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ISSUE 2
SOUTH AFRICA Golf on the wildside 30 Page Special Feature In association with
UNITED KINGDOM
MALLORCA & BULGARIA
FRANCE & SPAIN
LINKS GOLF AT ITS BEST
GOLF AND FINE DINING
SAVE 10% WITH BRITTANY FERRIES
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golf holiday experts for 23 years www.chakatravel.com
MAURITIUS
from £2,295 PP
5* Constance Belle Mare Plage
5* Sanctuary Cap Cana
12 nights Half Board
Incl. flights & transfers. Golf approx £13 per round All inclusive supplement from £900 pp with golf buggy
SOUTH AFRICA
from £2,295 PP Fancourt & Capetown Classic Garden Route 10 nights Bed & Breakfast with 6 rounds of golf on 6 courses Incl. flights, transfers & hire car
THAILAND
from £2,395 PP
Bangkok & Hua Hin
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
14 nights Bed & Breakfast with 5 rounds of golf Incl. flights, transfers & caddie included per round
from £2,995 PP
7 nights All Inclusive 4 rounds of golf on 4 courses incl. Teeth Of The Dog Incl. flights, transfers, complementary tour & golf cart
ITALY
from £1,395 PP
4* Golf & Gastronomy in Emilia Romagna
7 nights Bed & Breakfast with 5 rounds of golf on 5 courses Incl. business class flights, car hire, spa & wine tasting
BRAZIL
from £3,150 PP
Rio, São Paulo & Iguaçu Falls
12 nights with 6 rounds golf (10 B&B, 2 nights Half Board) Incl. flights, transfers & 2 sightseeing tours
ESCORTED GOLF TOURS FUN & SOCIAL TOURS | GOLFERS & NON-GOLFERS
Join us on one of our popular escorted tours. Suitable for golfers and non-golfers alike, our PGA pro Jacques Gous will be your guide throughout also giving one to one golf tuition.
South Africa, Mauritius, Bulgaria, Italy Brazil...
TO SEE OUR RANGE OF GOLF HOLIDAYS, ESCORTED TOURS AND GOLF TOURNAMENTS VISIT OUR WEBSITE
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ISSUE 2
Welcome . . .
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to the second issue of Exclusive Golf and Travel – your onestop guide to the best golfing destinations around the world and packed with ideas for your next golfing getaway, no matter what your budget. We have been overwhelmed with the positive comments from golfers and golf business from our launch in November. If you are after ideas for your golfing break in the UK, in Europe or much further afield, then Exclusive Golf and Travel has everything you need to make your trip a memorable one. In this issue we include an extensive feature on South Africa. Along with our friends at Chaka Travel we have produced a special supplment to focus on some of the very best golf destinations South Africa has to offer and packages to make your dream golf trip a reality. We also have plenty of news and featres from the UK, Europe and around the world Why not sign up to receive our monthly email promotions with the latest golf holiday offers and features from us and our partners. Enjoy the read! SIGN UP TO RECEIVE LATEST PROMOTIONS AND OFFERS DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX
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CONTENTS CLICK ON PANELS TO GO DIRECT TO PAGES
14 ATLANTIC LINKS SOUTH WEST UK
Six Championship courses you must play
BELEARIC IN A 16 GOLF BALKAN SORT OF WAY SPAIN & BULGARIA
18 QUNITA DO LAGO 24 SPAIN & BULGARIA
10% OFF EARLY BOOKING OFFER WITH
BRITTANY FERRIES 4
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20 MINTHIS RESORT CYPRUS
28 SOUTH AFRICA
Your 30 page guide to some of the countries best golf destinations See Page ??
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POLAND
10 YEARS ON & GOING STRONG
M
odry Las Golf Club rounded off an impressive recordbreaking 2018 season that has laid the groundwork for a special year in 2019. With bookings up and new facilities taking shape, the Gary Player-designed course will celebrate its 10th anniversary in style when it opens its impressive clubhouse in the summer. The Polish resort, which was officially opened by Player in 2009, has collected a host of international awards during its first decade in operation. Now in its ninth year, Poland’s only signature course recorded a 20% increase in associated
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accommodation bookings and a similar hike in stayand-play packages. The record tally has been attributed to a number of operational improvements made at the resort along with a glorious Polish summer which escaped the excessive heat experienced elsewhere and led to the fantastic conditioning of both courses. Understandably proud of the strides made at the West Pomerania resort, Cahirman Arthur Gromadzki admitted he was also excited about what happens next. “There is a buzz about the place, and that is extremely
satisfying given there was nothing here 10 years ago, apart from an expansive forest and secluded lakes. But this is only the start of our journey,” he said. “As well as recording some of the best figures ever, we have also been working behind the scenes to complete our new, purposebuilt clubhouse which measures over 2,000m2. This will be a great addition to the resort and will provide incredible views over Modry Las.” The new clubhouse has been designed by a consortium of globally recognised architects from Poland, Switzerland, South Africa and USA. It will ISSUE 2
feature 10 double bedrooms as well as the luxurious Gary Player suite bringing the total number of on-site rooms at Modry Las to 23, sleeping up to 46 people. The spacious restaurant will have seating for over 80 guests with room for 70 more on a stunning terrace overlooking the 18th hole. The impressive new clubhouse has also been designed with the environment in mind featuring an eco-heating system. Solar panels will provide additional ecosourced energy. “Next year will be extremely important for Modry Las,” Gromadzki said. “Not only will we celebrate our 10th year, we will also unveil our new clubhouse which will be at the heart of everything that goes on at Modry Las. It will be a year of celebrations!” To find out more visit: www.modrylas.pl ISSUE 2
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THE BUCKET LIST
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Sentosa Golf Club SINGAPORE | PAR 72 | 6,983 YARDS | Designed by RONALD FREAM Known as the Number 1 Championship Golf Course in Asia, The Serapong was opened in 1982 and is uniquely breathtaking course set against the backdrop of the Singapore Harbour.
