Great Golf Magazine Autumn Issue 2014

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Mission Hills Haikou

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Great Golf

No.3. 2014 £4.95

Great Golf

Magazine

Contents

Cover photo by Steve Carr

TRAVEL FEATURES

£4.95

18 Six courses for city slickers 22 Golf & the city - Salzburg 26 China, Hainan Island - Enter the dragon 36 Catalonia - Crazy for golf 50 Switzerland - Trains, planes and a bit of golf 64 Cyprus – Aphrodite’s Isle 72 Poland – The golf revolution 84 South Africa - Call of the wild 98 Ireland - Living the dream INTERVIEW

80 Q&A with Nick Faldo 132 Burrells – One to watch LUXURY

44 Girard-Perregaux - Highly qualified 58 The Maserati Quattroporte S - Italian temptation 106 The Bentley challenge – Girls just wanna have fun PRODUCTS

92 Ralph Lauren – Iconic golf fashion SPA, FOOD & WINE

111 Thailand spa - Haven of life 117 Lake Como – Masterclass 125 Sherry - A truly spanglish drink PROPERTY

138 Cyprus – A room with a view GREAT GOLF ADVENTURES

145 Bespoke trips to 11 locations around the world 158 Upcoming Great Golf Adventures and the Great Golf Weekend Club 9

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Great Golf

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GOLF TRAVEL YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE...

WELCOME to the autumn issue of Great Golf Magazine, yet another foray

Great GolfMagazine

into the world of golf travel & lifestyle.

30 Eridge Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HR United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1892 544 872 www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk

Where have our roving reporters been this time? Well, everywhere from Switzerland to South Africa, and of course, a visit to Mission Hills Hainan Island in China. Peter Ellegard finds a utopia for not only golfers, but all the family and discovers why this region is known as China’s Hawaii.

What will you wear when you play all these exotic golf courses; surely Ralph Lauren has the answer, read the article.

Angus Davies, our man for all the finer things, is testing the Maserati Quattroporte as well as singing the virtues of the watches of Girard Perregaux.

He still insists that having a high performance car to test for the magazine is work!

We caught up with Sir Nick Faldo to ask him some very important

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Mike Kaas-Stock mike@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EDITOR

Nils Bjornes nils@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR

Camilla Kaas-Stock camilla@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ART DIRECTOR

Ketil Plassgaard ketil@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ASSOCIATE EDITOR

questions, such as, how is the Faldo Series progressing and why he has let

Karim Ullah karim@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk

Jaerman & Stübi melt down his golf clubs to turn them into watches?

MARKETING MANAGER

Mike Stock takes at trip to the Andalucía region of Spain to experience sherry, flamenco, tapas and horses. He also finds out why a famous seventeenth century English buccaneer responsible for the sacking of Cadiz is revered by the local population.

Frazer Cambell frazer@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

Peter Ellegard peter@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk LUXURY PRODUCTS

As usual, food is eaten, courses played and continents traversed to bring you this latest issue, and you can be sure that our tireless journalists are out there right now in preparation for the winter edition.

Great Golf Magazine is available in hard copy and digitally on Apple Newsstand, Kindle Fire, Google Play and through the website, so there really is no excuse for not being informed.

Happy Golfing wherever you go.

The Team

Angus Davies angus@escapement.uk.com PRODUCTION CONTROLLERS

Sophie Morrison Louise Candy CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

Peter Ellegard Angus Davies Dena Roché Vicky Richards Clive Agran Robert Kaufman Camilla Kaas-Stock Mike Kaas-Stock Published by IPB Publishing Ltd Company No 6484115 Printed by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk For advertising enquiries please contact karim@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent of Great Golf Magazine UK

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CYPRUS

From a winning game to winning her heart

in no time.

Cyprus is the crossroads linking three continents, and from its turquoise waters emerged Aphrodite, goddess of beauty. It’s no wonder that it affords such tranquil private moments for those who are looking for a quality vacation destination. Enjoy Cyprus, from the intensity that a good game of golf can rouse to complete rest and relaxation at luxury hotels or exotic spas. From the famed Commandaria wine to the country’s shopping, renowned for its variety, exotic goods and jewelry.

Follow your heart to experience the island’s breathtaking beauty and you’ll find that everything in Cyprus is a mere heartbeat away.

www.visitcyprus.com

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SIX COURSES for city slickers Photos The Golf Clubs

NEW YORK - Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Courses Situated in Pelham Bay Park, New York City’s largest green space, Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Courses comprise New York City’s only 36-hole golf facility. Located just a few miles from bridges connecting Long Island and New Jersey to the Bronx, clocking in at a mere 45 minutes from Downtown Manhattan, Pelham Bay and Split Rock are easily accessible from all five boroughs, drawing golfers from the heart of the city as well as the surrounding suburban counties.

Also in close proximity to Connecticut, the courses make spectacular venues for golf outings and special events. The value of such a lush landscape so close to the bustle of the city is not to be underestimated; Pelham Bay and Split Rock are not just great places to golf, but also serene environments in which visitors can relax, enjoy a few hours of peace away from the chaos of the city, and create wonderful memories with friends and family. . www.pelhamsplitrock.com

LONDON - Brocket Hall Set in the splendid Hertfordshire countryside, a mere 45-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of London, lies one of England’s finest stately homes. Here, Brocket Hall, with its beautiful architecture and intriguing history, offers visitors the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. It also boasts two of southern England’s best championship golf courses as well as Auberge du Lac, a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Brocket Hall’s two golf courses, The Melbourne Course and The Palmerston Course, take their names from the Prime Ministers

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who once resided here. The Melbourne Course, which is the one we are playing today, opened in 1992 and was designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark. This Par 72 follows the natural undulations and contours of the 18th-century parkland and offers stunning views over Broadwater Lake and the River Lea. Both courses regularly play host to professional and members' tournaments as well as Pro-Am tournaments where members can meet and play with professionals from around the world. www.brocket-hall.co.uk

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PARIS - Chateau d’Augerville Located in Augerville-la-Rivière, about an hours’ drive south of Paris, this château offers peace and tranquillity, fine dining and luxury accommodation, as well as being surrounded by an 18 hole parkland golf course designed by architect Olivier Dongradi in 1995.

Château d’Augerville has a long and colourful history. Originally the property of the Augerville-Beaumont family, it was bought in 1452 by Jacques Cœur, the minister of finance during the reign of King Charles VII. His grand-daughter, Marie Cœur, felt a strong

attachment to the place and later undertook the renovation of the village, church and feudal castle, which had been destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War. Legend has it that she still haunts the fairways and that sometimes golfers catch a glimpse of a woman dressed in white, roaming barefoot on the golf course.

The golf course of Château d'Augerville is the highlight of the site. Lush, attractive and engaging, it offers a round of golf with the peaceful pleasures of nature. The course is open every day from daybreak to sunset. www.chateau-augerville.com

MIAMI - Turnberry Isle Resort & Club Situated just minutes from North Miami Beach and South Beach, Turnberry Isle Resort & Club covers 300 tropical acres that offer a variety of activities. The two 18-hole championship courses, The Soffer and The Miller, originally designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., have been reinterpreted by golf icon Raymond Floyd. With contoured fairways, clever doglegs, rolling greens, perfectly carved bunkers, strategically placed water features and a variety of elevation changes to challenge and enthral casual golfers and enthusiasts alike, Turnberry Isle Miami is a

showcase of the best in Florida golf.

From the very first tee, you are greeted by emerald green paspalum fairways and greens that are immaculately groomed, providing the best Miami golf experience. Winding through a colourful, sub-tropical foliage, white sand and spectacular water features, the tranquil surroundings allow you to swing the club with a smooth tempo and enjoy a relaxing round of golf that is challenging, yet a pleasure to play in every way. www.trumpgolfscotland.com

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SIX COURSES

LISBON - The Oitavos Dunes Golf Course The Oitavos Dunes Golf Course, which was designed by Arthur Hills, was developed by Quinta da Marinha and opened in 2001. This Par 71 course has a length of 6303m from the white tees and its sand dunes and ocean environment make it a similar experience to playing links courses in Scotland.

Oitavos Dunes offers three distinct landscape forms: forested area (with beautiful umbrella pine trees), dunes land, and the more open coastal transition areas. The course has

been carefully routed to take advantage of all three zones, featuring all of their distinct characteristics. The routing is a continuous loop of holes, nine out and nine in.

Oitavos Dunes offers the finest facilities to practise and learn golf. The driving range is adjacent to the first tee. It is 300 metres long with 5 target greens, and it has a capacity of 60 players. Oitavos Dunes has hosted the Portuguese Open four times (2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009) www.oitavosdunes.com

DUBAI - Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club opened in January 1993. Since then it has been host to numerous tournaments and events, including the Dubai Desert Classic on two occasions. The course record of 63 is jointly held by Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke.

A round of golf at the sporting oasis in the heart of the city echoes a delightful journey across the fabled landscape of Dubai, a city that thrives in all seasons. Well-groomed fairways lined with date palms and coconut trees, attractive water

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hazards and shrubbery lend a tropical air to the Club's 18-hole, par-71 championship course that rolls into thousands of undulating yards.

The majestic Clubhouse -- its design mirroring the sails of the traditional Arab dhow -- has been one of the most photographed landmarks since it opened in 1993, capturing the essence of Dubai's seafaring traditions and presenting the perfect fusion of heritage with modernity and style. www.dubaigolf.com

In support of

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Sans Frontières. Each watch raises £100 for the Nobel Peace Prize winning humanitarian organization. And still these handcrafted mechanical watches with the red 12 cost the same as the classic Tangente models from NOMOS Glashütte. Help now, wear forever. £100 from every product sold is paid to Médecins Sans Frontières UK, a UK registered charity no. 1026588. NOMOS retailers helping to help include C S Bedford, C W Sellors, Catherine Jones, Fraser Hart, Hamilton & Inches, Mappin & Webb, Orro, Perfect Timing, Russell & Case, Stewart's Watches, Stuart Thexton, Watches of Switzerland, Wempe. Find these and other authorised NOMOS retailers at www.nomos-watches.com, or order online at www.nomos-store.com.

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GOLF & THE CITY

Music, Mountains and golf Urslautal golf course

Photos: Peter Ellegard and Salzburg Tourist Office

W

ith a proud cultural heritage and one of Hollywood’s most popular musicals (indelibly linked with the city) notching up its 50th anniversary, 2015 is the year to visit Austria’s picturesque Salzburg.

The city where Mozart was born and grew up has big celebration plans ahead, in honour of the Oscar-winning musical The Sound of Music.

The movie was filmed in and around the city. Many of its glorious architectural landmarks feature in the film, and you can take a The Sound of Music Tour to visit outlying villages, lakes and mountains where other familiar scenes were shot.

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the four-hour excursion, which takes in parts of the beautiful Salzkammergut lake district. Highlights include: Leopoldskron Castle, the front exterior of which was used as the von Trapp family home; Hellbrunn Castle, notable for its trick fountains; Lake Fuschlsee, featured in the film’s opening sequence; the pretty village of St Gilgen by Lake Wolfgangsee; and Mondsee Cathedral, where the wedding scene was filmed.

CHARMING OLD TOWN. Founded on the fortunes of salt, mined from nearby mountains, Salzburg’s beautifully preserved, historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a delight to explore, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, quaint alleys and hidden courtyards, lined by pretty buildings housing

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Mirabell Gardens

shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born and lived for 26 years in an apartment in the heart of the city on its narrow main street, Getreidegasse. Today, the street is a traffic-free pedestrian precinct that swarms with tour groups, drawn to Mozart’s Birthplace (as it’s now known), like bees round a honeypot. The building houses exhibits including his original instruments, letters and family portraits.

The adjacent building, Next to Mozart, is a multimedia wax museum, complete with animatronic figures. Mozart’s Residence, in Markplatz, was the family home from 1773 and was where he wrote a number of his works. It also contains a museum dedicated to the composer.

Salzburg’s Mozart theme continues with culinary events. The Mozart Dinner Concert offers a three-course meal, prepared from 17th and 18th century recipes, served in the Stiftskeller St Peter; the oldest restaurant in central Europe (first mentioned during Charlemagne’s visit in 803).

THE FESTIVAL CITY. On one Salzburg visit, my wife and I opted for a dinner and concert in the 930-year-old Hohensalzburg Fortress, which stands guard on a cliff top above the city. We dined on high with stunning views across fields and hamlets to the nearby mountains, and then enjoyed a Mozart performance by a violin quartet and pianist in the elegant State Rooms overlooking Salzburg’s ancient rooftops and church spires. Truly magical.

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GOLF & THE CITY

Salzburg skyline

The Sound of Music poster

If you crave more of the maestro, consider the annual 10-day Mozart Week Music Festival. Featuring many international artists, it takes place each January, just after Salzburg’s celebrated Christmas Market, which livens up the Cathedral Square (Domplatz) from late November with craft stalls, choirs, Glühwein, roasted chestnuts and almonds.

Salzburg is known as the Festival City. Music events throughout the year include the Salzburg Easter Festival, featuring classic music and opera, and the long-established Salzburg Festival, focusing on music and drama, that occurs in July and August.

Beyond the city, a six-hour tour of the Salzkammergut region visits the World Cultural Heritage Site village of Hallstatt, on Hallstattsee lake, as well as the villages of Gosau, Abtenau and Golling, and the 9,855-foot summit of Mount Dachstein.

North of Salzburg, the boatmen’s church of St Nicholas, in Oberndorf, was where the Christmas carol Silent Night was first sung in 1818. A flood destroyed the church, but a four-hour tour takes in the Silent Night Memorial Chapel built in its place, as well as the Silent Night Museum in neighbouring Arnsdorf.

ALIVE WITH GOLF. The hills around Salzburg are not just alive

with music. From April until October/November, the verdant slopes and valleys echo to irons and woods on golf balls.

Within easy reach of Salzburg, golfers can fine-tune their swings on the fairways of 16, going on 17, golf courses. The state of SalzburgerLand alone has more than a dozen courses.

Just 10 minutes from Salzburg’s Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Airport, the 6,903-yard, Par-72 Eugendorf Golf Club strikes a chord with discerning golfers. An open American-style layout with pristine, manicured fairways and plenty of water hazards, it has an old red British telephone kiosk by the 9th tee so golfers can ring the clubhouse and order their halfway snacks!

Mountains and lakes are a feature of the Golf Club Zell am See-Kaprun – Austria’s largest golf club, with two 18-hole courses laid out below the majestic Kitzsteinhorn peak. The view of the Kitzsteinhorn course’s 10th green, with the glacier-swathed mountain behind it reflected in a lake with a soaring fountain, is stunning. The vistas are just as striking on its longer, more wooded sister course, Schmittenhoehe.

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Residenz Fountain

GOLF AND SKI. The club is on the outskirts of beautiful lakeside

tourist town Zell am See. After your round you can ascend nearby Kitzsteinhorn mountain in a gondola, enjoy some spectacular views and even ski on its glacier.

Radstadt’s 18-hole, par-71 course boasts its own ‘Birdie Jet’ cable car, whisking golfers from the 11th green to the 12th tee in gondolas. After that, players get a bird’s eye view of the course, including an island green on the 8th hole, from the 13th tee, at an elevation of 3,268 feet.

Urslautal is arguably the most scenic of all the courses around Salzburg. It is cradled by the craggy peaks of the Steinernes Meer range on one side and gentler slopes etched with ski runs on the other. On Midsummer’s Day, locals climb the surrounding mountains for the tradition of Sonnwende; camping out overnight and lighting torches at dusk to create a ring of fire encircling Urslautal.

The nearby Golf Club Brandlhof course is carved out of a river valley, little more than a cleft between the sheer rock faces of intimidating mountains, a fast-flowing river splitting fairways on several holes.

Southern SalzburgerLand offers the lovely mountain-framed fairways of Lungau Golf Club, where I witnessed a harnessed mountain dog pulling a golf trolley.

FINAL EXPLORE. Back in Salzburg, the good-value SalzburgerLand Card gives free entry to the city’s major attractions plus free travel on its buses and the Hohensalzburg Fortress cable railway.

Besides Getreidegasse, there are several other lovely old streets to amble along, with buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

There are also picture-postcard squares with grand edifices, such as the Cathedral (Salzburger Dom), Residence Palace (Residenz), St Peter’s Abbey (Stift St Peter) and its fascinating cemetery, and Mirabell Palace (Schloss Mirabell), with its romantic gardens on the bank of the Salzach. You can also tour the Old Town in a traditional fiaker horse and buggy.

Or you can simply sit back and relax with a coffee in a streetside café or a beer in a flower-filled beer garden and just gaze out across one of the world’s most beautiful cities..

GGM More information: www.salzburg.info/en

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Salzburg's Getreidegasse

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HAINAN ISLAND, CHINA

Sanya Dragon Valley Golf Course

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Sheraton Shenzhou Peninsula and The Dunes

Yalong Bay Golf Course

Sanya Forest Valley Golf Club

Blackstone Course

The Dunes, Shenzhou Peninsula

Sanya Forest Valley Golf Club

Blackstone Course

Sun Valley Sanya Golf Resort

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Sandbelt Course

G

olf arrived in China just 30 years ago, when golf legend Arnold Palmer designed the Chung Shan Hot Spring Golf course, in Guangdong province, in 1984. Since then, China has undergone an unprecedented boom in golf course building and there are now almost 700 across the country.

In the vanguard of China’s golf revolution is the Mission Hills Group. Just 10 years after China’s first tentative steps onto the global golf stage, the group’s visionary founder, Hong Kong-born industrialist Dr David Chu, built a course designed by 18-time Major winner Jack Nicklaus on barren wasteland near the Hong Kong border.

It was quickly followed by four more, and then expanded to 10 and finally 12, making Mission Hills Shenzhen and Dongguan the world’s largest golf complex. All 12 signature courses are designed by some of golf’s most distinguished names. The RosePoulter match play course is the latest addition to an illustrious roll call also including designs by Pete Dye, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, Ernie Els, Annika Sorenstam and Jose Maria Olazabal.

Although golf course construction in China has slowed dramatically since a 2004 government moratorium aimed at stopping valuable farming land being developed and villagers being displaced, new courses have continued to open.

CHINA’S HAWAII. The tropical island of Hainan, China’s

southernmost province and often called China’s Hawaii, is now the focal point for its burgeoning golf tourism industry. And, once again, Mission Hills is at the forefront.

Of Hainan’s 50-plus golf courses, 10 of them – almost onefifth – are at Mission Hills Haikou, which spans a vast volcanic lava landscape in the north, near the island’s capital, Haikou. All were designed by leading golf architect company Schmidt-Curley Design. They opened in 2010 with a 500-room hotel as part of a sprawling spa and volcanic spring resort recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest spa resort.

Having previously played at the original mainland Mission Hills Golf Club, I visited its younger sibling earlier this year and was immediately struck by the sheer scale of it.

Unlike its sister complex, Mission Hills Haikou is geared more towards leisure visitors and perfectly underlines the “golf and more” philosophy of the group, now headed by brothers Dr Ken Chu and Tenniel Chu after the untimely death of their father through cancer at 61 in 2011.

MOVIE STUDIOS. During my stay, to attend a major golf convention, I was given a preview tour of the Mission Hills Huayi Brothers - Feng Xiagang Movie-Themed Town district that opened soon after. China’s answer to Universal Studios, it features four movie studios and three themed streets as well as dining, shopping and entertainment facilities.

