Category: Europe

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Europe Travel

Golf at its best in the Garden of England

Pot bunkers are a special challenge / Walmer Castle with its enchanting gardens (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Pot bunkers are a special challenge / Walmer Castle with its enchanting gardens (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Spoilt for choice

Of the more than 1,900 English golf courses, around one hundred are located in Kent, England’s oldest county. On our eight-day round trip by car, we get to know some of its exceptional courses, which completely captivate us.

Sandwich to start

From the harbour in Dunkerque in France, the quiet ferry ride across the English Channel takes two hours to reach Dover, whose white chalk cliffs shine in the sun.

Leuchtende Kreidefelsen bei Ankunft der Fähre in Dover (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Glowing chalk cliffs on arrival of the ferry in Dover (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

From here it is only 20 minutes to the dreamy village of Sandwich, which is the best-preserved medieval town with the most half-timbered houses in England.

Sandwich is still one of the original famous ‘Five Harbours’, although unlike the other four towns of Dover, Hastings, Hythe and Romney, it no longer has direct access to the sea.

The popular snack of the same name is said to owe its name to an ‘Earl of Sandwich’ who, due to time constraints, often refrained from taking a full lunch. Instead, he opted for a slice of beef between two slices of bread. Those who observed this then wanted the same as Sandwich. 

It is only a stone’s throw to the coast. Here, the three-star Lodge at Prince’s Golf Club awaits us, where we are greeted with a very warm welcome and spend the next four days. Situated at the entrance to the golf course, it has 34 double rooms and two suites. Our spacious, bright Bay Suite offers plenty of room and a great view through the floor-to-ceiling window of Sandwich Bay, which is within in easy reach.

The Lodge at Prince’s Golf Club an der Sandwich Bay (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
The Lodge at Prince’s Golf Club at Sandwich Bay (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

We enjoy breakfast in the Lodge’s Brasserie Restaurant as well as delicious fish and meat dishes for dinner and a nightcap in the cosy bar.

Himalayas, Dunes and Shore

The tradition-steeped club was officially opened in 1907 as an 18-hole course. After World War II, it was expanded to 27 holes in 1950. From The Lodge it is a short drive to the clubhouse where  the three loops start and end.

27 beeindruckende Löcher des Prince’s Golf Club (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
27 impressive holes (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

We encounter true links golf at its finest; a layout of impeccable quality with rolling fairways, deep rough, elevated tees, huge greens with incredible roll-out zones, large waste areas and a whopping 97 bunkers.

Its most famous is named after the legendary American Gene Sarazen, who in 1932, won the only Open Championship ever held here and was the first player to win all four majors. In that tournament, he used the sand wedge, which he invented, for the first time.

Ehrentafel im Clubhaus des Prince’s Golf Club (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Honours Board in the Prince’s clubhouse (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The bunker protects the green of the final hole of the Himalayas loop, which was redesigned into a modern links by the golf architectural firm Mackenzie & Ebert in 2018.

The Saranzen bunker on the 9th of the Himalayas (Photo Prince’s Golf Club)

The spectacular Dunes and Shore loops have also undergone redesigns in recent years. They form the Championship Course, which is one of the top one hundred 18-hole courses in Great Britain and Ireland.

In addition to numerous high-ranking amateur and professional tournaments, the Final Qualifying was played on this course for the fourth time in a row. This is where the last few places were awarded for The Open Championship, which just celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2022 at St Andrews in Scotland.

We encounter a friendly, relaxed sporting atmosphere and warm hospitality throughout the club.

Attractive stay, play and dine packages perfectly round off this great offering.

More great impressions at:

https://www.princesgolfclub.co.uk

A perfect deal

We play our next round at the Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club in the coastal town of Deal. It is located only six kilometres from Prince’s on a narrow piece of former farmland. Deal, as it is also called, is one of the most recognised courses in the country. The Private Members Club, founded in 1892, also boasts a rich tradition. Here, too, we receive an extremely friendly welcome.

The Open was held here twice, in 1909 and 1920. More were planned, but due to the World Wars and flooding of the course several scheduled were cancelled.

Running directly alongside the sea, the front nine leads away from the clubhouse one after the other, the back nine just as straight and parallel back to it.

Par 3 direkt vor dem English Chalet ( Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Tee shot with an amazing backdrop ( Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The fairways are short mown, hard as a board and not very wide. They roll through the open terrain with sandy waste areas making the round a breathtaking rollercoaster ride; constantly uphill and downhill. Sloping terrain is the rule whilst the rough is just as merciless as the countless deep pot bunkers.

The greens are extremely undulating, surrounded by huge run-off areas, furiously fast and almost impossible to read.


Hit and hope – incredible greens with perfect conditions (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger

In addition, there are numerous blind tee shots. All this makes the round a real test of golf, especially when the wind blows from the sea. Then the last seven holes are supposed to be brutally difficult but we are spared this experience because we catch a sunny and almost windless day, which is extremely rare here.

