Category: Travel

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Europe

Exclusive golf club in France’s Loire Valley now offers 46 world-class holes

Gil Hanse on his newly designed course at the Les Bordes Golf Club (Photo: theazaleagroup.com)

GIL HANSE-DESIGNED NEW COURSE DEBUTS AT LES BORDES

Exclusive golf club in France’s Loire Valley now offers 46 world-class holes

12 July, 2021: The gift-wrapping has been taken off Les Bordes’ eagerly awaited New Course, with architect Gil Hanse taking time out from his busy schedule to unveil his first golf-course design project in continental Europe at the start of this month.

Hanse travelled from his home in America to France’s famous Loire Valley to give his personal seal of approval to the new layout, hitting the inaugural tee shot prior to members flying in from across the world to experience his new creation.

In direct contrast to Les Bordes’ Old Course, the New Course features a more traditional heathland style. When combined with the 10-hole short course – the Wild Piglet, also created by Hanse and opened in 2020 – members of Les Bordes Golf Club will receive one of the greatest golfing experiences in the world.

Hanse comments on the project and his love for France

Hanse said: “We’ve never built anything in continental Europe and we wanted to make sure that our first project was going to be something special, and Les Bordes gave us that opportunity. I have always loved visiting France, and to have the chance to create this course and leave a lasting legacy in such a beautiful part of the world makes me particularly proud.

“The golf facilities at Les Bordes are on a par with anywhere else in the world. When you consider the variety and contrast of the Old and New, the originality and quality of design coupled with the Wild Piglet and Himalayas putting green, across the board there are outstanding facilities for serious golf and fun golf – and there are very few places who can say that.

“One of the challenges that we were excited to accept was to have the chance to build a golf course on the same estate as (the Old Course), a course that has been ranked as the best in Europe.

“There are elements of a number of golf courses (in the New Course) including a lot of the great heathland courses around London and Paris. I think that I am always influenced by Pine Valley, which is very near to my home, and I think that some of the scale of National Golf Links is apparent out there too. If you roll all of those into one, I think that’s a pretty good recipe.

“With the three golf courses and the amenities that are already in place and the ones that are coming, I can’t see how Les Bordes won’t be considered one of the finest golfing destinations in Europe or in the world.”

Set 90 minutes south of Paris in France’s magical Sologne Forest, the New Course fits harmoniously into its surroundings, with the fairways blending seamlessly into the natural vegetation and trees, and maximum care and attention was taken by Hanse and his team to clear the location and preserve the natural environment.

Featuring large bunkers, subtle elevation changes and incredible green complexes, the layout measures 7,211 yards from the back tees but, in contrast to the Old Course, is expected to play shorter than its overall length due to the firm and fast playing conditions.

Jack Laws, director of golf at Les Bordes, said: “The opening of the New Course is a significant landmark in the history of Les Bordes and the culmination of many years of hard work from Gil and his team, and everyone here on the estate.

“The New Course is an outstanding golf course with truly exceptional architecture. It’s incredibly exciting what Gil has achieved here, and its addition means that our members and guests will be in the enviable position of being able to enjoy two world-class, but very different golfing experiences.”

The opening of the New Course headlines three years of investment at Les Bordes, developing a community where all family members have endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Completed on-site amenities include natural swimming lakes and pools, beaches, watersports, go-karting, fishing, equestrian, petting farm and biking and walking trails.

Future investment plans include an announced partnership with Six Senses for the transformation of the 19th century ‘Chateau Bel Air’ into a luxury hotel and spa, a village square with shops and restaurants and a variety of residential homes in various styles, as well as an equestrian centre, an organic farm, an art gallery and outdoor amphitheatre.

Press release written and distributed on behalf of Les Bordes by Azalea

Categories
Europe

Europe’s best golf venue begins new era as Infinitum

Infinitum golf course at Costa Daurada. (Image: Getty)
Infinitum golf course at Costa Daurada. (Image: Getty)

Costa Daurada, 28th June 2021: The resort known as Lumine has officially unveiled a new chapter in its history with the birth of INFINITUM, a new resort facing the immensity of the Mediterranean Sea and boasting high-end facilities and services. A place that has everything and that is summed up in its “Welcome to everything”.

The resort surfaces as one of Europe’s most highly-sought after lifestyle and leisure experiences, with world-class golf, modern gastronomy, off-course activities, and a contemporary beach club featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including 8 swimming pools, a Tapas Bar, and one of Costa Daurada’s best restaurants. 

Infinitum is home to three outstanding golf courses, each with their own distinct design and layout. Named ‘Europe’s Best Golf Venue’ for two consecutive years, its award-winning facilities play host to the European Tour’s Final Qualifying Stage, delivering unquestionable conditions, across its rolling fairways and undulating greens. Each course, complemented by ocean views of the Mediterranean, challenges the advanced or beginner golfer, with strategic natural and man-made hazards. 

Located only 10 minutes from Tarragona, the resort offers direct access to the beach with stunning front-line views of the Mediterranean Sea. Surrounded also by pine forests, and Olive fields, infinitum is located amongst one of the region’s most important ecosystems: the Sequia Major, a wetland made of reeds, poplars, and willows, meandering around the lakes, that houses one of the best-preserved populations in Catalonia of European Galapagos and Fartet Fish, one of the most endangered species of the Iberian Peninsula.

