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Travel

A Colt-play Gala in the heart of the Netherlands

Imposing clubhouse of the Utrechtse Golfclub 'de Pan' (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Imposing clubhouse of the Utrechtse Golfclub 'de Pan' (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger takes a day trip to Utrecht, the capital of the smallest province of the same name, and gets to know the Utrechtse Golf Club de Pan, one of the leading golf courses in continental Europe.

Part of the Oude Negen


Every time I get to know another top course of our western neighbours, I am thrilled all over again. The number of exceptional golf courses is simply impressive. Those that belong to the group of the Oude Negen (Old Nine) are particularly appealing to me. This includes the course I am presenting today, where I encounter traditional old school golf at its finest.

Leading in the Netherlands and Europe

We have been looking forward a long time to play the Utrechtse de Pan golf course, which currently ranked second in the Netherlands. The club is equally proud of the fact that it also enjoys the highest international recognition. Not only does it rank among the top 3 in continental Europe,
but it is also represented in the top 100 of the world’s best courses. Three Dutch Opens have been held here. The last time, however, was in 1984.

It is the second oldest golf club in the Netherlands. The club’s origins date back to 1894, when it was founded as the Doornsche Golfclub with a nine-hole course. In 1927 the club moved to its present site, was renamed Utrechtse Golf Club de Pan and opened as an 18-hole course in 1932.

Its original design is due to the great Harry S. Colt, who also took on the design of several other top courses in the Netherlands in the early 20th century. The Englishman designed De Pan in 1929.

In the years that followed, some changes were made. In the last decade, however, these were gradually dismantled by the renowned golf course architect Frank Pont, so that the course is now almost back to its original state.
Guests are welcome to join the private Family Members Club on certain days. To get to know and appreciate the traditional setting on the historic grounds, a minimum HCP of 24 is required.
The club is not easy to find. You quickly drive past the small entrance sign. From the car park, a short path leads to the beautiful thatched clubhouse that crosses the 10th hole. Those standing at its elevated tee operate a switch that triggers a flashing light to warn people passing by.

In front of the clubhouse, we are greeted by the bronze statue of the Greek shepherd god Pan, gleaming in the sun, which was donated by members in 1994 on the occasion of the club’s 100th anniversary. He is said to haunt the Forest de Pan and trigger the famous pan-ic attacks in the
players. Fortunately, he spared us on our round.

The shepherd god Pan at the entrance to the course (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

We are warmly welcomed by Siemon, a member of the Course Committee. In the traditional and cosy clubhouse, he gives us background information about the club and the course. We learn that great importance is attached to environmental protection and that the club has decided, among other things, to use a maximum of 30,000 cubic metres of water per year to irrigate the course. Usually, however, only 12,000 – 14,000 are used. Only in the extremely dry year of 2018 24,000 cubic metres were needed.
We are greeted just as nicely by the friendly caddie master John, who kindly lets us onto the round.

Friendly welcome in the cosy clubhouse (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Complete tranquility in unspoilt nature

The slightly hilly, classic heathland course is located in the middle of the majestic de Pan forest. It is considered one of the most beautiful in the Netherlands. Its 18 holes are perfectly integrated into the peaceful nature. The masterful routing through the not too large terrain is exceptional and among the best created by Harry Colt. It is very pleasant that they and the tees are extremely close to each other and are only separated by short distances. Some tees are played from elevated tee boxes.

Tee times are spaced at a comfortable distance, so you’re alone on most holes and can’t see the rest.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see deer or foxes on the fairways, which are often intersected by the overgrown sand hills of the dunes, constantly coming into play as natural obstacles.

The fairways, which are not too wide, are lined with tall, old trees and roll over the sandy ground with a short mow. There are no water hazards here as well as not too many fairway bunkers. Greens come in all sizes. The perfect condition and the speed distinguish them all.

Precision before distance


The par 72 course has a length of 6,097 metres from the championship tees. There are a total of four different tee boxes, so that every HCP class has its own comparable challenge. From yellow it plays 5,716 metres, from red 4,935 metres long with an SR of 135 and 136 respectively.
Anyone who enjoys strategic play is in the right place here. It is not primarily distance that counts, but tactics and precision and the choice of the right club. Every single shot is a new challenge.
The varied round begins with a relatively short par 5, followed by a challenging par 4, whose attractive positioning of the bunker is already the first spoiler for many.