January will see the opening of the Mission Hills • Lan Kwai Fong - Haikou town centre-style leisure area, offering high-end Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance and Hard Rock hotels, plus shopping, ice skating rinks, bowling alleys, simulation racing and IMAX cinemas. Eventually, both attractions will have nine international brand hotels.

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HAINAN ISLAND, CHINA Sadly, there was no time to indulge in the spa, which my room overlooked. With architecture based on the circular, UNESCOlisted Hakka earth buildings found in China’s Fujian, Jiangxi and Guangdong provinces, it offers almost 170 hot and cold springs, 61 spa treatment suites, 29 spa villas, a café, nail spa and hair salon.

MONSTER COURSE. I did play golf on two of Mission Hills Haikou’s courses, though. All 10 courses incorporate the region’s natural lava rocks in their design, with quirky additions to some.

The terrace of its three-storey clubhouse gives a grandstand view of star course, Blackstone.

Stone Quarry Course

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Touted as Asia’s premier tournament venue, Mission Hills Olazabal Golf Course was chosen to host the World Cup of Golf in 2011. It also stages the biennial Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-Am, welcoming film stars such as Hugh Grant, Catherine Zeta Jones and Christian Slater, swimmer Michael Phelps, snooker star Stephen Hendry and footballer Ronaldo, and it hosted a head-tohead challenge between Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in 2013.

This is a monster course at over 7,800 yards from the pro tees and covers 350 acres. Copious black lava rocks line virtually every fairway along with large lakes and wetland areas adding to the challenge. Low handicappers will love the risk and reward

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opportunities, particularly on the closing holes, while the fairways are wide enough to make it playable for lesser mortals like me.

My advice is to play off a sensible tee and not take on more than you are capable of, otherwise it will quickly ruin your round.

The lava rocks vividly contrast Blackstone’s fairways, greens and lush jungle vegetation that include magnificent lychee trees, preserved during the course’s construction.

LAVA FIELDS AND RAILWAY TRACKS. Course number seven,

Stone Quarry, is a fun layout that won’t please purists but does suit shorter hitters. Measuring only just over 6,000 yards from

the back tees, it still demands accurate shot-making.

A tribute to legendary designer Pete Dye (a mentor to the Schmidt-Curley Design team), it incorporates many features he is noted for, including railway sleepers edging bunkers, abrupt mounds, moguls, long waste bunkers and tricky, and often small, greens in addition to lava rocks on most holes.

Stone Quarry also features railway tracks that run across several lava rock areas. There is abandoned mining equipment on some holes, a bridge made from a railway boxcar and a coal car dangling precariously off the edge of a partially-collapsed trestle bridge alongside two greens. Volcano-shaped grass mounds set in bunkers

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HAINAN ISLAND, CHINA

even have miniature bunkers at the top to simulate calderas.

Of the other courses, Lava Field features wild bunkering and rolling waves of tall grasses on fairways surrounded by lava rocks.

The Vintage is a nod to classic courses with its tree-lined fairways, deep pot bunkers, blind shots and large greens with wicker basket pins.

Sandbelt Trails emulates courses in Australia’s Sandbelt, with large, high-flashed bunkers, while Shadow Dunes mimics Hainan Island’s beaches with its towering dunes.

HOLIDAY AREA. Just 15 minutes from downtown Haikou, is the 27-hole, Colin Montgomerie-designed Meishi Mayflower International Golf Club. Dominated by a huge clubhouse and hotel that looks like a Chinese copy of the White House and

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fronts a large lake splitting the 9th and 18th holes, the course has a traditional feel and most fairways are lined by tall trees.

The course is opposite a public beach and some holes offer sea views. Nine holes are also equipped for night golf.

Hainan’s main holiday area is along its southern coast, centred around the beach resort of Sanya, which is renowned for its air quality and enjoys about 300 sunny days per year. Crescent-shaped bays with beautiful sandy beaches close to Sanya are lined by luxury hotels, while over a dozen golf courses are dotted around the bays.

Head south from Haikou by road and you first reach the wild and beautiful Shenzhou Peninsula, 90 minutes east of Sanya. Here, Tom Weiskopf has used the rugged coastal dunes and natural, craggy boulders to fashion a masterpiece called The Dunes, which comprises two stunning 18-hole courses, the West and the East.

Guanyin Buddha, Nanshan

Sanya beach

Spa, Mission Hills Haikou

Springs, Mission Hills Haikou

Spa, Mission Hills Haikou

Lava Bar & Grill, Mission Hills Haikou

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I knew of it and was eagerly anticipating playing there. The Dunes not only met my expectations but far exceeded them. The East Course, which I played, is simply magical, the highlight being the holes skirting the beach that give sweeping views of the South China Sea. With some greens cupped by giant dunes, it feels as though you are playing on the beach at times.

I was playing in a tournament and hospitality tents on several holes provided food from the adjacent Sheraton Shenzhou Peninsula and Four Points by Sheraton hotels. Both the service and the food were first class, matching the quality of the course.

LUXURY RESORTS. The sandy bays just east of Sanya are liberally sprinkled with luxury hotels. Raffles Hainan opened in September 2013 in Clearwater Bay together with a large spa and

incorporating over 1,000 pieces of art curated by Hong Kong’s Willow Gallery.

Hotels along the 20km curve of Haitang Bay include China’s first Kempinski beach resort which features a Wood Art Museum housed in a century-old mansion, Qing Dynasty pagodas, dragon boat rides and a miniature 18-hole course with bunkers.

Crescent-shaped Yalong Bay is one of Sanya’s main holiday spots and offers several luxury resorts as well as two of its top golf courses. The Ritz-Carlton, Sanya, has one of the region’s largest spas and activities including a sea turtle conservation programme, biking through mangrove trees and Segway rides along its white, sandy beach. Meanwhile, a bonus for guests staying at the Sanya Marriott Resort & Spa is that they can literally walk across the road to the Yalong Bay Golf Club. A links-style inland course

Dawn at Mission Hills Haikou

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Aerial view of Mission Hills Haikou with its spa and springs in the foreground

designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, Yalong Bay is shaped like a dragon’s claw. Golfers are tested by 98 bunkers and a winding river crossed by traditional Chinese bridges.

SANYA. Close by is the 27-hole Sun Valley Sanya Golf Resort. Its

fairways lie at the foot of forested hills, making for a visual spectacle with its large lake, tropical plants and views of Li minority villages from four holes. However, the course’s real claim to fame is the signature 9th hole of its B course; the only par-6 in China, it measures a gargantuan 828 yards from the gold tees.

Not only that, it is a double-dogleg requiring a drive over a waterfilled ravine to a bunker-strewn fairway that climbs uphill to a well-guarded green 10 metres above the tee. I shot 13 on it and thought I had played it well!

Sanya has plenty more excellent golf. The coastal Hainan Clearwater Bay Golf Club is another Schmidt-Curley design, as is Dragon Valley Golf Course, a Par 75, 19-hole mountain course.

Mystic Springs Golf Club has two 18-hole courses by Nelson & Haworth alongside the Nantian Hot Springs Park. Hongtang Bay International Golf Club is another Robert Trent Jones Jr design.

I particularly like the unsung Sanya Forest Valley Golf Club, a challenging layout draped across forested mountain slopes with elevation drops of up to 50 metres. Here, as everywhere I played across Hainan, the smiling caddies – both male and female – helped enhance the enjoyment of playing.

COCONUT ISLAND. Besides its glorious palm tree-fringed beaches

(Hainan Island is sometimes called Coconut Island for its many coconut trees), Sanya also offers many other attractions. They include the Sanya Nanshan Buddhism Cultural Tourism Zone, with its towering 108m Guanyin Buddha statue on a man-made island, Nanshan Temple complex and scenic Taoist site Dongtian Park, as well as romantic beauty spot Tianya Haijao – the End of the Earth – which is China’s southernmost point.

You will see many Chinese tourists on Hainan but few Chinese golfers, but this will change. Mission Hills Group is actively helping to develop junior golf in China and nurture Asia’s future champions under group vice chairman Tenniel Chu. He told me that an estimated 900,000 Chinese tourists travelling overseas 34

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were golfers and he predicted that number would grow strongly in coming years.

At the 2013 Masters, a 14-year-old Chinese stunned the golfing world by becoming the youngest-ever player to make the cut at a Major tournament, after compatriots Zhang Lianwei and Liang Wenchong had failed in 2004 and 2006.

Europe and America beware; the dragon has been stirred from GGM its slumber.

GOOD TO KNOW ­

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CR AZY F OR

F L GO

The Catalans say that when the Tramuntana wind blows down from the Pyrenees ‘you do crazy things,’ and at times during my golf trip to Catalonia, this did appear true...

By Vicky Richards, photos barcelona turisme

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Emporda Forest Course

laying Barcelona’s El Prat Course with its 104 bunkers, teeing off at the first in the Spanish Open Pro-Am at PGA Catalunya, and most crazy of all, playing a ‘Links’ course at Emporda which after nine holes turns into a parkland course with pine trees and lakes. It may all have been a little crazy, but it was certainly enjoyable.

Catalonia is one of the 17 regions of Spain famous for being fiercely proud of its identity, culture and language. Its capital is the colourful city of Barcelona and to the north of the city lies the Costa Brava which stretches along the ragged coastline of the Mediterranean to its border with France and the Pyrenees.

It is an area with much to offer the golfer and the discerning visitor. Forget past images of the Costa Brava and cheap 1970’s package holidays to Lloret de Mar. This area is blessed with striking medieval towns, pretty seaside resorts and a rich agricultural hinterland which has helped give rise to its excellent cuisine and many Michelin star restaurants including El Celler de Can Roca near Girona – voted best restaurant in the world in 2013 by The Restaurant magazine.

Club de Golf El Prat located 25 minutes north of Barcelona.

This Club has hosted the Spanish Open nine times and will do so again in 2015. It has the look and feel of an exclusive country club with its extensive practice areas, swimming pools and terraced restaurants. Designed by Greg Norman, its 45 holes offer challenging golf for every level.

We played the Open Course with its 104 bunkers which I would describe more of an inconvenience rather than a penalty.

The greens on the other hand were huge and fast and proved to be very costly in shots when landing on the front edge. After seven holes the course changes and becomes more parkland bringing trees into play, demanding concentration off the tee to keep your ball in play.

With the green fees rising from €60 on a Monday to €220 at the weekend, playing early in the week is a good call. Just a 5 minute ride by buggy brought us back to our DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, La Mola. A very comfortable four star hotel with delightful staff, a welcoming spa and pools to enjoy, both indoor and outdoor.

VISITORS WELCOME. Golf is everywhere and visitors are made

MEDIEVAL TOWN. Moving north the following day towards the medieval town of Girona we encountered the majestic PGA

P

to feel very welcome, even at the members’ only clubs such as Real 38

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PGA Catalunya Resort

Catalunya, home to this year’s Spanish Open and reported to be the second best course in Spain, third in Europe and ninety-eighth in the world.

Two courses can be played here. The Stadium Course specifically designed for major competitions with elevated tees, very long dog-leg fairways and perfect greens, while the Tour Course offers a challenging round but is much more forgiving for the wayward shot. Straight driving on both these courses is a must.

The rough is punishing and as the pro kindly pointed out, ‘commit or you’ll leave the ball behind!’ and he was so right.

The four star Meliá Golf Vichy Catalán is located near the first tees of both courses and offers excellent resort facilities. However, the ultra modern golf villas on the edge of the course would be a delight to rent. They come with a concierge service which claims it can organise anything from babysitting to dinner in one of the many Michelin star restaurants in the nearby beautiful walled city of Girona.

ROMAN TIMES. Girona is well worth visiting as there are more than 2000 years of history to discover through fortified walls, the Força Vella and the Medieval Quarter. The Força Vella dates back to the Roman times while the medieval extension of the city walls

was carried out during the 14th and 15th centuries.

The city's artistic heritage has been preserved in the numerous monuments that have survived until today. The highlights of Girona are rounded off by the impressive old Jewish Quarter or Call, with its beautiful streets and squares, and by the exuberant baroque spaces and Noucentisme-style buildings by architect Rafael Masó.

In Girona, you will find all kinds of shops, ranging from traditional stores to designer boutiques, delicatessens and of course restaurants and old fashioned ice cream parlours. While I was there the 10-day Flower Festival was taking place and every building and wall and even the River Fer was festooned with flowers.

Throughout the year there is a calendar of events including craft fairs, food fayres and painting fairs. To me, Girona is a true gem to discover, reminiscent of Florence but without the crowds.

CLOSE TO FRANCE. Travelling further into the Costa Brava area, the countryside showed signs that France was very close. Apple orchards, small vineyards, and most surprisingly rice fields appeared and thoughts of Provence came to mind.

The Empordà Golf Resort is located near the medieval village of Pals and just a few miles from the sparkling clear waters of the 39

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Espai d'Imatge

J. Trullas

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Mediterranean. There are 36 holes to choose from at the Empordà Golf Course which was designed by American architect, Robert Von Hagge, mixing links with forest.

Along with many Scottish and Irish links golfers, I did initially query ‘links’ but with the numerous sand bunkers, dunes and the Tramuntana wind blowing, ‘links’ golf shots such as a ‘running six iron’ came into play and saved the day. The back nine of the links turns into the forest course with its tall pine trees, water and, thankfully, shelter from the wind which made these holes much more enjoyable and interesting to play.

SPA AND POOLS. The courses are located around the DoubleTree

by Hilton Empordà Hotel, (designed to look like an apple box) and the attractive terrace makes a perfect place to stop after 9 holes, have a bbq lunch and chat about holes played and those still to play.

The hotel itself was very comfortable with spa and pools to enjoy after golf. Nearby are many smaller boutique hotels including Hotel Moli del Mig, a beautifully converted old flour mill and

Castell d'Empordà with its wonderful terrace for sun bathing, luxurious bedrooms and renowned restaurant.

The pretty coastal villages of Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell are a short drive away. Known for their white-washed villas, family run hotels perched on cliffs and crystal clear waters, these small seaside resorts offer true relaxation and feeling of being away from it all. It is said the ‘Wilt’ author, Tom Sharpe came to stay for a week and never left!

Walking along the cliff paths, the heady scent of orange blossom and jasmine is everywhere and conjures up a sense of truly being on holiday. Hiking and water sports are also very popular here. Just inland is the medieval village of Pals, very understated but a delight to explore with fantastic views over the countryside and the snow capped Pyrenees.

LOCAL CUISINE. It was at Pals, at the Viscus Restaurant, where we had the chance to experience the local gastronomic cuisine of the area. Our menu included a white anchovy and baked pepper salad; escabeche of bonito (pickled tuna) with spicy mashed 41

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potato; rice mar i muntanya (fish and meat) with king prawns; cottage cheese panna cotta with raisins and honey – delicious!

This area boasts 16 restaurants with 20 Michelin Stars between them, including La Botic in Corca and of course the three Michelin star Roco brothers’ restaurant near Girona, which has a waiting list of over a year.

The revival of wine and cava production has led to the development of many wine and food trails and the official DO Empordà Wine Route tells all the secrets of red, white and rosé Empordà wines.

BARCELONA. Reluctant to leave the tranquillity of this area, we headed back to Barcelona for flights home. This city is a great tourist city. Its true tourism potential came to the fore with the hosting of the Olympic Games in 1992 and the city is now very well prepared and offers a great experience for the tourist.

As usual, I took the tried and trusted ‘hop on- hop off’ city bus tour which allowed me to get a quick insight into the city’s main attractions. These included its Gothic Quarter, the iconic architecture of Gaudi, Monjuic and the Olympic Park, Las Ramblas and of course the city’s famous shopping line which runs for 3 miles from the top of Las Ramblas and its market to the expensive designer shops along the tree lined Avenue Via Diagonal.

RUN THE CITY. If you have discovered the world of running, the 360 Running Barcelona is a great way to ‘run’ the city. This can be booked online and can be in a group or as an individual and anything from 5 – 12 kms. Run early morning or early evening when the streets are less crowded this is a fun and healthy way to do the sights.

The ‘must-do’ sight in Barcelona is, of course, to see and discover the work of its most famous son - Antoni Gaudi. His world renowned architectural gems include the giant Basilica Church, Sagrada Família which has been under construction since 1882, (yes, not a misprint – 1882), the Casa Ballo with its ‘skull 42

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and bones’ balconies and the magical Parc Guell, with its dragon fountains and walkways supported by twisted rock pillars.

All of these may seem a little crazy, but as I mentioned at the beginning, when the Tramuntana wind blows - crazy things happen.

GGM

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GREAT WATCHES

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Highly qualified Girard-Perregaux has been producing luxury timepieces since 1791. With numerous awards to its name and a long history of innovation, few watch brands are more qualified to craft fine watches than this exemplar of haute horlogerie.

By Angus Davies, www.escapementmagazine.com, photo Girard-Perregaux

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GREAT WATCHES n the highest echelons of academia, qualifications indicate proficiency and a specialist competence few others share. The same could equally apply to the world of horology, with the finest practitioners of watchmaking demonstrating an elevated expertise, producing a limited number of no-compromise timepieces. Indeed, it is this small group of companies who populate the rarefied world of haute horlogerie.

One such company belonging to the higher echelons of watchmaking is Girard-Perregaux. The Swiss brand, based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, has a rich tradition of making fine watches, dating back to 1791.

I

UNESCO World Heritage List. La Chaux-de-Fonds is a city in the canton of Neuchâtel, famed for watchmaking.

It sits along the spine of the Jura mountains. La Chauxde-Fonds, together with its neighbour, Le Locle, appears on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The streets are laid out in a system of grids, with workshop windows arranged to capture natural light. Karl Marx in Das Kapital, referred to the city as a “huge factory town” when he analysed the division of labour within the watchmaking industry of the Jura.

Watchmaking continues to play a major role in the economy of this region, with many companies making components, machinery and tools for the watch industry, as well as complete timepieces. However, Girard-Perregaux is one of the most prestigious names in the city with its own museum proving a popular tourist attraction.

COMPLICATED WATCHES. A “complication” is a term used in watchmaking to describe a timepiece which conveys more than just hours and minutes. There are many complications to sate the needs of the most demanding client. The “chronograph” provides a stopwatch function. The “dual time” or “GMT” provides the convenience of an additional hour hand to show the prevailing hour in another time zone, proving highly useful for the business traveller.

In some instances the intricacy of a complication can lead to it being referred to as a “complicated watch”.

Alternatively, this term may be applied when several complications are combined and housed in one timepiece.

The nature of a complicated watch often necessitates the use of many parts, some barely visible to the naked eye.

Only the most capable and experienced watchmaker can work on this type of timepiece, given the level of skill necessary to bring it to fruition. Moreover, some watches will require many weeks or even months to complete.

THE THREE GOLD BRIDGES. The tourbillon is arguably one of the most complicated watch movements. It was invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet and patented in 1801 and is, for many, the most coveted complicated watch. The escapement is a device which receives power from a tensioned spring, the “main spring” and ultimately portions this energy to advance the hands of the watch in a uniform and precise way.

Breguet, a genius, realised that gravity could unduly influence the rate keeping of a watch and conceived his “tourbillon” or whirlwind. Today, the enhanced rate keeping of a tourbillon, compared with a standard mechanical watch, is negligible and is often

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GREAT WATCHES chosen solely for its aesthetic beauty and hypnotic motion.

