Capdepera Golf is located on the island of Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, Spain. The golf course is nestled in a scenic area that combines both mountainous terrain and beautiful landscapes, making it an exceptional place for golf enthusiasts.
Capdepera Golf offers a comprehensive experience that includes not just golf, but also food and wellness options. The venue is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of skill level. The slogan “Enjoy every shot!” highlights the course’s inclusive nature. A notable feature of the course is Hole 15, which is situated alone in the mountains, providing a serene and tranquil golf experience.
Great Grenfee Deals all Year Long
To cater to different types of golfers, Capdepera Golf provides various green fee packages. During the mid and high seasons, Early Bird green fees are available before 9:00 a.m., allowing golfers to start their day early on the course. Throughout the year, a package consisting of three individual green fees can be purchased and used within a span of 14 days.
Specifically for the summer months, Capdepera Golf offers a package that includes two green fees and a buggy for certain parts of the day. Additionally, players with handicaps ranging from 37 to 54 are welcomed in the afternoons after 14:30 during the high season. This approach ensures that even higher handicap players have the opportunity to enjoy the course during the less busy parts of the day.
The offerings at Capdepera Golf are tailored to provide a well-rounded golf experience with flexible options to suit varying preferences and schedules. The emphasis on inclusivity and flexibility seeks to make golfing at Capdepera Golf a pleasurable activity for everyone.
La Mer Course and club logo (Photos: Photos Le Touquet Golf Resort and Jürgen Linnenbürger)
Travel insider Juergen Linnenbuerger visits the Le Touquet Golf Resort in the elegant seaside resort of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage and enjoys its 45 holes as well as the delicacies that the sea has to offer on the French coastline.
Homage to the Changing Play of Colours
The Côte d’Opale stretches from Dunkerque in the north to the mouth of the river Somme in the south. It was given its name by the French painter Édouard Lévêque in 1911 as a tribute to its special light and changing play of colours. He was born in Le Touquet.
At the beginning of the 20th century, this city was already a popular destination for well-heeled guests from both sides of the English Channel. The attractive town has retained the charm of its beginnings to this day. Impressive villas line the streets surrounded by tall, old trees within a huge wooded area.
The Seaside Resort was extremely popular and developed splendidly. At the time, less than four hours from London and only three from Paris, the elegant seaside resort attracted well-heeled guests from both France and England. Nothing has changed to this day. However, journey times have become shorter. Its most famous residents include French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte. Their house Monéjan in Avenue Saint-Jean is constantly guarded by heavily armed police officers.
Thanks to Pierre de Coubertin
In 1903, the ‘Directeur des activités sportives’ of the seaside resort, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, had the idea of developing it into a sports paradise. He succeeded par excellence. His name is still present in many places in the seaside resort today. For example, the huge tennis court in the centre of the resort, which continues to host major international tournaments, is named after him.
Since 2020, the four-metre bronze statue Big Birdie has been enthroned on a hill in the middle of the ‘Rond Point des Sports’ roundabout in front of its entrance. It was created by the artist Alain Godon. It is a reinterpretation of the town’s landmark, which has been a small red golf caddy since 1925. The original carries a flag in its left hand and a golf bag on its back. The logo is omnipresent in the seaside resort. (see photo at the beginning of the article)
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: Big Birdie – an eye-catcher that cannot be overlooked
120-year history
In 1904, the British Prime Minister Lord Balfour opened La Fôret Course as the first of the three courses. The British played a major role in the seaside resort and the club from the very beginning. The course was designed by the recognised golf course architect Horace Hutchinson.
The Parkland Course was followed by the nine holes of the Le Manoir Course in 1910. The Open de France was held at La Fôret in 1914 and 1921. Its first winner was John-Douglas Edgar.
In 1928, construction began on the La Mer Course, which was built in the middle of the dunes behind the other two courses towards the sea. Just three years later, it was opened by the Prince of Wales. Harry S. Colt and Charles ‘Hugh’ Alison, two of the most renowned golf course architects of their time, took on its design. The Daily Mail honoured their work with ‘The new course has the most magnificent 18 holes a scratch golfer could ever find. Each of them is a masterpiece.’ At that time, Le Touquet, with its 45 holes, was one of the largest golf courses in the world. It hosted the French Open Championships in 1935 and 1939.