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SPAIN
Lumine ready to welcome amateurs and professionals
O
ne of Europe’s most popular golf and leisure destinations, Lumine Mediterránea Beach & Golf Community, is kicking off the new year in Spain by inviting PGA Professionals and amateur golfers from across Europe for two exciting tournaments. The Festival of Golf will see PGA Professionals celebrate the sport alongside amateur golfers of all abilities, through unique competitions that will be held over the awardwinning golf courses. The celebrations at Lumine will start with the Costa Daurada International
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Pro-Am, hosted from 7th - 10th February. The tournament calls for one PGA Professional and three amateur players to battle it out over the renowned Lakes and Hills courses. For this event, players will share the full Lumine experience. Entrants will enjoy a 5-night stay at the Sol Port Cambrils, a 4* hotel, as well as four rounds of golf at Lumine. On top of this, the players will be provided full use of practice facilities, meals in the Lumine Lakes restaurant and an invitation to the prize giving at the end. The package, giving competitors the chance to
see what makes Lumine one of the best golfing destinations in Europe, is available for €1,295pp. Following this event, the PGAs of Europe Fourball Championship will feature at Lumine. The 2019 edition of the tournament will be hosted across Lumine’s Championship Lakes and Hills courses from 11th - 14th February 2019 and see up to 120 pairs competing in a 54-hole fourball better ball stroke play event. Any male or female PGA members and trainees, within a PGAs of Europe Member Country PGA, are invited to ISSUE 2
2019 Golf Festival
enter to have the chance to compete for a guaranteed prize fund of €30,000. Calle Carlsson, General Manager at Lumine Mediterránea Beach & Golf Club, said: “There has been a great deal of anticipation for our Golf Festival in 2019, and we always look forward to welcoming back the PGAs of Europe and their Fourball competitors. “The International Pro-Am has always been a highly popular event, allowing an extensive field of Professionals and amateurs to come and experience our fantastic golf courses, and ISSUE 2
renowned hospitality. We have a week of fun planned for everyone coming to Lumine this year and we are confident this won’t be the only occasion they’ll visit after witnessing what we have to offer.”
its way through areas of wetlands and natural vegetation, offering a links design that is a genuine challenge for any golfer.
The Greg Norman-designed Lakes course and the Hills course will stage the event just week after playing host to European Tour Qualifying School – Final Stage.
Meanwhile, Lumine Hills, a 6,334-metre, par-72, undoubtedly gives players the most spectacular views from the resort, rolling through leafy woods of white pine and extensive plantations of olive and carob trees.
The Lakes is the most technically difficult of the two, positioned on the lowest lying land on the property. The 6,300-metre, Par 71 course, navigates
For more information on how to enter visit PGAs of Europe Fourball Championship and Lumine International Pro-Am. www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
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LUMINE BEACH AND GOLF
WINTER OFFERS SHORT WEEK PACKAGE
COMPLETE WEEK PACKAGE
4-night stay at 4-star hotel + 3 unlimited green fees
7-night stay at 4-star hotel + 5 unlimited green fees
Valid from 1st October 2018 to 15th May 2019
Valid from 1st October 2018 to 15th May 2019
€395pp*
€675pp*
*Prices based on sharing a double room and accommodation at Hotel Regente Aragon 4* / Hotel Atenea Aventura 4* / Hotel Monica 4*. Supplement Single room: €30 per night 7 or 4 nights only 5 or 3 daily unlimited Greenfees at Lumine, depending on package. Unlimited range balls. Not valid during Easter, New Year’s Eve or Christmas. Terms and conditions apply
CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE 12
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ENGLAND
Prince’s makes impressive leap in Top 100 rankings
P
rince’s Golf Club has risen an impressive 10 places into the top 50 of Golf World magazine’s latest Top 100 England rankings following the redevelopment of its Himalayas nine.
“We are thrilled with the reimagined Himalayas nine and I still believe that we have the potential to go much higher with the plans we have for the Dunes and Shore nines.”
For the first time, panellists considered the Dunes and Himalayas as the preferred course out of the three loops of nine at Prince’s, emphasising the quality of the works undertaken when turning the Himalayas into one of the finest stretches of links golf in the country.
Golf World has been publishing its course ranking lists for almost 40 years and boasts an extremely experienced review panel that includes more than 30 golfers.
The Sandwich club enlisted internationally renowned golf course architects Mackenzie & Ebert to handle the changes to the Himalayas, and work has already begun on improving the Dunes nine which will have bedded in well ahead of the next set of rankings. Rob McGuirk, General Manager at Prince’s, said: “This ranking certainly gives validation to the work we have done so far and shows that we are continuing to take steps in the right direction.
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Prince’s jump of 10 places up to no. 49 made it the second highest climber as the judging panel heaped praised on the new Himalayas layout. A new signature short par-3, with the backdrop of the English Channel, is one of several notable changes, while extensive improvements to the bunkering, water hazards, green surrounds, out-of-play areas, tees and clearance of trees have upgraded the visual and playing aspects of the course. www.princesgolfclub.co.uk
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LINKS GOLF AT ITS BEST England’s Atlantic Links, a collection of six ancient championship links courses in South West England, is set against the dramatic backdrop of the north Atlantic Coast. These legendary links have firmly established themselves as one of England’s premier golfing destinations.
CONTACT 01822 618181 EMAIL SALES@ATLANTICLINKSGOLFTOUR.COM 14
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Packages with 1 night B&B and 2 rounds of golf
Packages with 2 nights B&B and 3 rounds of golf
Stay at The Seagate Hotel
Stay at The Seagate Hotel
One round at Burnham & Berrow and Royal North Devon
One round at Royal North Devon, Saunton East & Saunton West
from £150.00pp
from £205.00pp
Stay at The Barnstaple Hotel
Stay at The Barnstaple Hotel
One round at both Saunton East & Saunton West
One round at Royal North Devon, Trevose and Burnham & Berrow
from £135.00pp
from £255.00pp
Stay at The Point at Polzeath
Stay at Trevose Apartments
One round at Trevose and St Enodoc
One round at St.Enodoc, Trevose and Burnham & Berrow
from £145.00pp
from £225.00pp
VIEW MORE PACKAGES AT
www.atlanticlinksgolftour.com ISSUE 2
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Golf Belearic in a Balkan sort of way B
espoke golf holiday company Gastro Golf added two new European destinations to its already impressive list of golf holiday venues – the island of Mallorca and Bulgaria. In addition to the already popular resorts of Andalucia, Murcia and Catalonia on mainland Spain, the spectacular island of Mallorca is an ideal destination offering beach resorts, sheltered coves, sandy beaches and a selection of courses and resorts ideal for a short golfing break in the sun. CEO John Sullivan said “Gastro Golf is delighted to open up the island of Mallorca to UK golfers. As a destination it has so much to offer - great courses, warm sunshine and wonderful food and local wines. Our resorts - the 4* Hippocampo Playa at Cala Millar and the Vanity Golf Hotel in Alcudia are superb venues that offer world class facilities and access to a range of top golf courses suitable for every level of golfer. Golfing greats such as Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones and John D Harris have all designed course on the island, so we’re more than confident that anyone visiting here for a golfing break will not go home disappointed” Bulgaria is a destination that has increased in popularity in recent years. With courses designed by golfing legends Gary Player and Ian Woosnam on offer and being just a short flight from the UK it’s not hard to see why golfers are finding their way there in ever increasing numbers.
