. You’ve probably been there several 

times and know what to expect in the 

Algarve and possibly Lisbon too. 

Familiarity can breed if not contempt then 

complacency and a bit of apathy towards an 

old favourite. 

With lots of exciting new destinations – 

many of which we detail in this supplement 

– the traditional destinations can seem a 

little less adventurous. 

But sometimes what you know is best. It’s 

a bit like going to a different supermarket, 

just because you’re tired of the same one 

you’ve been going to for weeks on end. 

Trouble is, you go to the new one and soon 

realise there was a reason (probably lots of 

them) that you went to the old one; it was 

better. In many respects Portugal is the old 

supermarket; you know it (or at least you 

think you do) but trying to beat it is a very 

difficult task indeed. Few, if any, areas in 

Europe can match what the Algarve, 

Lisbon and Porto can offer. 

It’s true there was a time when golf in the 

Algarve seemed to be getting very 

expensive, but that’s not the case now. They 

do exist – but you can play on the Algarve 

on a reasonable budget. The same goes for 

increasingly-popular Lisbon. 

Both areas, and Porto, are especially well 

equipped to satisfy the needs of golfers. 

The fact the game is barely played at local 

level, means the clubs and courses are 

almost exclusively for visitors’ use. 

It means Portuguese venues simply have 

to provide quality, because the competition 

is so high. This internal pressure on the 

market is added to by the fact that where 

once they only had Spain to worry about, 

Portugal now has destinations as diverse as 

Belek and Dubai to contend with. 

Being popular tourist areas, when you are 

not playing golf you can laze by the pool, 

enjoy some water sports, soak up the sun on 

the beach or take day trips to heritage sites, 

water parks or bustling city centres.

Short Haul: Portugal 

It also means the food and beverage side 

of things is peerless; from ice-cold bottles 

of Sagres or Super Bock to endless flavours 

of homemade ice cream, or sensational 

fresh fish to a crisp bottle of Rose, you will 

rarely eat and drink better than in Portugal. 

We will start our look at the three main 

areas – although don’t forget Palheiro and 

co in Madeira – with the least-known of 

Portugal’s golf destinations. 

Oitavos Dunes: 

World class. 

Porto 

Vidago Palace opened in 1910 and over 

100 years later still maintains the same 

splendour, service and conviviality for 

which it was immediately known. 

Having charmed generations of travellers, 

it was reborn in 2010, being totally 

remodelled yet preserving the architectural 

heritage of the buildings. It is, once again, 

confirmed as a benchmark among the best 

historic hotels of Europe. 

It is impressive at every turn, from the 70 

rooms and suites to the Thermal Spa with 

The sensational Troia.

WHAT TO 

EXPECT FROM 

THE CLIMATE 

You can play in the Algarve all year 

round – the temperature never strays 

below 10C. You will get rain October to 

February inclusive but a whole week 

won’t be ruined. Lisbon is much 

the same, although is one or 

two degrees ‘colder’. 

The Canaries 

20 treatment rooms, and the 18-hole golf 

course to the six restaurants and bars. 

Vidago Palace – located about one hour 

from Oporto and 15 minutes from Chaves 

– has been classified as one of the Leading 

Hotels of The World. Its original nine-hole 

course by Mackenzie Ross has been 

extended sympathetically. If you visit Porto, 

also make sure you play Estella, a proper 

links with outstanding Atlantic views. 

Lisbon 

Starting in the Obidos region, the beautiful 

Silver Coast, this has become a strong 

candidate with the opening of Royal 

Obidos, adding a Top 100-quality 

championship course to Praia d’El Rey as 

well as Bom Successo. Royal Óbidos Spa & 

Golf Resort, which opened in 2012, was 

designed by the late Seve Ballesteros and 

exudes class. Already a Top 100 course, it 

sits on rolling terrain and mixes cute short 

par 4s with stellar, exacting 5s. 

Praia d’El Rey, a genuine links and a 

fixture in all European top 100s, has its 

best holes along the Atlantic, before which 

it wanders inland among pine trees. 

Bom Successo is a Donald Steel design 

with a solid back nine in particular. 

In the area around Cascais to the west of 

Lisbon, Oitavos Dunes is the star, often 

rated as the highest-ranked Portuguese 

course and a genuine links experience. It 

has a chic hotel too. 

Vidago Palace. 

Royal Obidos. 

Next door is Quinta da Marinha, one of 

the best spots in Europe for a play-and-stay 

break. The short, par-4 13th which plays 

down towards the sea is amazing. The 

Estoril club is one of the most famous 

names in Portuguese golf while Penha 

Longa is spectacular and tough. 

To the south, the Orizonte group own 

several courses and categorically offer the 

best pound for pound golf break in Europe. 

Quinta do Peru, two 18-hole courses at 

Ribagolfe, Santo Estevao and Aroeira are 

top class but at bargain prices. Troia, a RTJ 

track, is however the highlight of this area. 

The Algarve 

Europe’s most famous area spans the width 

of Portugal’s south coast and begins in the 

east with Monte Rei, one of Portugal’s 

finest, along with lesser-known ‘gems’. 

In central Algarve San Lorenzo is the star 

attraction, a long-time fixture in the top 20 

of the Top 100. Stay next door at Dona 

Filipa for a low-hassle, high quality break. 

Quinta do Lago now boasts a beautifully 

revamped North Course to go with the 

South and Laranjal while nearby Vale do 

Lobo have the spectacular Ocean and 

Royal. Penina is where it all began and a 

super resort. In the west, Palmares is now 

three expertly redesigned loops of three. 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE: See previous page, but in 

short – exceptionally good. 

GETTING THERE: You can fly to Faro or 

Lisbon with all the budget airlines from 

myriad airports in the British Isles. This is 

a huge advantage to Portuguese golf 

breaks – getting there is just so easy 

and inexpensive. 

TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT 

MORE INFORMATION: 

www. visitportugal.com 



The rolling terrain 

of Royal Obidos.


PORTUGAL’S NEW SUPERSTAR 

Royal Obidos resort 

This impressive new resort north of Lisbon boasts a Seve-designed course and a swish hotel. 

The arrival of the glamorous 

Evolutee Hotel has taken the 

Resort of Royal Óbidos to even 

greater heights. With a grand 

opening in the summer of 2014, the 

Evolutee Hotel offers five-star luxury and 

more. It is a boutique hotel with the 

interior décor by the über trendy design 

team at yoo studio led by the renowned 

lifestyle designer Philippe Starck. 

The hotel comprises just 39 rooms with 

sensational Ocean or Lagoon views, a 

superb dining room – titled ‘Kobe’ – that 

is already renowned for its Steak and Sushi 

concept, three bars, conference facilities 

and a Spa covering all of the ground level. 

Royal Óbidos’ course opened in 2012, 

designed by the legendary Seve Ballesteros. 

It offers three major ‘wow’ factors: the 

stunning Atlantic Ocean views from back 

nine holes; the breathtaking panoramas of 

the front nine overlooking the Óbidos 

Lagoon; and the eye-catching lakes and 

water features throughout. 

In keeping with the original landscape, 

the course is a traditional heathland-style 

layout in an amphitheatre setting as you 

meander closer to the Ocean. 

Already a Golf World Top 100 

Continental European course, there are 

signature holes aplenty, meaning it’s 

difficult to pinpoint just one. 

The course opens in fascinating style 

with the 2nd a tantalising dog-leg par 5 

that descends around a lake that reaches 

and surrounds the green. Then, the 3rd is 

a treat of a par 3, an aesthetically beautiful 

short hole with an island green. 

Each hole offers its own character and 

charm, and the course closes in a dramatic 

fashion with a ‘risk or reward’ par 5. 

With generous playing areas and 

staggered tees, it can be appreciated by the 

higher-handicap golfer as well as being a 

proper test for even the world’s best. At 

Royal Óbidos, Seve has certainly created 

a masterpiece and a fine legacy. 

At the hub of the Resort is the cleverlyappointed 

clubhouse, where relaxing preand 

post-golf pleasure means an array of 

culinary delights and thirst-quenching 

drinks on the glass-fronted decking that 

offers sensational views across the golf 

course and deep into the Atlantic Ocean. 

Very high standards of service are 

expected of a five-star resort, but these are 

surpassed at Royal Óbidos – from the 

courteous welcome to on-course food and 

beverage buggy and the table service of the 

bar and restaurant team. This level is 

matched by the greens team that 

manicures the course to perfection. 

Nearby Obidos is a beautiful, cobbledstreet 

medieval town with a stunning castle 

and makes for a terrific day out, as do the 

nearby beaches, fish restaurants, while the 

culture, glitz and shopping of Lisbon is 

only an hour away. So a stay at Royal 

Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort will appeal to 

families, couples and groups; it is now a 

‘must visit’ for travelling golfers. n 

Contact details: t: +351 262 965 220, 

w: www.royalobidosgolf.com, or e: golf. 

reservations@royalobidos.com. Getting 

there: Two hour flight to Lisbon then 

drive less than an hour north west. 



THE PERFECT AlgARvE bAsE 

Dona Filipa Hotel 

After a multi-million pound refurb, this luxury five-star hotel is once again at the top of its game. 

Located just 15 minutes’ drive from 

Faro International Airport, Dona 

Filipa Hotel is positioned in the heart 

of desirable Vale do Lobo and offers 

154 exceptional rooms and suites, alongside 

world-class staff who are expertly trained to 

deliver a personal and memorable service. 

The picturesque surroundings of this 

popular resort include an abundance of lush 

golf courses, pine woods, coves and nature 

reserves – all of which overlook the glistening 

Atlantic Ocean. 

After a multi-million-pound refurbishment, 

the five-star, beach-front property has once 

again cemented its position as one of the finest 

luxury properties in the Algarve. 

In addition to the renovated public areas – 

including the reception, bar and lounge – a 

stunning selection of suites and luxury rooms, 

boasting views of both the sea and the golf 

course, are now available to book. 

The hotel’s presidential suite has welcomed 

royalty, political leaders and A-list celebrities 

throughout its 45-year history, and 

accommodates four adults and two children 

in two stunning bedrooms. 

This marquee suite is delicately designed 

in cooling blues and neutral tones, with 

traditional Portuguese flooring and delicate 

terracotta finishes; it also comes with two 

bathrooms, offering oval, double-ended baths 

and raindrop showers. 

Perfect for a first-class family holiday in the 

sun, Dona Filipa Hotel is equipped with 

extensive leisure facilities, including a funfilled 

and fully-supervised Kangaroo Club for 

children, three tennis courts, two restaurants, 

a heated outdoor swimming pool, a games 

and billiard room, a stylish bar and lounge 

and a massage and beauty centre. 

Hotel guests also have access to their very 

own exclusive section of Vale do Lobo beach. 

Dona Filipa Hotel also offers guests the 

chance to play at two of the most renowned 

golf courses in Europe: San Lorenzo and 

Pinheiros Altos, the former just 10 minutes 

from the hotel by courtesy bus. 

Designed by architects Rocky Roquemore 

and Joseph Lee, it opened in 1988 and 

continues to offer hole after hole of classy golf. 

After a game-changing refurbishment – 

with an end result that exudes class, luxury 

and five-star excellence – Dona Filipa Hotel 

is once again at the top of its game. n 

For further information telephone 00 351 

289 357 200 or visit donafilipahotel.com 

The multi-million pound refurbishment has been a success. A predictably beautiful pool area awaits to cool off around. Expect opulent furnishings in the bedrooms at Dona Filipa. 


