Looking to head off the beaten fairways this winter in search of some sunshine, or are you in pursuit of the top golfing hotspots. Women & Golf is here to help.
Looking to head off the beaten fairways this winter in search of some sunshine, or are you in pursuit of the top golfing hotspots. Women & Golf is here to help with a winter golf destination guide.
Thailand
Thailand has some truly world-class golf courses. The country’s natural beauty makes for stunning tracks, be it ocean-side resort courses or mountainside retreats, and there’s an excellent selection in every region. Whilst the first golfing turf was only laid here in 1923 at Royal Hua Hin, there are now over 260 courses, including Siam Country Club, which is host to the Honda LPGA Thailand tournament, and the breathtaking Red Mountain, in Phuket. Despite a heavy flow of western traffic in recent years, the country has retained its culture and as a result there is an array of fantastic non-golfing activities to enjoy after a day on the course. Whereas in Spain or Portugal you might find yourself hanging around the clubhouse, in Thailand you’re more likely to be visiting a temple, enjoying a massage or visiting the eclectic markets, and that’s without mentioning the beaches!
The Algarve
Whilst it is certainly not off the beaten track, there's a reason why the Algrave retains its position as one of Europe's favourite golf destinations.
The Algarve has long been the favourite destination for British golfers seeking sunshine. It's little surprise. World class golf courses, stunning resorts, charming local towns and an enviable climate all make this sunny stretch of Portuguese coastline a must-visit for the golf lover.
The Algarve's highlight is undoubtedly Vilamoura, a small town which has been transformed into a golf hotspot. Amongst the array of top-class courses in and around the town, is Oceânico Victoria, which is set to host the Portugal Masters for the tenth time this October.
Meanwhile Quinta do Lago which is a mere stone's throw from the town and boasts three championship courses. Opened in 1972 and located just 15 minutes from Faro airport, the resort's stunning courses are matched by outstanding practice facilities including Europe’s only Paul McGinley Golf Academy.
As well as the golfing riches of Vilamoura, the Algarve also boasts other golfing gems like Monte Rei to the east and Penina to the west, while Amendoeira Golf Resort features two superb courses designed by six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo and the late Irish Ryder Cup legend Christy O’Connor Jnr.
Monterey, California
If you're looking for the golf experience of a lifetime then Monterey may be just what you're looking for. California weather coupled with world class golf courses makes for an incredible trip, although you may leave with your wallet felling substantially lighter. Pebble Beach is consistently voted as one of America's finest and comes with the history to match. The Robert Trent Jones Snr designed Spyglass Hill wows with its sea views, sand dunes and elevation changes, whilst Cypress Point is one of the all time great golf courses, although getting a tee time can prove tricky.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, and with a beautiful Mediterranean climate and fantastic beaches makes for a great golf destination.
There are eight courses on the island including Costa Adeje Golf Club which has been carved beautifully in the foothills of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, and offers fantastic views of the Adeje mountain range and the island of La Gomera. Its layout is demanding as well as interesting with unique lava-black bunkers and partially hidden dry-stone-walled terraces that cross many fairways.
In the heart of the main tourist area of Playa de las Americas and Los Christianos is Golf Las Americas, a course set within a natural, gently sloping amphitheatre with holes running between multiple lakes and lush vegetation.
Meanwhile Tenerife’s number one golf course and only links course, Buenavista, is a real treat. Designed by renowned golfer, Seve Ballesteros, the course is situated in the north of Tenerife between the Teno mountain and the Atlantic, and features a host of enticing elevated tee shots to wide fairways and true greens with clever undulations and hazard placements.
An all-year round warm weather (average 22° in winter) offers golf enthusiasts the perfect conditions for a round of golf and winter escape.
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