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Said John “Bulgaria is a real eye opener. It’s not difficult to get too, accommodation is of a very high standard and the quality of golf on offer is outstanding. We are delighted to offer two venues of distinct contrast - Thracian Cliffs Resort and Pirin Golf and Country Club”. Winner of the ‘2014 European Golf Resort of the Year’, Thracian Cliffs Resort boasts an excellent selection of facilities including a long stretch of private beach, a cosy, relaxed Moroccan wellness center, six dining venues and 2 courses designed by golfing legend Gary Player. Head West towards the great mountain world of the Raslag valley and you’ll find the 5* Pirin Golf & Country Club and the 6,790-meter Ian Woosnam Championship Course. This exclusive club ranks as one of the best golf resorts in all of Bulgaria and has surely one of the best mountain backdrops of any golf course in Europe. Gastro Golf offers golfers with a passion for fine golf and fine food the opportunity to book memorable golfing holidays. The Cheshire-based tour operator, which is a member of IAGTO, provides golf holidays with a ‘gastronomic twist’ – combining the opportunity to play on some of the world's top golf courses, stay in luxury hotels, and enjoy exceptional culinary and cultural experiences. For the above and more packages visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk, Call 0161 612 3319 or email enquiries@gastrogolf.co.uk ISSUE 2
7 NIGHTS GOLF INCLUSIVE PACKAGE Includes four green fees: 2 x Gary Player course 1 x Black Sea Rama course 1 x Lighthouse course PLUS Complimentary use of SPA & fitness area
from £705pp CLICK FOR DETAILS
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PORTUGAL
Tee off 2019 in style at Quinta do Lago W inter doesn’t have to be a time to put the golf clubs into hibernation with Portugal’s exclusive Quinta do Lago resort offering plenty for players to get excited about in the new year, with three-night, two-round breaks bookable from only 314 Euros per person.
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Golfers of all abilities can hit the fairways running in 2019 at the Algarve’s premier sports and lifestyle venue, with outstanding golf and leisure facilities among the many benefits included in the attractive new packages.
airport, Quinta do Lago’s world-class golf and lifestyle facilities make it the perfect choice for a sporting break.
Available throughout January and February, the luxury breaks include bed-andbreakfast accommodation in Quinta do Lago’s boutique The Magnolia Hotel and golf on any of the resort’s three 18-hole championship courses.
As well as three renowned golf courses – the North, South and Laranjal – and outstanding practice facilities, guests can stay in shape at the state-of-the-art performance centre The Campus, a world-class sports hub designed for professionals and amateurs alike.
One free drink per round in the golf clubhouse and free transfers to and from the courses are also included, while guests can unwind afterwards with free access to the facilities at The Magnolia Hotel including Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gym and chill room. All prices are based on two people sharing a twin room.
Complementing the golf facilities is a choice of 10 high-class bars and restaurants that deliver an array of delicious world cuisines, including the acclaimed Bovino Steakhouse and Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, a new sports gastro pub which opened this autumn.
Located just 15 minutes away from Faro
For more information CLICK HERE
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CYPRUS
Minthis Resort
A 360 degree lifestyle experience
P
erched on a tranquil hilltop among five million square metres of breathtakingly beautiful Cypriot landscape lies Minthis, an award-winning integrated leisure and residential resort that offers a 360-degree holistic experience rooted in wellness, adventure and culture. Situated in the heart of Pafos’ wine producing region, the historical location nastery which provides a dramatic back drop for an outstanding game of golf that will mesmerize and challenge players of all levels. The 18-hole championship golf course, from course architects Mackenzie & Ebert, naturally and effortlessly follows the varied topography of the hillside, taking in stunning, expansive views and pleasantly challenging holes while winding its way past the monastery, olive groves and
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fruit orchards. As well as the course and practice areas the current facilities include a contemporary clubhouse with restaurant, bar and sports bar and nature trail. By 2020 there will also be a main square called The Plateia, a groundbreaking Wellness Spa and hotel-serviced accommodation. The Plateia is the heart of the resort, a place of community and energy where you can discover authentic Cypriot hospitality, art and tradition, the square is surrounded by a lively Lounge with Souvlaki Grill, Bar, Wine Boutique & Cellar, Grocer, several Boutiques and Galleries, a Members’ Lounge and Children’s Crèche. The 2,000sqm Wellness Spa is a place to relax and unwind, offering a 360-degree holistic approach to physical wellbeing and spiritual balance. Facilities include studios centering on
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wet and dry therapies, yoga, hydrotherapy, sauna, 25m pool, scented baths, private reflection courtyards and a gym – all in lowlying Pavilions overlooking the peaceful hills. The Suites provide onsite accommodation operated with 5-star services. The two-bedroom ergonomic spaces can accommodate up to 4 people. Inside they flow instinctively with high ceilings and full height windows on both sides unifying the inside and outside. Encircled by thoughtfully landscaped grounds, The Suites are positioned around a communal pool, looking out across the golf course, 12th century monastery and towards the distant Troodos mountain range. Located just steps away from The Plateia, the Wellness Spa, Golf course and Clubhouse, The Suites are perfect for those who want convenience and to be at the heart of life at Minthis. At Minthis you can fill your hours with adventure and culture, seek more peaceful pursuits and enjoy golf, fine dining and vini-culture or just let the tranquility of this hillside retreat take you to another level of wellbeing. Life at Minthis comes with the breath-taking freedom to embrace enriching experiences. For more information visit www.minthisresort.com
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NEWS Michelin Stars add to Algarve's sparkle The Algarve already serves up a feast of golf but visitors can also dine out on those memorable shots when the golf course makes way for the main course. The new edition of the famous Michelin Guide features eight Algarve restaurants which have retained their Michelin stars – the hallmark of luxury dining and restaurants around the world. A total of 26 Portuguese establishments have earned their place in the list, while the Algarve has six one-star restaurants and two deemed worthy of the twostar accolade. It’s just another reason to whet the appetite of visitors from across the globe, who already enjoy the varied menu of 43 golf courses along 150 miles of stunning coastline. Among the favourites of visitors to the region, The Ocean, in Vila Vita Parc, and Vila Joya have each retained their two Michelin stars for 2019, while Gusto in Conrad Algarve and Vista in Bela Vista have also impressed the world-renowned gastronomic guide to earn a coveted Michelin star. Fellow one-star recipients – Henrique Leis and São Gabriel (both Almancil), Bon Bon (Carvoeiro), and Willie's (Vilamoura) – have each also added to the Algarve’s impressive tally of luxury dining venues to feature. 22
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Chaka receive Award from Heritage Awali Chaka Travel have recently been recognised for their continued contribution to the growth of golf travel in Mauritius with a Recognition Award from the 5 star Heritage Awali Resort & Spa in Mauritius. This highlights another success for the luxury golf holiday specialists and Mark Marais, the Managing Director, puts this down to the passion, knowledge and experience of Chaka’s staff and the high quality service they provide.