Welcome to a new era of luxury 

At the newly furbished Dona Filipa Hotel 

Recently renovated to the highest fve-star standards, 

Dona Filipa Hotel is perfectly located on the desirable 

Vale do Lobo beachfront, and ofers 154 exceptional 

rooms and suites, extensive leisure facilities… 

and access to two of the most renowned golf courses in 

Europe: San Lorenzo and Pinheiros Altos. 

Vale do Lobo, Algarve, 

Almancil, 8135-034, Portugal 

Tel: +351 289 357 220 

Fax: +351 289 357 201 

Email: donaflipahotel@jjwhotels.com 

Book online: donaflipahotel.com 

A Member of JJW Hotels & Resorts

BULGARIA’s pIoneeR 

Thracian Cliffs 

Directly overlooking the Black Sea coastline, this is one of Europe’s most spectacular destinations. 

The legendary hotelier Conrad 

Hilton once said that three things 

were needed for a great business: 

location, location and location. 

As a renowned course designer as well as a 

highly successful entrepreneur in his own 

right, Gary Player no doubt will have been 

reminded of that famous quote when he 

arrived at Cape Kaliakra and first laid eyes 

upon the 4.5km stretch of pristine Black 

Sea coastline he had been asked to turn into 

one of Europe’s premier courses. “When 

I saw the land, I knew I had a once-in-alifetime 

opportunity to create something 

really special,” Player says. “I felt I could 

build a course many people would say was 

the best they had played in their lives.” 

What Player probably didn’t realise at 

the time was that he not only had the 

opportunity to create a course with 

outstanding aesthetic appeal, his design 

could potentially put a whole country on 

the golfing map. It’s easy to forget that every 

established golf destination has one or two 

signature courses that, in its early days, 

captured the imagination of the public and 

paved the way for further investment in the 

region. Back in the ’80s, San Lorenzo, Vale 

do Lobo and Vilamoura spearheaded 

growth in the Algarve, Sotogrande Old and 

San Roque were the catalysts for large-scale 

development on Spain’s Costa del Sol, while 

Le Touquet and Hardelot convinced us that 

there was more to France than Paris, 

vineyards and chateaux. 

Although it is still too early to predict 

just how big a player Bulgaria will become 

in the golf travel market in the years to 

come, Thracian Cliffs is beginning to 

attract the attention of golfers and, just as 

importantly, the industry. In 2012, the 

International Association of Golf Tour 

Operators named Bulgaria its 

‘Undiscovered Golf Destination’ then two 

years later voted Thracian Cliffs ‘The Best 

Golf Resort in Europe’. In addition, the 

resort was named Bulgaria’s ‘Best Golf 

Hotel’ at the inaugural World Golf Awards 

in 2014. Those accolades, combined with 

the high-profile staging of the 2013 Volvo 

World Match Play Championship have 

prompted a 50 per cent year-on-year 

increase in bookings from the UK alone. 

The quality of the resort and the other 

attractions of the Cape aside, there’s no 

doubt the jewel in the crown is Thracian 

Cliffs’ course. Player has used his vast 

experience and every architectural trick 

in the book – including sharp elevation 

changes, dramatic bunkering, split fairways 

and huge, undulating greens – to make 

Thracian an unforgettable experience. At 

the end of the day, though, the course is 

all about the vistas, with every single hole 

offering a sea view. Built into a thin strip of 

land directly on the edge of the cliffs, the 

opening holes play directly alongside the 

Black Sea while the back nine moves 

upwards and inland, offering more elevated 


Short Haul: Bulgaria 

Of the course at 

Thracian Clifs 

The varied attractions of the resort. 

ANCIENT TRADITIONS 

In Greek mythology, the Thracians 

were an ancient Balkan civilisation that 

embraced beauty, luxury adornments, 

passion and war. Those traditions have 

been retained at the resort, where you 

can enjoy five-star service as you relax 

at the on-site Bijou spa, wade in the 

warm waters of Bendida beach or 

enjoy first-class cuisine at the four 

coastal-view restaurants. 

but distant views of the 

coastline as it works its way 

back to the clubhouse. 

Player has compared Thracian’s 

dramatic cliff-top location with that of 

Pebble Beach in California – a statement 

that understandably has prompted its fair 

share of raised eyebrows. While there 

undoubtedly are similarities, the main 

difference is that with Pebble you are 

invigorated by the sound and energy of the 

Pacific Ocean crashing in against the rocks 

below, whereas the relative serenity and 

tranquillity of the Black Sea is altogether 

more relaxing and enchanting. 

In true Player style, many of the holes at 

Thracian Cliffs are more dramatic and 

visually intimidating from the tee than they 

actually play. The 379-yard par-4 7th hole 

is a perfect example. Playing from an island 

tee accessed by a narrow jetty, you have to 

successfully negotiate a carry of around 160 

yards over the Black Sea before hitting a 

mid to short iron to a relatively narrow 

elevated green. Two visually dramatic but 

not excessively difficult shots will leave you 

putting for a birdie. 

There’s no getting away from the fact, 

however, that Thracian is a very strategic 

test of golf. With plenty of water, steep 

drop-offs and claggy rough to catch errant 

drives or poorly-struck approaches, the 

GettinG 

there 

Wizzair flies into Varna (45-minute 

transfer) or Bourgas (two hours) from 

Luton airport. Direct flights are 

approximately 3.5 hours long. Alternatively, 

starting in April, Turkish Airlines will be 

ofering a Heathrow flight to Varna with 

a one-hour layover in Istanbul. Visit 

www.wizzair.com or www. 

turkishairlines.com 

Expect the 

spectacular at 

Thracian Cliffs. 

course places a huge 

premium on accuracy and 

quality ball-striking. Some 

golfers have accused Thracian of 

being a little quirky and ‘tricked up’ in 

places but mild eccentricity is a huge part 

of the course’s appeal. 