Gary Player describes the last four holes with: “I consider the last four holes at Deal to be without doubt, the finest four consecutive holes on any course in the world.” No wonder, then, that the course is currently ranked 12th in England and among the best 100 in the world.

Holes 16 and 17 (Photo Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club)

We enjoy the authentic links golf and are thrilled with the course all around; its layout and maintenance are world class.

The winners of professional and amateur tournaments held here adorn the numerous Honours Boards in the clubhouse dating back to the founding year. These include the annual The Halford Hewitt Cup, in which 10 players from each of 64 English public schools compete against each other. 

On the clubhouse terrace we enjoy a pint and the great view over the course.

Ursprung im Jahr 1892 - Clubhaus mit Stil und Tradition (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Origin in 1892 (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The official club video whets further appetite:
https://www.royalcinqueports.com/club/film/

In my recently released article “The cream of the crop” I report on the third coastal course we played, the Royal St. George’s Golf Club, which is considered the number one course in England. In it I describe, among other things, what its unique ‘Coffin’ bunker means.

Back to the Middle Ages 

The venerable Canterbury is a university city and an episcopal see. The beginning of its imposing cathedral with its 75 m high tower dates back to 597, when Pope Gregory I sent a monk to Canterbury to build a ‘cathedra’ (seat) here. Today it is the headquarters of the Anglican Communion, the Church of England. The murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170 made it one of Europe’s most famous pilgrimage sites. A lit candle in the cathedral commemorates the site of this assassination.

We also like the pretty medieval streets with their small shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the raft trip across the Stour, supposedly the cleanest river in England.

Bootstour auf dem Fluss Stour im historischen Canterbury (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Boat trip on the River Stour in historic Canterbury (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Also worthwhile from here is the short drive to the coastal towns of Margate, Broadstairs and Whitstable, the oyster centre on Kent’s north coast. Very delicious, what the sea brings to the plate here and a portion of the best fish ’n’ chips is a must, of course.

Seafood vom Feinsten in Whitstable (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Seafood at its best in Whitstable (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

We continue west to Royal Tunbridge Wells. This picturesque spa town was already held in high esteem by Queen Victoria. The Pantiles, the oldest pedestrianised street in England, has its origins in the early 17th century and some houses dating from 1606 are still standing today. It captivates us with its white colonnades and transports us to another time.

Antikmarkt im wunderschönen Tunbridge Wells (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Antique market in beautiful Tunbridge Wells (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Romantic gardens full of flowers

The most famous gardens in Kent are those of Sissinghurst Castle with its ten garden rooms. Not as crowded, but just as impressive, we find the Riverside Himalayas Garden and the Emmets Garden in Sevenoaks. Their variety and colourfulness are simply amazing.

Prachtvolle Anlagen im Emmets Garden in Sevenoaks (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Magnificent grounds in Emmets Garden in Sevenoaks (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Oh my deer

Right next door is Kent’s most beautiful inland course, which is one of the top 100 golf courses in England. Knole Park Golf Club is located in the 1,000 hectare public deer park of the same name. The club was founded in 1924 and designed by the architect J.F. Abercromby.

There are considerable differences in altitude to overcome on the hilly championship course, which is open to the public so pedestrians and joggers often cross the path.

Zahme Rehe im Knole Park Golf Club und die großzügig angelegten Fairways. (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Tame deer at Knole Park Golf Club and generously laid out fairways at Knole Park Golf Club (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The spacious, open layout delights us as much as its state of maintenance. Each hole has its own identity and remains in the memory and the course is sportingly demanding, yet fair.

The 17th century Knole House towers in the background.

Knole House am Rande des Knole Park Golf Clubs (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Knole House on the edge of Knole Park Golf Club (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

We receive a friendly welcome in the pro shop and the traditional clubhouse and are amazed by the Honours Boards with winners from about hundred years.

Clubhaus des Knole Park Golf Clubs (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Traditional Clubhouse of Knole Park Golf Club (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

A castle like in a picture book

We spend the last two days of our round trip in the ‘most beautiful castle in the world’. At least, that’s how the moated Leeds Castle with its magnificent gardens advertises itself. It is located near the small town of Lenham near Maidstone in the middle of Kent. We are also captivated by it.

Built more than 900 years ago, it first became a royal residence in 1278, and several English queens lived here, including Catherine of Aragon, the first of the six wives of Henry VIII, which is why it is also called the castle of women. Since 1976, it has been owned by a private foundation and is open to the public.

The round on the 9-hole course of the Leeds Castle Golf Club with great views of the castle grounds forms the sporting conclusion of our golf trip.