Burrowed in the natural landscape, the Infinitum Beach Club presents a unique experience with spectacular views of the Mediterranean, a tranquil and peaceful environment to spend an hour or a day. 100 feet above the ocean, perched amongst spectacular Pines, this is one of the finest beach experiences that can be found in Europe.

Infinitum also arrives with a new, premium gastronomy offering; four high-quality choices – Flamma, Gusto, The Lakehouse, and Terra – all offering a tranquil environment, with outstanding service, showcasing the finest fresh local produce, expertly developed by top-quality chefs.  

Flamma, the premium gastronomic offering at the Infinitum Beach Club, presents informal sharing plates, with fresh and local products at the heart of each dish; Gusto, the home to Mediterranean Tapas, a more casual alternative at the Beach Club; The Lakehouse, an ideal setting for golfers and non-golfers alike to sample healthy and traditional dishes overlooking the golf courses from a panoramic terrace, while Terra, a brand-new gourmet shop, opening in the autumn, will exhibit a selection of local, high-quality products, fresh and non-perishable.  

A Sustainable Project 

Infinitum is one of Europe’s most sustainable golf resorts, going above and beyond to protect nature and its surroundings. The resort is committed to leading the way in sustainable practices for golf clubs in Europe, with a host of awards and accolades, including its GEO Certification for the second time. Sequences of olive trees, natural bodies of water, historic ruins, and protected species all form an integral part of the unique experience at the resort. While the resort has created an ‘eco-first’ strategy, the Lakes golf course is recognized for its conservation work as a certified Golf Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. 

Speaking upon the launch of INFINITUM, Agustin Garcia Pascual, Chief Business Officer – Infinitum, said: 

“Today marks an exciting day in our history. Infinitum brings an entire new lifestyle and experience and will become a leading name in Europe. We are excited to begin this journey and create an experience for guests that is unlike any other. A new lifestyle to aspire to will be created with first-class food, beverage and services, whilst the golf courses will continue to renowned as two of Europe’s finest, hosting some of professional and amateur golfs best events.

“Over the next few years, we want to make Infinitum the preferred destination for Europe’s leading golfers, a destination that will provide a peaceful and relaxing environment that plays a significant role in the positive well-being of our members and guests.”

(Text: Infinitum)

Categories
Travel

First Look at Verdura Resort’s Spectacular New Course

Image: Azalea Group

Ahead of its opening in October of this year, golfers can now enjoy a tantalising glimpse of the new golf course at Sicily’s Verdura Resort, part of Rocco Forte Hotels.

Viewers can plot their way along the spectacular new par-four hole – and you can almost smell the ocean breeze along the coastline.

The new signature ninth hole on the East Course is part of the major renovation project – scheduled for completion in October with nine of the holes ready for play in August – as world-renowned golf architect Kyle Phillips returned to the site of his original design in Sicily to work his magic again.

The result is a remarkable success with the new hole offering those trademark, incredible views across the Mediterranean, while asking some serious questions of accuracy, strategy and distance control with a slight dogleg design.

The tee shot demands careful placement to avoid water on the left and right, while a fairway bunker lurks on the right side. Once that is safely negotiated, an undulating green is guarded by two bunkers, which requires an approach shot with enough loft to clear more water and hold the green – and all with the beach and the lapping waves just a few steps away.

Phillips said: “The drama of the coastline has been improved, so we have made the most of it.

“That ninth hole is an example of what happened and how we have managed to make a fantastic new hole out of it. We have certainly made the most out of what was available to us and we’re proud of what has been achieved.”

The extensive renovation will see a number of new features and modification of the course route, so some of the hole numbers have been adjusted. But this has allowed for the restoration of previous favourites and also some exciting new additions.

Phillips said: “One of the things that we didn’t have before – but we have now – is a double green, a bit like some of those huge greens at St Andrews. It will be the new eighth hole (par five) and the new 10th hole (par four) which will share a green.

“It was something I had pondered at one time before. But Sir Rocco is a golfer, we were out there walking one day and talked about doing it and he was excited about it.

“The green is absolutely massive and could be very interesting if you are putting on the wrong part of it!”

He added: “It is new, fresh, the result is great and I think it will be really well-received. I expected it to turn out well but it’s definitely reached the level we were striving for.”

The resort – home of the European Tour’s Rocco Forte Sicilian Open – boasts a wealth of exclusive luxury facilities that have helped establish the venue as one of the world’s elite golf and lifestyle destinations and is nestled in 230 hectares of stunning Mediterranean landscape on Sicily’s southern coast.

A member of the exclusive European Tour Destinations network, the resort is famous for offering guests an unforgettable five-star golf experience in one of the most beautiful settings in world golf, and was recently named as a recipient of Golf Digest magazine’s coveted ‘2020 Editors’ Choice Award for the Best Resorts in Continental Europe’ for the fifth year in a row.

Verdura Resort features 203 rooms and suites, all with a sea view, which offer a perfect solution for family holiday. In addition, the venue is set to add to its luxury accommodation portfolio with 20 new modern and spacious private Rocco Forte Private Villas open on May 13, each with its own private swimming pool and affording unparalled panoramic views of the Sicilian coast and Mediterranean.

Away from golf, guests can enjoy an extensive array of other luxury sports and lifestyle facilities, as well as the opportunity to sample a wide variety of gastronomy, wine, history and culture.