Inviting par 5 to start the round (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger )

After that, the first of four great par 3 awaits, to be played slightly downhill over the heath field through the aisle.

Hole Three: A par 3 with a length of 153 m from Yellow (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

From the sixth, the course really turns on. From here to the end of the round, it becomes clear why it is one of the best in the world of the golden age of golf architecture.

Hole six (HCP 1): Two blind shots and 391 m into the green (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Here, not only the tee shot is to be played blindly, but also the following approach into the green. The sign high in a tree is supposed to give orientation for the second shot. With luck, you will hit the green.
‚Belling‘ is highly encouraged. Already at the tee box of the sixth, you are kindly asked to inform the following group with three strokes on a bell when you have passed the knoll and that the fairway is clear.

‘Bellen’ is expressly desired (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

The tenth tee shot is played from the elevated tee carry over the aforementioned path and the long heather field.

Beautiful, but not for the faint-hearted – tee-off hole 10 (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

I manage a perfect drive to the point where the fairway narrows considerably on both sides due to the dune. From here it’s just a wedge into the green surrounded by imposing trees.

Approach into the well-protected green of the ten (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

The last three holes are then a bit more relaxed to play, as the course opens up wide from the 16th and the wide fairways allow for a good score.

A few steps lead up to the tee box on the 17th, where you have a great view over the heather field.

Hole 17: also a visual highlight – through the heath onto the elevated green (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

The finish on this fantastic golf course is a par 5. If the long hitters stay in play after the tee shot, they have the chance to reach the green with the second shot.

Straight back to the clubhouse (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

I don’t succeed, but I am happy about my par, which concludes an unforgettable round on a fan- tastically designed and well-maintained golf course. The trip to our neighbours has been worth it once again. We start our journey home very satisfied and with a distinct feeling of happiness.
Further impressions of this exceptional course can be found in the official club video at: https://ugc-depan.nl/en.

Text: Jürgen Linnenbürger

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Travel

A Golf & Wellness Oasis in southern Tuscany 

The harbour town of Porto Ercole in Italy. (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)
The harbour town of Porto Ercole in Italy. (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

It takes us less than two hours by rental car from Rome-Fiumicino airport to reach the five-star Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort. It is situated on a peninsula in the heart of the Maremma. This is the name of the coastal strip and its hinterland in southern Tuscany. In the past, the Maremma was a swampy area where malaria was prevalent. But this has long been a thing of the past. Just like the Etruscans, who were once at home here. Most of the Maremma lies in Grosseto, the second largest of the ten Tuscan provinces with its capital of the same name. This typically Tuscan region is not densely populated. Around 220,000 inhabitants live on an area of 4,500 square kilometres.

Argentario Golf Club (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger)

Stylish design in a natural setting. The modern designed, luxurious resort was opened in 2008. It is situated above a green valley, in the midst of the Mediterranean Maccia in a beautiful area. It is surrounded by cork oak forests and centuries-old olive trees. The resort has a magnificent view of the golf course, the lagoon of Orbetello, the silver coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea beyond and the hills of Monte Argentario.

18th green in front of the resort complex (Photo: Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort) 

The 73 rooms, the seven suites and the seven luxurious villas have been furnished with great attention to detail, combining comfort with the latest technology. All accommodation units have balconies or terraces of different sizes with beautiful views. Construction has begun on a further 20 rooms. The furnishings vary depending on the room type. From the functionally furnished standard double room to the elegant suite, there is something for every taste and budget. White walls contrast with dark brown wooden floors and furniture.

Impressive design throughout the resort. Exceptional design runs throughout the resort. Its contemporary style features a combination of retro and extravagant elements. Materials from the region are skilfully combined with modern ones. The most impressive example of this is the majestic entrance hall, designed in the shape of a dragonfly, where the intense blue of the sky falls through the oversized glass windows.

Imposing resort lobby (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

The black frames of the lift cladding contrast with the white wooden ceiling, the floor of sand- coloured Tabarca stones and the curved light wooden counters of the reception and the boutique. The entrance to the restaurants also attracts the eye. The wild boars found in this region greet the guests.