Kempinski Hotel Bahía takes lease option
G
olfers heading to Malaga in search of warm weather can benefit from new top-of-therange rental clubs when staying at the five-star Kempinski Hotel Bahía, in Estepona. The luxurious hotel has struck a deal with Clubs to Lease - an offshoot of the market-leading rental agency Clubs to Hire (CTH) - to lease sets of Callaway Rogue clubs for guests to use when playing in the area. The Clubs to Lease concept was launched by CTH earlier this year - and it makes sound economic business sense. With lease costs on TaylorMade and Callaway product from as little as 55 Euros per month, clients can recoup their outlay through just two ‘hires' per month. Plus, they know they will have new replacements every 12 months, while not having to pay the normal purchase price for a set of top-of-therange clubs. The Kempinski Hotel Bahía is the second client in the Marbella region, while Clubs to Lease has also secured other business in Spain, and remains in discussion with a number of other potential clients in the region. Company co-founder Tony Judge explained: "It's not a dissimilar service to the one we provide for golfers the difference being that, ultimately, it's our client who deals with the visiting golfer. It makes sense for hotels and resorts, not just as an added benefit for guests, but also as an additional revenue stream." ISSUE 2
welshgolfbreaks.com welshgolfbreaks.com
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A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break to include golf at any three of these quality parkland courses:
A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break to include golf at any three of these Championship venues:
Cradoc Golf Club – Llandrindod Wells Golf Club – Builth Wells Golf Club
Royal St David’s Golf Club – Porthmadog Golf Club – Nefyn Golf Club – Pwllheli Golf Club – Abersoch Golf Club
And choose from the following quality hotels: The Greyhound Hotel – Brecon Castle Hotel – The Metropole Hotel
And choose from the following quality hotels:
A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf The Royal Sportsman Hotel – The Lion Hotel break to include golf at any three of these Championship venues: Prices from £200 per person
A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break to £138 per person include golf Prices at anyfrom three of these quality parkland courses:
• Royal St David’s Golf Club • Porthmadog Golf Club • Nefyn Golf Club • Pwllheli Golf Club • Abersoch Golf Club And choose from the following quality hotels: • The Royal Sportsman Hotel • The Lion Hotel
• Cradoc Golf Club • Llandrindod Wells Golf Club • Builth Wells Golf Club And choose from the following quality hotels: • The Greyhound Hotel • Brecon Castle Hotel • The Metropole Hotel
Price from £210 per person
Prices from £155 per person
A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break to include golf at any three of these quality parkland courses:
A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break to include golf at any three of these Championship venues: Ashburnham Golf Club – Machynys Peninsula Golf Club – Pennard Links Golf Club – Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club – Southerndown Golf Club – Royal Porthcawl Golf Club –
The Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club – Monmouth Golf Club – The Monmouthshire Golf Club – Woodlake Park Golf Club – Raglan Parc Golf Club – Newport Golf Club
And choose from the following quality hotels:
And choose from the following quality hotels:
The Dragon Hotel – Stradey Park Hotel – Swansea Marriott Hotel
Bistro Prego – The Kings Head – The Riverside Hotel
Prices from £220 per person
Prices from £135 per person
Call us today to discuss your golf break requirements A fantastic 3 day, 2 night, golf break include at on price A fantastic day, 2 night, golf break to include golf at any We willtonot be golf beaten and3service any three of these Championship venues: Telephone: 01822 618148
three of these quality parkland courses: Website: www.welshgolfbreaks.com
• Ashburnham Golf Club • Machynys Peninsula Golf Club • Pennard Links Golf Club • Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club • Southerndown Golf Club • Royal Porthcawl Golf Club And choose from the following quality hotels: • The Dragon Hotel • Stradey Park Hotel • Swansea Marriott Hotel
Prices from £235 per person
• The Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club • Monmouth Golf Club • The Monmouthshire Golf Club • Woodlake Park Golf Club • Newport Golf Club And choose from the following quality hotels: • The Beaufort Coaching Inn & Brassiere • The Kings Head • The Riverside Hotel
Prices from £140 per person
Call us today to discuss your golf break requirements We will not be beaten on price and service Telephone: 01822 618148 Website: www.welshgolfbreaks.com ISSUE 2
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For those looking to drive somewhere different
Early Booking Offer Save 10% on all bookings made before 5th Feb
Play & Stay in France from £105pp Enjoy a great value spring golf break playing on some of the finest crowd-free courses in Brittany or Normandy. Sailing from Portsmouth, Poole or Plymouth, you’ll arrive that much closer to the courses, meaning less time at the wheel and more time to enjoy the golf. Our Golf Desk will look after the travel, hotel and tee-time arrangements – all you have to do is pack you clubs in the car and enjoy your break! Travel until 31 March 2019.
Your break includes:
✓ Return sailings with your car including overnight cabin
✓ One night’s hotel stay with breakfast ✓ Two rounds of golf ✓ The freedom to mix and match hotels, courses and ferry routes to suit your plans
Call 0330 159 5418 email golfdesk@brittanyferries.com or visit brittanyferries.com/golf Prices shown are per person based on 4 travelling together in a standard sized car and sharing a cabin and twin rooms. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply - see website for details.