Guests can also take advantage of the Unlimited Golf package until November 21, 2021, which includes an unlimited number of rounds, daily full breakfast, and €100 F&B credit per stay. Complimentary additions also include shared buggies, use of the driving range and spa facilities.

Text: Azalea Group

Categories
Europe Travel

A green skirt moves into the focus of the golf world

The Marco Simone Golf & County Club in Rome, where the Ryder Cup will be held next year. (Photo: Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
The Marco Simone Golf & County Club in Rome, where the Ryder Cup will be held next year. (Photo: Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)

Plenty of adrenalin early in the morning

Around eight o’clock in the morning, we start out of town in our rental car near the famous Villa Borghese. The extremely fast, offensive driving style of the Roman road users takes some getting used to for us, but after a short time it works fine. If you wait, you will not reach your destination in time. We get the impression that traffic signs and traffic lights are seen more as a recommendation. Unharmed and happy, we reach the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club on the north-eastern outskirts of the Italian metropolis a good half hour later.

Thumbs up (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Here in Guidonia Montecelio, the 44th edition of the Europe : USA golf competition will take place in September 2023, one year late. After 1997 in Valderrama and 2018 in Paris, it will be only the third Ryder Cup on continental European soil.

The biggest green skirt ever designed

World-renowned fashion and perfume designer Laura Biagiotti and her daughter Lavinia Biagiotti Cigna, thanks to the Italian Golf Federation, the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and to the support of national and local institutions, brought the Ryder Cup to her club in 2015, which she founded in 1971. Since her death in 2017, Lavinia Biagiotti Cigna has continued the project and now heads the club as President.

Lavinia quotes her mother as saying “My mother used to say this is the biggest green skirt I have ever designed”.

Originally designed by Jim Fazio, the course has been completely redesigned as of 2018. This task was successfully taken on by European Golf Design, together with Jim’s son Tom Fazio II.

On an area of 150 hectares, a par-72 stadium course has been created, which is perfectly integrated into the open, partly quite hilly terrain. It is a course designed not only for players but also for the up to fifty thousand spectators expected daily. On both sides of the fairways, the terrain often rises, so that from these elevated places, the game action can be followed not only on one fairway, but on several at once.

Plenty of space on the course (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)

The paths are very well maintained and asphalted, the distances between greens and tees are pleasantly short. The course is fair and a pleasure to play. It is a real match play course and allows a good score for all HCP classes, provided you hit the right spots on the greens. If you do not, you get penalised.

The tee-offs are less challenging. But the ones into the green are, some of which can be hit blind.

We particularly like the two par-5s at the end of the front nine and the 16, a 322 m long par-4. For us, it is the most beautiful hole on the course. If you do not resist the temptation to attack the green with your steep descent tee shot here, you run the risk of experiencing your damp miracle. We are already curious to see how many balls will disappear here in 2023 during the Ryder Cup.

Fantastic 16th hole (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)

Construction of the new driving range has already begun. The clubhouse will also be renovated before the Ryder Cup.

A successful creation

I take up Laura Biagiotti’s comparison of the course with a skirt and describe it as if it were such a garment:
We really like the motifs on the green skirt. On its front, the 11th-century Marco Simone Castle, now Lavinia’s home, attracts our gaze. Also the astronomer Galileo Galilei used to live here.

Marco Simone Castle is omnipresent (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)

On the back of the skirt, the hill town of Sant’Angelo Romana catches the eye, as does Rome’s silhouette with St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance.

Cleverly placed are its 18 mostly not too big, wavy and smooth green buttons. Real eye-catchers are the four large blue dots of colour, two on each side, and the blue zips that snake over part of the back.

The skirt comes in two versions. We are introduced to the spring version, where the green fringes located on its sides are kept short and blend seamlessly into the colour of the skirt. In the autumn version, these are much longer and denser, so that it is easy to get caught in them. Their shiny golden-brown colour is the ideal contrast to the otherwise rich green and another visual highlight.

Golden-brown deep rough in autumn (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)

The bright white linings of the numerous pockets are velvety soft. Their edges are perfectly finished. You can get out of them easily, even if they get wet. A special textile layer ensures that.

Perfect bunker conditions (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)

The smooth surface is very elastic and its material handles even large amounts of rain very well. There is nothing to complain about in terms of its high-quality workmanship. We particularly like the fact that great importance is attached to sustainability in its production.

The stylish unisex mini is available in four sizes for men and three for women. The XXL version is only 6.373 meters long. Usually it is not too tightly cut and offers plenty of freedom of movement in all variants. However, it can be made tighter for special occasions.

The brand and the high quality come at a price. For the use of the designer piece, one pays €180 on site. If you book online, you get a ten percent discount.

18th green in front of the clubhouse (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Sporty charming

With the 78th Italian Open being held in September 2021, the course has passed its sporting baptism of fire in the best possible way. The Dane Nicolai Hojgaard won with 13 under par and thus won his first tournament on today’s DP World Tour.

Stay and Play

Various hotels, including those outside Rome, offer attractive stay and play packages or green fee discounts. This also applies to the multiple award-winning, five-star Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort in Porto Ercole in the Maremma in southern Tuscany, where we will spend the next few days. I report on this in a separate article.
Jürgen Linnenbürger
April 2022

Categories
International

Quinta Do Lago 2021 Breaks Offer Golfers the Benefits of Nature

Many of us are looking forward to the prospect of travelling again this year (Image: Getty)

Enjoy savings of 21% on stays of two nights or more

After all the stresses of the Covid pandemic, who isn’t dreaming of their next summer holiday and Quinta do Lago is teeing up a treat for golfers and families in 2021, including savings of 21 per cent on breaks of two nights or more at the luxury Portuguese resort this year.