Nicht nur das Fairway im Blick (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Not only the fairway in view (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The crowning finale is dinner in the Castle Restaurant with a view of the castle opposite. The end of our Kent trip to this beautiful part of England could not be more stylish.

Leeds Castle - einfach nur traumhaft schön (Foto: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Leeds Castle – simply beautiful (Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger)

We will definitely be back to see the other great golf courses, dormy villages, castles and fruit, hop and wine growing that also characterise the county. Then we hope the weather will be as fantastic as it has been all the time during our visit. See you soon Kent.

Cologne, July 2022

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Europe

Madeira: Palheiro Golf Club – The funky course

Palheiro Golf Club on Madeira offers some stunning views across the ocean and the island. (Photo: Golf Post)

The first time you are amazed is before you have even really arrived at the Palheiro Golf Club. From a height of 500 metres, you look down steep cliffs in front of the clubhouse to Funchal, the capital of the Madeira archipelago. Behind the clubhouse, you are immediately amazed again, because the course goes steep uphill to the first green. There are a few surprises in the course of the round. The 18-hole course cannot be pigeonholed.

There are too many very different holes for that. The fairways are mostly relatively wide, but on some of them the landing zones from the tee are still very small due to the slopes. On others, you can only guess where to hit without knowing the course. Wooden stakes do help with orientation, but if you keep your ball within sight with an iron off the tee, you are certainly not at a disadvantage compared to driving into the unknown. At least not on the first round at Palheiro Golf Club.

Many different challenges

With improved course knowledge, you can approach the par-72 course quite differently. The first time, however, you need to make smart decisions. The length of the course is not a difficulty for any skill level. But those who miss fairways or greens will run into problems. This is not least due to the nature of the terrain. Cliffs, steep slopes and deep valleys are just waiting for a ball to miss the target – even if it is only half a metre.

However, the Cabell B. Robinson design is never unfair. Rather, the challenge is to adapt to the ever-changing challenges. On one of the high plateaus it can be very windy, on the next hole you need a good feeling for the length of your shots for the height difference between tee and green. In some other places, strategically placed trees form the biggest obstacle. Some greens are surrounded by bunkers. You never know exactly what’s coming next. But even on the greens you are not safe. Partially heavily ondulated and difficult to read, the putting surface sells for as much as the rest of the course.

At the moment, one still looks in vain for a driving range at the Palheiro Golf Club. While a short game training facility and practice greens are already in place, the range is still under construction. In general, a lot is happening at the club in the south of Madeira. All greens were renovated during the Corona pandemic. The first roughs have already been changed to a more water-efficient type of grass. More are to follow to make the entire club even more sustainable. However, irrigation is already done exclusively with rainwater.

Palheiro Golf Club (Photo: Azalea Group)

Unconventional and a dream for the eye

Unconventional is probably the simplest description of the Palheiro Golf Club. In positive terms, you could call it varied. Those who don’t enjoy it would probably criticise the lack of a clear line in the layout. However, no one will complain about the wide views over the sea that open up again and again. The fantastic view down to Funchal is also offered in several places on the course. Thanks to the subtropical vegetation, for which Madeira is famous, you get a real holiday feeling. But since everything here has its contrast, you also play your way past the island’s prison in the course of the round.

The topography of the course almost “screams” for a cart, but the terrain can also be mastered with a trolley. Only those who are absolutely physically fit should carry their bag. If you opt for a buggy (45 euros), this will spare your muscles, but you should keep your concentration on the sometimes rutted cart paths.

Palheiro Golf Club (Photo: Azalea Group)

One of the most beautiful spots in Madeira

On the club’s terrace, you can enjoy the excellent cuisine and the view over Funchal and the sea. Mediterranean dishes “with an oriental touch” are served by the neighbouring Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro, which runs the restaurant. Fish and seafood here are fresh and regional. Around a dozen desserts sweeten the memory, especially the Pastéis de Nata, for which Portugal is world-famous, should not be missed. The club terrace is definitely one of the most beautiful spots in Madeira.

The clubs terrace and its stunning view across Funchal. (Photo: Azalea Group)

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Europe Travel

Madeira: The flower island becomes a golf island

Madeira offers not only a variety of colours but also three very different golf clubs. (Photos: Azalea Group (left/bottom); Golf Post (right))
Many golfers know that a golfing paradise lies off the west coast of Africa. Too few, however, know that Madeira is one of them. The archipelago, which lies about 500 kilometres north of the Canary Islands, is only just learning to understand itself as a golf destination. Yet the autonomous region of Portugal has no need to hide at all. The climate is pleasant all year round (although it can be hot in summer), the vegetation is impressive and with three golf courses there is enough variety for a golf holiday. Especially as each of the three clubs has its own characteristics. There are also hotels to suit every taste and standard. Tourists of other sports have been here for many years. Bikers, surfers and hikers have long since discovered the main island of Madeira for themselves. On the golf courses, on the other hand, there are still many free tee times. This is probably one of the reasons why you play more relaxed rounds at Palheiro Golf Club, Santo da Serra Golf or Porto Santo Golf on the neighbouring island than further south.