Overall, accomplished golfers will enjoy 

the stern shot-making challenge presented 

by Thracian, while higher handicappers 

will quickly realise that their enjoyment 

is more likely to be stimulated by the 

gorgeous sea views than the numbers 

written on their scorecard. 

BlackSeaRama is just a 10-minute drive 

along the coastline. This 7,312-yard course, 

also designed by Player, presents a very fair 

test and although it only opened in 2008, 

it looks and plays with a great deal more 

maturity. While the entire back-nine 

surpasses the opening loop, the closing 

holes are particularly strong, culminating 

in a great par 3 over water. 

Finally, Ian Woosnam’s Lighthouse is 

a typical resort course and ideal warm-up 

to the more challenging demands of 

BlackSeaRama and Thracian. Built on a 

spectacular plateau it has lots of sea views, 

especially from the premier coastal holes 

on the back nine. n 

More details: www.thraciancliffs.com 

ThE RESTAuRANTS 

Enjoying a cliftop terrace location, Geti 

serves classic Bulgarian and Provence 

food in comfortable surroundings. The 

menu focus is on local and seasonal 

ingredients and seafood, combined 

with a choice of local and imported 

wines. Bendida Beach Restaurant 

provides Mediterranean ambience, 

combined with breathtaking scenery, 

while the Argata Beach Restaurant is 

located on a private stretch of beach. 

ThE VIllAgES 

The resort comprises two distinctly 

diferent villages. The Marina Village, 

comprising 64 deluxe suites, enjoys 

a cliftop location adjacent to the 

clubhouse and pro shop. Each one, two 

and three-bedroom suite features twin 

or queen-size beds, a spacious living 

area, WiFi, a kitchenette and balcony. 

The Hillside Village, behind the 18th 

tee, features three infinity pools and 

sun terraces. 

ThE SpA 

The spa covers 460m 2 of tranquility 

areas, massage, facial and manicure 

treatment rooms, as well as speciality 

rooms for wet treatments and a range 

of luxurious treatments inspired by the 

ancient Thracians. The spa’s facilities 

include a Hammam, hot steam room, 

ice corner, Jacuzzi, cold shock showers, 

relaxing indoor area, fitness area and a 

private sun deck. 


FOCUS ON 

Belek, Turkey 

The new big hitter of European golf shows no sign of slowing down. Quite the opposite in fact... 

If only there were more direct flights to 

Antalya, it’d be perfect” – that was the 

familiar refrain heard when someone 

was asked for their appraisal of a golf 

break in Belek. There was some substance to 

the point; while Antalya airport is barely 45 

minutes from the golfing riches in Belek, 

getting to Antalya was a bit annoying. 

There were some direct flights, notably a 

regular low-cost service from Gatwick, but 

otherwise you had to go via Istanbul. 

Even with a slick change, it still meant a 

bit more time and a good deal more hassle. 

Now the picture is very different, with lots 

of direct flights to Antalya from all over 

Britain… and at very reasonable prices. 

We can speculate as to why it took so long 

– no doubt the politics and negotiation of air 

travel are complicated – but golfers can 

ignore the reasons for the delay and just 

enjoy the fact golf with the sun on our backs 

every month of the year is now little more 

than four hours away from many airports. 

Just as importantly, it is not expensive either; 

flights with low-cost airlines from regional 

airports such as Glasgow and Leeds- 

Bradford can come in at £300. 

It is just one more reason why a golf break 

in Turkey is one of the most affordable 

around. And the remarkable thing is, the 

quality you enjoy is staggering. So while you 

can find a golf break in Belek – either 

through a tour operator or direct – for £600, 

A hole YoU 

WoUlD RelISh... 

Lykia Links 

13th, par 5, 595 yards 

This tremendous par 5 takes you down to 

the shore before you turn and play the 

beach-side stretch for which Lykia is 

famous (pictured). It is a fine hole 

in its own right though, but 

can really bite.

Short Haul: Turkey 

what is difficult to appreciate before you go 

is the calibre you enjoy when you are there. 

Being a new destination, everything 

inevitably looks fresh and modern. There is 

nothing tired about any of Belek’s hotels, 

clubhouses, facilities or courses. 

One of the first hotels to be built here is 

the Sirene, which is attached to Antalya Golf 

Club and its PGA Sultan and Pasha courses. 

The Sirene is a fabulous five-star venue that 

would be the pride of most other resorts. 

Then you look at its sister hotel Kempinski 

and realise that in just a couple of years, 

things move on in Belek. It’s just not a place 

where they rest on their laurels. 

Every hotel is shiny and sleek, with 

amenities to boot. We think of Belek as a 

place for a golf break but don’t overlook the 

fact it’s also a very popular holiday destination. 

This means that the hotels have several 

pools, water slides, sandy beaches, tennis 

courts, spas, gyms, and a myriad restaurants. 

In the restaurants, you will not be 

disappointed. Almost exclusively on an allinclusive 

basis, what they offer at breakfast, 

lunch and dinner – oh, and there is 

afternoon tea too! – is almost daunting… 

You barely know where to look when you 

survey table upon table of freshly-made food 

from all corners of the world. Hot, cold, 

European Tour venue 

the Monty Maxx. 

plain, spicy, healthy, naughty… the list is 

endless. Even the most fussy of eaters will 

find something they really enjoy at every 

single meal. 

It is also a tremendous opportunity to try 

new dishes. When it’s all inclusive you can 

dab a small amount on the side of your plate 

and leave it if it doesn’t overly appeal. If it is

on a traditional menu, you might not dare 

order it for fear of not liking it. 

In fact, you’ll usually fi nd that some of 

these small tasters end up being things you 

search for at every subsequent meal. 

So, rest assured, your base for the week no 

matter where you stay will be impressive. 

And you can lap up the luxury comforts 

whenever you are not playing golf. 