Europe’s premier golf, leisure and lifestyle family resort is offering an array of discounts when staying at its boutique The Magnolia Hotel over the coming months including Easter and summer, with reductions of more than a fifth on short-term stays.

Savings of up to 30 per cent on holidays of two weeks or more are also available while guests will have complete peace of mind when they book, with Quinta do Lago’s ‘Flexi-booking’ option offering guests the opportunity to change their booking to another date within a 12-month period without any charge.

Taking time out to relax in natural surroundings has never been more important following an extended period of lockdowns. Nestled within the privacy and security of the Algarve’s Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, Quinta do Lago is the ideal place to unwind, with its five-star facilities including three 18-hole championship golf courses, a premier sports hub, a golden sandy beach and a plethora of first-class bars and restaurants.

The resort’s relaxed vibe extends to its boutique Magnolia Hotel, with facilities including a saltwater pool, colourful restaurant and cocktail bar, cinema, gym and spa, plus a schedule of iconic poolside events to keep guests of all ages entertained.

Bed-and-breakfast breaks of two nights or more start from €77 per night for a double room while the resort’s extended holiday packages, which are perfect for families and are bookable throughout 2021 except July and August, cost from €68 per night staying in one of The Magnolia Hotel’s vintage-cabin style cottages.

A range of attractive three, five and seven-night golf stay-and-play packages are also available at the Magnolia Hotel, which also feature the resort’s ‘Flexi-booking’ option.

Located just 15 minutes away from Faro airport, Quinta do Lago is regarded as Europe’s premier golf and lifestyle resort and was one of the first to be awarded Clean & Safe approval by the Portugal Tourist Board after the Covid-19 lockdown.

The award-winning venue boasts a combination of world-class golf and lifestyle facilities and has invested a further €7m in a recent golf-course improvement programme, including a major overhaul of its famous South Course and the reopening of its main golf clubhouse following a modern and sophisticated makeover.

As well as three renowned golf courses – the North, South and Laranjal – and outstanding practice facilities, guests can stay in shape at The Campus, a world-class sports hub designed for professionals and amateurs alike to keep fit.

Complementing the facilities is a choice of 12 first-class bars and restaurants that deliver a range of delicious world cuisines, including the acclaimed Bovino Steakhouse and recently-opened Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, and accommodation at the boutique The Magnolia Hotel.

For more information about Quinta do Lago’s 2021 offer and to book, go to https://www.themagnoliahotelqdl.com/special-offers/21-off-for-2021

www.quintadolago.com

(Text: Azalea Group Press Release)

Categories
Travel

Major investments at Dundonald Links

Dundonald Links view on isle of Array
The already stunning 2017 Scottish Open course is beeing improved. (Photo: Dundonald Links)

Ground has been broken at Dundonald Links Golf Course, as work begins on a new clubhouse and lodge accommodation as well as on improving the course.

Set amongst the beautiful Kyle Phillips designed course, the new clubhouse will be created from natural materials, blending seamlessly with the rugged Scottish landscape. The two-story building will be finished with local Whinstone, with a sloping dune grass roof, designed by NBDA Architects to be sympathetic to the surroundings and the environment.

The layout of the new clubhouse and lodge designed by NBDA Architects. (Photo: Dundonald Links)

The architects promise world-class panoramic views await from its first-floor balconies, all the way to the Isle of Arran. The planting around the house will include an array of pollen and nectar-bearing plants that will contribute to the Irvine to Girvan Nectar Network, a project led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.

Improving Clubhouse and Course

Around £1 million (1.1 million Euro) of improvements will also be made to the existing golf course, host of the 2017 European Tour Scottish Open, in order to enhance the playing experience, which will be led by the original course designer Kyle Phillips and his team.

The new clubhouse is part of an ambitious £25m (27.5 million Euro) luxury golf lodge development, delivered over two phases. Phase one will see eighteen 6, 4, and 2-bed lodges developed, with three private practice putting greens on their doorstep. In addition, there will be 22 private rooms situated beside the clubhouse for ease of access to the restaurant and clubhouse facilities. Phase two will see further expansion of the lodge accommodation, with permission to build a further 79 lodges.

The construction work on the clubhouse has already begun. (Photo: Dundonald Links)

Ashley Pheasant, Head of Golf at Darwin Escapes said “To see ground broken on the new clubhouse is very exciting and is just the start of a major investment plan at Dundonald Links. The clubhouse is only one of a number of developments we have planned, in order to deliver a first-class experience for our golfers and guests.”

With construction work now underway, Dundonald Links will re-open to golfers from 1st May 2021, with clubhouse and accommodation expected to be completed in early Autumn.

We visited the course and took some photos.

Categories
Europe

Golf in France: The Top 5 Player Reviewed Courses

Pigeons fly in front of the Eiffel Tower on January 28, 2020, in Paris (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / AFP) (Photo by LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images)

Planning on taking a golf vacation to France or maybe have a free day during a business trip and want to sneak in a round of golf? If so, then this guide is for you.