Fulfil all five senses

In terms of landscape and vegetation, a comparison with the Spanish neighbours is also obvious. And here, only the northern half of Gran Canaria comes close. On Madeira, “something” is always in bloom; it’s no coincidence that it’s also called the flower island. The rugged volcanic rocks that stretch like fans from the centre of the island to the coast are also covered with lush green vegetation in many places on the southern slopes. While it often rains in the north, from which the south of the island also benefits in a sustainable way thanks to the irrigation canals, the weather situation on the two golf courses in the west is usually very stable.

Santo de Serra Golf – The sporting flagship

Santo da Serra Golf is located directly above the airport, which bears the name of the island’s most famous son – Christiano Ronaldo. The 27-hole course with over 80 years of tradition is the sporting flagship. Between 1993 and 2008 and later from 2012 to 2015, the Madeira Island Open on the European Tour took place here. It is not only the tour players who enjoy the spectacular panoramas of the green slopes opposite, across deep valleys and the views of the open sea at Santo de Serra Golf. Of course, given the topographical conditions, there are certain differences in altitude to be overcome on the course. At the Palheiro Golf Club, only a few kilometres away, the slopes are much steeper. The holes of the Santo de Serra Golf Club, on the other hand, are relatively level. The large, open clubhouse is a great place to enjoy traditional Portuguese and Madeiran food and drinks after your round.

Palheiro Golf Club – The Unconventional One

The clubhouse terrace of the Palheiro Golf Club is also an absolute must when on holiday in Madeira. It is located around 500 metres above the city of Funchal and offers an unobstructed view of it. On the unconventionally designed par 72 course, you also have a breathtaking view of the capital of the archipelago at some points. On the course, however, it’s better to concentrate on the essentials due to many blind shots and partly rutted cart paths. If you play carefully and precisely on the not too long course, you will have a lot of fun. Sometimes wide, sometimes narrow, challenging greens, large differences in elevation – you are constantly confronted with changing tasks.

Porto Santo Golf Course – “Seves” Legacy

The course on the neighbouring island of Porto Santo, designed by Severiano Ballesteros, is completely different. It is not situated on the slopes of the steep lava cliffs like the other two clubs, but at sea level at the foot of the surrounding mountains. The course stretches almost the entire length of the small island from the dunes in the south to the basalt cliffs in the north. Thus, the course also divides into very different halves. While the northern nine shows off the coastline and sea views, the southern loop of the Porto Santo Golf Club is reminiscent of American parkland golf. There are many water hazards in play here and long hitters usually have a considerable advantage. Porto Santo is wonderfully suited for a day trip. It takes only 20 minutes by plane from Madeira. But it’s also worth taking the ferry at least one way. A maritime dinner on the ship makes a wonderful end to the trip.

Hotels are ready for golfers

With the Madeira Golf Pass you can play three or five rounds on the three courses for a fixed price, which is much cheaper than booking a green fee each. The number of rounds you play on one of the courses is freely selectable. In the course of the expansion of golf tourism on Madeira, some hotels now also have a golf consierge available to assist with booking tee times and organising transfers. These hotels include the Galo Resort (5 stars), a spa and wellness hotel that claims to be climate neutral. The standard rooms are quite small, but the suites are all the larger. The location of the bar and restaurant, which are built directly on the steep cliffs, is outstanding. Here you can enjoy drinks and food with an unobstructed view of the ocean, whether indoors or on one of the terraces. The Galo Resort (Photo: Azalea Group)

Bright and colourful

Also right on the coast is the Melia Madeira Mare Resort (5 stars). Here, too, sea views are standard and the hotel is geared towards golfers. Even if the hotel has perhaps one star too many, you can spend relaxing hours here. In addition to golf, many holidaymakers oganise numerous other sporting activities. Both hotels are only about 15 minutes away from the island’s capital Funchal and thus invite you to make excursions to the coastal city. Besides the colourful flora, the brightly painted doors of many residential houses are a particular tourist magnet. One of the best places to get to know the extent of the island’s diverse vegetation is the Palheiro Garden, which borders directly on the golf course. The oldest trees have been here for almost 200 years. Thanks to the subtropical climate, there are different flowers to admire in every season. Palheiro Gardens (Photo: Azalea Group)
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Europe Travel

Golf courses in Gran Canaria – where tourists fully get their money’s worth

Golf in Gran Canaria is a mix of parkland golf inland and spectacular panoramas on the coast. (Photo: Golf Post)

Gran Canaria is not a privileged place, neither for “tourists on foot” nor for golfers. But although visitors to the Canary Islands flock to the beaches and bars, the third of the seven islets off the African coast guarantees a relaxing time. Gran Canaria seven golf courses have a lot to do with this great experience and are not to be missed, reason enough for an island getaway.

