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.
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.”
The Marco Simone Golf & County Club in Rome, where the Ryder Cup will be held next year. (Photo: Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
Plenty of adrenalin early in the morning
Around eight o’clock in the morning, we start out of town in our rental car near the famous Villa Borghese. The extremely fast, offensive driving style of the Roman road users takes some getting used to for us, but after a short time it works fine. If you wait, you will not reach your destination in time. We get the impression that traffic signs and traffic lights are seen more as a recommendation. Unharmed and happy, we reach the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club on the north-eastern outskirts of the Italian metropolis a good half hour later.
Thumbs up (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Here in Guidonia Montecelio, the 44th edition of the Europe : USA golf competition will take place in September 2023, one year late. After 1997 in Valderrama and 2018 in Paris, it will be only the third Ryder Cup on continental European soil.
The biggest green skirt ever designed
World-renowned fashion and perfume designer Laura Biagiotti and her daughter Lavinia Biagiotti Cigna, thanks to the Italian Golf Federation, the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and to the support of national and local institutions, brought the Ryder Cup to her club in 2015, which she founded in 1971. Since her death in 2017, Lavinia Biagiotti Cigna has continued the project and now heads the club as President.
Lavinia quotes her mother as saying “My mother used to say this is the biggest green skirt I have ever designed”.
Originally designed by Jim Fazio, the course has been completely redesigned as of 2018. This task was successfully taken on by European Golf Design, together with Jim’s son Tom Fazio II.
On an area of 150 hectares, a par-72 stadium course has been created, which is perfectly integrated into the open, partly quite hilly terrain. It is a course designed not only for players but also for the up to fifty thousand spectators expected daily. On both sides of the fairways, the terrain often rises, so that from these elevated places, the game action can be followed not only on one fairway, but on several at once.
Plenty of space on the course (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
The paths are very well maintained and asphalted, the distances between greens and tees are pleasantly short. The course is fair and a pleasure to play. It is a real match play course and allows a good score for all HCP classes, provided you hit the right spots on the greens. If you do not, you get penalised.
The tee-offs are less challenging. But the ones into the green are, some of which can be hit blind.
We particularly like the two par-5s at the end of the front nine and the 16, a 322 m long par-4. For us, it is the most beautiful hole on the course. If you do not resist the temptation to attack the green with your steep descent tee shot here, you run the risk of experiencing your damp miracle. We are already curious to see how many balls will disappear here in 2023 during the Ryder Cup.
Fantastic 16th hole (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
Construction of the new driving range has already begun. The clubhouse will also be renovated before the Ryder Cup.
A successful creation
I take up Laura Biagiotti’s comparison of the course with a skirt and describe it as if it were such a garment: We really like the motifs on the green skirt. On its front, the 11th-century Marco Simone Castle, now Lavinia’s home, attracts our gaze. Also the astronomer Galileo Galilei used to live here.
Marco Simone Castle is omnipresent (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)
On the back of the skirt, the hill town of Sant’Angelo Romana catches the eye, as does Rome’s silhouette with St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance.
Cleverly placed are its 18 mostly not too big, wavy and smooth green buttons. Real eye-catchers are the four large blue dots of colour, two on each side, and the blue zips that snake over part of the back.
The skirt comes in two versions. We are introduced to the spring version, where the green fringes located on its sides are kept short and blend seamlessly into the colour of the skirt. In the autumn version, these are much longer and denser, so that it is easy to get caught in them. Their shiny golden-brown colour is the ideal contrast to the otherwise rich green and another visual highlight.
Golden-brown deep rough in autumn (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
The bright white linings of the numerous pockets are velvety soft. Their edges are perfectly finished. You can get out of them easily, even if they get wet. A special textile layer ensures that.
Perfect bunker conditions (Photo Marco Simone Golf & Country Club)
The smooth surface is very elastic and its material handles even large amounts of rain very well. There is nothing to complain about in terms of its high-quality workmanship. We particularly like the fact that great importance is attached to sustainability in its production.