France is home to more 600 golf clubs so there is undoubtedly the perfect course suited for each individual. Golf in France has no shortage of claim to fame as well given it’s hosting of the 2018 Ryder Cup as well as the annual French Open European Tour event. Mild summers combined with a consistent cool ocean breeze make France a highly sought after golfing destination for all players.

The guide below is compiled of the 5 highest rated golf clubs in France based on Golf Post user reviews of a variety of factors including: course condition, value, food, drink, friendliness and more. Continue below to find the perfect destination during your stay in France!

The Courses

#1. Golf de Bitche

Golf de Bitche Overview

Golf de Bitche is a golf club located in Bitche, France and situated closely to the Germany-France border. The golf club offers 27 holes to play and is situated in a nature park, ensuring spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The club is considered to be of average difficulty mainly due to its hilly terrain and possible weather factors. Given that there are 27 holes available for play, players can play 3 different combinations of 18 holes which vary is distance and difficulty depending on the combination. Men will find their tees playing at 6169m for the longest combination and 5527m at the shortest combination. Likewise, women will find their shortest combination playing at 4473m and 4959m at the longest

Pricing

As of 2020 the greens fees for 18 holes at Golf de Bitche is 70,00€ during the week and 80,00€ during the weekend. Students and players under the age of 18 will find 18 holes to cost just 35,00€ during the week and 43,00€ during the weekend. Additional discounts are available for those making bulk tee times for groups of 10 or more players.

What the Community is Saying

“Fantastic surroundings and absolutely well maintained.”

“A very neat and demanding place”

“The overall package of the system is right, great weekend breaks. The place itself is very beautiful.”

“Super place maintenance and beautiful landscapes”

Addtional Ratings and Reviews

Club Contact Information

Phone: +33 3 87 96 15 30

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations

#2. Golf Club Opio Valbonne

Golf Club Opio Valbonne Overview

The Golf Club Opio Valbonne is a spectacular club situated along the southern coast of France and nestled closely to the France-Italy border. The club’s proximity to the ocean provides a mild summer experience with a consistent ocean breeze. The club offers 18 holes of play with 9 being of moderate difficult and 9 of a higher difficulty. The club is often characterized as being not flat but rather very hilly and and requires above average driving accuracy given the frequency of water hazards. Men will find their tees to play at 5738m while women will find their tees at 4974m. A large driving range, short game practice area, and a putting green are available for use prior to play.

Pricing

The current cost of 18 holes at Golf Club Opio Valbonne ranges between €50- €80 during both the week and weekend depending on which time of the day it is. Powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost as are club rentals and professional lessons.

What the Community is Saying

“At the foot of the volcanic mountain, in the forest. Simply wonderful to play there”

“Upscale golf course / club.”

“Very Welcoming”

Additional Ratings and Reviews

Club Contact Information

Phone: +33 (0)4 93 12 00 08

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations

#3. Golf de Saint Endréol

Golf de Saint Endréol Overview

Golf de Saint Endréol describes their signature course, one of the most renowned in the entire country as “Set under the impressive Rocher de Roquebrune rock, which glows a flamboyant red at sunset, the course winds around the river and a series of water obstacles, among dry garrigue, veteran oaks and umbrella pines” (via www.st-endréol.com). The course is often described as “hilly but not overwhelmingly difficult” and is suitable for the average golfer. A key characteristic of this majestic course is its offering of a view of the Endre river from nearly every location. Men will find the course playing 6169m from their tees while women will find their tees playing 4613m.

Pricing

The current greens fees as of 2020 are 68.00€ for 18 holes in the offseason and 78.00€ during the peak season for 18 holes. Playing 9 holes will cost 42.00€ in the offseason and 49.00€ during the peak season. Powered golf carts and push trolleys are available for rent at an additional cost as well as practice balls for the driving range. Club rentals are additionally available as well.

What the Community is Saying

“Simply a place of superlatives. Pure untouched nature. You should definitely have played here”.

“5/5 Landscape”

Additional Ratings and Reviews

Club Contact Information

Phone: +33 (0)4 94 51 89 80

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations

#4. Alsace Golf Links

Alsace Golf Links Overview

Located in Eastern France and situated close to the German border, Alsace Golf Links provides a links style golf experience for a fair price. The course provides spectacular views of the surrounding winery’s and vosges from nearly every location. Alsace Golf Links is flatter with less difficult terrain to navigate when compared to other typical French courses. A main feature of the course that poses the biggest challenge are it’s abundance of water hazards. Men will find their tees playing at 6433m while women will find their tees at 5077m.

Pricing

As of 2020 the cost of 18 holes during the week is 65€ and 9 holes during the week is 35€. 18 holes during the weekend will cost 75€ while 9 holes will cost 40€. Golf carts are available to rent for 35€ per person and manual push trolleys for 4€. A full driving range and practice facility is also available at an additional cost.

What the Community is Saying

“Left similar course far away from more. Great view of the Vosges. Because of the ground, it is especially good to play in winter and wet.”

“Great atmosphere and wonderful greens in the links design”

“Great greens on a scenic course”

Additional Ratings and Reviews

Course Contact Information

Phone: +33 389 785 212

Email:  [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations

#4. Royal Mougins Golf Club

Royal Mougins Golf Club Overview

Built in 1993 by world-renowned architect Robert von Hagge and located on the southern coast of France, this championship golf course is one of the best the country has to offer. The course is characterized by many as being “technical” in difficulty but still offers a fun and relaxing experience for golfers of all levels of experience given its superb panoramic views from all over the course. The course has an abundance of water hazards coupled with a hilly terrain which could make this course difficult for some. Men will find their tees at Royal Mougins playing 5967m and women will find their tees situated at 5400m, all tees play to a par 71.