In approximately 1860, Constant Girard-Perregaux created a pocket watch featuring a tourbillon with three parallel bridges. This timepiece received a first-class award from the Observatory of the Canton of Neuchâtel. The expertly polished bridges conferred a beguiling aesthetic. The Tourbillon with Three Gold Bridges was ultimately offered in wristwatch form and now enjoys iconic status within the watch collecting community.

Girard-Perregaux has always been innovative and earlier this year, the z brand released its Neo-Tourbillon with Three Bridges. The design overflows with modernity whilst still respecting traditional watchmaking craftsmanship.

M O R E S I LV E R WA R E . In 1 9 6 6 ,

Girard-Perregaux introduced the first high frequency movement with its balance beating at 36,000 vibrations per hour (vph). The balance is a small wheel at the heart of the escapement which oscillates to and fro. It features a fine coiled spring at its centre, the hairspring.

At this time, typical frequencies were much slower and would range from 18,000 to 28,800 vph. Once again, Girard-Perregaux was pushing the boundaries in the pursuit of enhanced accuracy. Its efforts were subsequently recognised by the Administrative Council of the Canton of Neuchâtel with the award of the “Observatory Centenary Prize” in 1966. Interestingly, it is this year which provides the name for one of the brand’s collections, the GirardPerregaux 1966.

Girard-Perregaux has also received critical acclaim for its Constant Escapement L.M, launched in 2013.

REMARKABLE PRECISION.

T h e u l t i m a t e g o a l o f a n y watchmaker is to achieve heightened levels of accuracy. A creative watchmaker, holding a train ticket between his forefinger and thumb, conceived the idea of the Constant Escapement L.M. This watch features a fine silicon blade, measuring only 14 microns in thickness. It buckles backwards and forwards, accurately portioning doses of energy, causing the watch hands to advance with remarkable precision.

This exemplar of innovative thinking delivers a novel means of enhancing the rate-keeping of a timepiece and is arguably one of the biggest advances in the field of haute horlogerie since the advent of the tourbillon.

The watch world was truly amazed at this technical achievement. In 2013, the watch received the “Aiguille d’Or”, the most prestigious award from the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). The GPHG is regarded as the watchmaking industry’s equivalent of the Oscars and, in a multi-billion pound industry, its prizes are coveted by German and Swiss brands alike.

Further accolades have been received from other parts of the

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globe. At the time of writing, the Girard-Perregaux Constant Escapement L.M. has received eight different international awards and counting.

EXCELLENCE AND VALUE. Regrettably, I share the plight of many watch collectors, unable to afford some of the most complex models from Girard-Perregaux. These models attract six-figure pricing that would buy a row of terrace houses in my native Lancashire.

However, Girard-Perregaux does offer more accessible timepieces. I must add these are not “cheap” watches; the pursuit of excellence precludes the production of low-cost watches.

Nevertheless, some watches are available from less than £8000 and, compared with similar models from c o m p e t i n g b r a n d s , re p re s e n t excellent value, especially considering that they feature “manufacture” movements and a high degree of hand craftsmanship.

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of wearing the Vintage 1945 XXL Small Second for a few weeks.

This watch features an engaging deep blue dial and is supplied with a matching alligator strap. The case of the watch arcs, following the profile of the wrist, delivering sublime levels of comfort. Interestingly, the sapphire crystal, the dial and even the hands all follow this curving line. The result is truly beautiful.

The aforementioned GirardPerregaux 1966 is available in several versions, but a personal favourite is the Column Wheel Chronograph.

The watch is delivered in a gorgeous pink gold case, measuring 40mm in diameter, and features two subdials.

This is a complication which often proves useful in daily life, ideal for timing events with a simple press of the push pieces adjacent the crown. The column wheel chronograph is a type of stopwatch movement and is highly prized by the cognoscenti. This particular model delivers a smooth, almost buttery action to its push pieces.

DIVERSE AND FAMILIAR. The Girard-Perregaux range of

models is extensive. The designs span the spectrum from traditional to neoteric. The complications range from the comparatively simple to the mind boggling. Men's, ladies', large or small, the diversity of purchasing options is breathtaking.

All Girard-Perregaux models share some specific qualities in common. The movements are finely finished. The dials and cases exude a notable degree of quality to their construction.

Moreover, this degree of exalted creation confers a lifetime of faithful service, a trait synonymous with this historical maison and familiar to the company’s loyal clientele.

I return to the subject of qualifications. The Swiss brand’s artisans imbue each component with time-served know-how.

Indeed, Girard-Perregaux is highly qualified, an aspect any ambitious student should strive to emulate.

GGM

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TRAINS, PLANES AND A BIT OF GOLF

FAMOUS for its chocolate, cheese and timepieces, Switzerland is perhaps less known for its golf.

But, as Clive Agran discovers on his trip to Lake Maggiore, its golf courses are just as immaculate as its train service is accurate.

By Clive Agran, photos by Golf Clubs and Resorts

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aving told everyone that I was going to Italy for a short golf break, it was somewhat unsettling to discover that I was, in fact, in Switzerland. My excuse is that Lake Maggiore, not unlike spaghetti Bolognese, sounds unmistakeably Italian. Embarrassingly, the bit of the lake the Eden Roc hotel was located on was up the Swiss end and I therefore reluctantly had to concede I’d got it wrong.

The clue I missed was that my flight from London City airport landed in Zurich, which even I knew to be as Swiss as Toblerone. As expected, the train taking me up to London had been 20 minutes late, but there was no panic because I had sensibly booked myself into a nearby hotel the night before.

Fog delayed the Swiss airline flight departure the next morning just long enough to ensure I missed the train connection in Zurich. Unlike their British counterparts, Swiss trains run almost obsessively on time – to the extent that you suspect one leaving, say, five minutes late would not only make front page news the next day but would also oblige the Transport Minister to resign.

Whereas our rail executives spend the bulk of their time and energy thinking up excuses for poor punctuality, in Switzerland they ensure neither flood, blizzard nor landslide shall cause any disruption to their vaunted train service.

SPECTACULAR TRAIN RIDE. Trains are quite simply the best way to travel and so I didn’t mind waiting half-an-hour for the

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next one to whisk me due south from Zurich, through the Alps to Lugano. Anything less like the 7.52 from Surbiton to Waterloo is hard to imagine.

Pretty lakeside vistas soon morph into breath-taking panoramas and the stunning scenery grows ever more spectacular as the train trundles between mountains, past cascading waterfalls and alongside tumbling streams. Rather than reading a book or completing a crossword, you will fill most of the three-and-a-half hours either staring at the craggy mountain tops or taking endless photos.

Lugano more or less merges seamlessly into the pretty lakeside town of Ascona and so it was no more than a ten-minute taxi ride to the magnificent Eden Roc hotel. Estate agents are forever banging on about the paramount importance of location, well the Eden Roc would appear to have bagged the best spot: right on the lake and at the top of the end of the quayside boulevard where the smart set sip their cappuccinos and soak in the sun.

The lakeside terrace is an understandably popular spot to sip coffee or something stronger and lower down there are some comfy wicker chairs right next to the water. Watching the boats come and go can be surprisingly thirsty work. However, if you’re feeling energetic, there’s a choice of pools in which to plunge and splash about.

There’s a super spa for those who feel in need of pampering and if you fancy venturing out on the limpid lake, the hotel has its own boats and offers skiing, sailing, motor-boating and all manner of water-sports.

Exploring the lake is a first-class way of building an appetite in order to do justice to the superb food on offer in the hotel’s fab four restaurants.

My favourite was the Marina, which offers a wide range of fish, pasta and meat dishes in a relaxed atmosphere right next to the lake. It’s hard to worry about global warming or the likelihood of England’s football team not making it through to the World Cup quarter finals in such a superb spot.

UPMARKET. Ascona is an unashamedly upmarket resort

PLAYING GOLF. After lunch, I strolled through the quaint mediaeval streets of Ascona, while reflecting on the fact that, at 196 metres above sea level, this town is at the lowest point in Switzerland. Being rather energetic, I strode purposefully along the lovely lakeside boulevard trying hard not to feel too self-conscious in my rather over-stated (and possibly a tad vulgar) golf trousers. Well, there’s only limited space in a small suitcase and so some doubling-up is unavoidable.

Okay, since I’m dressed for it I might as well go the whole hog and do what I came to do: play golf!

Fortunately, I don’t have to go very far to tee up. In fact, it’s little more than a five-minute stroll around the corner to Golf Club Patriziale.

As with most things they do, the Swiss take their golf pretty seriously, which perhaps explains the extremely impressive driving range and first-class practice facilities.

Principally because I didn’t want to appear just another light-hearted Brit who wasn’t that bothered about the state of his swing, I felt obliged to pick up a token in the pro shop and hit a few balls before going out.

where Swiss bankers, Italian industrialists and German businessmen come to unwind and spend their Francs and Euros. Quite a few own second homes here. Those that don’t stay in one of several five-star hotels of which Eden Roc is the pick. Although it’s technically one hotel, it’s actually three merged together.

Thanks to its considerable success, it has gradually expanded and absorbed what were previously its near neighbours. While the three happily interconnect, having essentially separate buildings enables the hotel to separate families with young children to the benefit of all.

There are approximately 100 rooms of which roughly a third are suites. All have balconies, the overwhelming majority overlook the lake and most are south facing. The irresistible temptation, therefore, is to relax on the balcony, stare out over the lake or up at the majestic mountains and thoroughly chill out.

Some consolation for those who foolishly imagined they were visiting Italy can perhaps be found in the fact that the little island clearly visible a little way to the southwest marks the Swiss/Italian border. And there might be yet further comfort in the knowledge that, even though Ascona is not in Italy, Italian is the principal language spoken here.

LAKESIDE TERRACE. The rooms are undoubtedly supremely comfortable and tempting as it certainly is to simply luxuriate in their splendour, venturing out Gleneaglesbrings PGA Centenary its ownCourse rewards.

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READY-MADE EXCUSE. Given that I was renting clubs

because I can no longer be bothered to schlep my own around the world, it was probably a good idea to try them out. Apart from avoiding needless wear and tear on the body, the great benefit of borrowing clubs is the ready-made excuse it provides if, as is almost invariably the case it seems, you play badly. “These shafts are rather whippy,” you should remark, as you flex the driver on

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LAKE MAGGIORE, SWITZERLAND punctuated by the occasional shout of ‘fore’. Funny how that word has entered the universal vocabulary.

Again, the practice facilities were absolutely first class and so irresistible that I bought a bucket of balls to test them out.

Although there were mats in the undercover part of the range, two parallel lengths of string on the grass outside indicated the area within which balls could be struck from the turf.

Since I’m rather inclined to sweep the ball off the surface rather than strike down and take a divot, I didn’t feel too guilty. Indeed, I have often thought those of us – unlike the pros – who are disinclined to take a divot, do less damage to the course and should therefore receive a substantial discount on the usual green fee.

PRETTY WATER FEATURES. Sited alongside a river and stretched

the first tee. “Mine at home are super stiff. However, I’ll try and adjust my timing accordingly.”

The course and club date back to the roaring ‘20s. By the ‘30s it was well established as the place where all the movers and shakers of Ascona society hung out. Initially only nine holes, it was subsequently expanded and upgraded in the 1950s so that today it can legitimately claim to be among the best in Switzerland, if not Italy!

It’s a classic English-style parkland course with fine specimen trees dividing the lush fairways, lots of flowerbeds and some genuinely striking water features which inject enormous aesthetic appeal. Beautifully maintained, exceptionally well presented and blessed with exceedingly good greens, it’s thoroughly enjoyable and, although the odd water hazard will almost certainly catch you out, not too intimidating.

NO LAKE HOLES. My only mild criticism is that although you’re

treated to occasional glimpses of Lake Maggiore, it would have been nice to have a couple of decent ‘lake’ holes. Sixteen and seventeen run alongside the water but the trees obscure the view.

The eighth, a short par-4, would receive my vote for signature hole. With a lake on the left and trees on the right, you need to hit a decent tee-shot to give yourself a good angle in on the green.

But a rocky waterfall stands waiting to grab anything pulled left or that falls dismally short.

There are four sets of tees which stretch the course from 5,500 to 6,500 yards. Blokes should resist the temptation to use the appealing blue tees which are intended for ladies’ competitions.

After another sensationally magnificent meal that evening in the Eden Roc Hotel, I was ready the next morning for another crack at slimming my slice down to a more modest fade. Golf Gerre Losone is only ten minutes north of Ascone by car and I was all changed and ready for action before you could even say, “Do you think four balls is going to be enough?”

QUIET AND TRANQUIL. For a Sunday morning, the course was surprisingly quiet. Possibly part of the reason is that the Swiss are far more God-fearing than we Brits and so many of them might have been in church. The bells were certainly ringing out to remind those who weren’t where they perhaps ought to have been.

When they eventually stopped clanging, I was struck by how remarkably quiet and tranquil it was, with the silence only

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out on the valley floor with craggy mountains towering above, Golf Gerre Losone brilliantly demonstrates what can be achieved on what might appear to be a rather flat piece of real estate.

Mounding on either side of the fairways and strategic planting of trees on top of these provides plenty of definition and an appealing, almost sensuous, appearance.

Carefully sited big boulders also considerably enhance the overall visual appeal as do the pretty water features that are liberally sprinkled about. About 700 feet up, the ball ought to fly a little further here than it does at sea level. Although quite a few of my putts ran rather a long way past the pin, I can’t honestly say I noticed any significant extra length in any other aspect of my game.

The course is a real cracker and it’s not hard to see why it was chosen to host the Ladies’ Swiss Open in 2006 and again in 2012.

And the food in the clubhouse was excellent and rounded off a hugely enjoyable day and a delightful short trip to Switzerland.

Where next, Italy?

GGM

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J&S_A4.indd 1

26/09/2014 17:09

Great Cars Maserati_Layout 1 26.09.14 11:53 Side 1

GREAT CARS

ly Italy hasn’t on

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have driven several cars sporting a three-pronged trident on its front grille and whilst Greek mythology’s Poseidon may have inspired the brand’s logo, the emotive styling and prodigious performance is very real. In 2012, I drove the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GTS. This stylish car is capable of carrying five passengers in roomy comfort and, courtesy of its 4.7 litre V8 engine, sprints towards the horizon with amazing alacrity. The car was blessed with a sumptuous interior and handled with the impeccable breeding of a debutante being presented for the first time. A beautiful creation from Modena, there was no doubt this was a thoroughbred.

I

twitching as the delivery driver showed me around the car.

The interior was truly breathtaking, a sea of Poltrona Frau leather, presented in blue and ‘tortora’, a mid-shade of chocolaty brown. I would never have paired the two colours together, but the resultant outcome was stunning and shows the wisdom of the team at Maserati when choosing the specification of this press loan car.

In order to thoroughly assess this new Maserati, I decided the best course of action was to take the car away for a long weekend to the Northumberland coast. Along the journey, I would be able to subject it to a diet of motorway, twisty A-roads and a few challenging B-roads for good measure.

NEW CAR ON THE BLOCK. Last year, Maserati surprisingly introduced a new Quattroporte model. I use the term surprisingly as the former car seemed exceptionally resolved and conferred a huge grin when I had the good fortune to have the keys to one for a few days. Moreover, I distinctly remember my wife wrestling the keys from me on one occasion to nip to the supermarket; such was the appeal of the sonorous V8 and remarkable handling of the Sport GTS. Therefore, the notion that a new model was usurping this car seemed strange.

Nevertheless, in fear of being labelled a laggard, I decided to give the new model a closer look. The day arrived and a Quattroporte S was delivered to my home. Presented in Grigio Metallo, a very attractive silver-grey hue, I could sense the neighbours’ curtains

POWER AND GRACE. At first, on being told the car had a V6 engine, rather than the full ristretto V8 power plant I had dreamed of, I felt a tad disappointed. However, the Maserati Quattroporte S features a 3.0 litre Twin Turbo V6 engine, producing a colossal 410PS (404 Bhp), so any sense of let-down soon evaporated with one press of the dash-mounted start/stop button.

The engine barked with anger as I pressed the accelerator pedal a little over enthusiastically, but this soon dispersed to a sense of quiet calm as the engine settled to tick over. Engaging drive, using the short gear lever, I quietly left the confines of my driveway and drove along various urban roads near my home. Mindful of a nearby school, I exercised restraint, making serene progress.

Minimal engine and road noise entered the cabin. Despite

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Maserati being synonymous with red-bloodied racers, my journey at this point was an exemplar of highway civility.

The ride was notably comfortable, smoothing out the neglected pockmarked roads, which seem de rigueur in cash-strapped England. The suspension set-up combines a compendium of cosseting trickery including the ‘Skyhook electronic system’, new style shock absorbers and a plethora of other enhancements, which will probably mean little to anyone lacking a mechanical engineering degree. One thing I could readily appreciate though, was the sublime ride comfort.

Often, comfort comes at the expense of involved handling and the trade off is a soft set up and wayward nose when entering bends. However, Maserati has managed to blend supreme comfort with brilliant manoeuvrability. The ability to quietly waft along at times with grandmother on-board is a welcome attribute.

However, once the driver is in free and single mode, a spirited drive rewards the individual with an abundance of smiles.

ON THE MOTORWAY. The first part of the journey towards my

destination of Tynemouth, included a meaningful stint on the M6.

Driving near the maximum permissible legal speed and mindful that I did not want to attract unwanted attention from a police speed gun, I sank into the sumptuously upholstered seats and quietly conversed with my family. There was no need to talk loudly

as there was very little road noise.

The Maserati Touch Control unit (MTC) includes an 8.4” touch screen display with a myriad of controls. The satellite navigation system, audio system, telephone and ventilation controls are all harnessed neatly in one intuitive touch-sensitive control centre. I found the MTC very user-friendly. I easily paired my iPhone with the system, using Bluetooth, and I confess to not bothering with the handbook, such was the profound simplicity of the MTC. An optional Bower & Wilkins Premium Surround System is available, but the standard set-up in my press loan-car sounded wonderful and seemed more than adequate at meeting my expectations.

CHALLENGING ROADS. On reaching Penrith, I left the M6 and selected a meandering path aiming to ultimately join the A69 near Hexham. From experience, I knew these A and B roads would test the Maserati’s mettle. Off-camber bends, challenging gradients and an undulating road surface seemingly created without the use of one theodolite, would be the diet for the next leg of my journey.

As I drove the Quattroporte S I was always aware that, if required, one stab of the throttle and the Italian beauty would lift the hem of its skirt and race away. It is not to say the power was a handful, quite the contrary, the power delivery was very progressive.

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V6 had no problem devouring everything that lay ahead. At no stage was there the merest hint of turbo lag; power was always instantly available.

The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission seamlessly shifted through the available ratios, masterfully timing changes with welcome intuition. The array of bends on the journey allowed me to try each of the five different operating modes. I frequently selected the Auto Sport mode. It held the car in gear just a little longer, achieving higher revs and delivering a sportier note to the driving experience. However, for most of the time, Auto Normal proved my preferred option.

A button on the centre console can be pressed to stiffen the ride, mitigating body roll. To be honest, I found the default comfort setting delivered all the nimbleness I asked of the car.

However, I appreciate the choice the suspension and gearbox modes confer. Indeed, the Maserati offers something for everyone.

Enthusiastic driving necessitates effective speed reduction and this car delivers with its magnificent brakes. The aluminum monobloc fixed callipers, in conjunction with ventilated drilled discs, provide much confidence, stopping the car with breathtaking aplomb. My test-car was fitted with optional painted brake callipers in an attractive shade of blue, but for a car imbued with such passion, I think red callipers would be more in keeping.

SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL. Driving the car on my planned route

showed the Maserati to be a highly competent machine. Despite an overall length of 5262mm, I found the car to be nimble. I easily threaded the Quattroporte S through a series of bends with consummate ease, fooling my passengers into flattering my modest driving technique.

My route would ordinarily reveal if there were any loose items of trim, annoying rattles or squeaks. Appraising the former model objectively and absent of any rose-tinted affection (something that I still find difficult), I would concede some of the switchgear and trim materials lacked the hewn from granite solidity of some Swabian marques.

However, the interior of the latest Maserati Quattroporte S is 62

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a quantum leap over its predecessor. The plastics and wood trim evince a superior finish. The drinks holder in the rear central armrest wasn’t the best I’ve seen but nonetheless the interior trim is now worthy of the word luxury. Moreover, despite repeated encroachment into potholes and straying over cat’s eyes in the middle of the road, there was a pleasing absence of the shake and rattle, which blights some lesser cars.

A SMOOTH RIDE. My journey to Tynemouth necessitated carrying

the full Davies brood. We are a big bunch, I am 6’ 4” and my fifteen year-old son is only an inch or so shorter. The ladies in our household would not appreciate me commenting on their personal dimensions, but let’s just say they don’t fall into the waif category.

The commodious interior allowed everyone to relax without any contortions of limbs being necessary. Some readers may expect nothing less of a four-door luxury car, but the Quattroporte S delivers this along with the handling prowess of a much smaller vehicle.

The car builds on the talents of the former model, harnessing good looks, a sumptuous and roomy interior, and delivering an incredible breadth of talents on the road. The 3.0 litre Twin Turbo V6 will accelerate from 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds and continue to a top speed of 177 mph. This kind of performance, together with impressive real-world, day-to-day acceleration, more suited to responsible driving, makes a strong case for this variant of the Quattroporte range. Moreover, on the Combined Cycle, the Quattroporte S delivers an impressive 26.9mpg.

I am sure the range topping Quattroporte GTS with its more powerful 3.8 litre V8 engine would readily seduce me with its nocompromise specification, but I was mightily impressed with this lower priced beauty.

Indeed, the Quattroporte S has made me reassess my predilection for eight cylinder engines. It has an abundance of power, is cheaper to purchase than the V8 model and is less thirsty. I now ponder whether the Quattroporte Diesel is worthy of investigation.

One thing is certain; the Quattroporte S is a stunning car and a shining example of Italy’s ability to produce mouthwatering creations.

GGM

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CYPRUS y flight to this island of love and sunshine passes quickly due to a friendly couple that I sit next to. They are one of many seeking the good life, away from damp Britain, and have bought a villa here. If my hotel accommodation falls through, there is an offer to stay with them – it’s good to be reminded of the kindness of strangers. However, I am happily booked in at the luxury five-star hotel, Asimina Suites, so we part ways upon arrival.

M

ASIMINA SUITES. Located just outside the town of Paphos, the hotel is only a 15-minute drive from the airport. I was on a late flight, so it’s close to midnight when I arrive. I check into my room, sit out on the terrace with a glass of wine and listen to the waves rolling on the beach below. There’s a knock at the door and

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when I open it, a staff member is there with a tray of food for me.

Now that’s what I call service; too late for supper, they rustled something up especially for me.

This adult-only hotel, which is part of the Constantinou Brothers portfolio (the others in the group are child-friendly), simply oozes comfort and is the perfect place to stay for anyone looking for ‘a golf and more’ holiday.

The four courses to be found on the south side of the island are easy to reach from here, and when you are not working on your game (or for the other members of your group who may not want to play golf ), there’s a wide choice of things to do.

Positioned close to the beach, and with two large pools, water sports are readily available. But make time to explore the historical and cultural side of Cyprus too, and then there is also the Elixir Spa at the hotel to sooth away any aches and pains.

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Whether you stay in the standard junior or the executive onebedroom suite (with private pool and Jacuzzi), the high level of luxury is prevalent. The rooms are tastefully decorated and the bathrooms have a luxurious feel. All suites have large balconies to while away your time, looking out over the bright blue Mediterranean Sea. SECRET VALLEY. The next day I head to Secret Valley Golf Club

to meet Maro, from the Cyprus Tourist Organisation, for a round of golf. As the name suggests, the course is nestled in a valley. We intend to play Aphrodite Hills in the afternoon, so we decide to only play the back nine. We make our way to the 10th, which is a par-3, and I hurry to take my shot. I am using borrowed clubs and intend to use a six iron, but in my haste I pick up the nine.

The result is a lovely shot that goes high in the sky and falls short.

I curse my negligence as Maro’s shot lands neatly on the green and then makes par. I could be in for a thrashing.

My form fluctuates over the proceeding holes. Whereas Maro seems to be on fire. The par-3s seem to save me, but my form on the par-4s and par-5s is sporadic, with moments of brilliance hidden amongst flurries of direness.

We end our round both suitably impressed with the course.

Work is underway for a further 18 holes in the near future, with the clubhouse and driving range having been recently completed to a high standard. There is just enough time for a cool drink before we head to Aphrodite Hills, a mere ten minutes drive from here.

APHRODITE HILLS. The courses are all nearby each other, but

they are all are so different. Secret Valley is tucked away like the

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CYPRUS land that time forgot, while Aphrodite Hills sits on high, with views out to the ocean.

Elea, with its copious bunkers, lies further towards the sea, while Minthis Hills is up in the Troodos Mountains. Four is a manageable amount, although it never hurts to play a course twice and improve your form.

We have just enough time to play the front nine before darkness falls. I like Aphrodite Hills; it seems to lure you in with a nice par-4 before throwing a few googlies at you just to shake things up. The 8th, shot across a ravine, is always a favourite, while I now consider that the 9th hole must be played at sunset to truly appreciate the view.

This par-4 seems to hang in the sky above the sea; it’s truly magical to see the sun setting ahead of you and the last golden rays casting long shadows across the rippling fairway.

ELEA GOLF CLUB. The next day I arrive early at Elea Golf Club.

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The word elea means olive, which makes perfect sense when you see the countless olive trees here. The first hole is a favourite of mine, a par-4 from an elevated tee, it gives you a great view of what you have to come, and yes, there are bunkers!

The course is in excellent shape and my only disappointment is the fact that I only have time to play the front nine. It’s strange but looking out at the course from the clubhouse does not give you a precise impression of the lay of the land. Once out and playing, every hole is full of surprises, and intrigue lies around every dogleg.

After the 9th, a par-5, which seems to weave between water hazards, there is the welcome opportunity for a bacon sandwich and something to drink at the halfway house.

MINTHIS HILLS. This course is the biggest surprise for me. Whilst

just as good as the last time I played there (and the clubhouse just as impressive), big changes have occurred with the infrastructure and surrounding properties.

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When last here, I noticed an impressive villa situated above the 18th hole. Gazing up at it I wondered what lucky person lived there. Well, unbeknown to me then, this was the first of many properties to appear. A whole new development is being built; with high-end villas, a wellness centre, tennis courts, bike and walking trails, shops and restaurants.

The course is as beautiful as ever, and perched in the Troodos Mountains the temperature is a little cooler here. Dotted around the course pomegranate and orange trees add colour to the surroundings.

THE WINE TOUR. Rising to a height of almost 2,000 metres above sea level, a trip on from Minthis Hills and further up into the Troodos Mountains is well worth the time.

Six wine routes criss-cross the mountain and it’s a shame that I can’t visit all of them. My first stop is Vouni Winery, which is located just outside the picturesque village of Panagia. Andreas

Kyriakides, the owner, is a bigger than life character, seeming to reflect the very mountains in his large craggy frame. He abounds with passion for his wines and the unique Cypriot varieties that he grows to make them.

Don’t expect to find any bottles on the shelves of your local supermarket any time soon, as it’s all about quality rather than quantity. I leave Vouni with an excellent bottle of red wine, as well as bags of figs and grapes that Andreas picked personally for me.

These unique grape varieties are only found here on the island.

And as such, they create a wonderful collection of truly Cypriot wines. The Maratheftiko and Mavro grapes are generally used for red wine, while Spourtiko and Xynisteri go into the process for white wines.

The chalky soil found here plays an important part in the creation of these special wines, holding in the water collected during the winter to supply the vines with moisture over the long hot summers

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CYPRUS

GOOD TO KNOW ­ FINE WINE. My next stop is the Kolios Winery. The owner Marios

is away, but a young girl from, of all places, Nepal, shows me around the cellars. As with Vouni, this winery focuses on quality, not bulk production. All around the property and running further down the mountain are the vineyards and you can imagine how labour intensive the process is when you realise that all the grapes are handpicked.

I also recommend a trip to the nearby Chryssoroyiatissa Monastery in Panagia, which has its very own winery.

That evening I find myself back at Paphos airport awaiting my flight to London. I heartily recommend a visit here but would stress that to spend every day on the golf course, although enjoyable, would be to miss out on so much more. The Troodos Mountains are not to be overlooked and the wine trails are a must for anyone wanting that elusive special bottle to bring home and remind you of your visit to Aphrodite’s Isle.

GGM 70

GREAT GOLF MAGAZINE

Dundee and Angus. Where we’ve got discovery down to a tee

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For great fares and ideas for your Dundee break go to visitscotland.com/flydundee Scotland. A land of brilliant moments

Polen_St­Enodoc­­18.10.14­­15:17­­Side­1

POLAND

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THE GOLF REVOLUTION

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POLAND

G

olf is relatively new to Poland. The oldest golf club was opened in 1906 but after WW2, when Stalin imposed communism on the country, it was considered an elitist sport and banned. With the fall of communism, golf’s renaissance began in the early 1990s; now the country has 12 modern championship 18hole golf courses and 19 9-hole courses, and the number is growing. And because there are relatively few Polish golfers there are plenty of empty fairways.

The historic city of Gdansk – part of an area known as the TriCity, along with the modern port of Gdynia and the coastal spa resort of Sopot – is easily accessible thanks to low-cost airlines, and there are several high-quality, wallet-friendly courses within easy reach.

SUPER SIERRA. My first stop was the Sierra Golf Club and it

was an impressive introduction to Polish golf. The Cameron Sinclair-designed course, which opened in 2002, is beautifully set along the edge of a forest. The quality and condition of the course 74

GREAT GOLF MAGAZINE

is first class, with back-to-back par-5s – including a tricky 6th, with a bunker and trees on the left and an out-of-bounds area on the right. The back nine is more undulating, and the 16th proves a good test, with water to the front and left and a bunker to the back right.

I spend the night in the newly constructed Sierra Apartments, looking out across the course. They are roomy and modern, ideal for those looking to play-and-stay. Dinner in the elegant clubhouse is a treat with zurek, a traditional Polish soup, to start followed by fresh salmon, along with some award-winning Polish beer.

BY THE SEA. Southeast of Sierra is Gdynia, which has been awarded the covetable title of ‘most liveable place in Poland’. It’s a relatively young city, born out of the 1919 Treaty of Versailles.

When the League of Nations created the Free City of Gdansk, neighbouring Gdynia was in the newly reformed Polish state at the end of a narrow strip of land that gave Poland access to the sea.

Once a quiet fishing village, Gdynia soon became the focus of huge development. Construction of a new city and massive port

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to rival that of German-controlled Gdansk was completed by 1926. Today, its history is played out in its mix of architecture, with Art Deco buildings from the 1920s and 30s rubbing shoulders with stark structures from the post-war era and modern, post-communist edifices.

Cassino (named after the 1944 battle) is bustling as people spill out of cafes, bars and restaurants. I stop at a pump-house to taste the water from St Adalbert’s spring. It’s filled with an impressive array of minerals and is said to cure a variety of ailments. Perhaps that’s why the locally brewed beer tastes so good?

SPA RESORT. I head east to Sopot, sandwiched between Gdynia and Gdansk, and the smallest of the Tri-Cities. It became a fashionable resort in the early 19th-century, when a former doctor from Napoleon’s army popularised the benefits of taking to the waters. In 1823, he opened the first bathhouse and for the best part of 200 years it was one of Europe’s finest spa resorts.

Like much of Poland, Sopot was hard hit by the Second World War and thereafter by a lack of funds. But since 1989, it too has had a major facelift and the self-styled Monte Carlo of Poland is back as the beach destination of choice for the rich and famous, with a lively bar and club scene.

Wandering along Sopot’s main street, the pedestrian Monte

LUNCH AL FRESCO. Away from the hustle and bustle of the

centre, I have lunch al fresco at Bulaj Restaurant. Here the young Polish chef, Artur Moroz uses local, seasonal ingredients to create a contemporary take on traditional dishes. It’s a revelation; if you’re guilty of thinking Polish cuisine is limited to dumplings and gherkins, this is place to come.

I feast on cod carpaccio, smoked mackerel and perfectly cooked zander, but it’s not just fish on the menu. I follow it with goose breast that had been smoked for six months and deer fillet with Polish ‘truffle’, morel mushrooms. All paired with some fine Polish wine and rounded off with a barley vodka digestif that tastes like grappa.

Afterwards, I work off the gastronomic treats with a walk along 75

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POLAND the beach, where I can’t resist dipping my toes into the rather chilly Baltic, and along the famous Molo. Thought to be Europe’s longest wooden pier, it stretches for over half a kilometre into the Bay of Gdansk.

GDANSK. Then it was time for the handsome Hanseatic port

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city of Gdansk, the jewel of Poland’s Baltic coast. I walk through the Golden Gate and along Dluga (the main pedestrianised street) and part of the Royal Way. This was where the King of Poland would collect taxes from the wealthy merchants, entering the old town at the 16th-century Upland Gate and not stopping until he reached the River Motlawa.

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The city was razed to the ground in WW2 but you’d never know it. It’s been painstakingly rebuilt and Dluga showcases the beautiful gabled guild-houses from its days as an important trading port.

I go through St Mary’s Gate to find narrow Mariacka Street glowing with gold – Baltic gold that is, otherwise known as

amber. Steps lead down to the cobblestone street from beautifully decorated buildings filled with a treasure trove of amber jewellery in all shapes and sizes.

I soon reach the atmospheric Gdansk Shipyards, the birthplace of the Solidarity movement. It

BIRTHPLACE OF SOLIDARITY.

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POLAND

was in 1980 that electrician turned trade-union activist Lech Wałesa began a strike that was the beginning of the end of the Soviet bloc.

Now the abandoned red brick warehouses are being turned into smart apartments and the European Solidarity Centre – a striking piece of architecture holding a fascinating museum, library and research centre – has just opened in a celebration of democracy and freedom, next to a monument to those who died in the struggle to get it.

After an hour’s drive to Elblag (pronounced el-blonk), I check in to the Hotel Elblag, a contemporary boutique hotel with some stylish design touches. It’s right in the centre and after a quick dip in the pool, I set off to explore.

The hotel is within sight of the 14th-century Market Gate, one of Elblag’s few original buildings. The small city has a tumultuous history: centuries ago, it became a stronghold and port of the Teutonic Knights, who built the impressive medieval castle of Malbork, 30 kilometres to the south-west. When they fell from power, it came under the Polish crown, then the Kingdom of Prussia and finally Germany. The Red Army levelled it in 1945 and, after expelling its German citizens, it became part of Poland once more. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the authorities decided to rebuild it and now the old/new streets are back to an approximation of their splendid best, with the old-style Hanseatic merchants’ houses graced with some modern twists.

Set on the River Elblag is Poland’s first shipyard, built around 1570. The river flows into the Vistula Lagoon about 10 kilometres north, giving boats access to the Baltic through the Russiancontrolled Strait of Baltiysk – if the Russians are feeling generous.

The city also has a long brewing tradition so my dinner at the hotel is a juicy fillet steak, washed down with the some of the tasty local beer.

SAND VALLEY GOLF. The following morning, I set off for my second golf course, Sand Valley Golf and Country Club, just 20 minutes from Elblag. It’s a lovely course, standing on a 20 metrehigh hill, overlooking the surrounding countryside. Completely different to Sierra, it’s an inland links-style course, sand based with wide, open fairways – up to 150 metres in places. There’s little water in play, heavily contoured greens, pot bunkers and huge waste bunkers, one of which is almost half a kilometre across and spread over three fairways.

Hands-on architect Tony Ristola oversaw the design, and it’s a course that’s meant to be walked. Approach is everything: on the par-4 9th, the green sits on a plateau on the far side of a canyon; the par-5 15th has a huge dogleg to the left, and nudging 70 metres, the 18th green is long and steep.

Sand Valley’s newly constructed villas, a minute’s walk from the clubhouse, have been built with golfers in mind. They hold from four to 12 people – with a spacious living area and fully 78

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fitted kitchen, perfect for families or groups of golf buddies. Each villa has its own terrace with comfortable seating and a plunge pool. Some villas even come with a sauna.

VODKA SHOTS. Barbeques are on offer most evenings but I head

back to Elblag for a lively dinner, including Polish favourite smalec (pork lard with onions and garlic), slathered on to rye bread, and a hearty meat kebab. It was washed down with shots of Luksusowa – one of Poland’s oldest vodkas, distilled from potatoes – and interrupted by increasingly frequent toasts. And the beauty of good-quality vodka is that it doesn’t give you a hangover.

My final golfing stop was the Gdansk Golf and Country Club, otherwise known as Postolowo. It’s incredibly picturesque and, at 7,101 metres, the longest course in Poland and the second longest in Europe, with a sense of space and a lack of rush that characterises this region.

Designed by British architect Jeremy Turner, it’s a dramatic course with water as a main feature – there’s a magnificent lake at the centre – and more than one signature hole. The 4th is a brilliant par-5 called ‘Where Eagles Dare’, and if you dare take the 16th – appropriately named Alcatraz – from the Championship tee, you will have to carry more than 200 metres over water.

Postolowo doesn’t have accommodation but there’s a friendly clubhouse and I had a hearty meal before the 30-minute journey back to the airport.

It was a great way to end my introduction to this fascinating area of Poland and what’s sure to be an increasingly popular golf destination. It makes for a great combination of golf, history and culture; perfect for golf enthusiasts with an eye for a bargain and a love of a challenging course – with first-rate beer and vodka as a bonus.

GGM

GOOD TO KNOW ­

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Q & A WITH NICK FALDO

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n a warm and sunny evening in July, I find myself the sale price from each watch is being donated to the Faldo Series, aboard the London Underground on my way to a non profit organisation that promotes talented young golfers interview Sir Nick Faldo. I am already late, which from around the globe. is not conducive to my peace of mind, and it’s hot and sweaty in the carriage. I defend my space like So how did the connection with Jaermann & Stübi come about? an angry dog as we pull into a station and passengers pour in “This is all to do with the (Nick Faldo) Series. Jaermann & Stübi through the open doors. It’s on journeys like this that you just have made this limited edition watch partly as a contribution to know the train will stop halfway through a tunnel and you will be my charity. They have, in the past, done the same with Seve subjected to an extra ten minutes of inhaling the delightful odours Ballesteros. They explained exactly what they wanted to do, which that are percolating around the carriage -- and yes, that’s exactly was to take a set of my clubs, melt them down and use the metal what happens. to make the casings for the watches. So I rummaged around and I get off the train at Kensington High Street and immediately came up with the set that I used to win the LA Open, my last my phone rings. Andy, from the PR company responsible for major success at the end of my career.” arranging the interview, is on the other end asking me where I am.