Entrance area to the restaurants (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

Wellness and well-being are a priority. The 2,700-square-metre ESPACE Wellness Centre has, among other things, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art technogym equipment, two saunas and a heated indoor saltwater pool with an exit to the outside. A second pool in the outdoor area offers the desired cooling in summer. At the ESPACE Wellness Centre, guests can discover various wellbeing services aimed at achieving an overall balanced  physical and mental state. Tennis and padel tennis courts are available, as well as a panoramic jogging course, a small football pitch and electric mountain bikes.

Indoor pool with view into the gym (Photo: Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort) 

Argentario Golf Club opened in 2006. The club’s course was designed by golf architect David Mezzacane and golf pro Baldovino Dassu. Adjustments were later made by Brian Jorgensen. Due to the prevailing microclimate, the course is playable year-round. Testament to the quality of the course, Argentario’s golf course was awarded PGA National Italy status by The PGA in 2019.

Challenging golf in charming surroundings. Precision is just as important as distance on the technically challenging par-71, 6,218-metre championship course. From yellow it is 5,895 metres long, from red 5,003 metres. After a soft start with a short par-4, we cross the hilltop and play the next two holes deep down into the valley. The views down to the sea and lagoon in the background are fantastic. First, we are impressed by a par-3, whose green is well guarded by seven bunkers. From the yellow tee it is 177 m downhill.

Magnificent view from the tee of the second hole (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

This is followed by the longest hole on the course. From the elevated tee box, you can let the driver run free into the fairway far below. The par-5, 573 metres long from the yellow tee, plays like a par-6. The frontal wind coming from the sea also contributes to this.

573 metres to the green of the three (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

The next holes then run level through the flat terrain. The fairways offer enough space to hit the ball, but the greens have their work cut out for them. They are not overly large, oftenundulated and well guarded by bunkers or water hazards.

Overview Front Nine (Photo: Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort) 

From the elevated terrace of the clubhouse, you have a great view of the ninth and the tenth hole, where water comes into play.

View of the nine (right) and ten from the clubhouse (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

The back nine is more open and wider than the front nine. It passes numerous olive trees and impressive, huge trees that attract our gaze on several holes.

Giant trees line the fairways (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

As is the case throughout the resort, sustainability is also a top priority on the golf course. Only organic products are used to maintain the course. For this, the club received the BioAgri Cert award. The seal of quality, which only a few clubs in Italy bear, stands for excellent water management, among other things. The rainwater coming from the mountains is collected in two cisterns in winter and thus ensures irrigation in the summer months.

The Bermuda grass of the fairways is still dormant in April. That’s why they still have quite a few brown spots when we visit. The greens, on the other hand, are already in top condition. The covered driving range is a real eye-catcher. In the academy, which is equipped with the latest technology, group and individual lessons are offered, sometimes by well-known professionals such as Emanuele Canonica.

Stylish driving range (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

When booking through the hotel, resort guests receive attractive green fee discounts on other courses in the region. These include the Ryder Cup course Marco Simone in Rome.

The palate is also pampered. We dine superbly in the cosy Clubhouse restaurant and on its terrace. The menu features tasty dishes of Maremma, Tuscan and Italian cuisine, using mainly products from the region. We were particularly taken with the tortelli with wild boar ragout and the fish and seafood platter. The Vermentino is an excellent accompaniment. The gourmet restaurant Dama Dama was still closed during our visit.

Cosy Clubhouse Restaurant (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

There is much to discover. To explore the charming region, we recommend a rental car. We didn’t see any taxis in any of the small towns. The towns of Porto Ercole and Orbetello with their sandy beaches Feniglia and Giannella are only a few kilometres away. Porto Ercole with its historic Hercules harbour, its four fortresses and its pretty old town should be included here, as well as the larger town of Porto Santo Stefano, where we let ourselves be spoilt with fresh fish and enjoy the evening atmosphere in the Trattoria Il Moletto right by the sea.

Evening atmosphere in Porto Santo Stefano (Photo: Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort) 

We also recommend a visit to the municipality of Capalbio, whose fortified settlement towers high above the sea. The tour of the city walls offers magnificent views over the entire region. In its winding alleys, a new surprise awaits around every corner.