The courses and clubhouse, which were destroyed during the Second World War, were rebuilt and remodelled over the following decades. The La Mer Course was given its finishing touches by Frenchman Patrice Boissonnas and Dutchman Frank Pont, who meticulously restored the original Colt/Alison design as far as possible in 2017.
The last Open de France was held here in 1977. The winner was none other than the legendary Seve Ballesteros.
La Mer – the best links course in France
Although the 18-hole, par 71 La Mer course has no direct access to the sea, it is considered a links course. Its layout has everything that makes a typical links course. The varied holes are designed to be challenging. Experienced golfers will enjoy this course, whose hard fairways allow the balls to roll quickly over the sandy soil. This makes it ideal for playing all year round. Water and heat have little effect on it.
(Photo Le Touquet Golf Resort: A links course of its best)
It is less than ten minutes’ walk from the clubhouse across the Le Manoir Course. Those who prefer to drive there by car will find their own car park below a small, modest starter’s hut.
Initially, the course runs through the sandy terrain. This changes later, as there are several metres of elevation to overcome on the courses through the dunes. The caddies were not to be envied back then. Today, there are plenty of buggies available for those who prefer more comfort.
The course is also characterised by the strategically placed fairway and green bunkers, which are not filled with brightly shining quartz sand but with the natural sand of the dunes. Like the greens, they require a well- considered game. These are usually generously sized, undulating and fast. They often rise towards the back. If you leave your shots too short or don’t hit the undulating greens in the right place, the balls from their false fronts tend to run back again. The numerous bushes along the fairways and the rough add to the difficulty of the course.
Men tee off from the black (slope 138), white (134) or yellow (127) tees, ladies from the blue (128) or red tees (121). From the back tees, the course has a length of 6,368 metres.
It was voted France’s best links course in 2023 by top100golfcourses.com. It was ranked 12th in France and 59th in continental Europe.
The start is a moderate start par 5 laid out as a dogleg left.
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: Tee off at hole #1
One of my highlights follows on the second hole: It’s a par 3, which green is protected by a narrow ravine with dunes on both sides. (See photo above at the beginning of the article).
The other par 3s also have their charm. The signature hole #10, is an uphill hole over a ditch, 139 metres long, whose green is only partially visible. A bridge connects the tee to the green. The wind often blows head-on from the sea, making it difficult to choose the right club.
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: Path over the bridge to the green of #10
The 360-degree view from the Panorama View Point above the tee of the last fairway is impressive. A small sign points to it. From here, you have a magnificent view of the entire course as far as the sea visible in the distance.
Photos Juergen Linnenbuerger: Fantastic view of hole #17 and #18
Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky with the weather and were caught out by the odd rain shower. But this in no way detracted from our positive impression of this great course.
Le Forêt Course
The resort’s first course is a par 72 and lives up to its name. Its 18 holes run flat through 100 hectares of beautiful, dense pine, oak and willow forest around the clubhouse.
At 5,915 metres, it is shorter than its big brother. The fairways offer plenty of space, especially on the front nine. It lies in complete tranquillity and allows for a relaxed round. Men tee off from two different tees (slope 131/126), ladies from three tees (slope 125/125/122).
Photos Le Touquet Golf Resort (left) and Juergen Linnenbuerger: Impressive trees all round
Le Manoir Course
The 9-hole course is located between holes one, two, three and 18 of the Le Forêts Course. It has one par 5, five par 4 and three par 3 holes that lead through the mostly flat terrain. Men have 2,413 metres to overcome, ladies 2,130 metres. It rounds off the resort’s offering perfectly for golf beginners.
Practise facilities in abundance
The shipping and putting green is located directly in front of the clubhouse. The driving range can be reached via a short walk through the forest. Each of its covered boxes is equipped with a Trackman.