Pricing

As of the 2020 the price for non-members of Royal Mougins to play 18 holes is 200€ during the peak season and 145€ during the offseason. Club rentals are available from the pro shop and vary in price between 10€-50€. Golf carts are available for rent as well and are included in the price of the greens fees for non-members.

What the Community is Saying

“Just enjoy”

“very welcoming culture”

“superb landscape”

Additional Ratings and Reviews

Course Contact Information

Phone: +33 0492 92 4979

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations

#5. Golf de Strasbourg-Illkirch

Golf de Strasbourg-Illkirch Overview

Golf de Strasbourg Illkirch is a parkland style golf course located in the north-west of France and close to the France-Germany border. The club was founded in 1934 which gives it the honor of being the oldest club in Alsace. Additionally the course is located only about 10km from both the Strasbourg cathedral and the airport. Although the course is relatively flat in terrain, there is an abundance of water hazards and trees along the course as well as bunker surrounded greens to make sure everyone plays their best golf. Men will find the course to play 5871m while women will find that the course plays at 4687m.

Pricing

As of the 2020 the greens frees for Golf de Strasbourg Illkirch the price for 18 holes during the weekdays is €40 while on the weekend this price is increased to €50. Golf clubs, golf carts, and trolleys are all available to rent at an additional cost from the pro-shop.

What the Community is Saying

“Great parkland course that can be reached from Germany in a few minutes. Very good condition and good value for money”

“old classic golf course”

Additional Ratings and Reviews

Club Contact Information

Phone: 03 88 66 17 22

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: Please contact the pro shop for tee times :

Tel : 03 88 61 71 78
Email :  [email protected]

Additional Club and Region Reviews

Categories
Europe

Golf With a View: Spain’s Most Scenic Courses

SAN ROQUE, SPAIN - AUGUST 07: Large industrial ships wait in the Straight of Gibraltar adjacent to the Rock of Gibraltar, with Moroccan mountains on the skyline, on August 7, 2013 in San Roque, Spain. David Cameron has spoken with his Spanish counterpart, Mariano Rajoy, and Mr Rajoy has offered to 'reduce measures' at the Gibraltar border. Tensions between the British and Spanish governments have been raised on issues surrounding the sovereignty of Gibraltar. An increase in Spanish border crossing checks between the Rock and mainland Spain, leading to lengthy queues, is widely considered to be a retaliatory move for the construction of an artificial reef in British waters, which it is claimed has had a negative impact on Spanish fishing vessels in the area. (Photo by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)

Spain, birthplace of PGA Tour professional and Master’s champion Sergio Garcia is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic golf courses the world has to offer. With nearly 400 courses located throughout Spain there is undoubtedly the perfect course for players of all skill levels. The list that follows provides a few of the most scenic and beautiful golf destinations Spain has to offer.

Golfing in Spain: Play with a view

Planning a vacation to Spain or traveling on a business trip and have a free day for a round of golf? If so, the list that follows is for you. Below we have compiled the top golf destinations in Spain based on Golf Post user reviews regarding the best scenery.

The Courses:

#1. Lopesan Meloneras Golf

Lopesan Meloneras Golf Overview:

The Lopesan Meloneras Golf Course is located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria situated along the Meloneras Bay. Golfers playing this magnificent course will experience views that view other golf courses can offer, both mountain views and ocean views. In fact, the course offers a perfect 50/50 split with 9 holes providing a mountainside view and 9 holes providing a seaside view. With four different tees offered, there is an appropriate length for every golfer. The opening hole of the course is said to be the easiest with the difficulty increasing each hole after, another unique attribute of this wonderful course. Lopesan Meloneras has a vast array of amenities including a driving range, short game area, putting area, club rental, professional instruction and more.

Pricing:

As of 2019 the price for 18 holes during the peak season is
€124 and €81 for 9 holes. During the offseason 18 holes can be plaid for €70 and 9 holes for €45. The driving range can be accessed Monday-Sunday at a rate of €2 for 23 golfballs. Additional discounts are available for youth, senior, and twilight golfers. Powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost.

What Players Are Saying:

“The place is cool, close to the sea and the cliffs. That is why there are always spectacular views. “

“Well-kept place with spectacular holes on the cliffs with a view of the sea.”

“Top facility, very well maintained!”

Additional Ratings and Reviews:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/lopesan-meloneras-golf/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: (+34) 928 14 53 09

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: Please Email [email protected] for reservation requests

#2. Golf Costa Adeje

Golf Costa Adeje Overview:

The Champions course of Golf Costa Adeje in Spain contains some of the most unique features a golf course can offer offering both fun and difficult challenges. Prior to being constructed into a golf course, the original land here was previously a banana plantation in which course designer Jose Gancedo integrated directly into his plans. Players will find the fairways consisting of Paspalum while the greens of TifEagle, both of which allow the course to be irrigated with 100% recycled water. Players will find a slightly hilly terrain present here along with quick greens, especially when try. Men will find their tees playing at 6203M while Women will find their tees playing 5134M.