South Vs North environment

There are four golf courses in the south of the island, and three in the northeast. In the west of the island, which is sparsely populated and has so far seen little tourist traffic, golf courses are sought after in vain. In the south, Gran Canaria offers golf courses for party-goers (Playa del Inglés) as well as for visitors seeking tranquillity (Meloneras). Only a few kilometres of dunes separate both golf courses. These are mostly green oases in an arid landscape.

In the north, on the other hand, the land is much greener, which is due to the mountains in the middle of the island, which stop the rain when there is a constant wind from the north. At the same time, this makes the weather in the southern half more stable than in almost any other holiday destination, with pleasant temperatures.

Golf in the south of Gran Canaria

Lopesan Meloneras Golf

The 18-hole Lopesan Meloneras Golf course is not far from the tourist strongholds around Maspalomas. It offers peace and relaxation. While the first nine are inland and offer a view of the mountains in the centre of the island, the last nine take you directly along the sea for the most part.

The course condition is excellent, great to play in summer. Although the course is ready for the main season during the winter, the great care allows play at any time of the year. Large greens and wide fairways make the holiday round a pleasurable experience. Keeping your concentration on the second nine is the real difficulty due to the beautiful landscape and picturesque views.

From begining of October to end of April, Gran Canaria golf courses set their high season, and the 18-hole green fee costs 137 euros. In the low season (1 May – 30 September), the price drops to 80 euros. A cart costs 20 euros, but also has a GPS system on board that measures distances and explains the holes. The field is a leg-breaker due to the up and down hills all thoughout. Therefore, renting a cart is always a good choice.

Anfi Tauro Golf

Another highlight on Gran Canaria is Anfi Tauro Golf a little further west than Lopesan Meloneras Golf. Only opened in 2007, the par-72 course is the youngest on the island. It was designed by Hagge, Smelek and Baril, who were also responsible for the layout at Doral Country Club in Florida.

The maintenance in the hilly terrain matches the the spectacularity of the views of the sea. The holes have been integrated into the landscape. The green fee is between 80 (summer) and 120 euros (winter). However, you have to add the fees for a cart, because you don’t want to walk around this area – especially not on holiday.

Anfi Tauro Golf in Gran Canaria. (Photo: Twitter.com/@ZanardelliGolf)

Salobre Golf & Resort

Salobre Golf & Resort is home to two courses, the Old Course, which opened in 2000, and the New Course, added eight years later. The 36-hole course is the only one of its kind in Gran Canaria.

The Old Course is a par-71 that plays a little longer than the New Course as par-72, with a 400m difference. Like everywhere in the south of the island, the terrain is hilly and interspersed with ravines. This also makes Salobre Golf & Resort a holiday experience with lasting memories. The green fee ranges from 100 to 120 euros in winter, and in low season you have to shell out 56 to 67 euros.

The Salobre Golf&Resort at a glance. (Photo: Twitter.com/@SalobreGolfGC)

Maspalomas Golf

Maspalomas Golf is directly behind the aforementioned dune landscape that separates party people from those seeking relaxation. The surprisingly flat par-73 holes stretch over almost 6,400 metres. The layout is not particularly imaginative, the holes are wide and straight through the landscape, which is rather unspectacular here compared to other courses. For an 18-hole round, 109 to 118 euros are charged in the winter months, 65 euros in the low season.

Golf in the north of Gran Canaria

Real Club de Golf Las Palmas (Bandama Golf)

The Real Club de Golf Las Palmas is the oldest golf club in Spain and was founded in 1891. Unfortunately, you can feel this here and there in the rooms of the clubhouse, which are in need of an overhaul. The course is in a fantastic location – on a high plateau in front of Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria. At the same time, the location explains the lenght of the short par-71 course, less than 6,000 metres from the back tees. Guests are welcome from Monday to Friday, on weekends the course is reserved for members.

Real Club de Golf on Gran Canaria seen from Pico de Bandama. (Photo: Golf Post)

Las Palmeras Golf Club

The northernmost club on Gran Canaria is Las Palmeras Golf Club. Opened in 2006, the par-3 course is very short, with only two holes longer than 100 metres, but the course is definitely a challenge. Sloping fairways, deep bunkers and some water hazards make missed greens a real challenge. The fun, which is definitely conducive to iron play, costs 25 euros green fee per person, guaranteeing the sea view in some spots.

Las Palmeras Golf, the par-3 course in the north of Gran Canaria. (Photo: Twitter.com/@LP_GOLF)

The Golf Post recommendation

Basically, you can’t go wrong with the courses in the south. The favourites here are Lopesan Meloneras Golf, Anfi Tauro Golf and Salobre Golf & Resort. Although you have to dig deep into your pockets during the high season, many hotels offer packages with discounts on green fees. The courses in the north are a bit outdated, but they also offer what makes golf in Gran Canaria a highlight. That is of course picturesque panoramas and impressive nature.