The stylish unisex mini is available in four sizes for men and three for women. The XXL version is only 6.373 meters long. Usually it is not too tightly cut and offers plenty of freedom of movement in all variants. However, it can be made tighter for special occasions.
The brand and the high quality come at a price. For the use of the designer piece, one pays €180 on site. If you book online, you get a ten percent discount.
18th green in front of the clubhouse (Photo Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Sporty charming
With the 78th Italian Open being held in September 2021, the course has passed its sporting baptism of fire in the best possible way. The Dane Nicolai Hojgaard won with 13 under par and thus won his first tournament on today’s DP World Tour.
Stay and Play
Various hotels, including those outside Rome, offer attractive stay and play packages or green fee discounts. This also applies to the multiple award-winning, five-star Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort in Porto Ercole in the Maremma in southern Tuscany, where we will spend the next few days. I report on this in a separate article. Jürgen Linnenbürger April 2022
European Tour Destinations is delighted to announce that its two most northern venues in Finland and Estonia, Linna Golf and Estonian Golf & Country Club respectively, have extended their long-running affiliation with the network.
Located 100km from the Finnish capital Helsinki and ranked 60th in the Top 100 Resorts in Continental Europe in the recent Golf World rankings, Linna Golf is home to a spectacular 18-hole Championship golf course with a clubhouse, superb practice facilities and a host of other outdoor pursuits which can be enjoyed throughout the long summer days. There are three restaurants at the venue alongside the Vanajanlinna Hotel & Club Rooms, which offers atmospheric rooms in the main building and modern suites in the golf club area.
Esa Honkalehto, CEO of Linna Golf, said: “Linna Golf has been a member of the European Tour Destinations network since 2005 and renewing our partnership is testament to both the work they do and support they provide. As we enter another phase of our relationship, we look forward to continuing to grow Linna Golf and showcasing our venue on a global scale by being part of the European Tour family.”
Estonian Golf & Country Club is situated 25km from the capital Tallinn in a rural, coastal environment beside the Baltic Sea. Home to the 18-hole Championship centerpiece, the Sea course, and its sister, the 9-hole Stone course, the venue has been a constant in the European Tour Destinations network for over a decade.
Estonian Golf & Country Club, Estonia (Image: European Tour)
The Sea course meanders more than 7,000 yards through virgin forest which reaches out to the beach and along the Jägala River, while the Stone course lies on a limestone plain between junipers, restored stone fences and a protected national heritage site. During the winter season when the golf courses are closed, a 5.3km ski trail which weaves through the Sea course opens to guests.
There is also a variety of exclusive and distinct real estate opportunities available at the resort, with each development divided into ‘villages’, where a different architect has designed a unique property cluster.
Hanno Kross, CEO at Estonian Golf & Country Club, said: “For a young golfing nation like Estonia, we are very happy and proud to be part of the European Tour Destinations network. Estonian Golf & Country Club has hosted the World Cup qualifiers twice plus multiple individual and team European Championships, and working with the European Tour has given us the chance to get the knowledge and expertise required to achieve our goals.
“The new contract to extend our relationship is another great point in our 15-year history which allows us to continue our development and service delivery that we pride ourselves on in northern Europe.”
Ian Knox, Head of European Tour Destinations, said “We are delighted to start off 2021 with Linna Golf and Estonian Golf & Country Club both renewing their membership with European Tour Destinations. Having our two northern European venues extend their long association with us shows the value they place in affiliation with golf’s global brand and maintains the quality of the network. We look forward to supporting them achieve their goals in the years ahead.”
Many of us are looking forward to the prospect of travelling again this year (Image: Getty)
Enjoy savings of 21% on stays of two nights or more
After all the stresses of the Covid pandemic, who isn’t dreaming of their next summer holiday and Quinta do Lago is teeing up a treat for golfers and families in 2021, including savings of 21 per cent on breaks of two nights or more at the luxury Portuguese resort this year.