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NEWS
PGA Catalunya Resort to transform its practice facilities
L
eading Spanish golf destination, PGA Catalunya Resort, is set to become the latest premiere golf venue to revolutionise its practice facilities with the introduction of Toptracer Range technology. The renowned resort situated on the outskirts of Girona, is now set to take its practice facilities to the next level with the introduction of Toptracer Range; becoming the first Spanish destination to do so. Transforming driving ranges into bona fide entertainment destinations, Toptracer Range combines technology and fun to create a superior golf experience for players of all skill levels. Toptracer tracks the shots of the best players in the world on the PGA Tour and European Tour, and golfers of all ages and abilities ISSUE 2
are now able to share that experience in bays at driving ranges the world over. Using cameras mounted around the facility and 21-inch monitors found at each hitting bay, Toptracer Range technology displays an array of details of each shot – including distance, speed, launch angle, shape and more. Data is instantly recorded and displayed on the screen through a player profile that can continuously be accessed through the Toptracer Range community application. Toptracer Range has been introduced at close to 40 venues across Europe to date, including the likes of Wentworth Club and Ryder Cup 2018 host Le Golf National, with PGA Catalunya Resort becoming the latest venue to adopt the technology as part of a major upgrade of facilities.
Speaking about the decision to install Toptracer Range technology, David Plana, CEO, said: “PGA Catalunya Resort is renowned across Europe as a top-class golfing destination and we are always striving to ensure that we offer our members and guests the best possible experience when they visit us. “Introducing Toptracer Range technology brings a new level of enjoyment at our practice facilities for both golfers and nongolfers. We’re convinced this technology will revolutionise the way that golfers of all skill sets will practice and engage with us here and further afield.”
For further information on Toptracer visit: www.toptracer.com www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
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THE BUCKET LIST
Tralee Golf Club IRELAND | PAR 72 | 6,948 YARDS | Designed by ARNOLD PALMER
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Arnold Palmer’s Jewel Designed and built by Arnold Palmer, this stunning setting represents a true paradise for those willing to challenge what is widely acclaimed as one of the finest links courses in the world.
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SOUTH AFRICA www.chakatravel.com
Call our specialists 028 9023 2112
Destination
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AFRICA ISSUE 2
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SOUTH AFRICA www.chakatravel.com
Call our specialists 028 9023 2112
In every province, around every corner, there’s a magic moment waiting to leave you inspired with incredible people underpinning it all. From city life to adventure, wildlife to culture, breathtaking scenery to sun-soaked coasts – discover South Africa . . .
GOLF ON THE
WILDSIDE
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Call our specialists 028 9023 2112DESTINATION: www.chakatravel.com SOUTH AFRICA
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outh Africa is one of the world’s best golfing holiday destinations. Golfers from around the world are continuously impressed by the standard of the courses they play and it’s no surprise too as South Africa has some of the best in the Southern Hemisphere. One only needs to understand the country’s natural beauty to understand why beauty is par for the course. Even if you aren’t part of an arranged golfing tour, it’s still very easy to hire a car from one of the country’s major airports and opt for an independent golfing safari. South Africa has excellent roads and travelling around is a lot easier than most international golfers might expect, despite the vastness of the country. There are plenty of courses willing to hire out a set of clubs for those who just want to have a quick round on a whim. From Johannesburg, wildlife resorts such as the Kruger National Park and Sun City are but a few hours’ drive away and some of the country’s top courses are situated
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near these parks. There is even one inside the Kruger National Park, so you can expect actual wildlife to spectate your round. Some of the courses to consider in the northern part of South Africa—within driving distance of OR Tambo International Airport —include Sun City, Legend Golf and Safari Resort, Leopard Creek and the Highland Gate Golf Course designed by Ernie Els. In fact, Legends has a famous 3-par 19th hole where you tee off from the top of a cliff and get there via helicopter. Now that’s some extreme golfing! The Western Cape province, which includes the City of Cape Town as well as the famous and ever-beautiful Garden Route, should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Fancourt, a golf estate in the Garden Route town of George, has three world-class courses with luxury accommodation. The Eastern Cape also has several excellent golf holiday establishments, such as St Francis Golf Lodge, which has received some rave reviews. So go on, tee off on an unforgettable golfing adventure that will take your breath away, South Africa is waiting for you.
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It’s breathtaking, captivating, bustling, endless . . . it’s South Africa!
BEST TIMES TO VISIT Since South Africa is in the southern hemisphere, it’s summer there when it’s winter in Europe. Summer begins in November and lasts till February, which if you think about it, makes this the ideal time to visit if you want to escape the cold weather. Depending on where you’re visiting, the average day temperature in summer ranges from a minimum of 15°C ( 59°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). In winter the average day temperatures are 9°C to 23°C (66°F to 73°F). Just ensure you have a jacket to put on as it can get chilly at night.
visit the waterholes to drink. Summer in the Lowveld can be extremely hot. Alternatively, you can go on a winter beach holiday in Durban or on the KwaZulu-Natal coast as average temperatures hover around the 26°C mark. In Cape Town, the best time to visit is in spring and autumn, which is April and May or the beginning of September to October. Spring is particularly breathtaking as you’ll get to witness first-hand some of South Africa’s most beautiful indigenous flowers bloom.
Autumn offers a relief from the summer heat Late winter is popular for game spotting while the vineyards of the Cape Winelands because the vegetation is sparse and animals start to change colour. 32
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www.chakatravel.com PEOPLE AND LANGUAGES South Africans have been referred to as the ‘rainbow nation’, a title which illuminates the country’s cultural diversity. South Africa is home to a multi-cultural melting pot of 55 million beautiful people of diverse origins, cultures, languages and religions. There are 11 officially recognised languages, most of which are indigenous to South Africa. English is spoken everywhere you go. English is the language of the cities, of commerce and banking, of government and official documents. All road signs and official forms are in English and at any South African hotel, Bed and Breakfast or Guest House the service staff will speak English. Other languages you can expect to hear are Xhosa, Zulu and Afrikaans.
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GOLF GUIDE: SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA: TOP www.chakatravel.com CallCOURSES our specialists 028 9023 2112
FANCOURT
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outh Africa’s premier leisure resort is situated in the heart of the Garden Route, 7 km from the George Airport. The resort is superbly landscaped on 613 hectares of lush countryside with the majestic Outeniqua Mountains as the perfect backdrop. The Fancourt hotel has 115 rooms on offer. Leisure activities on the resort include a Spa with an indoor heated Roman Bath as well as a leisure centre which is home to the Kids Club, teen lounge, gymnasium, cinema, indoor heated and outdoor swimming pool. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy tennis, running/walking trails, bird watching and fishing. A variety of restaurants are available on the resort for your enjoyment. Fancourt has a choice of three Gary Player designed golf courses all ranked in the Top 15 in South Africa as well as a Golf Academy. Glorious swimming beaches are easily accessible and mountain biking, horse riding, picnics and hikes can be arranged on request. Sightseeing excursions to the picturesque coastal towns of Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay as well as the historic town of Oudtshoorn are also available.