Pricing:

The current greens fees at Costa Adeje vary drastically between peak and off seasons with 18 holes in the winter months costing €105 and 9 holes costing €57. 18 holes in the summer months costs €62 while 9 holes will cost €35. Club rentals and powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost. Junior golfers ages 16 and under will also receive a reduced rate on greens frees.

What Players are Saying:

“Golf under palm trees and with a fantastic panorama at every hole, perfectly maintained course.”

“well maintained and a nice mix of heavy and simple holes”

“”E-Cart is very pleasant””

Additional Ratings and Reviews:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/golf-costa-adeje/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: 0034 922 710 000

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: https://open.imaster.golf/en/adeje

#3. Amarilla Golf & Country Club

Amarilla Golf & Country Club Overview:

With a wide variety of terrain including sloped fairways and semi-small greens, the Amarilla golf course is considered fun and challenging but not overwhelmingly difficult. Given that the course is located on a small island, players at the Amarilla Golf Club will find all 18 holes nestled closely to the Marina San Miguel. The par 4 5th hole is considered the crown jewell over the course as players must hit their drive over the ocean in order to reach the fairway. The course was opened in 1989 and only one year later was chosen to host the Open de Tenerife, an official European Tour event.

Pricing:

As of 2019, the greens fees at Amarilla Golf and Country club are currently set at €74 for 18 holes and €44 for 9 holes from April to October and €92 for 18 holes and €60 for 9 holes from November to March. Additional discounts are available for bulk greens fees as well as additional discounts for junior golfers. Powered golf carts and push carts are available for rent at an additional cost.

What Players are Saying:

“My favorite place, good links place and nice atmosphere”

“The 5th is spectacular!”

“Drives in particular are very important”

Additional Ratings and Reviews:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/amarilla-golf-country-club/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: +34 922 785124 OR +34 610 777 280

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: https://open.imaster.golf/en/amarilla/disponibilidad

#4. Pula Golf Resort

Pula Golf Resort Overview:

Pula Golf Resort is an 18 hole course located on Son Servera, Islas Baleares in Spain. The course was officially opened in 1995 but has since been completely redesigned in 2004 by Spanish professional golfer Jose Maria Olazabal. Amateur players will find the course to play at par 72 at a length of 6,246M while professionals will find the course playing as a par 70. 14 of the 18 holes at Pula Golf Resort provide a view of the green from the tee box. Pula Golf has numerous amenities that include a multi-level driving range, multiple putting areas and multiple short game areas. The course is additionally home to European Tour events and celebrity invitationals.

Pricing:

Players visiting Pula Golf Resort will find the cost of 18 holes at €62 during the offseason and €84 during the peak season. Playing 9 holes in the offseason will cost €39 and 9 holes during the peak season will cost €49. Junior golfers under the age of 18 receive a 50% discount on greens fees. Power golf carts and trolleys are available for rent as well costing €40 and €15 respectively for 18 holes of play.

What Players are Saying:

“very demanding, great greens”

“unbelievably pretty”

“Beautiful in every season”

Additional Ratings and Reviews:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/pula-golf-club/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: (+34) 971 817 034

Email: [email protected]

Tee times and Reservations: https://open.imaster.golf/en/pula?_ga=2.183222180.341350091.1580131950-1646275529.1580131950

#5 Golf Son Servera

Golf Son Servera Overview:

Players will find Golf Son Servera to offer a multitude of challenges ranging from undulating fairways and greens to a multitude of water hazards. Perhaps the most famous challenge of this course however is the narrow fairways lined with trees along holes 3 through 7. The course is said to be forgiving as well however with generous fairways and rough being kept at a length to not cause too much trouble. The course is a par 72 and men will find it to play 5,844M and ladies 4,937M.

Pricing:

Golfers will find the greens fees for 18 holes during the peak season to cost €102 for 18 holes and €58 for 9 holes. Greens fees in the offseason cost €75 and €49 for 18 and 9 holes respectively. Junior golfers under the age of 18 will find a significant discount on greens fees as well as additional discounts for bulk greens fees. Powered golf carts are available to rent at a rate of €41 for 18 holes and E-Trolleys at a rate of €18 for 18 holes.

What Players are Saying:

“well maintained, loved the holes 3-7”

“Familiar, varied the first 9 and the 2nd 9 play completely differently.”

“Ideal location, great fairways”

Additional Ratings and Reviews:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/golf-son-servera/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: (+34) 971 84 0096

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: https://www.golfsonservera.com/book-tee-times/

Additional Course Ratings and Reviews Across The World:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/region/

Categories
Europe

Golf In The Netherlands: The Best Values

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - JUNE 08: Floral vandals take to the streets of Amsterdam to mark the opening of botanically inspired Kimpton De Witt hotel on June 8, 2017 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Kimpton De Witt hotel)

The Netherlands, home of European Tour professional Joost Luiten, has no shortage of prized golfing destinations for both veteran and beginner players alike. There are 250 golf courses located in The Netherlands and there is bound to be a suitable option for everyone. The following list provides an insight into some of the country’s best value golf destinations based on player experiences in a variety of different categories.

Golf In The Netherlands: What courses offer the best value?

Planning a trip to Netherlands and want to play a round of golf without breaking the bank? There is no shortage of options in this beautiful Western European country when it comes to getting a good value for your money. Arriving in The Netherlands you will find the locals to be extremely welcoming and friendly and you can expect the golf courses to be no different. Below are the highest rated golf clubs in The Netherlands that provide a great value based on Golf Post user reviews who have played the courses.