Europe’s premier golf, leisure and lifestyle family resort is offering an array of discounts when staying at its boutique The Magnolia Hotel over the coming months including Easter and summer, with reductions of more than a fifth on short-term stays.
Savings of up to 30 per cent on holidays of two weeks or more are also available while guests will have complete peace of mind when they book, with Quinta do Lago’s ‘Flexi-booking’ option offering guests the opportunity to change their booking to another date within a 12-month period without any charge.
Taking time out to relax in natural surroundings has never been more important following an extended period of lockdowns. Nestled within the privacy and security of the Algarve’s Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, Quinta do Lago is the ideal place to unwind, with its five-star facilities including three 18-hole championship golf courses, a premier sports hub, a golden sandy beach and a plethora of first-class bars and restaurants.
The resort’s relaxed vibe extends to its boutique Magnolia Hotel, with facilities including a saltwater pool, colourful restaurant and cocktail bar, cinema, gym and spa, plus a schedule of iconic poolside events to keep guests of all ages entertained.
Bed-and-breakfast breaks of two nights or more start from €77 per night for a double room while the resort’s extended holiday packages, which are perfect for families and are bookable throughout 2021 except July and August, cost from €68 per night staying in one of The Magnolia Hotel’s vintage-cabin style cottages.
A range of attractive three, five and seven-night golf stay-and-play packages are also available at the Magnolia Hotel, which also feature the resort’s ‘Flexi-booking’ option.
Located just 15 minutes away from Faro airport, Quinta do Lago is regarded as Europe’s premier golf and lifestyle resort and was one of the first to be awarded Clean & Safe approval by the Portugal Tourist Board after the Covid-19 lockdown.
The award-winning venue boasts a combination of world-class golf and lifestyle facilities and has invested a further €7m in a recent golf-course improvement programme, including a major overhaul of its famous South Course and the reopening of its main golf clubhouse following a modern and sophisticated makeover.
As well as three renowned golf courses – the North, South and Laranjal – and outstanding practice facilities, guests can stay in shape at The Campus, a world-class sports hub designed for professionals and amateurs alike to keep fit.
Complementing the facilities is a choice of 12 first-class bars and restaurants that deliver a range of delicious world cuisines, including the acclaimed Bovino Steakhouse and recently-opened Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, and accommodation at the boutique The Magnolia Hotel.
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 13: A general view of the 17th green is seen after the cancellation of the The PLAYERS Championship and consecutive PGA Tour events through April 5th,2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic as seen at The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass on March 13, 2020 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
With the Novel Coronavirus taking the world by storm, The United States included, many are left wondering what the current status of golf is. With nearly 5,000 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the USA and with schools, government subsidies, sports leagues and more shutting down nationwide the of access to golf courses might surprise some people.
Coronavirus in America: What are the options for playing a round of golf?
With nearly 5,000 confirmed cases of the novel Coronavirus in the United States across 49 of the 50 states and nation-wide closures of bars, restaurants, government buildings, parks and more, the majority of people would safely assume that there is no chance to get out for a round of golf. The answer is surprisingly quite the contrary, as the majority of golf courses in the United States remain open for public play despite the rapidly spreading Coronavirus. Adding to the surprising level of public golf courses remaining open is the recent suspension of PGA events for the foreseeable future including arguably the most popular of the year, The 2020 Masters Tournament. It is a logical question to ask oneself if the most popular professional golf event in the world has been canceled, why on earth would courses remain open for amateur golfers? The answer more than likely lies within the fact that professional golf events hosts thousands upon thousands of spectators whereas a personal round of golf is limited to extremely small group sizes. Perhaps the answer lies within the game of golf itself given that it is played outdoors on a massively scaled area of play with groups typically being a maximum of four players.
United States Forbidding Large Gatherings
The common theme in the United States currently is forbidding gatherings of more than 50 people, especially in indoor close contact settings such as bars and restaurants, quite the opposite of a large outdoor area where only four people will come into contact with each other. It is important to note however that despite the majority of courses remaining open, government officials are still urging individuals to withhold from playing golf despite the lower risk. A main controversial topic surrounding the current status of golf courses across the country is the average age of the player. By now it has become common knowledge that the Coronavirus is much more of a danger to older individuals than younger individuals and as most people in the golf industry know, the age of the average golfer is typically on the older side.