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THE LINKS Situated within the greater precinct of the Fancourt Estate is the private and exclusive golfing phenomena known as The Links. The Links is a private Club for the exclusive use of its Members and accompanied guests, with limited tee times being made available to Fancourt Hotel and Manor House Guests who meet minimum reservation requirements. Sculpted into what Gary Player has described as his greatest feat as a course designer, The Links is the golfing hallmark of the Fancourt estate. The Links is currently ranked as the number one golf course in the country by Golf Digest South Africa, and 38th in Golf Digest US edition’s list of the world’s 100 greatest golf courses that compared 464 courses from 18 countries around the globe.
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THE MONTAGU Fancourt’s Montagu course has developed into one of the finest 18-
hole parkland layouts, earning it the number 8 position on Golf Digest SA’s list of top golf courses in the country. Exquisitely conditioned to provide a riveting golfing experience, this tree-lined course covers large tracts of varying terrain on rolling land.
THE OUTENIQUA The Outeniqua golf course presents an 18-hole parkland layout that is tailored to provide a laid-back golfing experience. The course provides for easier game play than its counterpart, the Montagu while offering its fair share of challenges and water hazards on as many as 11 of its holes. Named after the mountain range that forms its breath-taking backdrop, the course is pristinely conditioned to accommodate a large volume of players.
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LEGEND GOLF AND SAFARI Legend Golf & Safari Resort, also known as the “Home of the Extreme 19th”, is one of the world’s most renowned resorts. This unique leisure destination welcomes all travellers, whether it be for a holiday getaway, business trip, golf or safari experience, Legend caters for every need. Home to the unique “world-in-one” Signature Course where each of the 18 holes have been designed by a world golfing legend. In addition, you can take ISSUE 2
the challenge of the world famous Par 3, the Extreme 19th. Golfers take a helicopter 401 meters up to the top of the mountains. Once on top they tee off and try to get the ball into the hole on the Africa Green 400 m below. One of South Africa’s most talked about luxury destinations will inspire all those who visit with its picture perfect scenery, majestic architectural designs and the experience of a lifetime. www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
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SUN CITY RESORT Sun City resort is one of South Africa's premier golfing destinations. It is home to two 18-hole, par 72 golf courses designed by South African legend Gary Player: the Lost City Golf Course and the Gary Player Golf Course, both of which have been designed to maximize the challenge for every handicap of golfer.
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GARY PLAYER The birth of the Sun City Resort called for South African golfing COUNTRY CLUB professional, Gary Player, to design an award winning golf course
that would fit in with the superlative venue. Using his experience and know-how as a professional golfer, Player understood exactly what golfers would appreciate, while designing a course that is challenging and enjoyable.
LOST CITY Gary Player was called upon again to extend his professional GOLF COURSE expertise by designing the golf course. The course offers
undulating plains, expansive fairways, mountainous areas and small patches of desert. There is also a distinctive region covered with a series of lakes that separate the 9th from the final hole. The 13th hole offers a green in the shape of the African continent, complete with a pond that is home to numerous Nile Crocodiles; adding to the true African appeal of this course.
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Arabella Golf Estate The Arabella golf course in South Africa was designed and built in 1999 by celebrated South African golf course architect Peter Matkovich, who is also credited with the design of Western Cape courses de Zalze and Steenberg, this classic parkland course has spectacular views across the Bot River lagoon and across the Kogelberg mountain range. The course is complemented by a luxurious clubhouse with bar and halfway house, as well as a fully stocked pro shop and excellent practice area with two resident teaching professionals.
Pezula Golf Course Pezula Championship Golf Course is located in the Western Cape of South Africa in the picturesque town of Knysna, the jewel of the world famous Garden Route. This stunningly beautiful golf course is a sweeping spectacle of fairways and greens rolling through the pristine Southern Cape landscape. The breathtaking, award-winning 18-hole golf course, designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA, offers visitors who wish to play the ultimate golf course in Knysna, an unsurpassed golf experience, and rates amongst the best and the most scenic golf courses in the world. 40
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Simola Golf & Country Club Simola Golf & Country Estate was conceived as one of South Africa’s most desirable golfing destinations. Attractions on the 325 hectare estate include the Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa; our 18-hole, par-72, Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. This outstanding masterwork was the first Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in Africa, and offers top-class facilities to complement the surroundings and enhance your enjoyment of your time on the course.
Pinnacle Point Estate Overlooking the Indian Ocean near Mossel Bay, and designed by Peter Matkovich and 2011 Open Champion, Darren Clarke, Pinnacle Point is one of the most unique and scenic golf courses in the world. This Clifftop Fynbos Golf Course inspires the golfer to play this challenging layout with a level of respect due to its dramatic views and breathtaking terrain. Golfers have access to a number of world-class facilities, including the Louis Oosthuizen Junior Academy, driving range, putting green, club-fitting and repairs workshop, and excellent pro shop, not to mention a clubhouse with 270-degree sea views. ISSUE 2
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Follow the swallows for a tropical treat
South Africa is enticing European golfers with an exotic mix of inexpensive golf, tropical weather and wonderful wildlife. CLIVE AGRAN took the 11-hour flight to Durban to find out more . . . 42
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t’s a large country with several popular golfing areas. I headed half-way down the east coast to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, just a short connecting flight from Johannesburg.
parkland layout that’s pleasing on the eye and yet easy on the legs. So, providing it’s not too hot, walking’s a viable option. There’s water on 15 of the holes, but nothing too intimidating.
My opening round was played south of Durban at the Wild Coast Sun Country Club. Hewn from the rocks and inhospitable coastal terrain by Robert Trent Jones, it’s a rollercoaster ride from hill top to valley bottom and back again. Buggies are mandatory and a head for heights essential as you weave through gorges, over ravines and along cliff tops. There’s even a funicular behind the 12th green to take unbuggied tournament pros up to the 13th tee.
With its lakes, gently rolling terrain and elegant stone bridges, Selborne has an almost romantic Capability Brown-type feel. In fact, the layout was the work of Dennis Barker, who created the course in the 1980s out of a dairy farm. A competent handicap golfer, his superb creation suggests that a big-name architect isn’t always necessary to produce something special.
The greens are quick, certainly a lot quicker than the four-ball in front. Wild Coast, it has to be said, is a holiday course that attracts the casual as well as the accomplished. Weekends are therefore best avoided. On a more positive note, the beautifully maintained course is a delight to play with the ever-present wind off the Indian Ocean making matters even more interesting. The six par threes are gems. If you don’t manage an ace on any of them, don’t worry, there are plenty available in the adjoining casino. Travelling north, you pass halfa-dozen courses along the coast before reaching Selborne. Set a little back from the sea, it’s a pretty
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Mr Barker’s house is now a hotel and a number of properties were built on the estate. Fortunately, unlike similar developments in America, the houses are tucked away and don’t intrude.