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: Perfectly equipped tee boxes
Pavilion-style clubhouse
The stylish clubhouse, built in 2017, is worth a visit in its own right. It impresses with its open, light-flooded design. On the spacious terrace of the ‘Le Spoon’ brasserie, we not only enjoy the delicious lunch menu, but also the views over the extensive, open grounds.
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: Modern designed clubhouse
The pro shop, the bar, its lounge area and the locker rooms are also extremely inviting. Numerous posters and photos are a reminder of the club’s long history.
Photos Juergen Linnenbuerger: Pro shop and bar
Le Manoir Hôtel
The 4-star boutique hotel is part of the Resonance Golf Collection and is located directly opposite the clubhouse, separated only by the Avenue du Golf. Its origins date back to 1911, when it was built as a family residence for one of the founders of Golf du Touquet.
Since 1950, the Anglo-Norman style building has served as a golf clubhouse. It was extensively renovated in 2017 without losing any of its original charm.
Photos Juergen Linnenbuerger: Cosy from the outside and inside
The 41 cosy, spacious rooms offer a choice of different categories. These range from the 24 square metre Classic Room to the 57 square metre Grande Suite. It has a spacious bar with lounge and a swimming pool. In the restaurant ‘La Table de Manoir’ we are spoilt with excellent French cuisine. Guests receive a 30% discount on green fees.
Photos Juergen Linnenbuerger: Harmony in turquoise and grey
British golfing groups come to the resort in large numbers, especially after the opening of the Eurotunnel. It is less than an hour from Calais to the first tee. German golfers are still in the minority, even though it only takes four hours e.g. from Cologne by car to get here.
Everything the sea has to offer
Le Touquet also offers the finest dining options. Oyster and shellfish lovers are spoilt for choice with a variety of restaurants offering these delicacies from the sea. These range from simple street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Photos Juergen Linnenbuerger: Fresh from the sea
In the popular restaurant PERARD, we meet a nice British couple who have made the short journey here through the Eurotunnel on their wedding day. There in the morning and back in the evening. The crustacean platter Le Plateau Prestige leaves nothing to be desired and is well worth the day trip. We chat about golf and enjoy the excellent seafood together: Á votre santé et bon appétit.
Photo Juergen Linnenbuerger: The eye eats with you
The Golf Club Le Fronde is situated in Avigliana, a town in the province of Turin, Italy. This club offers an inviting atmosphere for golfers of varying skill levels, welcoming everyone from handicap 0 to 36. Visitors are encouraged to experience the course, with an assurance of satisfaction from the provided services and surroundings.
Welcoming Atmosphere at Le Fronde
The Golf Club Le Fronde prioritizes the well-being of its guests. The club aims to make every player feel comfortable and attended to when they come to play. This focus is evident in the management’s efforts to provide a welcoming environment, catering to golfers of all handicap levels. This inclusive approach ensures that a broad range of players can enjoy the facilities and the game.
One notable aspect of the Golf Club Le Fronde is its location. Avigliana, nestled in the province of Turin, provides the setting for this golf course. Visitors to the club can enjoy the scenic views that the location offers. Although the specific details about the panorama are not provided, it is implied that the visual experience enhances the overall appeal of the club.
The club also emphasizes its culinary offerings. The on-site restaurant is mentioned as providing quality food, adding another layer of enjoyment to the visitors’ experience. This addition is particularly significant as it complements the golfing experience, making a visit to the Golf Club Le Fronde not just about the sport but about a holistic outing.
With a green fee of 50 euros per person, the Golf Club Le Fronde positions itself as an accessible option for golfers looking to enjoy their sport within a pleasant environment. This fee structure is another aspect that supports the club’s mission to provide a satisfying experience for its players. The cost is straightforward, promoting a transparent and accessible golfing option in the region.
Located in the picturesque region of Piedmont, Italy, the Golf Club Cherasco lies within the heart of the Langhe area. Known for its strategic position, the golf club serves as a prime destination for golfers seeking to experience the unique terrain and challenges presented by this historic region.
The Golf Club Cherasco caters to every type of golfer, providing an all-encompassing experience. The course is designed to ensure that the first stroke lands on the fairway, setting an early tone for the entire round. A notable feature is the second shot at the 13th hole, where a lake is positioned in front of the green, adding a layer of complexity and requiring precise execution from the players.