Attractions and excursions on Gran Canaria
Along the coast

In addition to golfing, Gran Canaria offers many other activities. In the summer you can even witness dolphin species a few kilometres off the coast. During winter, the whales take over and also pass by the island. These can be observed excellently from large and small excursion boats.

The wild interior

The interior of the island is also a must. Whether on foot on hikes or in a rented convertible on lonely mountain roads, many picturesque mountain villages can be discovered in the mountains in the middle of Gran Canaria. The highest point on the island, the Pico da las Nieves, also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole island.

The south coast

Along the south coast, there are numerous villages directly by the sea. Despite numerous bed castles in the foothills of the mountain ranges, they have for the most part retained their own identity.

You can explore all or several of them along the coastal road GC-500. There, you can still find family-owned orchards with sun-drenched mangoes and other delicacies.

A must-see, of course, is the island’s capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Whether in the old town with its grand cathedral, on the beach or in the newer quarters. Here you will find something for everyone, from the art museum to the street food festival.

There is still one “insider tip”

The caves of Barranco de Guayadeque. In spectacular mountain scenery, you will find numerous caves here that were actually inhabited in the past. Today, some of them have been converted into restaurants and offer excellent food for little money away from the tourist crowds.

The Guayadeque Museum also provides information about the original way of life of the valley inhabitants. At the end of the valley, a fantastic view to the south awaits you.

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Europe Travel

Las Colinas receieves two prestigious accolades at the 2021 World Golf Awards

View of Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, in Alicante, Spain

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club continues to make a name for itself as one of the continent’s most sought-after golf destinations after being voted as ‘Spain’s Best Golf Course’ and ‘World’s Leading Golf & Villa Resort’ at the 2021 World Golf Awards.

Building on the recent success for Las Colinas at the World Travel Awards, this marks Las Colinas Golf & Country Club’s fifth successive year being nominated for the honour of ‘Spain’s Best Golf Course’ and their second win as ‘World’s Leading Golf & Villas Resort’.

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club’s latest successes at the World Golf Awards highlights their goal to offer the best service and amenities, so every guest can enjoy a unique golfing experience.

View from hole 18th at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, Alicante, Spain.

Las Colinas blows the candles wishing for more years of development.

As the Resort is celebrating its 10th anniversary, in 2021, Las Colinas has unveiled multiple new and improved five-star facilities this year, including an enhanced golf course, with an emphasis on sustainability.

Javier Rodriguez, head of operations, said: “We are very proud to receive this recognition once again, coinciding with the celebration of our 10th anniversary. It is truly an honour to receive this award, a symbol of the effort and hard work of each member of the Las Colinas team.”

The World Golf Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in golf tourism, world-class courses and golf destinations. Votes are made by professionals working within the golf travel and tourism industry and golf tourism consumers.

Chris Frost, vice president of the World Golf Awards, said: “Las Colinas Golf & Country Club has done an exceptional job of renovating their championship golf course this year and we feel it has really enhanced the golfers experience. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Las Colinas, to see the steps they have taken to improve their golf course and overall sustainability.”

Overview of Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, Alicante, Spain

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club Resort, Alicante, Spain

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club is regarded as one of Europe’s premier golf and real estate resorts where private homes and the 18-hole championship golf course blend harmoniously into natural surroundings, between rolling hills and the glittering Mediterranean Sea.

Designed by acclaimed American architect Cabell B. Robinson, Las Colinas’ 18-hole championship golf course offers wide fairways and extensive undulating greens, with the numerous tees at each hole giving the course great versatility.

Enjoying more than 300 days’ sunshine a year, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club is surrounded by a natural park of up to 10,000 hectares, only six kilometres from the coast. Along with these two awards as Spain’s Best Golf Course and World’s Leading Golf & Villas Resort, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club was crowned ‘Spain’s Leading Villa Resort’ and ‘Europe’s Leading Resort Villas’ at the 2021 World Travel Awards.

www.lascolinasgolf.com

Press Release on behalf of Las Colinas Golf & Country Club by Azalea

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Europe Highlights Tours

San Domenico Golf to host Senior Italian Open

(C) Jacob Sjöman. [email protected]

Press Release

San Domenico Golf, located in the Puglia region of Italy, will provide the setting for the Sergio Melpignano Senior Italian Open from November 3-5, 2021.

San Domenico Golf

The South East Italy venue will welcome the Legends Tour for its final stop on European soil before the MCB Tour Championship – Mauritius in December, as the inaugural Legends Tour season edges towards its conclusion.