In fact, it’s hard to be upset by anything in such a sublime setting, not even the hysterical laughter than appears to greet every wayward shot and echoes around
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the adjoining jungle. It’s the monkeys - like everyone else - having a good time. Was it worth battling through Durban’s rush-hour? You bet, for everything about the place is magical from the period clubhouse, with its fading photos of Bobby Locke and a youthful Gary Player, to the immaculate fairways with the links-like bumps and hollows. New courses work at being spectacular; great one’s don’t have to try. Buggy free, the course exudes quality and the place wreaks of class.
trees on the left. The 12th is almost equally unforgettable and proves that a hole doesn’t need to be long to be testing. The green sits on top of a giant mound that slopes steeply away in all directions so you’re second is struck with either a putter or a sandwedge. Legend has it that the then Prince of Wales took 17 here in 1925. My final round was played at the Tom Weiskopf designed Zimbali, just north of Durban. It’s a course of two uneven halves. The first 11 holes are fairly open while the
last seven are much tighter. Vertigo sufferers should consider skipping the 13th or tee-off with their eyes shut as the fairway looks about 1000 feet below. And the problems don’t end there as you’ve still to negotiate a few perilous hairpins on the way down. The bowel-loosening qualities of the hole possibly perhaps explain the loo behind the 14th tee. Shortish hitters might also be alarmed by the 145-yard carry over impenetrable scrubland at the 7th and the intimidating second over a swamp at the 15th. The reward for perseverance is a great finishing hole and a complimentary bucks fizz behind the 18th green.
Great golf holes, like elephants, are hard to describe yet you recognise one when you see one. The third at Durban Country Club is undoubtedly such an animal. From the elevated tee, it ripples into the distance between bushes on the right and 44
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EXPERIENCE A
FIRST CLASS SOUTH AFRICA Rohan Vos was always a man of vision, an entrepreneur and when he launched Rovos Rail, little did he know what a huge success it would be. Imagine travelling through the South African countryside in a luxury coach brimming with authentic Victorian history, world class service and opulence at your fingertips . . . ISSUE 2
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egin a journey with Rovos Rail to Southern Africa’s most spectacular destinations.
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. With discreet and friendly service, five-star cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration. In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the sub-continent’s greatest destinations from Cape Town at its tip to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, from scenic splendours as diverse as the game reserves of Mpumalanga to the Victoria Falls, from the desert landscapes in Namibia and the stark beauty of the Karoo to the lush cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal and the magnificent Garden Route along the Cape south coast.
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The trains – which may be hauled by diesel or electric locomotives – carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites and are also available for charter, while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys. Rovos Rail has also established three elegant seaside retreats in Cape Town that overlook the trendy and vibrant fishing villages of Kalk Bay and St James. With views across the Indian Ocean, this prestigious little stretch along the coastline is an ideal location for a stress-free holiday. ISSUE 2
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My Rovos Rail Golf Safari Adventure By Mark Marais
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y wife Marcella and I have recently become empty nesters and we knew that this would mean being able to travel away together a lot more. What we hadn’t anticipated was that our first holiday without our daughters would be one that would be hard to beat!
GOLF SAFARI PACKAGE 10 NIGHTS FROM £3,825pp Full Board, flights, transfers, 5 rounds of golf The Golf Safari begins in Pretoria and travels west to Sun City in the hills of the Pilanesberg for a day at this renowned facility including a game drive for non-golfers. In the foothills of the imposing Drakensberg Mountains, 18 holes await at the Champagne Sports Resort with a guided tour of the battlefields a further highlight for non-golfers. Enjoy a game at Durban Country Club (or Beachwood) or tour the city. Then it’s on to Zululand for game viewing at Hluhluwe before heading to Swaziland. Tee off at Royal Swazi or enjoy a game drive at Mkhaya and a visit to Ngwenya Glass and Guava Gallery. Golfers then play the challenging Leopard Creek course (dependent) while non-golfers enjoy a game drive in the world-famous Kruger Park, after which this memorable journey ends in Pretoria. VIEW PACKAGE AND BOOK – CLICK HERE ISSUE 2
Our good friend Scott Edkins from Ascot Tours arranged a private hire of Rovos Rail for a golf safari in South Africa and having had my eye on this amazing luxury train and golfing adventure for a few years we decided to join Scott’s inaugural Rovos trip. Having had a wonderful start to our holiday with my cousin and her lovely family in Jo’burg Marcella and I headed off north to Rovos Rails private station in Pretoria . . .
READ MORE CLICK HERE TO VIEW MARK’S ROVOS RAIL EXPERIENCE IN FULL
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WELCOME TO
EXTREME GOLF 48
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Set high up on the impressive Hanglip Mountain, the Extreme 19th is accessible only by helicopter and played to a green the shape of Africa some 400m below. CLIVE AGRAN took his chance to try for a hole in one of a lifetime. . .
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f I were to confess to you that my mouth turns dry and knees go wobbly whenever I climb half-way up a step-ladder, you will perhaps appreciate the enormous courage I exhibited in agreeing to take on the world’s most talked about and unique Par 3, the Extreme 19th at Legend Golf and Safari Resort.
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SOUTH AFRICA: LEGEND GOLF & SAFARI www.chakatravel.com Call our specialists 028 9023 2112
The stats alone are enough to make me feel slightly nauseous but here goes. It’s a par three, the tee box of which is perilously perched 1410 feet (430m) above the green. Although the total distance from tee to green as the pelican flies is 642 yards (587m), the actual horizontal distance the ball has to travel is a more modest 400 yards (370m) or thereabouts, depending on where they put the pin. Unless you top it, the ball takes about 25 seconds to reach the ground and 50
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so you could, in theory at least, slice your tee shot towards the jungle and hit a provisional long before your first shot has landed. Some tee shots have hit the green, albeit landing in sub-Saharan Africa. As each player steps up to the plate, so crunch time creeps closer. As I pace nervously about, those yet to go approach me, ask how I feel and reveal that they, too, are suffering. It is some comfort to know that I am not alone. As the merry band of ‘reluctants’ diminishes, I increasingly envy those ISSUE 2
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who have hit. It’s like entering a freezing swimming pool; the longer you leave it, the worse it is.
safety, I learn that one of the markers is waving his arms to indicate that my ball has made it.