He doesn’t sound too stressed so they are obviously running late. The watch that you have with you has a six on it; does that mean The interview is taking place at Urban Golf in Kensington, a that it came from the 6 iron? bar with a difference: the golfing theme. They have a selection of “No, the six refers to the number of majors that I won during my simulators on which to test your skills at varying courses from career. If you look closely you will see written on the watch the around the world. Nothing like scoring a few double bogeys before corresponding iron that it came from; this was made from my 2 iron.” talking to one of the legends of golf!

How much are these watches retailing for?

THE FALDO SERIES. The interview with Nick is to find out about “I think this edition is retailing for $25,000 and $1,000 from each the Faldo Series as well as a new line of watches from the Jaermann sale goes to the Series. They have made 72 watches so $72,000 & Stübi brand created to support this cause. They have been made goes to us, which is a very nice contribution to our cause.” by melting down a set of Nick’s irons that he used to win the Los Angeles Open in 1997. The company have created 72 watches, Could you tell me more about the Faldo Series? each of which originates from a specific golf club. A percentage of “Yes, well it’s worldwide now. We have Patrick Young whose role

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is to grow globally, and my son Matthew is the tournament director based in Winsor. He runs the tournaments and events across Europe. In Asia the events are run by the federations and we just oversee them. The winners from the finals in Asia and Europe then play in a grand finale at Mission Hills in China. So what we have created is an opportunity for up and coming kids to experience a professional golf environment. This involves the good and the bad experiences, from winning competitions in different countries to suffering from jet lag, eating different food to playing on different grass. It’s all a great learning curve for these budding golfers.”

How did the idea for the Series come about?

“Well the question was always being asked, where are the next great players going to come from? So, I tried something out back in the late 1980’s, a sort of Masterclass. Two of our first young golfers to take part were Paul McGinley and Padraig Harrington, just unknown kids at the time. So that was what you could call the prelude to it. Then we got the idea of dividing Great Britain up into six areas. Golfers played at three events in each region and the winners then played in a grand final.

The prize was to accompany me to America to spend a week golfing. Nick Dougherty was my first; he won three of the first four finals, and then after that Rory came along. I knew him when he was twelve. We then created something called Team Faldo where I personally selected players and we went to various locations prior to them competing at events in order to play practice rounds and work on their form. After that, we expanded our reach to Asia and played two exhibition matches in Hong Kong. A young girl came along to these matches by the name of Yani Tseng. I played with her and thought, wow she's good! From this, we expanded to twenty locations across Asia. Now, in January, we are adding Australia and New Zealand.

So my goal, very simply, is to have two grand finals and eventually progress to four, at which point we will have it pretty much covered. We can then bring all the winners together for some kind of world cup.

Where are the funds coming from at the moment?

R&A, European Tour, we have the PGA tour of America on board, Asian Tour as well as some other sponsors. I also do some fund raising. We have two charitable trusts, one in Britain and one in Asia, and we are working on setting up a foundation in America. So the important thing is to grow golf and get kids to try the game, make it fun.

Where do you envisage the Series being in five years time?

We call this the bubbling under time; there is a lot more interest. We have been doing this for twenty years now and if we get a major sponsor then anything is possible.

You know, my son went to Brazil recently and he meet a kid living in the favelas. He had nothing to his name and was living in a crowded shack with one parent and many siblings. He took part in our event and won.

This is a perfect situation where if we had the funds we could do so much more, helping someone who obviously has talent to make a difference to his own and his family’s life. To be able to give him a chance, put him through college.

We had another kid from Bhutan, lived in a tent, played on a rocky nine hole golf course. The kid had never been in a car, never on a train. He plays our event and wins it! When he returned to Bhutan, the King came to his tent to congratulate him.

We may not change the world, but we can change the perception of golf and help some talented kids achieve their dream in the process. And you cannot put GGM a price on that. http://nickfaldo.com

http://www.jaermann-stuebi.com

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SOUTH AFRICA

Call of the

WILD With its amazing variety in nature, wildlife and culture, South Africa certainly lives up to its slogan “a world in one country.” Add to that some of the planets most exiting golf courses, and you are guaranteed an experience like no other...

By Robert Kaufman, photos Eric Reisinger, Legend Golf & Safari, Pearl Valley and Steenburg Golf Club

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hat was I thinking jetting nearly halfway around the globe to an unfamiliar animal kingdom to play golf in the bush, when I could have just as easily been bushwhacked using my clubs right near home?

Honestly, the decision was a no-brainer. There is a wealth of phenomenal courses throughout the African continent’s southern tip to challenge the skills and senses. Of course, golf is not the biggest game in the land – that happens to belong to the elephant, rhino, cape buffalo, leopard and lion, the ‘Big Five.’ Throw in added

ingredients of exotic culture and heritage, a burgeoning wine industry, world-class cuisine, unforgettable scenery and you have the exact reasons any adventurous golfer should wander that distance.

THE RAINBOW NATION. Prior to my visit, the closest brush I ever had with golf in South Africa was being paired with two-time US Open champion, Retief Goosen. We were at the 2001 Grand Slam Pro-Am in Hawaii; over 19,000 km from his homeland and where the only element of danger was coconuts falling from the trees. What I didn’t realise at the time was that Goosen epitomised

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Steenberg Golf Club

the congeniality and friendliness of everyone I would eventually meet during my journey throughout the ‘rainbow nation’.

“We have a wonderful variety of courses you can play year around, ranging from ocean links to parkland to high altitude,” says Goosen. “Plus the number of great golfers that have come from South Africa indicates how great a golfing country it is.”

The record books validate his claim. South African golfers have won 20 major championships, accounting for more than any other country except the United States, post-World War II. But I doubt any of those champions can lay claim to a feat I was able to accomplish right in their own backyard.

When it concerns golf adventure in South Africa, the top prize of this bucket-list trip goes to the Extreme 19th – a par-3 requiring helicopter transportation to a tee box 430m high overlooking an Africa-shaped green. It’s surrounded by the expansive game reserve at Legend Golf & Safari Resort in Limpomo, three hours from Johannesburg. After one grip-it-andrip-it swing, a lofty chip and a soft-breaking 12-foot putt, I walked away with par and a tale to brandish at many a future 19th hole.

As excessive as this cliff-hanging spectacle is, however, the total golf landscape and experience in South Africa goes far beyond a single hole.

AN ADVENTUROUS LAND. Golf in the Western Cape dates back

to 1885, when Henry D’Oyley Torrens, commanding the British forces in Cape Town, first introduced the game. Now, almost 120 years and more than 500 courses later, my barnstorming 12-day golf adventure to South Africa would be strategically maneuvered

by Scott Edkins, the commander of South Africa’s leading inbound golf tour company, Ascot Tours. As a first-time visitor wanting to make the most of my experience, I considered it

essential to be part of his troop.

“Knowledge is key and we know where to travel, which courses to play, which hotels to stay at and which restaurants to visit at the best times of the year,” says Edkins. “No matter how much internet research a person does they will not know things like whether a course is undergoing treatment or a hotel is alongside a building site or if a restaurant has changed chefs.”

To decompress from 25 hours of flight time and adjust to summertime when it was still winter back home, I spent my first full day in Cape Town exploring city streets, experiencing the shops and restaurants of the reclaimed V&A Waterfront that’s within eyesight of Robben Island, Nelson Mandela’s imprisoned home for 18 years, and riding a cable car to the top of Table Mountain where I was afforded a panoramic view of the cosmopolitan city.

After a restful night’s sleep at the Table Bay Hotel, it was time to unpack the sticks to start sampling the South African fairways.

ON THE ROAD. With a short drive from Cape Town’s city centre, the golf tour teed off at Steenberg Golf Club (established in 1995), situated in the heart of the tranquil Constantia Winelands along the Garden Route, considered one of the greatest drives on earth.

After entering the resort grounds, past vineyards and posh estates lining the 6,320-meter Peter Matkovich design, our entourage pulled up to the clubhouse to a motley lineup of caddies, but since they weren’t mandatory and because nobody understands my game better than myself, I opted to pass on a personal guide.

Soon after unloading and smacking my first golf ball, as fate unfolded, it didn’t take long for my first confrontation with South African wildlife. Not exactly a Big Five encounter, but while playing the opening hole my second shot from the 87

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Arabella Golf Club

fairway needed to dodge some sacred ibis birds.

Every green presented varying challenges at this manicured facility, boasting a 5-star hotel and winery on the oldest registered farm in the Cape, but the signature 7th and 14th holes painted a particularly splendid setting.

With a short and tricky par-3, the 7th hole features an island green completely surrounded by a bunker and water, while the breathtaking Steenberg Mountain-framed 14th boasts the longest green (63 metres) in the Southern Hemisphere.

STUNNING SCENERY. Staying on the Garden Route trail just over an hour east down the coast from Cape Town, I headed next to Arabella Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. This is where, once again, Peter Matkovich weaved a scenic combination of links and parkland beauty along the Indian Ocean. For my bag of shots, the 6,081 metres Arabella GC, a pristine layout consistently on South Africa’s Top 10, proved to be a friendly balance between challenge and enjoyment.

Blending naturally with the landscape and bordered by the renowned Fynbos bushland of the Kogelber (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Cape Floral Kingdom), it is also one of the best spots in the world to eyeball migrating whales from April through December.

The signature par-five 8th, running downhill to the green adjacent the Bot River, and the risk-reward par-four 9th, skimming South Africa’s largest lagoon all the way to the putting zone, were two of the best finishing holes encountered on any outward nine. I could have easily ended there and been plenty content, but then I would have missed two of the finest finishing holes of any inward nine that included a 160 metre par-three and Gleneagles PGA Centenary Course the 471 metre par-five.

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A TRUE PEARL. As the crow flies, approximately 60 km north from Arabella to the Paarl Valley (one hour from Cape Town), 18time major golf champ, Jack Nicklaus, put his signature stamp on Pearl Valley Golf Estates. Set against the backdrop of the Drakenstein Mountains and bordered by vineyards, Pearl Valley was named ‘Best New Course of the Year’ (Golf Digest, 2005) and has played host to the South African Open three times.

The layout at the 500-home gated community lies on a fairly flat landscape, but its valley location and the seasonal changing winds play a key role in how the course works. There are nine lakes to maneuver at Pearl Valley GC and, in typical Nicklaus style, no shortage of long, shallow bunkers, although, these seemed more fair than most of his sandy creations.

Among the selection of standout holes at Pearl GC, none throws a stiffer challenge than the par-5, 4th. This is a hole that 2013 US Open winner, Justin Rose, categorises as one of his top nine in the world: “It’s a very technical par-five, with a creek crossing it three to four times but the backdrop of the mountain is what makes it so special.”

THE LINKS. Within 15 minutes of the estate, nearby towns of Paarl and Franschhoek (gastro capital of South Africa) lend plenty of side attractions, or head a bit further up the road in Stellenbosch, where the fruit of the vine flows at Ernie Els Winery.

Given the assumption that golf travellers yearn to play internationally acclaimed, television-exposed courses, I had my eyes set on one course during my trip: The Links at Fancourt. This 6,930-metre course, designed by Gary Player, hosted the 2003 Presidents Cup that famously ended in a tie after Ernie Els and Tiger Woods remained even after three playoff holes.

Two additional Player courses, Outeniqua and Montagu, adorn

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Fancourt Links

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SOUTH AFRICA

Pearl Valley is known for the modern architectural style of its homes with their distinctive slate or thatch roofing.

GOOD TO KNOW ­

The Golf Shop

the luxury Fancourt Hotel and Country Club Estate, South Africa’s leading golf resort located in George on the western tip of the Garden Route. The marquee 18 holes are, however, at The Links.

While it’s not a true links, lying far from the sea (given the heat of the day, ocean breezes would have been a welcome relief ), it has every bit the look and feel with land from a former airport that was transformed into a trail of hummocks and swales.

“The Links is among my favourite courses I have ever designed and is an engineering and construction marvel, when you think that we started with one of the flattest, worst sites I’ve ever seen,” says Player. “Our team created a course that will forever remain a good test of golf, no matter how much technology affects the game.”

This is a walking-only course and, whether it was the heat or the persisting battle of hole after hole, I was relieved to have my mandatory caddie who helped support my enduring determination to fire shots somewhere near a target.

I did fall victim to my share of bogies at The Links but the first one occurred before I even teed off upon reviewing the scorecard and noticed holes named Calamity, Wetland, Long, Sheer Murder, and Wee Wrecker. Not a good mindset when approaching hole No. 1, which would have been better off given the name of No. 17, Prayer, because the only prayer I had was to savour the experience.

In the end, South Africa proved to live up its slogan ‘a world in one country’ and has found a way to take golf to a whole other adventure.

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MARRAKECH

A luxurious haven of peace

©POP-UP COMMUNICATION : 06 61 44 43 58

The Kenzi Menara Palace is a priceless jewel set in the crown of the privileged and world class location: the ochre, legendary resort of Marrakesh, located right opposite the original ramparts, ancient walls which surrounded this unique, timeless oasis, whilst surrounded by golfing circuits, a joy to behold.

Zone touristique de l’Agdal, Avenue Mohamed VI, 40.000 Marrakech, Maroc +212 (0)524 459 900 • www.kenzi-hotels.com • resa-menarapalace@kenzi-hotels.com

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RALPH LAUREN

clear vision sight

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Iconic golf fashion

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ith these words, Ralph Lauren defines the philosophy upon which he has built a global lifestyle brand, representing the best in American design, exemplified by understated sophistication and the utmost attention to detail.

CULTURAL ICON. It was in 1967 that

the 28 year old designer first launched with a line of neckties under the label Polo, followed shortly by a menswear collection and a store in Bloomingdale’s in New York City.

Since then Ralph Lauren has become recognised as one of the world’s most innovative designers and has, over the last 47 years, become a cultural icon and a multi-billion dollar brand. He has earned many an accolade, among them Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur and the Key to the City of New York, an honour given to distinguished persons for outstanding civic contributions.

RESEARCH. Beyond the awards and praises he has received for his mark on the industry, Ralph Lauren is a l s o re c o g n i z e d f o r h i s s t r o n g commitment to philanthropy, both personally and corporately.

After a dear friend passed away from breast cancer, Lauren helped create the Nina Hyde Center for Breast Cancer Research at Georgetown University, as well as setting up the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation to support programs that benefit cancer care and prevention.

CANCER

It isn’t only on the runways that the famous designer makes a splash. He’s also trying to change the way we dress on the fairways.

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GAME CHANGER. It isn’t only on the runways that the famous designer makes a splash. He’s also trying to change the way we dress on the fairways, and in September it was announced that Ralph Lauren had been named an Official Partner and Outfitter of the PGA of America until 2020.

The licensing agreement also designates that Ralph Lauren is the Official Partner and Official Outfitter of the PGA Championship, the Official Outfitter of Ryder Cups conducted in the United States during that period, and the Official Outfitter of every U.S. Ryder Cup Team until 2020.

“The PGA of America is very proud t o h a v e R a l p h L a u re n , a b r a n d synonymous with the best in sports, partner with our premier competitions – the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup,” said PGA of America Chief Executive Officer Pete Bevacqua.

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“Perhaps the most exciting part of this partnership is Ralph Lauren’s shared commitment to our PGA Professionals who grow, teach and manage the game.”

TRADITION AND DEDICATION. Ralph Lauren’s partnership with

the PGA of America reinforces the brand’s dedication to golf as well as its leadership in major global sporting initiatives. Since 1987, Polo Golf has defined excellence from the club to the course.

From outfitting professionals who represent what is extraordinary about the sport, to a sharpened focus on the needs of the modern golfer, the legacy of Polo Golf is its respect for tradition and its dedication to the future of the game.

UNITED WE STAND. At the Ryder Cup the team wore performance-ready polos featuring modern variegated stripes, while others, in solid white and navy, were emblazoned with the tournament’s crest and a band of 12 stars at the shoulder to signify the importance of each team member. The words “United We Stand” were embroidered into the golf shirts as a nod to Captain Tom Watson’s strong team ethos. Trousers ranged from solid blue and red to navy pinstripes to a heritage tartan plaid in green and navy.

Layering pieces included sporty half-zips and vests in technical stretch jersey, as well as more classic crewnecks—from an iconic American flag sweater to a blue and navy pullover with an intarsiaknit Ryder Cup motif. The team also carried foul weather gear designed for superior protection from the elements, including a waterproof Black Watch tartan printed shell and a packable down jacket in white with red and navy accents.

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LIGHTWEIGHT AND FUNCTIONAL. Inspired by the all-American style of college and professional football coaches of the past, the Ryder Cup Captain and Vice-Captain uniforms showcased menswear classics—grey and khaki slacks, striped shirts and navy blazers—mixed with updated versions of old-school outerwear pieces, including a sharp navy walking coat in luxe bonded cotton. Rounding out the captains’ looks, quilted vests and lightweight sweaters and half-zips will provide functional warmth and versatility in Scotland’s notoriously unpredictable conditions.

TIMELESS. For over 47 years, Ralph Lauren has cultivated the

iconography of America into a global lifestyle empire. Whether it is a reflection of the New England coast, Native American culture, or Hollywood glamour—Ralph Lauren embodies an expression of timeless style that is recognized and coveted around the world.

Today, the Company is a leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in four categories: apparel, home, accessories and fragrances. The Company's brand names, which include Polo by Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, and Lauren by Ralph Lauren, constitute one of the most widely recognized families of consumer brands. Ralph Lauren operates over 300 stores worldwide, with recent international expansion in Dubai, Korea, Paris and Hong Kong.

The Ralph Lauren Ryder Cup collection includes a timeless array of Polo Golf and RLX Golf apparel, and will be available for purchase on www.ralphlauren.com, shop.pga.com and in select golf clubs, resorts and retail stores.

GGM

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Book your stay today and experience world class golf on your vacation in Thailand this year!

BMGHUAHIN.COM

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IRELAND

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Phil Mickelson said

By Dena RochĂŠ, photos: Ballyfin, The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort and Mount Juliet

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set the tone for my regal golf getaway basing myself at the ultra-exclusive Ballyfin, a Relais & Chateaux 15-room property that has quietly garnered luxury accolades since opening in 2011. The 1820s Georgian Manor House was painstakingly restored for eight years with seemingly no expense spared. I may be in Ireland, but I feel like I’m living in Versailles during my three night stay.

While there is no golf course ensconced in the over 600-acre Ballyfin Demesne I enjoy biking alongside the lake. I debate for a moment taking the penny-farthing bicycle out for a spin, but opt

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for the balance of the 21st century bike instead.

The blue bells are in bloom and the grounds are awash with hues of blue and green, offering a nice contrast to the soft weather Ireland is known for. Guests can also take a pony and trap ride around the grounds, avail themselves of many walking paths or try their hand at clay pigeon shooting or archery.

THE HERITAGE CLUB. But if you’re itching to golf, head to The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort in Killenard, about a 25 minute drive from Ballyfin. The Par 72 championship course was designed by

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Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes and takes advantage of the gorgeous Slieve Bloom Mountains as a backdrop.

The course is adorned with five lakes and a stream, but despite all the water features and Ireland’s wet weather, the course stays dry all year because of the underground construction incorporated when it was built in the early 2000s. 98 bunkers and over 7,000 trees pepper an undulating course that can be played from 5747 to 7319 yards.