Alternatively you can head out of the 

complex and take in the sights and history of 

Antalya city, or enjoy watersports, or visit the 

famous waterfall of Manavgat. 

A golf holiday in Belek can be excitingly 

adventurous or it can be gloriously lazy. 

If you want the former, the opportunities 

away from the course are there; if you prefer 

the latter, you can never leave your complex’s 

luxury comforts save for being whisked from 

your hotel reception to the course and back. 

We’ve got to this point without 

mentioning the courses, which illustrates 

there is more to Belek than merely top-class 

golf. In fact, the courses remain the most 

compelling reason to visit, along with the 

outstanding climate. 

In Golf World’s 2013 Top 100 Courses in 

Lykia Links has a feel of 

the Scottish seaside. 

Continental Europe, we ranked four courses 

in the main list and three in the second 100. 

Seven courses – half the number in Belek – 

were deemed Top 100 quality. 

No other area can boost that kind of 

conversion rate. 

What’s more, when the new ranking is 

unveiled later this year don’t be surprised to 

see courses be promoted from the Next 100 

into the main list and for new names to 

appear in the second 100. 

The stand-out courses are Lykia Links, 

Antalya’s PGA Sultan, Carya and Cornelia 

(Faldo). Lykia is a top 50-ranked course in 

Europe set right next to the sea. It looks like 

a links – with sleepered bunkers, wispy 

rough and sand hills – even if it is not the 

kind of terrain, or rather grass, that you will 

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Short Haul: Turkey 

be bumping and running shots on. But, a 

must-play in Belek – or rather just outside 

Belek, for Lykia is half an hour east of the 

town near the village of Denizkent. 

PGA Sultan is one of two courses at 

Antalya GC. The PGA Sultan was the fi rst 

to lure Tiger Woods to Belek, for the 

Turkish Airlines World Golf Final in 2012. 

Antalya Golf Club, home to 

the PGA Sultan and Pasha. 

A championship course designed by Senior 

Tour player David Jones, mature trees, sand 

and water make it a real test… in mint 

condition. Antalya’s Pasha is a bit more fun 

than its sister, with short par 4s at the 3rd 

and the 4th real highlights. 

In Lykia and PGA Sultan we have had 

seaside and parkland action, now we have a 

classic heathland – Carya. Designed by 

Open legend Peter Thomson, it is one of the 

continent’s outstanding layouts; it would not 

be out of place alongside Surrey and 

Berkshire superstars. 

Sir Nick Faldo laid out all 27 holes at 

Cornelia on sandy terrain and among mature 

pines. There’s the Sempronia, Gaius and the 

Tiberius and they combine to create three 

different courses (King’s, Queen’s and 

Prince). The Gaius and the Tiberius loops 

form the Prince and are the pick. 

Elsewhere, Gloria has the Old, the New 

and the Verde courses, making it the most 

comprehensive resort in Belek, while 

Montgomerie Maxx is a real Top 100 

candidate, being Turkey’s fi rst host of a 

European Tour event. Sueno’s Pines course 

does what it says on the tin while Kaya 

Eagles and National are other noteworthy 

Jones designs. 

Tat International is a 27-hole effort by 

the famed Hawtree architects while Dave 

Thomas routed Robinson through a pine 

forest and around the Acisu River that flows 

through Belek, the new powerhouse of golf.

FOCUS ON 

Tunisia 

This French-influenced North African country offers winter sun and an amazing variety of golf courses. 

Golfers have travelled to Tunisia to 

play under the warm rays of its 

winter sun since 1927. Back then, 

it was the well-heeled Parisian 

elite who travelled to North Africa to enjoy 

their favourite pastime under blue skies. 

Now, low-cost carriers take us to the 

other side of the Med in just over three 

hours, and there are a wealth of top-rank 

golf courses to choose from. 

There is so much good golf in Tunisia 

that you could spend a fortnight there – for 

example, there is an excellent break to be 

had by using Kantaoui as a base and also 

heading out to Djerba and Tozeur – and 

still struggle to play all of their courses. 

So for this article, we’ll concentrate on 

just two of the best, Yasmine and Citrus. 

Before we turn our attention to this duo, 

which are based near Hammamet, it’s 

worth considering the off-course aspects of 

a golf break here, for they make this a 

terrific destination for couples and families. 

Four reasons to visit Tunisia 

First, a word about the weather: August is 

seriously hot, with an average of 27˚C – 

therefore on many days it is over 30˚C. 

You can get the odd quick shower from 

November to January but it leaves very 

quickly and doesn’t really affect your 

holiday. So, just a few hours in a plane gets 

you temperatures still threatening to top 

20˚C all winter long – it’s why the North 

African coast is a very attractive option. 

Secondly, the value. Tunisia is really 

trying to attract golfers so in terms of 

accommodation, flights (see box below) and 

green fees – whether you book through an 

agent or direct with the clubs and hotels – 

you will get a terrific deal. 

Thirdly, over 300,000 Britons visit 

Tunisia every year, most staying in the 

coastal resorts that are close to the golf 

courses – so there are plenty of wellappointed 

hotels to choose from. You will 

be well looked after in these palatial hotels, 

most of which are all-inclusive. Whenever 

you eat or drink outside of your hotel, your 

Tunisian dinar will go a long way. 

Finally, there is lots to do away from the 

golf course or hotel pool; you can take a 

trip to the Sahara for less than £200 – 

including a trip to the Star Wars set. 

The fabulouslooking 

Golf Citrus.

Short Haul: Tunisia 

Play with the sun on your back 

in Tunisia all year round. 

Expect courses of 

distinctive character. 

Yasmine Valley has long 

been a popular venue. 

Water hazards 

at Golf Citrus. 

A more sedate experience is a trip to 

souk, which roughly translates as ‘market’. 

Actually, it might not be that sedate, if you 

really get into the spirit of politely haggling 

for a bargain! 