Town fortress in Capalbio (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

Art lovers will not miss out either. The artist Niki de Saint Phalle, known for her voluptuous figures, has created an art garden with 22 sculptures up to 15 metres high depicting the cards of the Tarot. It is also located in the municipality of Capalbio. Here we are immersed in a world of our own with imaginative figures made of mirror mosaics, colourful ceramics and glass and are completely enthralled.

Tarot Garden by Niki de Saint Phalle (Photo: Jürgen Linnenbürger) 

Grazie mille to the entire team of the Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort and Golf Club for the friendly and perfect service at all times. We felt very much at home. Ciao et a presto!

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Travel

Navarino Hills: The new star in Greece’s golfing sky

On the left is the International Olympic Academy Golf Course. On the right is Jürgen Linnenbürger meeting José Mariá Olazábal in front of The Hills Course. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

Travel insider from our Golf Post Team Jürgen Linnenbürger visits the Greek golf destination Navarino Hills. This course in Greece was the World’s Best New Golf Development in 2020. The World Golf Awards recognized it as so as part of a press trip.

Here in Messinia on the Peloponnese, he meets the two-time Masters winner, multiple Ryder Cup participant and captain José María Olazábal, who is responsible for the design of the two new Greek courses of the Navarino Hills.

The early bird catches the worm

Azalea, the English sports marketing agency organising the trip, gave me a slot of about 20 minutes to conduct an exclusive interview with Spanish golf legend José María Olazábal. Ollie, as his friends call him, will be exclusively available at 8.15 a.m. sharp for my questions about the design of his two new signature golf courses.

The Spaniard was awarded the Golf World Award Golf Course Designer of the Year in 2020. He had already designed more than 20 courses with his team. These include the Olazábal Course in Mission Hills/China, as well as the Education City Golf Club in Doha/Qatar, which opened in 2020. This last one, by the way, immediately became the venue for a PGA European Tour event.

An unusual place for an interview

We did not conduct the interview in the hotel, but on the back seat of a spacious hotel limousine: corona-compliant with a mask, of course. The car takes us from the 5-star The Westin Resort Costa Navarino to the brand new Navarino Hills complex.

Interview at the Navarino Hills with the two-time Masters winner. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

Their two golf courses are The Hills Course and the International Olympic Academy Golf Course, which our group is already allowed to play exclusively in November, before its official opening in February 2022.

The Hills Course will also be completed by that time. Then the golf cloverleaf will be perfect with four signature courses located a maximum of 13 km apart.

Kalimera and Buenos dias

The welcome is warm and relaxed. The likeable Spaniard explains that one of the main challenges for him and his team was to integrate two different courses into the terrain, which is up to 250 metres high, hilly and extremely rocky.
But not only the two new courses should be different from each other. Their design should also stand out from that of the existing, approximately ten-year-old courses, The Dunes and The Bay.

An exceptional property in impressive nature

José has been enthusiastic about the magnificent site from the very beginning. He is very proud that he and his team have been awarded the contract to design the two courses by the owner of the Greek company Temes, which is responsible for the development of the Costa Navarino destination.

The 150-hectare site is one of the most spectacular and beautiful he has had the privilege of redesigning. The breathtaking views of the bay, the Ionian Sea and the impressive mountain backdrop shape its character just as much as the vegetation typical of the Mediterranean area with its shrubs up to two metres high.

José has paid special attention to integrating the pitches harmoniously into the existing environment, so that they have become a natural part of it.

Sustainability is a priority

Another challenge for Olazabal Design was to take the various aspects of sustainability into account as much as possible. Costa Navarino has set itself the goal of being a leader in this field and ensuring ecological, social and economic sustainability on a permanent basis.

In this way, both campsites can benefit sufficiently from the water that the surrounding mountains release. This water is stored in two large basins and is sufficient for year-round irrigation of the pitches. The irrigation systems are state of the art. An own photovoltaic system supplies the huge area with all its facilities with the necessary electricity.

Suitable for all HCP classes

Both courses show as resort courses. They are fair and are intended to convey enjoyment of the game without their guests having to forego the sporting excitement. Golfers should enjoy their game on the courses and finish their rounds with a satisfactory score.

Six different tees contribute to the fact that players of all handicap classes will feel comfortable.