Golf Courses: Non-Essential Businesses
Golf courses fall under what the United States are calling “non-essential” businesses, simply meaning that they are not necessary for everyday life unlike hospitals, supermarkets, post offices and more. Having said that, the majority of states are only “calling” for the closure of golf courses rather than strictly enforcing it, essentially meaning that it is the recommendation of the government to close but it is ultimately up to the individual course to make the final decision. Municipal golf courses in states such as Pennsylvania and California remain open with many courses implementing special installments to slow the spread of the virus. For example, golfers are allowed to play the 12 municipal golf courses throughout Los Angeles with the ability to ride solo in carts without an additional fee. Additionally, workers have installed barriers up to six-feet in order to minimize contact among players.
While the health and safety of citizens is paramount to playing a round of golf, some individuals who can’t help but want to play a round of golf are not so lucky in states such as Michigan. The governor of Michigan has since signed an executive order placing restrictions on “places of public accommodation” that applies to golf courses and country clubs alike.
Most Notable Club Closures
Perhaps the
most notable closing of all golf clubs in the United States is the closing of
Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia in which chairman Fred Ridley sent a
notice to members yesterday announcing the closure of the club. The average
golfer must take this news with a grain of salt however since most know the
extreme difficulty of getting the opportunity to play the most elusive club in
the world. On the other side of the situation, the TPC network of golf clubs
across the country, including TPC Sawgrass, will remain open and continue
normal operations.
Please remember when making the decision to play golf or not that the health and safety of yourself and your family are much more important than playing golf. The golf courses will not go anywhere anytime soon and it is not worth it to put yourself and others at risk. Please follow the advisories of your local and state governments in regards to the best practices.
Continued Coronavirus Updates
Live updates regarding the Coronavirus worldwide can be found via the World Health Organization updates page here.
Pigeons fly in front of the Eiffel Tower on January 28, 2020, in Paris (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / AFP) (Photo by LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images)
Planning on taking a golf vacation to France or maybe have a free day during a business trip and want to sneak in a round of golf? If so, then this guide is for you.
France is home to more 600 golf clubs so there is undoubtedly the perfect course suited for each individual. Golf in France has no shortage of claim to fame as well given it’s hosting of the 2018 Ryder Cup as well as the annual French Open European Tour event. Mild summers combined with a consistent cool ocean breeze make France a highly sought after golfing destination for all players.
The guide below is compiled of the 5 highest rated golf clubs in France based on Golf Post user reviews of a variety of factors including: course condition, value, food, drink, friendliness and more. Continue below to find the perfect destination during your stay in France!
The Courses
#1. Golf de Bitche
Golf de Bitche Overview
Golf de Bitche is a golf club located in Bitche, France and situated closely to the Germany-France border. The golf club offers 27 holes to play and is situated in a nature park, ensuring spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The club is considered to be of average difficulty mainly due to its hilly terrain and possible weather factors. Given that there are 27 holes available for play, players can play 3 different combinations of 18 holes which vary is distance and difficulty depending on the combination. Men will find their tees playing at 6169m for the longest combination and 5527m at the shortest combination. Likewise, women will find their shortest combination playing at 4473m and 4959m at the longest
Pricing
As of 2020 the greens fees for 18 holes at Golf de Bitche is 70,00€ during the week and 80,00€ during the weekend. Students and players under the age of 18 will find 18 holes to cost just 35,00€ during the week and 43,00€ during the weekend. Additional discounts are available for those making bulk tee times for groups of 10 or more players.
What the Community is Saying
“Fantastic surroundings and absolutely well maintained.”
“A very neat and demanding place”
“The overall package of the system is right, great weekend breaks. The place itself is very beautiful.”