Or, just 8km from Teboursouk, to the 

west of Tunis, are the ruins of Dougga – 

which is a remarkable Roman site of what 

was once a thriving town. The site has been 

even better preserved than at Carthage, 

which is clearly also worth visiting. 

Tunisia’s key courses 

The Citrus club in Hammamet has 45 fine 

holes to entertain you, all routed by 

American Ron Fream. He has laid the holes 

out around seven lakes in an area stretching 

to 173 hectares, which is slightly undulating 

and dominated by olive groves and other 

indigenous trees. 

The tougher test is the aptly-named La 

Foret, with pine trees framing much of it. 

In addition to the trees, there are also blind 

holes, water hazards and tiered greens to 

challenge visitors, with the 6th arguably the 

pick – a par 3 of 170 yards which is played 

over a ravine to a green with out of bounds 

to the back. 

The 17th is also a good hole, a short, 

dog-leg par 5 protected by lines of trees 

with a hidden, well-bunkered green. 

Les Oliviers was equally well named, 

being routed among an olive grove. The 

breeze is often felt here and with the holes 

changing direction frequently it requires 

clear thinking and good ball-striking to 

score well. The 9th is a highlight; a blind, 

dog-leg hole that has out of bounds 

running down the left and three fairway 

bunkers on the corner. Even if you find the 

fairway, you will need a good mid-iron 

approach to find the narrow green. 

Next, to Yasmine Valley, which was for 

many years considered the pick among 

those in the north of Tunisia, and although 

Citrus’ La Foret might now be pushing it 

hard for that title, it should still be looked 

on as a key part of any golf itinerary to 

Hammamet. 

Opened in 1991, Yasmine Valley is 

another Fream design punctuated by large, 

jigsaw-shaped bunkers, tiered greens and 

plenty of water. 

It begins in dramatic fashion with a 

downhill drive (always a nice, confidenceboosting 

start...) followed by a second that 

is played past the lake which skirts the right 

side of the hole. 

It is a championship test of more than 

6,500 yards but the three par 5s are good 

chances for birdie because the fairways are 

so firm and fast... although the strength and 

direction of the frequent wind is a 

significant factor. 

Yasmine offers a good variety of holes – 

not least in its collection of par 3s. 

It is tough too, with the greens on the 

6th (very shallow), 4th and 16th (acutely 

sloping) or the 5th and 17th (hidden runoffs) 

no time to be off key. n 

QUICK GUIDE 

THE CLIMATE Splendid all year round 

with 24C in the winter and only a few 

showers. 

GETTING THERE You can fly direct to 

Tunis-Carthage from Heathrow and 

Manchester with Tunisair for under 

£200. Located in the capital, it’s a short 

drive north of Hammamet. Or just as 

close, but to the south, is Enfida – fly 

there from various UK airports. 

TIME DIFFERENCE GMT+1 

MORE INFORMATION Visit 

cometotunisia.co.uk. Citrus – golfcitrus. 

com; Yasmine – golfyasmine.com 


The firsT 45-hole 

comPlex in Tunisia 

An international golf concept 

created around seven lakes, 

featuring olive trees and forest 

in a 173-hectare area. 

Golf Citrus is located 

only a few minutes 

away from the Bay of 

Hammamet. The Golf Citrus 

course, designed by Ronald 

Fream, makes full use of the 

natural characteristics of the 

area with the slightly undulating 

ground of the olive grove and 

the steep hills of the forest. Golf 

Citrus at Hammamet features 

two courses, the ‘Les Oliviers’ 

and ‘La Forêt’, two 18-hole 

Championship courses, par 72. 

Both are relaxing and stimulating 

for players of all levels. The ‘Les 

Oliviers’ course 6,106m (men) 

and 5,290m (ladies) and ‘La 

Forêt’ course 6,066m (men) and 

5,235m (ladies). 

The Golf Citrus clubhouse has 

been completely renovated 

in 2006 and is located on the 

beautiful hills overlooking 

the city of Hammamet and 

the surrounding landscape. 

The luxurious clubhouse in 

its appearance recalls the 

traditional architecture of the 

country, while the interiors 

are decorated in a minimal 

style. A welcoming reception, 

a front office, a hall, a snack 

bar, a well-stocked pro shop 

and restaurant/bar are located 

www.golfcitrus.com 

inside the clubhouse. From 

the spacious terraces, you can 

enjoy the wonderful view of 

the green (from holes 9 to 18, 

La Forêt) and the enchanting 

surrounding landscape. The 

locker rooms, caddy master 

and golf equipment for hire are 

located on the ground floor. 

Guests staying at the shareholder 

hotels benefit from a free shuttle 

service as well as preferential 

green fee 

rates. 

sPecial offers 

• Play 3 rounds of golf and only pay for 2 • 4 ball, only 3 pay 

Available from: Dec 1st–Dec 20th & Jan 3rd–Feb 12th, May 1st–May 31st

SUN, GOLF & FUN 

TWO HOURS FROM YOUR HOME 

UNISIA today is rapidly gaining a reputation 

as one of the Mediterranean's foremost golfng 

Tdestinations. 

Designed in 1990 by American architect Ronald Fream, 

Yasmine Valley ofers superb weather conditions year 

round, witha friendly and relaxed atmosphere. 

Yasmine has an 18-hole, Par-71 course with twin lakes 

and steep greens, and even experienced golfers will fnd 

their skills put to the test. 

Driver's, the main clubhouse restaurant, ofers an 

international menu with Tunisian fusion elements. 

Relax and enjoy views overlooking the 1st tee and the 

19th green from the panoramic Sunset Terrace. 

Price of 

Green fee 

High season 

44 £ 

Price of 

Green fee 

Low season 

30 £ 

International member ship for 1 year 

1109£ 

Special Discount at Yasmine Valley, Hammamet, Tunisia 

First name............................................. | Last name.................................................. 