The Courses:

#1. de Peelse Golf


de Peelse Golf Club Overview:

de Peelse Golf Club, a parkland style course founded in 1991 and located in Limburg, Netherlands is a par 72 course offering a terrific value for the money and includes numerous amenities such as free use of the driving range prior to play, putting and chipping practice areas, and a full restaurant and bar. Men will find the course to play 5879m with a course rating of 71.7 and a slope rating of 129. Women will find their tees playing at 4986m with a course rating of 72.4 and a slope rating of 132.

Pricing:

As of 2019 the cost of play for 18 holes is €60 during peak season and €30 during the winter season. 9 holes will cost €40 and €20 respectively. Power golf carts are also available for an additional cost.

What Players Are Saying:

“Very varied landscape and many lakes”

“Great club terrace”

“An absolutely recommendable golf course, very close to Venlo.”

Additional Reviews and Ratings: https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/de-peelse-golf/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: +31 77 467 8030

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: http://www.depeelsegolf.nl

#2. Golfclub Roxenisse

Golf Club Roxenisse Overview:

“Golf Club Roxenisse Includes an 18-hole par 72, an 18-hole par-3 golf course and a lesson and practice area with a generous driving range, putting greens, chip and pitch field and sand and grass bunkers. The golf course is open seven days a week and accessible to anyone with a GVB or EGA handicap.” (Per https://www.catharinenburg.nl/golfclub-roxenisse-melissant/)

Driving range and other practice facilities are available for use by the general public and passes may be purchased at the automated vending machines.

Pricing:

Greens fees for Golf Club Roxenisse are currently €47.50 for 18 holes during weekdays and €55 for 18 holes during weekends and public holidays. Both power golf carts and push carts are available for rent for €6 and €15 respectively per person

What Players Are Saying:

“Welcoming Culture 5/5!”

“Lanscape 5/5!”

“Price Performance 5/5!”

Additional ratings and reviews: https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/golfclub-roxenisse/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: 0187 605060

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: No Reservations or Tee Times Permitted.

#3. De Texelse Golfclub


De Texelse Golfclub Overview:

“Golf Course De Texelse is an 18-hole par 72 golf course. A special golf course with dunes, very well-maintained fairways, water hazards and large, impeccable greens. The real challenge is at the 2nd nine, with a Scottish feel: great variety, plenty of undulations, deep (pot) bunkers, plenty of marram grass – of course – and super fast greens.” (Per texelse.com).

Men will find their tees playing 5787M while women will find their tees playing at 4976M.

For those looking for a quicker experience , De Texelse has a magnificent par-3 course that is sure to be fun for players of all levels.

Pricing:

Greens fees for De Texelse Golfclub are currently priced at €75 for 18 holes during the weekdays and €79.50 during the weekend. 9 holes will cost €42.50 during the weekdays and €47.50 during the weekend. The par 3 course is available to play during the week for €17.50 and €19.50 during the weekend. Push carts and powered golf carts are available to rent for an additional cost.

What Players Are Saying:

“Nice links style course!”

“Magnificent North Sea dunes!”

“Demanding and beautiful!”

Additional Ratings and Reviews: https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/de-texelse-golfclub/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: +31 (0)222 – 31 65 39

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: https://www.texelse.com/online-tee-booking

#4. Landgoed Bleijenbeek


Landgoed Bleijenbeek Overview:

“Located in the middle of the beautiful, peaceful and romantic Maasduinen National Park is the Landgoed Bleijenbeek. An estate and golf course where Limburgish hospitality is freely available for the entirety of the Netherlands, thanks to its central location in the northern region of Limburg.Landgoed Bleijenbeek opened in 2005, and offers you a unique golf experience where you can feel like you’re in a rich landscape with old tree lines, a babbling creek, and a wonderful historical castle ruins” (per bleijenbeek.nl)

Pricing:

Greens fees for Landgoed Bleijenbeek are currently €45 for 18 holes during the week and €52.50 during the weekend. Playing 9 holes will cost €29.50 during the week and €33 during the weekend. The par-3 course at Landgoed Bleijenbeek will cost €24.50 during the week and €28 during the weekend. All day access to the practice facilities costs €6. Push carts and powered golf carts are available to rent for an additional fee.

What Players Are Saying:

“great landscape, wide fairways!”


“Very long distances between the lanes but still pleasant!”

Additional Ratings and Reviews: https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/golfclub/golfplatz-landgoed-bleijenbeek/reviews/

Club Information:

Phone Number: +31 0485 530084

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: Please contact club for more information regarding tee times and reservations.

#5. Het Rijk van Nijmegen

Het Rijk van Nijmegen Overview:

Old avenues of trees, challenging waste areas and surprising blind holes determine the character of the 27 holes on the Groesbeek side of the course. The large differences in height offer a fantastic view up to Germany.

Pricing:

The current greens fees at Het Rijk van Nijmegen are €61 for 18 holes during the week and €73 for 18 holes during the weekend. Discounted rates are available for youth golfers and golfers holding a “golf circle card” will receive 20% off of their green fee.

Club Information:

Phone Number: +31  024-3976644

Email: [email protected]

Tee Times and Reservations: https://www.golfenophetrijk.nl/spelen/starttijd-reserveren.html

To explore additional player reviewed golf clubs in a wide variety of regions throughout Europe please visit:

https://www.golfpost.de/golfguide/region/