José designed the Hills Course to be shorter and less demanding than the International Olympic Academy Course. With its narrower fairways, this is the more compact and difficult course of the two. The wind, which often comes from the coast and can blow from different directions, also contributes to this.

The designer has responded to this situation by making the greens larger than usual in order to offer more opportunities to play.

The International Olympic Academy Course. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

The Navarino Hills will have wider fairways and more bunkers, but they are deliberately designed not to be very deep.

Wide fairways characterise The Navarino Hills Course. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

It is more spacious and yet intimate. On the holes, you get the impression that you are alone on the course. You cannot see other holes.

At the highest point of the course is the clubhouse, which is currently under construction, as well as the spacious practice facilities of the International Olympic Academy.

The International Olympic Academy

Costa Navarino, in partnership with the International Olympic Academy and the Hellenic Olympic Committee, has opened the first golf course of the International Olympic Academy.

The partnership is guided by principles and values of the Olympic Idea and aims to promote Olympic education through a variety of activities at Costa Navarino. It plays a key role in the development of golf worldwide.

The Olympic Academy Course calls

After the interview, José and I head out for a round. Two of the most remarkable holes for him are two par-3s. The tees of the 12th and the 16th are almost adjacent, but run in opposite directions. While the twelve is heading for the mountains, the tee shot of the sixteen is to be played along the sea.

For José, it is 166 metres on the 16 from the whites. Playing together with a two-time Masters winner in one flight is and will probably remain a unique experience for me. Of course, he is on the green, not like me.

José María Olazábal teeing off on the 16th (Photo: Linnenbürger)

Tee box of the twelfth fairway. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

The par-72 course has a length of 6,351 metres from the championship tees. The fairways are lush green and pleasantly soft at this time of year. On the other hand, the greens are all the harder and arrow-fast. Although they are not overly ondulated, 3-putts are not uncommon for me. The maintenance is excellent.

Spectacular new hotels

Since my last visit in 2018, not only have the Navarino Hills courses developed, but construction has also begun to grow around. The boutique hotel The Navarino Bay Resort is located on The Bay Course, right on the seafront.

A particularly good view of the new high-end gem with its 99 suites and villas show from the high greens of its third course. The spectacular design captivates by the fact that the buildings are set directly into the curved slope and their roofs are completely greened.

An exclusive beach club, a spa and wellness area with a large indoor and outdoor pool, as well as bars, lounges and restaurants complete the offer.

View from The Bay Course to the new The Bay Resort. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

Not far away, a little world of its own is developing. The vibrant lifestyle resort The Waterfront will have 246 rooms, suites and bungalows right on the beach. This one also impresses with its modern design with lagoon pools, numerous shops and restaurants laid out around an agora (marketplace).

The Waterfront will open in summer 2022 and The Bay a year later.

A clubhouse in a class of its own

Opening in 2019, The Bay Course’s stylish clubhouse is also new to me. It is built according to principles of bioclimatic architecture in earth house style and surrounded by thousands of plants and trees. It is not only an architectural masterpiece from the outside.

The clubhouse of The Bay Course. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

Inside, it also impresses with its modern interior and views of the sea.

The clubhouse is also extremely attractively designed on the inside. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

On its terrace we enjoy the fantastic sunset and conclude the great golf day with an excellent menu.

Sunset at Navarino Bay. (Photo: Linnenbürger)

The goal formulated by the founder to develop Costa Navarino into a world-leading golf and sports destination, as well as a family destination, seems to be paying off. Tennis courts have already been built. Football pitches are to be added in the future.

Arrival via Kalamata or Athens

If you decide to stay in the low season, the route leads via Athens. The hotel shuttle takes a good three hours from the airport to The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and the Romanos a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino in Navarino Dunes. These were awarded European Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators in 2017.

Further awards are only a matter of time for me. I am convinced that after the opening of the new golf courses and hotels, numerous stars and awards will follow.

Categories
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.

Categories
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

Categories
Travel

Verdura Resort Unveils New-Look East Course reopens with a master redesign.

Verdura East Course, in Sicily, Italy

One of Europe’s top golfing destinations, Verdura Resort in Sicily, has returned to 45 holes with the reopening of the spectacular new-look East Course following a major redesign.