Show this coupon at reception and get 15% off your entire purchase 

Valid from January 1st 2015 to December 31st 2015 

E-mail: booking@golfyasmine.com | Phone: +216 72 227 001 | Website: www.golfyasmine.com

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focus on 

United Arab Emirates 

Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a very distinctive, world-class experience to the travelling golfer. 

It’s never tiresome to see the pictures of 

Dubai that were being flashed about 

Twitter in the last week of January. Those 

‘Then’ and ‘Now’ aerial images of the 

host of the Dubai Desert Classic are as 

fascinating as they are instructive. 

The image of the Emirates Club from 25 

years ago, a green oasis among an otherwise 

barren desert, compared to the skyscraperdominated 

skyline of today was incredible. 

In just over two decades, the United Arab 

Emirates has gone from a curiosity to a 

staple diet. A golf holiday in Dubai has 

progressed from being an unlikely adventure 

to a destination you simply must consider. 

To anyone who hasn’t been, what you get 

in the UAE may well seem a step into the 

unknown. In actual fact, it is quite easy to 

sum up what is on offer; it is luxury, sun, 

opulence and world-class golf. It is Belek on 

steroids. It is whatever five-star golf resort 

you have been to in Iberia jacked up 30 per 

cent. It is downtown, bright lights America 

lifted to the middle of the Arizona desert. 

It is not for everyone, but if you like 

everything in life to be sumptuous, Dubai 

and Abu Dhabi are for you. 

You take a little while to get your bearings 

– and if you hire a car, take your wits with 

you! – but soon you will get into the rhythm 

of life in the UAE. 

The American analogy used earlier is a 

reference to everything being big: the 

motorways, the hotels, the offices (obviously), 

the golf courses and the clubhouses. 

The UAE doesn’t really do quaint. 

It’s all big (even Dubai airport is massive, 

and more like a swish hotel, all gleaming 

marble and glass panels), but it’s not 

daunting. Indeed, something you may not be 

aware of is that you can actually take a golf 

break in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi – 

they’re only 90 minutes apart. If you were 

really clever, you’d fly into one, hire a car, 

play your golf and fly out of the other. 

But most will base themselves in one or 

the other – and here is what to expect from 

the courses in each. 

Lowdown on Dubai 

Emirates Golf Club opened in 1988 – the 

first grass championship course in the region. 

Emirates’ Majlis is ranked in Golf World’s 

Top 100 Courses of the World and has been 

a fabulous annual host for the Dubai Desert 

Classic, won this year by Rory McIlroy and 

with a roll call of champions equal to a 

Major. It is backed up by the acclaimed 

Faldo, whose attractions are enhanced by the 

fact it offers unique ‘Night Golf’. They blend 

natural desert terrain with strategic design. 

The clubhouse at Emirates Golf Club, in 

the shape of Bedouin tents, is an icon of golf. 

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is also 

another of Dubai Golf’s premier resorts and 

is in the heart of the city. Its location is 

remarkable; barely more than a thumping 

drive away from the airport and surrounded 

by skyscrapers, this creekside venue is also 

one of the world’s ‘Top 100’. It offers a 

variety of views – over the creek, towards 

high-rise buildings or to downtown Dubai. 

One of the lavish newer projects in Dubai 

quick 

guide 

Getting there: A seven-hour flight from 

London, Manchester and Glasgow with 

Etihad, BA, Emirates and Virgin. 

Time diference: GMT +4 

When to go: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are truly 

all-year round destinations, but the best 

time to visit is between October and 

May when the heat is not quite so 

stifling. 


Long Haul: UAE 

is at Jumeirah Estates. It’s here that the 

European Tour’s end-of-season World 

Championship is played and it is a fitting site 

for such a large event. 

The Earth and Fire courses are mightily 

impressive, as is the clubhouse and practice 

facilities. This is very much a 21st century 

operation. It sits next to the huge Jumeirah 

residential estate, which is laid out as a series 

of ever decreasing circles. Greg Norman was 

drafted in to design the courses and they are 

notable for the red-bark contrast with the 

white-sand bunkers and lush green fairways. 

Big budgets, big courses, big-name designer – 

you won’t feel undercharged here. 

Another superstar designer worked at 

neighbouring Dubai Sports City, where 

Ernie Els laid out a course with a links look 

of fairways lined by wispy rough and sand. 

Colin Montgomerie has made his mark 

too, at The Montgomerie, a less lavish affair 

but a well-constructed course nonetheless. 

Jebel Ali resort has lots of fans, not least 

the media who enjoy staying here during the 

Desert Classic. Al Badia is a championship 

course designed by Robert Trent Jones II. 

Lowdown on Abu Dhabi 

There are six courses in Abu Dhabi but we 

will focus on the main three; Saadiyat Beach, 

Yas Links and Abu Dhabi GC. 

The latter venue is the host of the 

The 8th hole on the Majlis. 

European Tour’s event and has impressed 

since becoming a regular stop for the likes of 

Rory et al. This 27-hole championship 

course – there is a nine-hole loop that is a 

great warm-up – weaves through undulating 

terrain punctuated by stands of palms, 

ornamental trees and shrubs. Another iconic 

clubhouse completes the picture. 

Abu Dhabi GC is close to the heart of the 

city, but just a few miles back towards Dubai, 

The 18th at Yas Links. 

are the other two courses, Yas Links and 

Saadiyat Beach. You can play all three on 

a visit here very easily as there is a mere 

35-minute journey at most. 

They are located on spits of land that arc 

round the top of the city and are linked by a 

motorway that sees speeds similar to that of 

the nearby Yas Marina F1 circuit! 

Yas is a Kyle Phillips design that has the 

look of a very authentic links, not only 

because of its rumpled, all-sand base 

fairways, but also thanks to the Paspalum 

grass that runs through tees, fairways and 

greens. Eight holes run right along the shore. 