“Super place maintenance and beautiful landscapes”
The Golf Club Opio Valbonne is a spectacular club situated along the southern coast of France and nestled closely to the France-Italy border. The club’s proximity to the ocean provides a mild summer experience with a consistent ocean breeze. The club offers 18 holes of play with 9 being of moderate difficult and 9 of a higher difficulty. The club is often characterized as being not flat but rather very hilly and and requires above average driving accuracy given the frequency of water hazards. Men will find their tees to play at 5738m while women will find their tees at 4974m. A large driving range, short game practice area, and a putting green are available for use prior to play.
Pricing
The current cost of 18 holes at Golf Club Opio Valbonne ranges between €50- €80 during both the week and weekend depending on which time of the day it is. Powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost as are club rentals and professional lessons.
What the Community is Saying
“At the foot of the volcanic mountain, in the forest. Simply wonderful to play there”
Golf de Saint Endréol describes their signature course, one of the most renowned in the entire country as “Set under the impressive Rocher de Roquebrune rock, which glows a flamboyant red at sunset, the course winds around the river and a series of water obstacles, among dry garrigue, veteran oaks and umbrella pines” (via www.st-endréol.com). The course is often described as “hilly but not overwhelmingly difficult” and is suitable for the average golfer. A key characteristic of this majestic course is its offering of a view of the Endre river from nearly every location. Men will find the course playing 6169m from their tees while women will find their tees playing 4613m.
Pricing
The current greens fees as of 2020 are 68.00€ for 18 holes in the offseason and 78.00€ during the peak season for 18 holes. Playing 9 holes will cost 42.00€ in the offseason and 49.00€ during the peak season. Powered golf carts and push trolleys are available for rent at an additional cost as well as practice balls for the driving range. Club rentals are additionally available as well.
What the Community is Saying
“Simply a place of superlatives. Pure untouched nature. You should definitely have played here”.
Located in Eastern France and situated close to the German border, Alsace Golf Links provides a links style golf experience for a fair price. The course provides spectacular views of the surrounding winery’s and vosges from nearly every location. Alsace Golf Links is flatter with less difficult terrain to navigate when compared to other typical French courses. A main feature of the course that poses the biggest challenge are it’s abundance of water hazards. Men will find their tees playing at 6433m while women will find their tees at 5077m.
Pricing
As of 2020 the cost of 18 holes during the week is 65€ and 9 holes during the week is 35€. 18 holes during the weekend will cost 75€ while 9 holes will cost 40€. Golf carts are available to rent for 35€ per person and manual push trolleys for 4€. A full driving range and practice facility is also available at an additional cost.
What the Community is Saying
“Left similar course far away from more. Great view of the Vosges. Because of the ground, it is especially good to play in winter and wet.”
“Great atmosphere and wonderful greens in the links design”
Built in 1993 by world-renowned architect Robert von Hagge and located on the southern coast of France, this championship golf course is one of the best the country has to offer. The course is characterized by many as being “technical” in difficulty but still offers a fun and relaxing experience for golfers of all levels of experience given its superb panoramic views from all over the course. The course has an abundance of water hazards coupled with a hilly terrain which could make this course difficult for some. Men will find their tees at Royal Mougins playing 5967m and women will find their tees situated at 5400m, all tees play to a par 71.
Pricing
As of the 2020 the price for non-members of Royal Mougins to play 18 holes is 200€ during the peak season and 145€ during the offseason. Club rentals are available from the pro shop and vary in price between 10€-50€. Golf carts are available for rent as well and are included in the price of the greens fees for non-members.
Golf de Strasbourg Illkirch is a parkland style golf course located in the north-west of France and close to the France-Germany border. The club was founded in 1934 which gives it the honor of being the oldest club in Alsace. Additionally the course is located only about 10km from both the Strasbourg cathedral and the airport. Although the course is relatively flat in terrain, there is an abundance of water hazards and trees along the course as well as bunker surrounded greens to make sure everyone plays their best golf. Men will find the course to play 5871m while women will find that the course plays at 4687m.