While there are plenty of long yard holes, number four, a par-3, deceptively short 214 yards is the signature hole. With a large

bunker on the left and a lake to the right and behind, there is ample opportunity for disaster in all directions for a novice golfer like myself. Eddie Doyle, the golf pro gives me a heads up that the wind tends to push the shot to the lake on the right and sure enough that is exactly where my ball ends up. Great! Ah well, I’m playing the game like a gentleman, errr, lady.

THE SEVE TROPHY. The Heritage played host to the Seve Trophy

in 2007 and 2009 and I’m sure they did far better navigating it than I am. The hardest hole is the beastly 491 yard, par-4 12th.

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IRELAND

Heritage Golf

To make or beat par you must position the tee shot down the left or encounter the bunkers on the right. The goal of the second shot is to avoid the lake. Let’s just say I didn’t make par on this one.

And finally, we’re at the 18th. This 447-yard, par-4, demanding hole is a fitting end to a true stadium course. Lakes and bunkers intimidate on both sides and my mind is already at the 19th hole sipping a Guinness. Clearly it is time for more lessons when I return home!

MASSAGE AND COCKTAILS. After a hard day on the links I return

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to Ballyfin and promptly book the Serenity Massage. The brochure describes it as “a tranquil escape from every day trials and tribulations” which seems like the perfect antidote to my golf game.

The massage does as promised and I’m revived and ready to join the other guests of the manor for complimentary cocktails before dinner. The only question is whether to enjoy the Anthony Barton Saint-Emilion in the Saloon, which has a wood floor the likes of which can only be found elsewhere at Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, or in The Gold Drawing Room, the grandest French inspired reception room in the house.

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Mount Juliet

Dinner is in The State Dining Room with a view of the large Return fountain. As you might imagine, the food is as grand as the setting. Chef Ryan Murphy already has three Michelin Stars on his resume and dishes like Carlingford Lough Lobster Ravioli and West Cork Skeaghanore Duck could easily earn him a coveted fourth.

BACK TO SCHOOL. Realising that my golf game needs work, I explore the options at the Michael Dixon School of Golf at the illustrious K Club in County Kildare, an hour ride from Ballyfin.

The five-star K Club has hosted 13 European Opens and the 2006

Ryder Cup. Its Golf Academy offers individual lessons and day golf schools, but if you’re a more established golfer than moi, you’ll want to avail yourself of 36 holes of some of the best golf in Ireland.

The Arnold Palmer designed Palmer Ryder Cup Course is a perennial in the top parkland courses in Ireland and is one of the most spectacular courses in Europe. Palmer’s favourite hole is the par-5 fourth with the trick being to avoid the overhanging trees to the right. The most intimidating (certainly for me!) hole is the par-4 seventh. Water and the tendency towards swirling winds make it a challenging hole for even the most seasoned golfers.

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IRELAND The Smurfit Course was created to provide a contrast to the Palmer Ryder Cup Course and it is described best as inland links. The two courses have entirely different landscapes with the Palmer Ryder course featuring well-designed planted areas with cultivated plants in a stylized fashion, and the Smurfit course displaying wild species of plants in a random display that would occur naturally.

The Smurfit course also boasts four islands in the lakes to encourage waterfowl habitat. The 12th hole is a just a par-3 but it challenges with one of the largest individual greens in the world and a bad tee shot can set you back upwards of 60 yards.

MOUNT JULIET. To round out my golf trifecta in Ireland I head

to County Kilkenny and the five-star Mount Juliet. Its Jack Nicklaus course is considered the best parkland course in Ireland. The Par 72, 7,300 yard course seduces with rolling fairways, countered greens and plenty of water hazards to challenge top golfers. The American Express Golf Championships were held here in 2002 and 2004.

Number three, a par-3 is one of three signature holes on the links. It is played from an elevated tee with a stream and lake by the green. The par-5 10th throws a thicket of trees to test

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even the best strategists. The final hole is a long par-4 with a water feature all down the left-side.

MEDIEVAL CITY. Make sure to explore Kilkenny before

heading back to Ballyfin. The town is one of Ireland’s finest medieval cities. Kilkenny Castle and the 13th Century St. Canice’s Cathedral provide a glimpse into Ireland throughout the centuries.

Inspired by history, I decide to raid Ballyfin’s costume department which features Victorian frocks and gentleman’s coats from an era with lavish balls and dinners and where people dressed to the nines were the norm. After donning my long gown, boa, jewellery and feathered hat, I am ready to step out in style for the night. I may not have won in golf like Phil Mickelson, but I can at least look like a lady off the links. GGM BALLYFIN: Rates from 475/single room or 800/double inclusive of daily meals, afternoon tea, pre-dinner drinks, minibar, most recreational activities and VAT and gratuities. www.ballyfin.com The Heritage: www.theheritage.com The K Club: www.kclub.ie Mount Juliet: www.mountjuliet.ie

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Bentley_Layout 1 18.10.14 15:49 Side 1

THE BENTLEY CHALLENGE

f

Girls just wanna have un...

They are professional golfers

and compete passionately on

the golf course, but on this occasion they find themselves on a totally different kind of course... By Nils Bjornes, photos by Ketil Plassgaard

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THE BENTLEY CHALLENGE

Henni Zuel

Duncan Tappy, Carly Booth and Steven Kane

Carly Booth

Cheyenne Woods

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Dame Laura Davies

I

once had a Jaguar Mark 2 like the one Inspector Morse used to drive in the TV series, only mine was green. It was a used car, of course, but I still remember the feeling of getting into the driver's seat and taking it home from the shop. The smell of real leather, the beautiful polished walnut dashboard and folding trays on the back of the seats. It was a proud moment.

The memory was brought back to me on this early morning in July, sitting in another of Britain’s iconic cars, this time a brand new Bentley Continental. Unfortunately, it is not my car and I’m not in

the driver's seat. In fact, we are at Thruxton race track where the first Ladies' Pro Golfer Bentley Track Challenge is about to take place.

The competitors are three young ladies from the Ladies' European Tour, Cheyenne Woods, Henni Zuel and Carly Booth, together with legendary Dame Laura Davies. None of the three youngest have tried anything like this before, but Laura Davies has had some experience. “I have done some track racing in the past, but that was a long time ago. I’m really looking forward to this and I love the Bentley cars,” she says.

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THE BENTLEY CHALLENGE

RISING STARS. The three young ladies are considered rising stars in professional golf, but the question now is how they will perform behind the wheel of a powerful Bentley Continental V8 S on England’s fastest racetrack.

Cheyenne Woods is an American professional golfer, born in Phoenix, Arizona on 25th July 1990, and is Tiger Woods’ niece.

She has won more than 30 amateur tournaments and turned professional in 2012 after graduating from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. In 2013, Woods became a member of the Ladies' European Tour and finished 78th on the Order of Merit.

Henni Zuel, born 6th January 1990, is an English professional golfer and the youngest-ever player to join the Ladies' European Tour as an amateur. She was a nominee for a Britain’s Best Award for Home Grown Talent and entered the professional Ladies' European Tour after turning pro in 2008.

Carly Booth, born 21st June 1992, is a Scottish professional golfer. At the end of 2009, aged 17, she became the youngest-ever Scot to qualify for the Ladies' European Tour. Booth enjoyed an amateur career richly laced with records and accolades, being described as a Scottish golfing prodigy. Aged 12, she played with Sandy Lyle in the British Masters Pro-Am and at 14 she appeared in her first professional event, the Ladies' Scottish Open, and finished 13th.

THE VETERAN. The name Laura Davies should be familiar to most of us. As an English professional golfer, she has achieved the status of the nation's most accomplished female golfer of modern times, being the first non-American to finish at the top of the LPGA money list, as well as winning the LET Order of Merit a record seven times. As of 2012, she has 84 professional wins worldwide, with 20 on the LPGA, including four majors.

Since turning professional in 1985, she has won at least one individual title somewhere in the world every season, except for 2005 and 2011. She is a member of the US-based LPGA Tour, a life member of the Ladies' European Tour, and needs only one major victory, or two regular LPGA Tour wins, to enter the World Golf Hall of Fame.

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After a short briefing and some practice laps under the supervision of Bentley’s GT Racing Drivers, Steven Kane and Duncan Tappy, to familiarise themselves with the cars and the track, the ladies are ready.

The competition takes place at two separate venues. First they'll drive through an obstacle course in the parking lot. The results from this challenge will then be combined with the fastest lap time in order to establish the winner.

As professional golfers, these ladies are used to performing under pressure, but there still seems to be a bit of tension in the air as they put helmets on for the speed test. Soon, the roaring sound of powerful engines echoes around the race track as the contestants finish their laps, and with speeds of up to 140mph, we can but wonder how it felt.

“It was amazing,” says Cheyenne Woods. “I must admit I was very nervous, but as soon as we started there was no time for that.

I had to focus on what I was doing, as there is a lot to remember.

It goes so fast. This is a lot harder work than I thought, but what a rush! I loved it!”

AND THE WINNER IS. Although the difference in lap time was

only five seconds between number one and number four, it did not come as much of a surprise that Laura Davies was the overall winner. And true to the custom of the sport of racing cars, she happily sprayed her fellow contestants with champagne on the podium. “This has pretty much been my dream day. Everyone knows how much I love driving fast cars and it has been a brilliant experience to race on the quickest track in the UK. It’s especially nice to finish on top of the podium ahead of the youngsters," she says with a big smile.

The youngsters themselves don’t seem to mind having been defeated by their older competitor. “It’s been great fun and so different from the sport we usually compete in. Definitely an experience we shall remember,” they say.

You might not be seeing any of these ladies behind the wheel on a race track any time soon, but I’m pretty sure you will see them on the golf course in upcoming tournaments.

GGM

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Great Spa

Been in the rough?

Time to relax...

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Haven f

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ocated in Hua Hin, a beach town where the hip residents of Bangkok love to retreat for long holidays, Chiva-Som is a tranquil sanctuary. Here the best practices in holistic health, spa, fitness and physical therapy are coupled with luxury and attention to detail to create a relaxing, life-affirming vacation for the well-to-do international crowd.

About to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2015, Chiva-Som (meaning the haven of life) was founded on one simple idea: ‘above all, enjoy your life’ – the motto of its creator, Khun Boonchu Rojanastien, a former financial minister and Deputy Prime Minster of Thailand.

Twenty years ago a luxury health retreat in Asia was unheard of, but Rojanastien had a passion for promoting wellbeing, and

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through his travels the idea for the resort Chiva-Som was born.

He wanted to combine the best of Eastern and Western spa techniques with the famous hospitality and friendliness the Thai people are known for.

A WARM WELCOME. “At Chiva-Som guests get a true Thai experience,” says general manager, Shelia McCann. “We gave local people the necessary training but the Thai hospitality comes from the heart.”

As a guest, that was clear to see. I arrived at Chiva-Som in the low season and the normal 5:1 staff-to-guest ratio seemed more like 15:1. I was greeted with “Sawatdee” and a bow by everyone I passed, dishes were cleared the moment the last bite was consumed and cold towels were immediately available to wipe my

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brow as I walked up from the beach.

This attention to detail was everywhere; from the non-stop grounds keeping, to every request being met with a smile. I had the opportunity to select my pillow from a menu of about 15 different choices, hair products can be changed per your hair type, and even the mattress can be swapped for a softer or firmer version. This impeccable service isn’t a surprise considering ChivaSom has played home to celebrities like Kate Moss and Elizabeth Hurley and even royalty that we sadly can’t reveal...

While Chiva-Som is luxurious, the resort’s purpose is much more than that. Guests stay for three, five, seven, 10 or 14 nights (or create a long-term custom stay) and during that time they choose from one of several retreats. There are programmes for weight loss, fitness, detox, optimal performance, natural health,

anti-aging, yoga and spa pampering. According to McCann, the retreat packages are specially created to help guests achieve their desired results by carefully selecting from over 200 services ChivaSom offers.

TIME TO BE PAMPERED. As a spa aficionado I decided on the

Spa Pampering Retreat. This spa service is on top of the one daily treatment that’s included in all the retreats. While admittedly it isn’t as life changing as some of the other packages, after a 17 hour flight to get here, a bit of pampering was in order!

My five-night retreat included facials, massages, wraps, pedicure, hair treatments, body shaping and Balneotherapy.

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out a comprehensive health questionnaire that focuses on both physical and mental health and gauges your interest in making specific changes. When I arrived I spent an hour with a health counsellor reviewing my personal details and listening to her suggestions to help me achieve my specific needs.

My goal was to relax and let go of emotional baggage that should have been left at the lost luggage counter already. To help on the emotional end I select Chi Nei Tsang massage – this abdominal massage is a Chiva-Som signature service. Research now shows we have a ‘gut brain’ and store emotions in our core, so working on the mid-section can often help release negative emotions and stress. It is also beneficial for anyone suffering from digestive issues and is extremely detoxifying.

WARRIOR QUEEN. The Reprogramming Signature Energy session I had with visiting master Danchai Chernprateep also focuses on emotions. He explained that when we constantly ask why something happened we are operating from our lower heart chakra; playing and staying in victim mode. I was encouraged to unleash my ‘Warrior Queen’ energy to wipe away the victim in me. Using vibrational bowls, tuning forks and harps, Chernprateep harnessed the power of sound and tone to change my emotional tune. Long live the Warrior Queen!

My relaxation goal was very easy to meet at Chiva-Som. If you can’t relax here, you won’t relax anywhere. Days consisted of at least three daily spa treatments, such as foot massages, hand massages and Thai massages, with the occasional facial or slimming treatment thrown in as icing on the cake (Jell-O was my middle name!).

I also found solace taking long, solo strolls along the beach since Chiva-Som is on the Gulf of Thailand. In this walking meditation I gained more clarity about my future path and continued to let go of the past. Yoga, stretching classes and workouts in the gym helped me lose a kilo to boot.

GOOD FOR GOLF. While it’s easy to fill your days at Chiva-Som with spa treatments, fitness classes and relaxing by the pool or beach, Hua Hin is also one of the best spots for golf in Thailand.

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Mountain, Imperial Lakeview Golf Resort and Milford Golf Course are ideal spots to try.

Like all world-class destination spas, Chiva-Som prides itself on educating people that healthy food doesn’t mean boring, deprivation eating. Every meal offers a plethora of choices that cater to carnivores, vegetarians and a host of other dietary issues.

The culinary team uses produce and herbs grown in the ChivaSom organic garden. Every dinner the chefs offer special daily selections in addition to the standard menu. Wine is available, but like elsewhere in Thailand I found this was the only thing that is expensive here. Come December, Chiva-Som will have a new edition of its cookbook available so you can bring healthy eating home.

Part of the tranquility at Chiva-Som comes from the bucolic surroundings. There are accommodations in the main building with stunning views of the water, but I preferred the seclusion and traditional architecture of the Thai Pavilions. Besides the beach and large outdoor pool, Chiva-Som offers a bathing pavilion with another pool, kneipp bath, sauna, steam and Jacuzzi.

In Thailand, where nearly everyone practices Buddhism, Chiva-Som embodies Buddha’s observation that ‘health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth and faithfulness the greatest relationship’.

GGM

GOOD TO KNOW ­

Food Lake Como_Layout 1 18.10.14 15:54 Side 1

Great Food

After great golf comes good food...

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ITALY

class MASTER

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ITALY

W

hat do you do when you win a coveted three Michelin stars, becoming the first Italian chef to gain the rare triple accolade? Give them all back, of course. At least that’s what you do if you are Gualtiero Marchesi, the veteran maestro regarded as the father of modern Italian cuisine.

Gaining two Michelin stars by 1978 after having opened his first restaurant in his native Milan in 1977, Marchesi won a third one seven years later – before denouncing Michelin’s scoring system as unfair in 2008 and returning the stars, saying that he did it to help aspiring young chefs understand that “the passion for cooking cannot be subject to a vote”.

Since 2011, the old master has been sprinkling his stardust as consultant at one of northern Italy’s grandest hotels, the stately, art nouveau Grand Hotel Tremezzo on the shores of Lake Como. At 84, Marchesi is just 20 years younger than the historic palace hotel, yet

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oversees all aspects of its cuisine and wines while mentoring its executive chef of 22 years, Osvaldo Presazzi.

Presazzi has enjoyed spells at the master’s legendary restaurants in Franciacorta and Milan – Ristorante Gualtiero Marchesi in Erbusco and Ristorante Teatro Alla Scala Il Marchesino – as well as at other top European hotels.

LA TERRAZA. Marchesi’s main

focus at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is at its gloriously situated La Terraza fine dining restaurant, with its open-air terrace enjoying what is claimed to be the finest vistas of Lake Como. As I took my place at a table close to the lake and gazed past the wrought iron railings to the shimmering lights of Bellagio across the water, I wholeheartedly agreed.

Marchesi’s “Total Cuisine” style is based around simplicity, taste and beauty, using good quality local ingredients and not overpowering them with sauces. Another mantra is that haute cuisine cannot disregard the grand hotels that produced it. With those in mind, I was eager to try his degustation menu, featuring his signature riso, oro e zafferano dish – saffron risotto with gold leaf.

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The meal comprised four courses plus dessert, paired with five glasses of wine, each beautifully presented. First up was a delicately flavoured lobster with sweet pepper cream, together with a glass of crisp, sparkling Cuvée Prestige Ca’ del Bosco from Franciacorta.

I love lobster, and this was one of the best I have had.

Next was the saffron risotto, along with another glass of the Ca’del Bosco. The black plate contrasted perfectly with the peachcoloured risotto and the square of gold leaf in the centre. Risotto is another favourite of mine and the saffron added piquancy, while the gold simply melted in the mouth with no discernable flavour.

Fish followed, the herb-crusted red mullet fillets served with crunchy vegetables, a tangy throwback to the nouvelle cuisine dishes of the 1970s and early 1980s, washed down by a light 2011 Moscato Giallo Turmhof Tiefenbrunner. Then came the main course, fillet of veal with foie gras and black truffle, Gualteiro Marchesi style, with spinach, pine nuts and raisins. The rich flavours combined superbly and were well complemented by a fruity Franciacorta red, a 2011 Pomaro Castello di Gussago.

THREE FLAVOURS. The final dish was tre gusti per un dolce – three flavours for a dessert – combining Bavarian cream coffee, crème brûlée and chocolate mousse on a biscuit base, rounded off with a sweet Lugana Passito Zenato dessert wine.

At 120 euros for the four courses plus dessert and 45 euros for the five glasses of wine, it sounds like a king’s ransom but considering you are dining on exquisite creations by the king of Italian cuisine in a glorious setting, it represents excellent value.

The main menu changes with the seasons and offers a variety of dishes, without confusing by offering too much choice.

I fell into bed sated, but not feeling as though I had overeaten.

And next morning, for breakfast back at La Terazza there was one menu item that had my name on it – Florentine eggs with English muffin, spinach and Hollandaise sauce.

Owned and run by the De Santis family, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s other dining options include L’Escale, the first fondue and wine bar on Lake Como, TPizza, specialising in Italy’s iconic food and set in the hotel’s lush gardens, and TBeach, which offers 124

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fish, meat, vegetable and cheese grills by the hotel’s floating swimming pool moored on the lake.

I had another date, however, at sister property the Grand Hotel di Como, just down the lake in Cernobbio. A modern hotel, it still embodies the same passion for cuisine and attention to detail and service as its venerable sibling.