At some point you simply have to take the plunge. Not wishing to be stone cold last, I volunteer to be the penultimate victim.
Relief at not having to hit any more balls combined with euphoria at clearing the jungle causes me to run around hysterically for at least twice as long as it took my ball to reach the ground.
A guy scribbles my initials and number ‘1’on a brand new Titleist, tees it up, notices the blood draining from my face and the nervous chatter dribbling from my mouth and kindly moves the ball back six inches. Any further and my back swing will graze the boulder behind.
I am still buzzing as I take my customary four shots to get up and down. A nine! Never in the history of our great game has a sextuple-bogey felt so good.
If I had ever developed a pre-shot routine during my undistinguished golf career, now would be the time to deploy it. Instead I simply avoid looking anywhere but at the ball. I then swing, make surprisingly good contact and sprint away from the edge towards safety. There’s a long pause before those who have the nerve to follow it break the predictable news that it hasn’t made it. Still, one literally a long way down and only two to go. My second also fails but, more importantly, the ordeal is now nearly over. Anticipating the end, I relax a tad and not only crunch the third but also, remarkably, watch the ball as it flies into space. Although I don’t, of course, witness it myself because I have by now retreated to a place of comparative ISSUE 2
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CAPE TOWN PLUS LEGEND GOLF & SAFARI RESORT
12 NIGHTS FROM
£2,475pp
Package Includes: • Flights from the UK • Internal flights from Cape Town to Johannesburg • 9 days car rental with full insurance • 8 nights at Commodore Hotel Cape Town • 2 nights at Legend Golf & Safari Resort, Limpopo • 6 rounds of golf • Play the world famous Extreme 19th Hole
• Private airport transfers VIEW INFO
CAPE TOWN-WINELANDS-FANCOURT
18 NIGHTS FROM
£3,775pp
VIEW INFO
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www.chakatravel.com CAPE TOWN & FANCOURT, SOUTH AFRICA GOLFING HOLIDAY 10 NIGHTS FROM £2,295pp Spend five nights in the vibrant city of Cape Town where you will have the chance to explore all the city has to offer. Play at three courses in the Cape Town area – Clovelly Country Club, Royal Cape Golf Course and Steenberg Golf Course.
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SOUTH AFRICA GOLF & BEACH HOLIDAY, DURBAN 10 NIGHTS FROM £1,845pp We are delighted to offer this fantastic 10 night golf break to the beautiful sunshine coast of Durban, South Africa. The newly renovated Blue Marlin Hotel is located 30 mins down the coast from central Durban, perched atop a hill that overlooks the stunning Scottburgh Beach. VIEW INFO
FAIRMONT ZIMBALI & FANCOURT, SOUTH AFRICA GOLFING GETAWAY
Seven nights on the sunny coast of Durban at Fairmont Zimbali Resort CAPE TOWN-WINELANDSinclusive of four rounds of golf on three different courses. Followed by another FANCOURT seven nights at the world-renowned and hugely popular Fancourt in George plus rounds on all three of their championship courses. VIEW INFO
JOHANNESBURG, KRUGER & DURBAN GOLF & GAME ADVENTURE 14 NIGHTS FROM £3,795pp Explore the East of South Africa with this ultimate golfers getaway. This superb itinerary is packed with absolutely world-class golf courses such as the majestic Leopards Creek. Combine that with 5-star luxury accommodation and spectacular scenery and you have a winning recipe for the ultimate South African golf holiday. VIEW INFO
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TOURNAMENTS & ESCORTED HOLIDAYS WITH
JAQUES GOUS I
f you enjoy travelling as part of a group then look no further than our escorted golf tours or our fun and sociable golf tournaments.
Many of our amateur golf tournaments include tuition and are ideal for single golfers, couples and groups of friends. Nongolfers are also welcome and we will make sure they have an equally good time! Here are a number of good reasons to go on one of our tours or join one of our tournaments.
Jacques Gous Chaka Travel’s PGA Professional
South African born Jacques moved to the UK in 2000 and since then has worked as a PGA Professional in England. Since his path crossed with Chaka Travel in 2013 he has not looked back, in his own words “The guys at Chaka Travel has made my dream come true. They made it possible for me to take groups of golfers to some of the most beautiful locations and whilst playing golf with them and improving their golf through professional tuition”. Obviously South Africa was his first country to visit with a group and since then he has added more countries with groups joining him to Turkey, Mauritius and Spain 54
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Meet like-minded people and make lifelong friends Escorted golf holidays are suitable for everyone from solo travellers to couples, and because you’re joining a group of like-minded people with similar interests you’re very likely to make new friends and acquaintances. Benefit from having your own tour guide and improve your game Our guides are extremely knowledgeable about the areas where you’ll be staying, and will also be on hand to offer expert tuition and advice on improving your game during your stay. This means you’ll get a highly enjoyable social and cultural experience combined,
really providing the best of everything in a holiday whether you’re a golfer or not. Play stunning courses and visit exotic locations Our escorted group holidays take place in some of the most beautiful and intoxicating destinations in the world, so this could be the ideal opportunity to play some courses on your bucket list. Total flexibility Many people incorrectly assume that joining an escorted golf holiday means that their days and night are planned out in advance and that it takes more of a ‘school trip’ feel than a relaxing and luxurious holiday. This really couldn’t be further from the truth. ISSUE 2
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At Chaka Travel we pride ourselves on our open and friendly way of doing business, and we find that this attracts clients who share our values to create a group of people who want to travel, enjoy good food and wine and play on some of the best golf courses around the world. Sound like your kind of people? We thought so. Why not call us today to find out more on 028 9023 2112 ISSUE 2
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MAURITIUS MALDIVES SEYCHELLES SOUTH AFRICA DUBAI THAILAND MALAYSIA BALI CYPRUS MOROCCO USA EUROPE
GOLF HOLIDAYS AROUND
THE WORLD
PROVIDING AN EXPERT SERVICE
FOR 23 YEARS At Chaka Travel we pride ourselves on providing a highly personalised service and having an intimate knowledge of some of the worlds’ most exciting destinations. 56
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Our team have travelled extensively and have first-hand knowledge of our destinations A dedicated travel expert will tailor your holiday to suit you Creating amazing experiences since 1995
Over 94% of our clients rate us as 5-star excellent with Trustpilot We only work with the best resorts and suppliers We are ATOL regulated and hold licence 9422
Our long-standing partnerships give us access to the best possible rates No credit card fees or currency surcharges No hidden charges
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