Pricing
As of the 2020 the greens frees for Golf de Strasbourg Illkirch the price for 18 holes during the weekdays is €40 while on the weekend this price is increased to €50. Golf clubs, golf carts, and trolleys are all available to rent at an additional cost from the pro-shop.
What the Community is Saying
“Great parkland course that can be reached from Germany in a few minutes. Very good condition and good value for money”
SAN ROQUE, SPAIN - AUGUST 07: Large industrial ships wait in the Straight of Gibraltar adjacent to the Rock of Gibraltar, with Moroccan mountains on the skyline, on August 7, 2013 in San Roque, Spain. David Cameron has spoken with his Spanish counterpart, Mariano Rajoy, and Mr Rajoy has offered to 'reduce measures' at the Gibraltar border. Tensions between the British and Spanish governments have been raised on issues surrounding the sovereignty of Gibraltar. An increase in Spanish border crossing checks between the Rock and mainland Spain, leading to lengthy queues, is widely considered to be a retaliatory move for the construction of an artificial reef in British waters, which it is claimed has had a negative impact on Spanish fishing vessels in the area. (Photo by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)
Spain, birthplace of PGA Tour professional and Master’s champion Sergio Garcia is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic golf courses the world has to offer. With nearly 400 courses located throughout Spain there is undoubtedly the perfect course for players of all skill levels. The list that follows provides a few of the most scenic and beautiful golf destinations Spain has to offer.
Golfing in Spain: Play with a view
Planning a vacation to Spain or traveling on a business trip and have a free day for a round of golf? If so, the list that follows is for you. Below we have compiled the top golf destinations in Spain based on Golf Post user reviews regarding the best scenery.
The Courses:
#1. Lopesan Meloneras Golf
Lopesan Meloneras Golf Overview:
The Lopesan Meloneras Golf Course is located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria situated along the Meloneras Bay. Golfers playing this magnificent course will experience views that view other golf courses can offer, both mountain views and ocean views. In fact, the course offers a perfect 50/50 split with 9 holes providing a mountainside view and 9 holes providing a seaside view. With four different tees offered, there is an appropriate length for every golfer. The opening hole of the course is said to be the easiest with the difficulty increasing each hole after, another unique attribute of this wonderful course. Lopesan Meloneras has a vast array of amenities including a driving range, short game area, putting area, club rental, professional instruction and more.
Pricing:
As of 2019 the price for 18 holes during the peak season is €124 and €81 for 9 holes. During the offseason 18 holes can be plaid for €70 and 9 holes for €45. The driving range can be accessed Monday-Sunday at a rate of €2 for 23 golfballs. Additional discounts are available for youth, senior, and twilight golfers. Powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost.
What Players Are Saying:
“The place is cool, close to the sea and the cliffs. That is why there are always spectacular views. “
“Well-kept place with spectacular holes on the cliffs with a view of the sea.”
Tee Times and Reservations: Please Email [email protected] for reservation requests
#2. Golf Costa Adeje
Golf Costa Adeje Overview:
The Champions course of Golf Costa Adeje in Spain contains some of the most unique features a golf course can offer offering both fun and difficult challenges. Prior to being constructed into a golf course, the original land here was previously a banana plantation in which course designer Jose Gancedo integrated directly into his plans. Players will find the fairways consisting of Paspalum while the greens of TifEagle, both of which allow the course to be irrigated with 100% recycled water. Players will find a slightly hilly terrain present here along with quick greens, especially when try. Men will find their tees playing at 6203M while Women will find their tees playing 5134M.
Pricing:
The current greens fees at Costa Adeje vary drastically between peak and off seasons with 18 holes in the winter months costing €105 and 9 holes costing €57. 18 holes in the summer months costs €62 while 9 holes will cost €35. Club rentals and powered golf carts are available for rent at an additional cost. Junior golfers ages 16 and under will also receive a reduced rate on greens frees.
What Players are Saying:
“Golf under palm trees and with a fantastic panorama at every hole, perfectly maintained course.”