I was due to have a South American barbecue in the outdoor Kincho churrascheria, set in the hotel’s flower-filled park with its own lovely wooden gazebo by the pool, where the steaks – notably the Picanha di Valcir – are said to be out of this world. However, violent thunderstorms and torrential rain had forced it to close that night, so instead I dined in the adjacent Kitchen restaurant.

The Marchesi connection is very strong here, too. Early 2014 saw the arrival of chef Paolo Lopriore, a disciple of the Italian legend and acclaimed as his favourite pupil, to head up Kitchen as well as supervise Kincho.

Blending local traditions with creativity and innovation, he uses local ingredients while focusing on simplicity to bring out their flavours.

WORKS OF ART. As at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, the food was

presented like works of art, each dish a treat to savour. They included cavedano, midollo, fave fresche e frutta secca (boned chub with fresh fava beans and dried fruits), ravioli alla cipolla, crema di caprino fresco (ravioli with onion and cream of fresh goat’s cheese) and semifreddo allo zucchero affumicato, semi di finocchio e liquirizia (parfait with smoked sugar, fennel seeds and liquorice), accompanied by a sweet 2011 Zibibbo, Donnafugata Passito di Pantelleria Ben Rye, and a semi-sweet 2009 Muscat Petit Grain, Les Cretes Moscato Passito Les Abeilles. Once again, it was an epicurean adventure of intense flavours.

Sadly, a Friday flight home meant that I missed the Sunday brunch that Kitchen is particularly noted for.

As I went through security at Milan’s Malpensa Airport, I wondered momentarily whether the gold leaf from master chef Marchesi’s wonderful saffron risotto might set off the scanner alarm. It didn’t, but good job I didn’t overindulge.

GGM

Sherry_Layout 1 26.09.14 13:41 Side 1

Great Wine

A good round is worth celebrating

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SHERRY

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S

herry has long been supped on the British Isles.

Shakespeare refers to it in Henry IV, while Samuel Pepys pays the fortified wine homage in his diaries.

Indeed, Poet Laureates of old, like Jonson and Dryden, were actually paid in sherry. Yes, there are certain things that we all consider British; cricket, tea, marmite and… sherry. Some, such as cricket are home grown, but we are also a nation of hoarders, it’s a habit that has long been with us. We pick up shiny trinkets from around the world, bring them back to our slightly damp island and make them our own.

And with the re-emergence of sherry it is worth looking at its origins; for this is a giant amongst wines and its standing alongside its contemporaries is sadly overshadowed by our surprising lack of knowledge. Here lies the problem, for we have forgotten just how wonderful this unique Spanish wine is. We judge sherry not for how it tastes, but on preconceived misconceptions that it’s the sort of thing little old ladies drink in the afternoon. Gin has shaken off its stuffiness, now sherry is about to follow.

THE INVENTION OF SHERRY. True sherry is only grown in a triangular region between the towns of Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Its origins can be traced back to the Phoenicians, who settled in this region of the Iberian Peninsula and founded the city of Cádiz in around 1104 BC. It’s possible that these settlers introduced grapevines as they established their control over the area.

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The Greeks followed and brought with them the method for making a dark coloured, sweet tasting syrup called arrope that was used to sweeten wine.

By the time the Romans took control in 206 BC, winemaking was firmly established and the local drink soon became popular throughout the empire, where it was known as Ceretanum, or the wine from Ceret (later called Jerez).

During the period of Moorish control, Jerez was known as Sherish, which is considered to be the origin for the name of both the town and the wine.

In the 13th century, as the Moors were pushed out the region came under the control of Spain and the production of sherry increased and gained a reputation around Europe. It’s even reported that the wine accompanied Columbus on his journey to the New World.

SHERRY COMES TO ENGLAND. Most of us know that, like champagne, sherry can only come from a particular region. The brand vigorously defends its name. But do you know how this great wine came to our shores?

In the year 1596 during the Anglo Spanish War, a joint English and Dutch fleet captured and sacked the city of Cádiz. The reason for this daring endeavour was to destroy a fleet of ships being built and assembled for the invasion of England. One man present and in charge of a squadron of warships was none other than Sir Francis Drake.

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Amongst other spoils of battle from his daring exploits that day was the capture of 2,900 barrels of local wine that were on the docks awaiting loading to the Spanish ships bound for the Americas. You can imagine the scene upon his return to England with this booty. And the English found that they rather liked this sherry. The timing was perfect as relations with France were fraught and so wine supplies from this region were drying up.

The Venetian traders during this period were also losing their access to the wine markets of Greece and Cyprus due to the rise of the Ottoman Empire. So history and politics enabled sherry to enter stage left. The wine, which became commonly known as ‘sack’, is reportedly in reference to the sacking of Cádiz.

Shakespeare refers to sherry in Henry IV when John Falstaff declares, “If I had a thousand sons, the first humane principal I would teach them should be to forswear thin potations and addict themselves to sack.”

THE ART OF SHERRY. Sherry is made from the Palomino grape,

which is perfect for the production of the dry base wine from which sherry is ultimately produced. The grapes are lightly crushed and the juice is fermented using neutral yeast. It is then lightly fortified with a neutral, high alcohol spirit to raise its alcohol content.

An essential part of the creation of sherry is the layer of film forming yeasts called flor that develop on the surface of the wine.

This flor develops naturally when a space is left within the barrel,

or butts, as they are known in sherry production. This layer protects the developing wine from oxidation while also adding to the taste by metabolising the alcohol.

Sherry is aged in the solera system, which involves blending the wines of different ages. Solera literally means ‘on the ground’ and this refers to the lower level barrels. The sherry is transferred through each layer from top to bottom to create the different types.

Aged for a minimum of three years, the longer the wine goes through the system the darker the colour and sweeter the taste.

THE SHERRY BODEGAS. To walk around the town of Jerez today you will notice a familiarity and often Englishness with the names of the sherry producers. Williams & Humbert, Gonzalez Byass, Harvey’s Bristol Cream and Tio Pepe are all household names in the UK. These brands are familiar due to the popularity of sherry on our shores. Brought about by the exploits of a famous seafarer, who contrary to his standing in the rest of Spain, is actually looked upon with fondness by the people of the Cádiz region.

Perhaps it’s time to see sherry in an entirely new light. This is a drink borne from a fiery, sun-parched land, which is also the birthplace of flamenco, tapas and majestic Andalusian horses.

Sherry is so far removed from our preconceived conceptions, it deserves a more exotic reputation. And if you really want to embrace the sweet nectar, make a pilgrimage of your own to Jerez, sit at one of the many bars in the central square, order tapas and Fino, or possibly an Amontillado, and immerse yourself in the land of sherry.

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TYPES OF SHERRY. The length of the aging process creates several distinct types of sherry that vary in both colour and sweetness.

in the same way as the Amontillado, it later develops a character similar to an Oloroso.

OLOROSO Aged for longer while exposed to oxygen due to the

FINO Meaning ‘fine’ in Spanish is dry and pale in colour. The

wine is aged entirely under a cap of flor to prevent contact with the air and matures for a minimum of two years. The alcohol content of a Fino is 15-17%.

CREAM This is the sherry that we all are familiar with, produced

sherry is first aged under flor but then further aged while exposed to the air, which enters through the slightly porous oak barrels.

This produces a darker and drier tasting wine than the Fino.

for the British market and more precisely in the city of Bristol.

An excerpt from a traveller’s diary, dated 1634, reads: “And so, with a cup of Bristol Milk, we parted with our honest and grave host, and bade this sweet city adieu." Bristol milk was the precursor to the Bristol Cream Sherry, which was created in the 1860’s by Harvey’s Sherry of Bristol. Fino, Amontillado and Olorosso were mixed with a small amount of Pedro Ximénez for added sweetness. Already producing Bristol Milk, this new sherry was unnamed until a well-to-do lady tasted the new concoction while visiting their cellars and remarked, “If that is milk, then this is cream!”

PALO CORTADO A dry sherry with roughly 20% alcohol, this wine is darker still with a slightly sweet, nutty taste. Aged initially

PEDRO XIMÉNEZ This is a syrupy, dark liquid with a strong raisin taste and makes an excellent desert wine.

GGM

MANZANILLA This is the same as Fino sherry but slightly stronger

in aroma and taste. Location has a part to play in the final product as this wine is only produced and matured in the area of Sanlucar de Barrameda, which is closer to the sea than Jerez. It is aged for five years and has an alcohol content of about 15% AMONTILLADO With an alcohol content of roughly 19.5%, this

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flor being suppressed by fortification at an early stage. This wine can be aged for several decades and is darker with a strong walnut taste.

GREAT GOLF MAGAZINE

O F F I C I A L AC C E S S O R I E S S U P P L I E R TO T H E P G A E U R O P R O T O U R 2 0 1 3

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ALIGN

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Add a permanent personal laser-engraved message, logo, or club badge to any GrooveFix product.

10 0 % B r iti s h M a d e • Li f e ti m e g ua r a nte e w w w.g roov e f i x .co m • 02 0 8 24 0 0 527

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GREAT WATCHES

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n my world, a watch is not simply something with which to tell the time – it incorporates style, design, science and history – and that is why I’m eagerly anticipating my trip to Tunbridge Wells, where I feel like I am stepping back in time…

Sadly, all too often, our high streets resemble homogenous, sterile retailers, populated by large chain stores, with any remnants of individuality being lost to sepia-toned memory. It is therefore wonderful when a town retains its character and unique ambience, untouched by the dulling effects of a large corporate entity.

As I walk along the pedestrian thoroughfares of Tunbridge Wells, I am seduced by the individuality conferred with street cafés and interesting boutiques. I am not alone in my appreciation of the palpable charms of this town. Indeed, it has a notable vibrancy, seemingly unaffected by the growth of online shopping.

I am visiting a specialist watch and jewellers – Burrells International – which offers a plethora of blue-chip, high-end brands and has a broad selection of haute horlogerie timepieces to sate the needs of the most discerning collector.

I

SPA TOWN. The very name, Royal Tunbridge Wells, evokes thoughts of sophistication and luxury. It feels a million miles away from the mundane, Lowryesque Lancashire mill town of my past, whose streets I once roamed as an angst-ridden adolescent. This large spa town in west Kent, about 40 miles southeast of central London, has an air of optimistic refinement, which makes it a delightful place to visit.

Already familiar with Tunbridge Wells (having passed through the town in a former life as a recreational collector of wristwatches), I recall visiting Burrells International before I earned my income writing about watches. Indeed, I would categorise this retailer as a ‘destination jeweller’, such is the diversity of brands stocked and interesting limited-edition models offered for sale.

Now I return to Burrells as a professional watch journalist to cast my critical eye over the retail emporium once again, this time appraising it with discriminating scrutiny. It remains very impressive, with a plethora of top quality brands, several of which I have a strong yearning for.

GREAT BRITISH. Whilst there, I press my nose against the

pristinely polished glass of a display cabinet to admire a stunning Bremont Norton. The chronograph, made by the quintessentially British watch brand, was developed in collaboration with the iconic British motorcycle company, Norton.

A limited edition of only 200 pieces, these unusual watches were quickly sold. Like many self-confessed watch addicts, I presumed they had all long since gone. I am aware that as I type this, the watch may well have been subsequently sold, but it perfectly illustrates the intriguing rare pieces held in this retail emporium in Kent.

Numerous brands are stocked here, including some of my personal favourites such as Breitling, Omega, Oris, TAG Heuer and Zenith.

WONDERFUL WATCHES. I chat to Richard Burrell, Managing Director, a man who clearly still enjoys the watch and jewellery trade, despite having spent over 50 years working within the industry. He has lost none of his passion for selling products and meeting the general public. I enquire how the business has altered in the last 20 years.

“Watches are so important now. 20 years ago, people bought watches to tell the time, they accounted for ten per cent of our revenue and 90 per cent would come from jewellery. Now, it is 134

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the reverse. People do not buy watches these days merely to tell the time, they are also a lifestyle statement – a watch can say a lot about its owner.”

Chatting to Burrell, I focus upon the various brands they stock, some of which I have personally owned. In a matter of seconds, I identify a kindred spirit and fellow enthusiast. We enter into a fest of horological geekiness, talking about historical references from former years that have captured our hearts.

SWITZ STYLE. Burrell shares my love for the haute horlogerie brand, Jaeger-LeCoultre. The brand from Le Sentier, Switzerland, is a ‘high-end manufacture’ – a term used for a watch company which makes its own movements. We discuss the latest models from the brand including some ultra-thin timepieces, which I find particularly attractive.

However, one of Burell’s personal favourites is a model from 2008, which has since been updated, the Duomètre à Chronographe. I immediately know the model he is referring to.

It features the company’s ingenious ‘Dual Wing’ movement. Two independent ‘barrels’ store energy from winding the crown. One barrel is responsible for supplying the energy to power the hour and minutes display. A second barrel serves the energy needs of the chronograph (stopwatch function).

The benefit of this system is that as the actuated chronograph depletes the energy stored within the appropriate barrel, the time display remains unaffected. It is one aspect of this watch that 136

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differentiates it from the majority of other chronographs on the market. Moreover, the hand finishing of the movement showcases the adroit skill of the artisans who work at the historical maison that’s been in operation since 1833.

WATCH ADDICTS. Burrell fell head over heals for the gorgeous

gold-cased watch, so he ordered one for his own personal collection.

However, in the meantime, the manager of the boutique sold it to a collector, unaware that Burrell had earmarked it for himself.

It is a perfect illustration of how fast-paced this specialist world can be.

I can readily spot a fellow watch addict. We all share the same, near-obsessive yearning for just one more watch. Burrell is no exception. I suspect even if he was not in the watch and jewellery business there would be a large, valuable collection of timepieces in his possession.

Burrell has clearly built up a successful business and I ask what he considers to be the single most important reason for his success.

“Service,” he immediately responds. “You have to make it feel like an occasion when people walk into your shop. Customers need to feel comfortable.”

I recognise the wisdom in his words and furthermore, as I peruse the various watches on offer, I can validate that this man ‘walks the talk’. Indeed, it is an occasion to visit a retailer of this quality in such a lovely location.

GGM

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CYPRUS GOLF PROPERTY

A ROOM WITH A

round ful year r e d n o prus’ w With Cy

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climate Kaas-Sto

By Mike

tos ck. Pho

Minthis

Hills

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CYPRUS GOLF PROPERTY

ituated on the south-western coast of Cyprus in the heart of Pafos’ wine-producing region, and boasting a breathtaking hillside location, you’ll find Minthis Hills Resort and Golf course. And here, among the ruins of a twelfth-century monastery, luxury properties are being built. So, if you’re an investor looking for your very own place in the sun, where you can enjoy a challenging game of golf without getting frostbite, this might be the place for you.

S

EASY LIVING. With distinctive contemporary architecture inspired by local culture, Minthis Hills has brought a new dimension to Mediterranean living. Designed by world-renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot, each residence is a fluid series of indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for enjoying Cyprus’ great year-round climate.

Incorporating traditional stone and rich wooden detail with a luxurious modern edge, Woods Bagot has achieved an exquisite, timeless design, which fully exploits the spectacular setting. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing the views and airy open-plan

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interiors, the villas exude uninhibited elegance. Large outdoor areas are designed for alfresco living, featuring spacious terraces, outdoor fireplaces and infinity pools.

PERSONAL TOUCH. Renowned for their creative design and attention to detail, the architects chose a barefoot luxury concept with finishes flowing seamlessly from interior to exterior, such as the stone walls, which are a distinctive feature of the homes. And if you have something special in mind, Minthis Hills’ experienced interior design team is on hand to help homeowners express their own individual style. Whether it’d be a sauna, a gym or a personal wine cellar, your property can be tailored to suit your individual lifestyle requirements.

PANORAMIC VIEWS. Bespoke gardens draw inspiration from the indigenous Mediterranean landscape, using low-maintenance planting which requires minimal water and thus fuses luxury with sustainability. The use of discrete boundaries provides privacy for the residents without obstructing the expansive and dramatic

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views of the Troodos Mountain range. With this in mind, Minthis Hills have taken care not to over-emphasise borders, as this would conflict with the characteristic openness of the mountains. Therefore, boundaries are more subtly expressed as low walls, particularly to the front of the plot, while to the rear, planting frames the views and provides screening to the adjacent properties. A varied and extensive tree canopy helps to add visual interest and provide valuable shade.

SLEEP EASY. Another key factor, which makes Minthis Hills such an attractive place to live, is the fact that Cyprus has the lowest crime rate in Europe. Nevertheless, to provide complete peace of mind, the resort has a dedicated on-site security team providing round-the-clock vigilance and assistance, including manned entrances, a 24-hour security patrol and closed circuit TV, thus ensuring a safe environment for both residents and their guests.

CHALLENGING AND ENJOYABLE. With the oldest golf course in

Cyprus on your doorstep, you can play a game of golf whenever

the fancy takes you. The Minthis Hills course enjoys a historic location, situated in the grounds of the twelfth-century monastery from which the resort took its name. Its tranquil setting and mesmerising mountain views provide the perfect backdrop for a challenging game with its fairways meandering through mature trees and water features.

At an altitude of 550m above sea level it’s a course for all seasons, enjoying cool breezes even during the summer. Originally designed by Donald Steel in 1994, Minthis Hills has recently undergone extensive enhancements by Mackenzie & Ebert. The ancient gardens in which the course is set lend a unique flavour, with holes surrounded by grapevines as well as walnut, almond and olive trees. To top it off, it’s a looped course, with each nine returning you to the clubhouse -- perfect for halfway refreshments.

PAMPERED. The village square is a focal point of the resort, offering the community a wealth of amenities, including a mini market, crèche and a children's playground. Its Mediterranean

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CYPRUS GOLF PROPERTY

atmosphere makes this the perfect setting to enjoy quality leisure time with the family.

And if you need a bit of 'me time', then head over to the resort's spa, where a team of highly skilled professionals await you.

Here you can be pampered from top to toe and indulge yourself with one of the many treatments on offer. There are also tennis courts, a well equipped gym and an indoor heated pool, so there is no excuse not to get in shape.

FRUITS OF YOUR LABOUR. If you are one of those who have

always harboured a secret dream of producing your own wine, well, here you have the chance to do just that. Located in a wine producing region, residents have the opportunity to rent vineyard allotments on the resort. Before starting up, you can receive initial vine training and learn how to tend to the plants. Alternatively, for those who prefer the fruits without the labour, a specialist can take care of it for you, allowing you to relax and reap the benefits.

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PASSPORT TO HISTORY. If you feel the urge for a bit of history, there is a medieval fortress, frescoed tombs and remarkable mosaics for you to explore. And just a 10-minute drive away you'll find Pafos, which offers all the essentials of a cosmopolitan city, including stylish boutiques, fine restaurants and plenty of cafes and bars. Here you can wander the streets and soak up the culture, and as UNESCO has added the entire town to its world heritage list, there is plenty of it to enjoy – Pafos is, after all, the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty.

And now that the government grants Cypriot (EU) citizenship to property buyers spending over € 2.5 million, foreign investors might soon be flocking to its shores. So if you have some money stuffed in your mattress, perhaps it’s time to book your ticket...

GGM www.minthishills.com

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COME AND PLAY GOLF…

IN THE CITY

ON CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES

GOLF TOURISM MALAYSIA

BESIDE THE BEACH

ALONGSIDE WILDLIFE

ABOVE THE CLOUDS

IN THE ROLLING HILLS

AT NIGHT

Welcome to Malaysia. No other country offers golf above the clouds, beside the beach, in virgin rainforests, at night and on world class championship courses. Come experience golf in Malaysia for your next holiday, adventure, corporate getaway or to learn from the experts in the best settings on Earth

IT’S PLAY TIME IN LUXURY RESORTS

www.golftourismmalaysia.com AND ON WORLD-CLASS COURSES

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Great Adventures

Because golf should be an Adventure...