San Domenico Golf is rich in history and has previously hosted the prestigious Challenge Tour Grand Final between 2005 and 2012. The course will be a true test for many with carefully positioned fairways containing centenary olive trees and glimpses of the ancient city of Egnathia, combined with strategically designed bunkers.

Bringing first-class golf to Puglia

The event will be played as a legacy to the late Sergio Melpignano, the driving force behind the development of the resort and through his visionary entrepreneurship and determination he inspiringly lived his lifelong dream of bringing first-class golf to Puglia.

A strong field is set to compete for the title in Puglia, including Costantino Rocca, the five-time European Tour winner and two-time Legends Tour winner. Rocca was the first Italian to compete in the Ryder Cup in 1993 and will be joined at San Domenico by two-time winner of the event Clark Dennis, of the United States, and Senior Major Champions Stephen Dodd and Roger Chapman.

England’s Barry Lane will tee it up as defending champion after triumphing in the most recent edition of the event in 2019 when he defeated Frenchman Marc Farry in a play-off, while 2005 U.S. Open Champion Michael Campbell will also travel to San Domenico.

Additionally, three-time European Tour winner Anders Hansen will make his Legends Tour debut at the Sergio Melpignano Senior Italian Open after turning 50 in 2020.

Legends Tour Chief Executive comments

Phil Harrison, Chief Executive of the Legends Tour, said: “San Domenico Golf is a truly stunning venue and fits perfectly with our ethos of visiting world class destinations and showcasing them to the world.

“We are all looking forward to visiting Puglia next month as we bring the European leg of our season to an end.”

The Senior Italian Open will take place with the support of DS Automobiles, Fideuram, Kappa and Eureco, Corriere dello Sport, Tuttosport, Il Giornale and Infront. Sport Senza Frontiere Onlus has also been integral in carrying out the goal of social inclusion through golf in Italy.

Press Release from the European Tour Communications

Categories
Europe Panorama Travel

Dundonald Links: Luxury Lodges complete latest phase of £25M investment in the cradle of golf, Scotland.

Dundonald Links Course, in Irvine, Scotland.

Dundonald Links has entered an exciting new era with the opening of 18 luxury lodges, the latest phase of a £25m investment transforming the esteemed Scottish venue into one of the UK’s most modern new golf resorts.

Investing in the full golfing experience, Dundonald Links is becoming the dreamt golf destination.

The collection of two, four and six-bedroom lodges opened to widespread acclaim in August and have been custom-designed with golfers in mind, with bag storage and drying areas, en-suite bathrooms, large living spaces and fully equipped kitchen and dining facilities.

Darwin Escapes has already invested £1m in upgrading Dundonald Links’ Kyle Phillips-designed 18-hole championship course, including the addition of a new halfway house, and more is set to follow this autumn with the imminent opening of a new clubhouse and 22 hotel rooms.

Ian Ferguson, club manager, said: “The opening of the new lodges is the start of an exciting new chapter for Dundonald Links, and we’re thrilled with the initial feedback that we have received from guests.

Dundonald Links meets every need for the golfers and their loved ones.

“It’s been wonderful to see all the investment plans come to fruition over the last year and even more is to come in the next few months. With the opening of the new clubhouse and hotel rooms, not only will the resort boast some of the finest golf accommodation facilities in the UK, but it will also become the perfect base for golfers and their families to experience everything that this famous part of Scotland has to offer.”

Golf influencer Peter Finch, who has more than 400,000 followers on YouTube and who recently stayed in the lodges, said: “The biggest compliment I could pay is that I would love to live there!”

Boasting a striking contemporary design, the new two-storey clubhouse will feature large balconies overlooking the course and panoramic views to the Isle of Arran. Facilities within the clubhouse will include a pro shop, restaurant, bar, whisky tasting room and outdoor dining terrace, as well as a gym, sauna, steam room and extensive changing facilities.

Set amongst the picturesque Ayrshire countryside, the clubhouse has been created from natural materials and finished with local whinstone and a grass roof. This not only helps it to blend seamlessly with the rugged landscape and surroundings but also reinforces Dundonald’s long-term commitment to sustainability, conservation and nature.

In addition, the resort is also set to cut the ribbon in the coming months on a range of new hotel rooms, which are situated beside the clubhouse for ease of access to the restaurant and club facilities.

Already a well-respected test for bucket-list golfers from across the world, Dundonald Links has hosted many major professional golf events since 2008 – including the Ladies’ Scottish Open in 2015, 2016 and 2017 and the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open in 2017.