“well maintained and a nice mix of heavy and simple holes”
With a wide variety of terrain including sloped fairways and semi-small greens, the Amarilla golf course is considered fun and challenging but not overwhelmingly difficult. Given that the course is located on a small island, players at the Amarilla Golf Club will find all 18 holes nestled closely to the Marina San Miguel. The par 4 5th hole is considered the crown jewell over the course as players must hit their drive over the ocean in order to reach the fairway. The course was opened in 1989 and only one year later was chosen to host the Open de Tenerife, an official European Tour event.
Pricing:
As of 2019, the greens fees at Amarilla Golf and Country club are currently set at €74 for 18 holes and €44 for 9 holes from April to October and €92 for 18 holes and €60 for 9 holes from November to March. Additional discounts are available for bulk greens fees as well as additional discounts for junior golfers. Powered golf carts and push carts are available for rent at an additional cost.
What Players are Saying:
“My favorite place, good links place and nice atmosphere”
Pula Golf Resort is an 18 hole course located on Son Servera, Islas Baleares in Spain. The course was officially opened in 1995 but has since been completely redesigned in 2004 by Spanish professional golfer Jose Maria Olazabal. Amateur players will find the course to play at par 72 at a length of 6,246M while professionals will find the course playing as a par 70. 14 of the 18 holes at Pula Golf Resort provide a view of the green from the tee box. Pula Golf has numerous amenities that include a multi-level driving range, multiple putting areas and multiple short game areas. The course is additionally home to European Tour events and celebrity invitationals.
Pricing:
Players visiting Pula Golf Resort will find the cost of 18 holes at €62 during the offseason and €84 during the peak season. Playing 9 holes in the offseason will cost €39 and 9 holes during the peak season will cost €49. Junior golfers under the age of 18 receive a 50% discount on greens fees. Power golf carts and trolleys are available for rent as well costing €40 and €15 respectively for 18 holes of play.
Players will find Golf Son Servera to offer a multitude of challenges ranging from undulating fairways and greens to a multitude of water hazards. Perhaps the most famous challenge of this course however is the narrow fairways lined with trees along holes 3 through 7. The course is said to be forgiving as well however with generous fairways and rough being kept at a length to not cause too much trouble. The course is a par 72 and men will find it to play 5,844M and ladies 4,937M.
Pricing:
Golfers will find the greens fees for 18 holes during the peak season to cost €102 for 18 holes and €58 for 9 holes. Greens fees in the offseason cost €75 and €49 for 18 and 9 holes respectively. Junior golfers under the age of 18 will find a significant discount on greens fees as well as additional discounts for bulk greens fees. Powered golf carts are available to rent at a rate of €41 for 18 holes and E-Trolleys at a rate of €18 for 18 holes.
What Players are Saying:
“well maintained, loved the holes 3-7”
“Familiar, varied the first 9 and the 2nd 9 play completely differently.”
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - JUNE 08: Floral vandals take to the streets of Amsterdam to mark the opening of botanically inspired Kimpton De Witt hotel on June 8, 2017 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Kimpton De Witt hotel)
The Netherlands, home of European Tour professional Joost Luiten, has no shortage of prized golfing destinations for both veteran and beginner players alike. There are 250 golf courses located in The Netherlands and there is bound to be a suitable option for everyone. The following list provides an insight into some of the country’s best value golf destinations based on player experiences in a variety of different categories.
Golf In The Netherlands: What courses offer the best value?
Planning a trip to Netherlands and want to play a round of golf without breaking the bank? There is no shortage of options in this beautiful Western European country when it comes to getting a good value for your money. Arriving in The Netherlands you will find the locals to be extremely welcoming and friendly and you can expect the golf courses to be no different. Below are the highest rated golf clubs in The Netherlands that provide a great value based on Golf Post user reviews who have played the courses.