Accessible Greenfees and Memberships at GC Cherasco
Promotions related to memberships and the initiation of new players into golf are available at the Golf Club Cherasco. These offers are designed to make the sport more accessible and encourage participation among newcomers. However, specifics of these promotions were not provided in the information submitted.
In summary, the Golf Club Cherasco is strategically positioned in the Langhe area of Piedmont, Italy. The course layout is crafted to challenge golfers right from the opening shot, with particular emphasis on the memorable 13th hole featuring a lake before the green. Various promotions aim to attract new golfers and foster a broader interest in the sport.
Located in the Veneto region of Italy, the Golf Club Rovigo is situated in the city of Rovigo. The club is uniquely integrated into the local school system, providing a distinct opportunity for youth to engage with the sport from an early age. This integration aims to promote golf within the educational environment, encouraging students to try the sport through accessible practice facilities and incentives.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Golfers in Rovigo
The practice field at Golf Club Rovigo offers a green fee of €5, which includes free balls. This affordability is aimed at making golf accessible to a wider audience. The club provides free courses for students, fostering early interest and skill development in the sport. For adults, there is an option to take a five-lesson course for a fee of €100. This structured approach allows individuals to gain foundational skills under professional guidance.
In addition to its educational initiatives, the Golf Club Rovigo strives to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The club’s motto, “try golf and you won’t regret it,” highlights its commitment to providing a positive and encouraging environment for all participants. This is evident in its affordable pricing and its wide range of programs designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels.
Summary: Golf Club Rovigo, located in the Veneto region of Italy, emphasizes accessibility and education in promoting the sport. The practice field offers an economical green fee with complimentary balls, alongside free courses for students and reasonably priced lessons for adults. The club’s integration into local schools underscores its mission to nurture a lifelong interest in golf among young individuals.
Pra’ delle Torry Golf Caorle is located in Caorle, Italy. This golf course is situated by the sea and offers a unique experience for its visitors. The setting by the seaside provides opportunities for spectacular views and a distinctive atmosphere for golfers.
The golf course is designed with various features that cater to intermediate players. One of the notable elements is the Par 3 hole that offers a sea view. This hole provides a scenic backdrop, making it an attractive spot within the facility.
Panoramic View and Lake-Green Highlight
Additionally, Pra’ delle Torry Golf Caorle includes a Par 3 hole with a green located in the middle of a lake. This feature adds a level of challenge for players, requiring precise shots to ensure the ball reaches its target. It offers a unique golfing experience, blending water elements with the course design.
For those interested in visiting, the golf course provides weekly offers which can be accessed through their website. This allows potential visitors to find promotional deals and updates on available services. The course’s online presence ensures that information is readily available for those planning their visit.
In summary, Pra’ delle Torry Golf Caorle in Caorle, Italy, presents an appealing option for intermediate golfers with its seaside location and distinctive course features. The availability of weekly offers through their website adds convenience for visitors looking to plan their golfing experience.
Golf and music at Albret Golf Experience. (Source: Albret Golf Experience)
The Albret Golf Experience is located in Barbaste, France. Situated in the heart of the picturesque French countryside, this golf course offers an experience that harmonizes with the natural landscape. The golf course provides a warm welcome from its enthusiastic team.
The course is designed to be user-friendly, encouraging players to adopt a simple strategy: aim for the center of the greens. This advice is geared towards making the game accessible to golfers of all skill levels. The course features 18 holes, with a green fee of €40 for playing 18 holes after 4 p.m., which represents a good deal for late afternoon golfers. The Albret Golf Experience emphasizes a summer golfing atmosphere, suitable for all levels of players, and includes an academy for those looking to improve their skills.
Golf and Music at Albret Golf Experience
In addition to golf, the Albret Golf Experience hosts concerts on Friday evenings from the end of June to the end of August. This initiative adds a cultural dimension to the sporting environment, creating a unique blend of leisure and entertainment. These events are organized to enhance the overall experience for both players and visitors.