The resort is one of three golf venues operated by Darwin Escapes, in addition to The Springs Resort & Golf Club in Oxfordshire and Kilnwick Percy in East Yorkshire. For more details and to book a golf break at Dundonald Links, please visit dundonaldlinks.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DundonaldLinks
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Instagram: www.instagram.com/dundonaldlinks
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYx8sB_G2kuwoFrRRTfEOvw?view_as=subscriber

Press Release by Azalea in behalf of Dundonald Links

Categories
Europe Travel

The World’s First International Olympic Academy Course with José María Olazábal

A Ryder Cup legend and captain of the victorious European team that won in such memorable fashion at Medinah in 2012, José María Olazábal has written his name into Ryder Cup folklore with his achievements over the last four decades.

Now a successful golf-course designer, the two-time Masters champion will unveil the first of two new 18-hole courses that he has created at Navarino Hills in Costa Navarino, Greece, this November with the launch of the world’s first International Olympic Academy Course.

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Here we have an exclusive interview with Olazábal discussing the Navarino Hills project and where his inspiration came from.

Q: When and how did your involvement in the Navarino Hills project come about?
José: I first came to Costa Navarino around six years ago when they were looking for a designer for the two new courses planned at Navarino Hills. My team and I all absolutely love the region here and we put in our very best effort to win the design job. Obviously, we were very happy when Achilles Constantakopoulos (chairman of Temes, the developers of Costa Navarino) chose us and we are working hard to repay his trust. 

Q: What were your impressions when you first saw the site?
José: Simply WOW. The property is spectacular, the views are breathtaking and the characteristics of the site are wonderful for golf. It surely ranks among the most beautiful properties we ever got the chance to work on. 

Q: What makes the landscape at Navarino Hills and Costa Navarino’s approach to developing golf courses so special?
José: The views are absolutely stunning, not just across the historic Bay of Navarino but also towards the mountains in the background. This sets the tone for the whole site and gives it a very strong character amidst the garrigue vegetation which is typical for the Mediterranean. Costa Navarino has found an absolute jewel with this property and they are trying to develop it sensibly with great focus on protecting the environment. I am delighted with their approach and we are trying to use all the latest modern techniques to contribute our share to the sustainability goals.

Q: Where did your inspiration for each course come from and have you tried to include any elements of your favourite courses in the world?
José: Well, I am privileged and have got to play many of the great golf courses around the world. Courses like Augusta, the Old Course, Valderrama, Loch Lomond and many others certainly leave an impression on you and influence you. I am a fan of the classics and am probably more of a traditionalist but, for the new designs we have undertaken, it is the land itself that gives you the inspiration. What is important is how the property sits in its surroundings, what features stands out and how we can model the golf course harmoniously into the terrain so that it feels like a natural fit.

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Q: What are the key characteristics of each course and what are the different challenges that golfers will face?
José: The International Olympic Academy Course has stunning views over Navarino Bay and is the longer and tougher of the two courses. It’s more compact and, in style, a bit posher than the Navarino Hills course. Navarino Hills has a more rural feel and takes you into the outback where you can enjoy a stroll in beautiful nature.

Q: Can you pick out a couple of holes on each course that you especially like and tell us a bit about them?
José: I think they all have their own little personality but, of course, a few will be talked about more than others. On the International Olympic Academy Course, the 12 th and 16 th holes are two beautiful but challenging par threes with great views over the bay where I am sure most golfers will stop to take a photo. Holes 10 and 15 will also get some attention. On the Navarino Hills course, I would say the sixth hole, a downhill par-five, stands out as well as the stretch from the 14th to the 17th.

Q: When the Navarino Hills project is completed, what will it do to elevate Costa Navarino’s status on the world stage as a golf destination?
José: Costa Navarino is already well known around the world but what the two new courses will do is to lift Costa Navarino from the status of a golf resort to being a full golf destination. With four golf courses, Costa Navarino will appeal to the global golf-travel market and I’m
sure will be successful in attracting many new guests.

Q: Why do you think Costa Navarino stands out as a golf destination?
José: We are spoiled as golfers because there are so many great places to go, but I have said it before and will be happy to repeat it: Costa Navarino is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. It is more than just the golf offering there, it is the whole experience that is exceptional – from the nature, the culture and the people with their amazing hospitality to the food, the beach and so many activities to choose from. Don’t be surprised if you see me at Costa Navarino from time to time in the future.

Q: How important is the issue of sustainability to you when building a golf course?
José: It is a must. There is no alternative and, luckily, the topic has arrived in society as one of the most pressing issues of our time and for generations to come. Golf is only a small piece of this, but we must contribute our share and do everything to be as conscious about
environmental, social and economic sustainability as we can. Costa Navarino is certainly a leader in this and I am proud to be a part of it.

Q: In your opinion, what are the qualities of a good golf course and the characteristics that make you want to play it again and again?
José: It does not matter whether the course is extra tough or easy or long or short, what is important is that golfers have a great time. For that to happen, I think the course has to be fair and also has to fit seamlessly into the surroundings so that it creates this special
ambience.

Interview transcript provided by The Azalea Group

Categories
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)