Globally acclaimed golf architect Kyle Phillips returned to the site of his original creation to upgrade the 18-hole championship layout and has spent the last three years reworking his magic at Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel. The much-anticipated revamped course was unveiled to the golfing world earlier this month.

The premium layout to all visitors

The extensive renovation has seen a number of new features added and modifications made to the routing of the East Course and the neighbouring West Course. The reordering of hole numbers has allowed for the restoration of former favourite holes and brings exciting new additions, while the planting of fescue grasses throughout the course gives the layout added definition.

Phillips said: “We have certainly made the most of the terrain available to us. The drama of the coastline has been improved and we’re proud of what has been achieved. It is new and fresh, the result is great and I think it will be really well received. It has definitely reached the level we were striving for.

“One of the big differences is with the routing. With the previous layout, you would cross the other course and they would weave through each other a little at times. Now they are more clearly defined.

“The course now starts near the practice range on an existing hole, has 14 new holes in between and then finishes on three existing holes back to the clubhouse. This will make the East Course a par-73 course and the West a par-70.

“They will both be good challenges. Naturally, with any new course, it takes time to take shape and we’re expecting it to continually improve throughout the winter months so that golfers will enjoy even better playing conditions in 2022.”

How the new East Course brings joy to the community.

The reopening of the new East Course adds to the extensive selection of exceptional facilities available at Verdura Resort. Home of the European Tour’s Rocco Forte Sicilian Open, Verdura is nestled in 230 hectares of stunning Mediterranean landscape on Sicily’s southern coast. The courses and facilities combined have established Verdura as one of the world’s elite golf and lifestyle destinations.

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. Verdura Resort was recently named as a recipient of Golf Digest magazine’s coveted ‘2021 Editors’ Choice Award for the Best Resorts in Continental Europe’ for the sixth successive year.

Press Release by The Azalea Gropu

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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Press Release by Azalea in behalf of Dundonald Links

Categories
Travel

Top 5 Golf Courses in Mallorca

Golfing on the Balearic island is possible almost all year round and the perfect escape from a chilly Autumn. A must-see island with beautiful sunsets, Mallorca can boast itself as a premiere golf destination. For golfers who are looking to enjoy a complete golf holiday in Mallorca check out the top 5 places to tee off according to Golf Post.

Golf Son Termens: 5/5

Golf Post Overview:

Golf Son Termens is located only about 10 kilometers outside the island’s capital Palma de Mallorca. There, the 18-hole par 70 course with 5,313 meters and a slope of 135 stretches at the foot of the Tramuntana Mountains (World Heritage Site). Correspondingly hilly to steep, the 18 holes stretch along and into the mountains. The first 9 holes are quite close together, so be careful with the slices and hooks. Golf Son Termens is the highest situated golf course in Mallorca. It is especially recommended for very sporty golfers. To enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery it is recommended to rent a golf cart.

Arabella Golf Son Quint: 4.67/5

Golf Post Overview:

On January 9th, 2007 the Arabella Golf Son Quint made its grand opening and is therefore one of the newer courses of the Arabella Group. At 5,929 meters of yellow, par 72 and a slope of 136, it offers everything you would expect from a resort course, including the fact that some holes are quite close together. Son Quint does not have a driving range, so if you want to tee off beforehand, you’ll have to do so at the nearby Son Muntaner course. Despite that, it offers a modern clubhouse that meets all requirements regarding pro-shop, showers and restearaunts. The upscale clubhouse offers a resort style pool where you can cool off after your games.

T-Golf & Country Club Poniente 4.67/5

Golf Post Overview:

The T Golf & Country Club Poniente is a 72-par course and 6,426 meters long from the white tee – making it one of the longer courses on the island. Ladies may tee off here from a handicap of -36 and men from a handicap of -28. This course was constructed in 1978 by John Harris and integrated into the existing environment in a scenic way. One of the most beautiful clubhouses in Mallorca awaits the golfer with a fantastic view of the Tramuntana Mountains and the 15th hole, which runs slightly uphill in front of the clubhouse. The green fee for 18 holes at the Club de Golf Poniente is 90 euros. The course, which is particularly popular with Englishmen, is not too far from the stronghold of Magaluf in the Calvia region. Six lakes and numerous bunkers demand a precise game, especially on the back nine.