The Albret Golf Experience stands out not just for its golfing facilities but also for its commitment to creating a welcoming and engaging environment. The practice of hosting concerts exemplifies their dedication to providing more than just a standard golfing experience. Instead, they aim to cultivate a community atmosphere that appeals to a wider audience, including non-golfers who might enjoy the setting and events.
Antrim in Northern Ireland. (Source: instagram @massereenegc)
Massereene Golf Club is located in Antrim, Northern Ireland. Positioned near Lough Neagh, it offers a picturesque setting for golfers who appreciate both the sport and scenic landscapes. The course is also conveniently situated just ten minutes from Belfast International Airport, making it accessible to both local and international visitors.
The club is known for its well-maintained greens. Golfers often highlight the quality of the putting surfaces, which contribute significantly to the overall experience. The course features several par 3 holes, which are particularly noted for their challenging yet engaging design. Massereene Golf Club provides an enjoyable round for golfers of various skill levels.
Dream Destination for Gourmets and Golfers
Additionally, the club offers in-house gourmet catering services. This feature enhances the experience for those looking to combine their round of golf with high-quality dining. The availability of catering underscores the club’s commitment to providing a comprehensive experience for its members and guests.
In summary, Massereene Golf Club in Antrim, Northern Ireland, stands out for its location near Lough Neagh and its proximity to Belfast International Airport. The club is characterized by its well-maintained greens and the variety of par 3 holes. In-house gourmet catering further adds to the appeal, making it a well-rounded destination for golfing enthusiasts.
The 14th hole at Belas Clube de Campo Golf Course. (Source: Belas Clube de Campo Golf Course)
Belas Clube de Campo Golf Course is situated in Belas, a suburb in the Lisbon region of Portugal. This golf course is known for its greens and is often considered among the best in the Lisbon area.
Masters Flair at Belas Clube de Campo Golf Course
The course is particularly suitable for mid-handicap players who are advised not to take too many risks. Among its notable features is the 11th hole, a par 5 known as ‘Augusta,’ which was built in homage to the 13th hole of the famous Augusta National Golf Club, the venue of the US Masters Tournament. The 11th hole is on a slope of under 500 meters, where the wind usually aids play. It can be approached in two different manners – one can either hit a driver to the left of the dog-leg and then to the right to reach the green in two shots, avoiding a water obstacle in front of the green, or play it as a conventional par 5 with a short pitch for the third shot. In both scenarios, positioning the ball below the hole is advisable to ensure an uphill putt.
Belas Clube de Campo offers twilight green fees, which provide an opportunity for golfers to enjoy the course in the late afternoon at a reduced rate. This option might appeal to those who prefer playing in cooler conditions or have daytime commitments.
In summary, Belas Clube de Campo Golf Course combines challenging play with strategic elements, particularly evident in the design of the 11th hole. Its reputation for having some of the top greens in the Lisbon region makes it a notable destination for golf enthusiasts, especially those with a mid-handicap looking for a balanced mix of risk and reward in their game.
The beauty of Italy. (Source: Modena Golf and Country Club)
The Modena Golf & Country Club is situated in Colombaro di Formigine, within the Emilia Romagna region of Italy. This location provides an accessible yet serene setting for golf enthusiasts from various parts of the region and beyond.
The Modena Golf & Country Club offers a course suitable for every type of player, providing a versatile golfing experience. The design of the course is crafted to respect traditional golfing principles while accommodating diverse playing styles. This flexibility allows players to enjoy the course in various ways, enhancing their overall golfing experience.
Dynamic Golfing Environment at the Golf & Country Club Modena
Throughout the year, the Modena Golf & Country Club hosts a range of bargains and events, making it an attractive destination for both local and visiting golfers. These events cater to different player preferences and skill levels, ensuring that there is always something engaging happening at the club. The continuous array of activities and competitive opportunities contribute to the club’s dynamic golfing environment.
In summary, the Modena Golf & Country Club stands out for its inclusive course design and commitment to providing varied and extensive golfing experiences. Its location in Colombaro di Formigine, alongside a year-round schedule of events, reinforces its status as a notable golfing destination in the Emilia Romagna region.