Saadiyat Beach is set on a stretch of 

environmentally-protected beach on Saadiyat 

Island and was laid out by Gary Player. 

The sun sets on the iconic 

Dubai Creek clubhouse. 


Long Haul: Dubai 

THE ORIGINAL DEsERT ATTRAcTION 

The 10th on Emirates’ Majlis, home 

of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. 

Dubai 

Emirates Golf Club and Dubai 

Creek Golf & Yacht Club are the 

most established courses in the 

region – and are better than ever. 

The culmination to the European 

Tour’s Middle East Swing in 2014 

was in Dubai, where golf in this part 

of the world started and where it 

remains at its most compelling. 

It was back in 1988 that Dubai Golf 

unveiled Emirates Golf Club – the first grass 

championship course in the region and in just 

over 25 years the region has come a long way 

and is recognised as one of the world’s finest 

golf destinations. A year after opening, 

Emirates hosted the European Tour for the 

first time and in January 2015 Rory McIlroy 

claimed the title for the second time, having 

previously claimed his first European Tour 

Emirates’ Faldo by night. 

title at the tournament back in 2009. 

Emirates GC has also recently become the 

first course in the Middle East North Africa 

region to become GEO Certified®. GEO 

Certified® is golf’s internationally accredited 

ecolabel which is awarded based on the club 

demonstrating a commitment to continual 

improvement in six main areas of 

sustainability; water, nature, energy, supply 

chain, pollution control and community. 

Dubai’s courses continue to set the 

benchmark for quality and service, backed by 

luxury hotels, leisure and cultural attractions. 

Under the management of Dubai Golf, 

Emirates GC has been at the heart of Dubai’s 

rise to fame, offering members and guests a 

diverse and challenging golf experience as well 

as first-class leisure facilities and a host of 

international-standard cuisine. The showcase 

Majlis course, ranked in Golf World 

magazine’s Top 100 Courses of the World, 

and the highly-acclaimed Faldo Course 

continue to captivate, blending the natural 

rolling desert terrain with strategic design, 

offering an enjoyable and diverse challenge. 

The Faldo is a real ‘thinking man’s golf 

Dubai Creek clubhouse. 

course’ and offers one of the best challenges 

of course management and accuracy in the 

region. It is also the only course in Dubai to 

offer a full 18 holes under floodlights. 

The clubhouse at Emirates, in the shape 

of Bedouin tents, is one of golf’s iconic 

landmarks. As well as the Dubai Desert 

Classic, the Majlis also hosts the Omega 

Dubai Ladies Masters, the season ending 

Ladies European Tour event, luring the very 

best players from the ladies’ circuit in America 

for a rare foray onto the European Tour. 

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club opened in 

January 1993 to world acclaim and since then 

it has hosted numerous tournaments, 

including the Dubai Desert Classic twice. 

Located in the heart of Dubai it offers wellgroomed 

fairways lined with date palms and 

coconut trees, attractive water hazards and 

shrubbery lending a tropical air to the 

undulating 18-hole championship course. 

The majestic clubhouse – its design 

mirroring the sails of the traditional Arab 

dhow – captures the essence of Dubai’s 

seafaring traditions and presenting the perfect 

fusion of heritage with modernity and style. 

It is one of, if not the only, golf clubhouse in 

the world to feature on a national currency 

(AED20 note). 

The facility also incorporates a nine-hole 

Par-3 course, 18-hole Pearl Putting course, 

golf academy, seven restaurants and bars, 

gymnasium, tropical swimming pool and 

a 121-berth marina. n 

Further information: Visit dubaigolf.com to 

learn more about both clubs, experience ‘walk 

throughs’ of the courses, read about dining 

and leisure options, and access offers. 


It’s all in the experience 

With over 25 years of experience and a host of accolades, Dubai Golf’s championship golf courses at Emirates Golf Club, 

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and Almouj Golf in Muscat, Oman, have garnered unparalleled prestige. So whether you’re 

taking a swing where the world’s top golfers have played or enjoying our award-winning hospitality, you’re guaranteed an 

experience that has become internationally renowned. 

To book your tee time please call +971 4 380 1234 

or email golfbooking@dubaigolf.com 

dubaigolf.com


SHORT HAUL 

Murtoli, Corsica 

Murtoli is a collection of former shepherd’s houses transformed into luxury 

villas in lush Corsican countryside. They sleep as few as two or as many as 

13 and sit either in a scenic valley or on a private beach. And now those who 

stay here can enjoy a unique golf concept devised by Kyle Phillips, whose 

reputation was forged at classic courses such as Kingsbarns and Yas Links. 

Phillips has laid out 12 greens, like the original Open course at Prestwick 

and, when at quiet times, his routing allows for crossing of holes – which 

can also be played both in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. The 

course can be played in a nine-hole par 31, a 12-hole par 44, or an 18-hole 

par 67. Is this clever design and flexible routing the future of golf? ■ 

Visit murtoli.com 


See why our golf course 

is on everyone’s travel list 

Book a 5 nights stay on Yas Island 

with 5 rounds of golf from only GBP 665* per person. 

Plan your next excursion to the number 1 golf course in the UAE. Inspire yourself 

on the region’s first true links course designed by Kyle Phillips. Enjoy views of the Arabian Gulf 

on every hole and test your skill on the undulating terrain. 

Add Yas Links to your ‘must play’ list! 

Book your golf package today with Hala Abu Dhabi, 

the Destination Management Company of Etihad Airways, 

on golfbookings@etihad.ae and quote 

“Golfescapes2015” in the subject box. 

For general enquiries about Yas Links Golf Course, 

please call +97128107710 or email info@yaslinks.com. 

*Terms and conditions apply. 

Price is based on shared/twin occupancy and is subject to availability at the time of booking.

GOLF ESCAPES

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