Golf Santa Ponsa I: 4.5/5

Golf Post Overview:

Golf Santa Ponsa I opened in 1977, becoming the first golf course in the municipality of Calvià and the second in Mallorca. It is the one of the 3 golf courses of the resort in Mallorca that is open to the public. The par 72 parkland course is 6,106 meters long with a slope of 123, and the par 5 10th hole measures an impressive 560 meters. Santa Ponsa I has hosted the Balearic Open six times, where the greats of international golf have played, such as Ballesteros, Olazabal, Langer, Jimenez, Parnevik, Westwood, Montgomerie, Woosnam and Singh. As well as the course, the player has at his disposal some of the best facilities to improve his game with a driving range of 250 meters in length and 50 positions on grass (covered and open), chipping area and two putting greens.

Arabella Golf Son Vida: 4.5/5

Golf Post Overview

Arabella Golf Son Vida is not only the most traditional course in Mallorca, but also one of the most beautiful and challenging courses on the island. The course is part of the Arabella golf courses, which also include Arabella Golf Son Quint and Arabella Golf Son Muntaner. All three courses are located near the Arabella hotel complex and are particularly easy to reach from there. Arabella Golf Son Vida – Venue of the European Tour. Since its opening in 1964, the course has twice hosted a European Tour event. The golf legend Severiano Ballsteros won the Open Renault de Baleares here in 1990 and also the Briton Barry Lane brought home his fourth European Tour victory in 1994 at the in the meantime renamed Turespana Open de Baleares.

Son Vida is the only golf club on the island that has ever been selected as a venue for the European Tour. No wonder, because the course is considered particularly difficult. It demands an intelligent game strategy from the players due to the technical design of the course, the fast greens and the constant obstacles. A special treat before finishing each round is the 18th, a par-5 where the second shot goes over water.

Categories
Travel

Aroeira Golf Resort: An Elevating Experience

A view of the Aroeira Pines Classic

ORIZONTE NEW INVESTMENT ELEVATES AROEIRA GOLFING EXPERIENCE

ORIZONTE – Lisbon Golf has taken its investment to new heights by unveiling an array of new facilities at Aroeira Golf Resort – a two-time host of the Portuguese Open.

Fresh from the rebranding this spring of its two 18-hole championship courses – Aroeira Pines Classic and Aroeira Challenge – Portugal’s leading golf management company has continued its spending by upgrading the golf leisure facilities at the resort.

Among the renovations made, the clubhouse for Aroeira Pines Classic, host venue of the 1996 and 1997 Portuguese Open, has been given a fresh new look with a modern contemporary décor inside and outside the restaurant, new kitchen facilities and refurbished changing rooms.

In addition, the resort’s swimming pool area has been refurbished with a new bar and décor while the Kids’ Club has also received a makeover, making it the ideal place for parents to leave their children while they’re playing golf or enjoying a relaxing meal in the clubhouse restaurant.

Nestled amid tranquil natural pine forest, Aroeira Golf Resort – 25km south of Lisbon – is rated among Europe’s top 50 golf resorts and has been dubbed the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ by many observers.

Among the many attractions on the stunning Aroeira estate is the Aroeira Lisbon Hotel. Providing the ultimate in chic modern design, the hotel includes 68 bedrooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa and a choice of five bars and restaurants, and offers easy access to the many golden sandy beaches in the Costa Azul region.

Alternatively, golfers can enjoy a staycation break in one of Aroeira’s choice of villas and apartments with stay-and-play packages, while a short drive from Aroeira, Ribagolfe boasts two of the finest layouts in the Lisbon region – Ribagolfe I and II.

As part of ORIZONTE’s golf maintenance programme, both courses were the subject of an upgrade at the start of the golf season while a new hotel partner for 2021, the Four Points by Sheraton Sesimbra, offers the ideal base to play the club known as the ‘Valderrama of Portugal’.

ORIZONTE provides golfers with the opportunity to play four of the leading courses in close proximity to Lisbon in the stunning Costa Azul, together with exceptional value for money on a wide range of accommodation options.

 For more details about ORIZONTE – Lisbon Golf and to book any of its golf packages, please email [email protected] or visit www.orizontegolf.com

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)