The Courses:
#1. de Peelse Golf
de Peelse Golf Club Overview:
de Peelse Golf Club, a parkland style course founded in 1991 and located in Limburg, Netherlands is a par 72 course offering a terrific value for the money and includes numerous amenities such as free use of the driving range prior to play, putting and chipping practice areas, and a full restaurant and bar. Men will find the course to play 5879m with a course rating of 71.7 and a slope rating of 129. Women will find their tees playing at 4986m with a course rating of 72.4 and a slope rating of 132.
Pricing:
As of 2019 the cost of play for 18 holes is €60 during peak season and €30 during the winter season. 9 holes will cost €40 and €20 respectively. Power golf carts are also available for an additional cost.
What Players Are Saying:
“Very varied landscape and many lakes”
“Great club terrace”
“An absolutely recommendable golf course, very close to Venlo.”
“Golf Club Roxenisse Includes an 18-hole par 72, an 18-hole par-3 golf course and a lesson and practice area with a generous driving range, putting greens, chip and pitch field and sand and grass bunkers. The golf course is open seven days a week and accessible to anyone with a GVB or EGA handicap.” (Per https://www.catharinenburg.nl/golfclub-roxenisse-melissant/)
Driving range and other practice facilities are available for use by the general public and passes may be purchased at the automated vending machines.
Pricing:
Greens fees for Golf Club Roxenisse are currently €47.50 for 18 holes during weekdays and €55 for 18 holes during weekends and public holidays. Both power golf carts and push carts are available for rent for €6 and €15 respectively per person
Tee Times and Reservations: No Reservations or Tee Times Permitted.
#3. De Texelse Golfclub
De Texelse Golfclub Overview:
“Golf Course De Texelse is an 18-hole par 72 golf course. A special golf course with dunes, very well-maintained fairways, water hazards and large, impeccable greens. The real challenge is at the 2nd nine, with a Scottish feel: great variety, plenty of undulations, deep (pot) bunkers, plenty of marram grass – of course – and super fast greens.” (Per texelse.com).
Men will find their tees playing 5787M while women will find their tees playing at 4976M.
For those looking for a quicker experience , De Texelse has a magnificent par-3 course that is sure to be fun for players of all levels.
Pricing:
Greens fees for De Texelse Golfclub are currently priced at €75 for 18 holes during the weekdays and €79.50 during the weekend. 9 holes will cost €42.50 during the weekdays and €47.50 during the weekend. The par 3 course is available to play during the week for €17.50 and €19.50 during the weekend. Push carts and powered golf carts are available to rent for an additional cost.
“Located in the middle of the beautiful, peaceful and romantic Maasduinen National Park is the Landgoed Bleijenbeek. An estate and golf course where Limburgish hospitality is freely available for the entirety of the Netherlands, thanks to its central location in the northern region of Limburg.Landgoed Bleijenbeek opened in 2005, and offers you a unique golf experience where you can feel like you’re in a rich landscape with old tree lines, a babbling creek, and a wonderful historical castle ruins” (per bleijenbeek.nl)
Pricing:
Greens fees for Landgoed Bleijenbeek are currently €45 for 18 holes during the week and €52.50 during the weekend. Playing 9 holes will cost €29.50 during the week and €33 during the weekend. The par-3 course at Landgoed Bleijenbeek will cost €24.50 during the week and €28 during the weekend. All day access to the practice facilities costs €6. Push carts and powered golf carts are available to rent for an additional fee.
What Players Are Saying:
“great landscape, wide fairways!”
“Very long distances between the lanes but still pleasant!”
Tee Times and Reservations: Please contact club for more information regarding tee times and reservations.
#5. Het Rijk van Nijmegen
Het Rijk van Nijmegen Overview:
Old avenues of trees, challenging waste areas and surprising blind holes determine the character of the 27 holes on the Groesbeek side of the course. The large differences in height offer a fantastic view up to Germany.
Pricing:
The current greens fees at Het Rijk van Nijmegen are €61 for 18 holes during the week and €73 for 18 holes during the weekend. Discounted rates are available for youth golfers and golfers holding a “golf circle card” will receive 20% off of their green fee.