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Great Golf

Adventures

Because golf should always be an Adventure EXPERIENCE GOLF AND SO MUCH MORE

Now it’s easy for you to visit the locations that are featured in Great Golf Magazine and experience it for yourself. In partnership with The Tailor-Made Groups Company we bring you “Great Golf Adventures” WHY ARE WE OFFERING HOLIDAYS?

So many of our readers have told us they would like to experience what our journalists cover in the editorial: the excursions, adventures, side-trips and food delights that they try as part of their visit to a country. For them, and now for you, the trip is much more than just several rounds of golf without touching the heart of the country they are visiting and so much more than would be possible on a golf holiday booked through a regular tour operator. So we now give you the chance to book that golf holiday with a difference, a Golf Adventure.

THREE TYPES OF GREAT GOLF ADVENTURES:

Escorted Group tours - With a group size of around 16, you will depart on published dates a few times a year to each destination. You can book a place on one of these tours and thus team up with a group of like-minded players who want some time on the fairways mixed with other adventures. Each Great Golf Adventure group is led by a local Tour Manager, who oversees the logistics of your tour and will help to organise the competitions that add a little spice to our golfing journey.

Private Group tours - Get a group of your friends together, ideally at least 10 people, and we will operate one of our group tours on a departure date of your choice. The tour operates 146

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exactly the same as our regular departures but it’s your own private party.

Private Car Tours - If our group departures don't suit you, we offer on most tour programmes, the opportunity to travel in one of our Private Car tours. The itinerary is the same as our group departures but you can travel on any date of your choice, subject to hotel and tee-off availability. We can take 2, 3 or 4 people in one of our private cars and for a slightly higher cost you have the freedom to travel in a small private party, following our regular itinerary but subject to your own timings each day.

Non-playing partners -If you get into trouble with your partner for leaving them behind when you take a golf holiday, then bring them along on a Great Golf Adventure. Whilst you are on the fairways they can be exploring the local area, and then you can spend time together on the adventures and excursions that are built into a Great Golf Adventures itinerary. Non-playing partners travel at a reduced cost of course.

MORE TO COME

We will be expanding our roster of locations and combinations to bring even more unique golfing choices, look out for new and exciting holidays on our website and in the magazine.

If you just want a regular golfing holiday, then don’t book with us, but if you want a Great Golf Adventure, this is the place for you! www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays

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INDIA

Taj & Tees

TOUR SUMMARY A golf tour with a difference, this is the perfect holiday to experience the rich history of the country and in particular to the world of the Mughul rulers who left such dramatic reminders of their rule. As well as golf, you will visit the Red Forts, the deserted Fatehpur Sikri, and the incomparable Taj Mahal at Agra.

Tour Duration – 9 days starting and ending in Delhi.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Delhi; guided tour of Old Delhi.

Day 2. In Delhi; play golf; guided tour of New Delhi.

Day 3. In Delhi; play golf; drive to Jaipur.

Day 4. In Jaipur; play golf; guided tour of Jaipur.

Day 5. Visit Amber Fort; drive to Bharatpur; game viewing.

Day 6. At Bharatpur; early morning game viewing; drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra where you will visit the Taj.Mahal.

Day 7. Morning in Agra; play golf with the unforgettable image of the Taj Mahal in the background; visit Red Fort; drive to Noida.

Day 8. In Noida; play golf; drive to Delhi.

Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE ITINERARY. 7nights accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night in Golf Resort hotel; sightseeing tours of Old and New Delhi; Jaipur, Amber fort, Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri; 5 rounds of golf; other transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Leader throughout your journey in India.

• START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Delhi/Delhi • SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

• INCLUDED MEALS – 8 breakfasts.

• TRANSPORT – Coach, Metro and Cycle rickshaw.

• GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

• TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Leader from Delhi back to Delhi; local guides on sightseeing tours, and drivers.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697 or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

Tour REF: INT

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INDIA

A drive from the Tees to the Taj TOUR SUMMARY Travelling in your own private car, this is the ultimate way to experience Golf in India.

Soak up the rich history of the country and in particular the world of the Mughul rulers who left such dramatic reminders of their rule, including the Red Fort, the deserted Fatehpur Sikri, and the incomparable Taj Mahal at Agra.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • Two half day guided tours of Delhi.

• Three rounds of golf at Delhi golf clubs.

• Full day guided sightseeing of Jaipur and Amber Fort.

• A round of golf at Jaipur’s premier golf course • Guided tour of Fatehpur Sikri.

• Guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort.

• A round of golf at a course next to the Taj Mahal TOUR DURATION – 9 days Delhi to Delhi.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Delhi; guided tour of Old Delhi.

Day 2. In Delhi; play golf; guided tour of New Delhi.

Day 3. In Delhi; play golf; drive to Jaipur.

Day 4. In Jaipur; play golf; guided tour of Jaipur.

Day 5. Visit Amber Fort; drive to Bharatpur; game viewing.

Day 6. At Bharatpur; early morning game viewing; drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra; visit Taj Mahal.

Day 7. Morning in Agra; play golf; visit Red Fort; drive to Noida.

Day 8. In Noida; play golf; drive to Delhi.

Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN INDIA: 7 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night in Golf Resort hotel; sightseeing tours of Old and New Delhi; Jaipur, Amber Fort, Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri; 5 rounds of golf; other transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adnentures Driver/Escort throughout your journey in India.

• START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Delhi/Delhi • SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

• INCLUDED MEALs – 8 breakfasts.

• TRANSPORT – Private car; Train; Metro and Cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi, and in Bharatpur sanctuary.

• YOUR PRIVATE CAR – Great Golf Adventures will provide you with an Ambassador car, the iconic Indian automobile based upon the British Morris Oxford of half a century ago but still built in India until recently. You will travel, therefore, in the classic Indian luxury car; a reminder of earlier times but with the comfort you would expect on your own personal tour.

• GROUP SIZE – Your private party can consist of from one to three passengers. If your party is slightly larger a further car, or cars, would be provided at additional cost.

• TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Great Golf Adventures Driver/Escort from Delhi to Delhi; local guides on sightseeing tours.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697 or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

Tour REF: IPT

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INDIA

Golf in the Vale of Kashmir

TOUR SUMMARY Have you ever wanted to combine a trip to India with some great golf? This trip offers you the chance to play four contrasting golf courses that lie amidst the stunning mountain scenery of the Vale of Kashmir.

Flying up to Srinagar you will play golf nearly every day, whilst staying overnight on one of the houseboats that line the waterfront near Dal Lake.

TOUR OPTIONS Escorted Group tours Private Group tours Private Car Tours TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • PLAY PAHALGAM GOLF COURSE – the longest in India.

• PLAY KASHMIR GOLF CLUB – the second oldest outside the UK. • SRINAGAR – guided tour of the city.

• PLAY GULMARG GOLF COURSE – highest green golf course in the world.

• PLAY ROYAL SPRINGS GOLF COURSE – regarded as one of the best in India.

• HOUSEBOATS – stay aboard a DeLuxe standard houseboat at Dal Lake.

• Shikara -ride on Dal Lake.

TOUR DURATION – 9 days Delhi to Delhi.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon tour of Old Delhi.

Day 2. In Delhi; morning tour of New Delhi; afternoon fly to Srinagar.

Day 3. Drive to Pahalgam; play golf at Pahalgam Golf Club.

Day 4. In Srinagar; play golf at Kashmir Golf Club.

Day 5. In Srinagar; morning - city tour; afternoon - shikara ride on Dal Lake.

Day 6. Drive via Tangmarg to Gulmarg; Play Gulmarg Golf Club.

Day 7. In Srinagar; Play Royal Springs Golf Club.

Day 8. Morning flight to Delhi; afternoon at leisure.

Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN INDIA: 6 nights’ accommodation on houseboats in Srinagar; 2 nights in a Delhi hotel; Sightseeing tour of Srinagar; 4 rounds of golf; Flights Delhi/Srinagar/Delhi; Other transport; Services of a Great Golf Adventures representative in Srinagar Tour Leader/Staff – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Representative in Kashmir; local guides on sightseeing tour, and Shikara boatmen.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697 or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

Tour REF: INK

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TURKEY

Golf, Gallipoli and a Gulet

TOUR SUMMARY This 9 day tour offers a typical Great Golf Adventures mixture of golf courses and other adventures. Starting in Istanbul we combine a round of golf with a look at the old city and the Bosporus. Then making our way via another round of golf and a vineyard wine-tasting visit, we pause at Gallipoli before heading south to explore both the ruins of Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus and a few nearby golf courses.

We finish our week at Bodrum with two more courses and time to cruise on a gulet, lazing away our last day off the shores of the Turquoise coast.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • FIVE ROUNDS OF GOLF DURING THE 9 DAY TOUR. • ISTANBUL CITY TOUR. • CROSS THE BOSPORUS ON A LOCAL FERRY. • VISIT TO A VINEYARD WITH WINE-TASTING. • GUIDED VISIT TO GALLIPOLI. • GUIDED VISIT TO TROY. • GUIDED VISIT TO PERGAMUM. • GUIDED VISIT TO EPHESUS. • GULET CRUISE. • GREAT GOLF ADVENTURES TOUR MANAGER THROUGHOUT THE TOUR. TOUR DURATION – 9 days Istanbul to Bodrum.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Istanbul. Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. In Istanbul: morning golf; afternoon city tour; evening crossing of the Bosporus by local ferry.

Day 3. Drive to Tekirdag; play golf; wine-tasting.

Day 4. Drive to Gallipoli; guided visit to site; drive to Canakkale.

Day 5. Drive via Troy and Pergamum to Kusadasi.

Day 6. At Kusadasi: morning visit Ephesus; afternoon play golf.

Day 7. Drive to Bodrum; afternoon play golf.

Day 8. In Bodrum: morning play golf; afternoon gulet cruise; evening Farewell dinner Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN TURKEY: 8 nights accommodation in boutique hotels; 5 rounds of golf including buggy; guided tours of Istanbul; Gallipoli; Troy; Pergamum; Ephesus; cruise on a gulet; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in Turkey.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Istanbul/Bodrum.

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS - 8 breakfasts; 2 Dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, gulet.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF - Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boatmen.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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BRAZIL

Golf, Waterfalls & Beaches TOUR SUMMARY A golf tour with a difference, this 9 day tour offers a journey across Brazil, from the world-famous waterfalls at Iguacu, via the vibrant city of Sao Paulo, to the Atlantic coast at Paraty, before we finish our journey at the iconic beachfront city of Rio. As well as several rounds of golf our tour includes the chance to see Iguacu falls by helicopter, a look at Sao Paulo by night; a boat cruise off the coast of Paraty, a city tour of Rio, a dinner at a churrascaria restaurant and a night at the legendary Plataforma samba club. A taste of several sides of Brazil, both on and off the golf course.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • Five rounds of golf during the 9 day tour.

• Guided tour of Iguacu Falls National Park.

• Explore the nightlife of Sao Paulo • Boat cruise at Paraty.

• Two guided tours of Rio, to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf.

• Dinner at a Rio churrascaria restaurant.

• A night at Plataforma Samba club.

TOUR DURATION – 9 days Iguacu to Rio. Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Iguacu; welcome drink and Dinner.

Day 2. In Iguacu: morning round of golf; afternoon guided tour of Iguacu Falls.

Day 3. In Iguacu; optional second round of golf, or visit to Argentinian side of the Falls; boat ride or helicopter ride over the Falls. Late afternoon flight to Sao Paulo.

Day 4. At Sao Paulo: morning round of golf; afternoon drive to Paraty.

Day 5. At Paraty; morning guided city tour; afternoon boat cruise.

Day 6. Drive to Angra; play golf; drive to Rio. Day 7. In Rio: morning play golf; afternoon tour to Sugar Loaf.

Day 8. In Rio: morning visit to Corcovado; afternoon play golf. Evening prize-giving, dinner and show at Plataforma samba club..

Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN BRAZIL: 8 night’s accommodation in 4 or 5 star hotels and a Pousada; 5 rounds of golf; sightseeing tours of Iguacu Falls and Rio; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in Brazil.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Iguacu/Rio. SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 8 breakfasts; 1 lunch and 2 dinners.

TRANSPORT – small coach, internal flights, boat.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boat crew.

ACCOMMODATION STANDARD – Hotels on this tour are all 4 or 5 star standard; except in Paraty where we use a local Pousada; all properties have bar and restaurant facilities.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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THAILAND

Golf, elephants, long-tail boats and other adventures TOUR SUMMARY This 11 day tour offers a look at a selection of the golf courses of northern Thailand but with some interesting activities between the golf rounds. Splitting our time between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai we alternate our days between playing golf, riding elephants, river rafting, riding the roads through the highlands, taking a long-tail boat, and visiting nearby Myanmar and Laos. There’s even time for a cookery lesson.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Five rounds of golf during the 11 day tour.

• Full day visit to an elephant centre.

• River-rafting excursion.

• Long-tail boat to Chiang Rai. • Visit to the Golden Triangle at the border with Myanmar and Laos • Thai cookery lesson or visit to craft villages.

• Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout the tour.

TOUR DURATION – 11 days Chiang Mai to Chiang Mai. Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Chiang Mai. Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. In Chiang Mai: golf at Chiang Mai Inthanon golf club.

Day 3. In Chiang Mai: Visit to elephant training centre; elephant riding; river rafting; visit to Orchid Farm.

Day 4. In Chiang Mai: golf at Mae Jo golf club and Resort.

Day 5. Drive to Tha Ton; take long-tail boat to Chiang Rai. Day 6. In Chiang Rai; golf at Santiburi Country Club.

Day 7. Full day visit to Myanmar and Laos at the Golden Triangle.

Day 8. Golf at Santiburi Country Club; drive to Chiang Mai.

Day 9. In Chiang Mai: full day cookery lesson or full day visit to craft villages.

Day 10. In Chiang Mai: golf at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort; evening farewell dinner.

Day 11. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN THAILAND: 10 nights’ accommodation in 5 star hotels; 5 rounds of golf including buggy; visit to elephant centre ; river rafting; long tail boat ride; excursion to Golden Triangle to see Myanmar and Laos; cookery lesson or visit to craft villages; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in Thailand.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Chiang Mai/Chiang Mai. SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 10 breakfasts; 2 Dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, elephant, river raft, long-tail boat.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boat crew.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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SOUTH AFRICA

Golf, wine, whales and wildlife.

TOUR SUMMARY This 9 day tour offers a typical Great Golf Adventures mixture of top class golf and other adventures. We will play some of the best courses in Capetown, around Hermanus and George, but between our rounds of golf are visits to wineries and a brewery; a visit to a motor museum; a chance to go whale-watching; and an afternoon on a game drive.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • Five rounds of golf during the 9 day tour.

• Guided tours of Table Mountain and Capetown.

• Full day visit to the wine-lands region with 3 tasting sessions.

• Visit to the Franschhoek Motor museum.

• Visit to Birkenhead Brewery including tasting session.

• Whale watching and marine big 5 excursion at Hermanus.

• Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout the tour.

TOUR DURATION – 9 days Capetown to George.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Capetown. Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. In Capetown: morning golf; afternoon tour of Table Mountain and the city.

Day 3. Full day visit to the wine-lands region, including 3 tastings and a visit to Franschhoek Motor Museum.

Day 4. Drive to Pearl Valley; play golf.

Day 5. Drive to Hermanus; afternoon whale-watching and big 5 marine excursion.

Day 6. At Hermanus: morning play golf; afternoon brewery visit and beer-tasting.

Day 7. Drive to George; afternoon play golf.

Day 8. At George; morning play golf; afternoon game viewing. Evening Farewell dinner Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN SOUTH AFRICA: 8 nights’ accommodation in 5 star hotels; 5 rounds of golf with buggies included (except at Fancourt Links where buggies not allowed); guided tours of Capetown and Table Mountain; visit to wine lands and 3 tastings; visit to Franschhoek Motor Museum; visit to Birkenhead Brewery; whale-watching and marine life excursion; game-viewing drive; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout our journey in South Africa.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Capetown/George.

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 8 breakfasts; 2 Lunches and 4 Dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, game viewing vehicle.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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ITALY

Golf, Vineyards and Vintage Cars.

TOUR SUMMARY Our 9 day journey through northern Italy offers a typical Great Golf Adventures mixture of golf courses and other activities. We meet up in a delightful hotel in the centre of Venice and after an initial game of golf, spend part of the next two days driving our vintage cars to a golf course each day and then, returning the cars, we spend an afternoon wine-tasting. Finally, taking a boat to Garda we spend our last few days enjoying a mixture of golf, wine-tasting, oliveoil tasting and learning to cook a little Italian food.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • Six rounds of golf during the 9 day tour.

• Driving a vintage car on two days.

• Two visits to local wineries including wine tasting.

• Boat cruise on Lake Garda.

• Visit to medieval villages and to Este in the Eugenian Hills.

• A Third wine tasting and olive oil tasting.

• Cookery lesson in a medieval castle • Evening visit to Venice.

• Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout the tour.

TOUR DURATION – 9 days Venice to Venice.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Venice; transfer to hotel in the centre of the city. Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. In Venice; transfer by motorboat to golf course; play golf; drive to hotel in Val Policella, near Verona.

Day 3. Drive to Desenzano; collect vintage cars; drive down west side of Lake Garda. Afternoon play golf.

Day 4. Drive vintage cars to Ca Degli Ulivi; play golf.

Afternoon visit 2 wineries for wine-tasting.

Day 5. Drive to Sirmione; boat cruise to Garda; drive to Abano Terme.

Day 6. At Abano Terme: morning golf; afternoon visit Medieval villages; wine and olive oil tasting.

Day 7. At Abano Terme: morning golf; afternoon cookery lesson in medieval castle.

Day 8. At Abano Terme; morning golf; afternoon drive to Venice; prize-giving and Farewell Dinner.

Day 9. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN ITALY: 8 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels; 6 rounds of golf; driving vintage cars on two days; boat cruise on Lake Garda; three wine-tasting sessions; one olive oil tasting session; tour to medieval villages; cookery lesson; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in Italy.

Vintage cars available: 1959 MG Roadster; 1962 Noleggio Alfa Romeo Guilietta Spider; 1966 rare Triumph Spitfire Mark 2; 1969 Alfa Romeo Duetto ‘Osso Di Sppia’; 1970 VW Beetle; 1971 Fiat 500L; 1976 Noleggo Duetto Aerodinamica, Noleggio Alfa Romea Duetto Coda TRona, Morgan 4/4; 1978 Spitfire 1500. Fuller details of these cars are available if required.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Venice/Venice.

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 8 breakfasts; 2 Dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, motor boat, vintage cars, boat.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boatmen.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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CHINA

Golf, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors and much more.

TOUR SUMMARY A golf tour with a difference, this 10 day tour offers a journey across China. We start our journey in Beijing with our first round of golf and a look at the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and, after another round, the Great Wall.

We fly then to Xi’an for more golf and a visit to the worldfamous Terracotta Warriors. Continuing with golf in Guilin we then finish our journey in Shanghai where we play our final round. For those who wish there is the option of extending our stay for a further week to sail the Yangtse Gorges and visit the Panda research centre at Chengdu.

Day 8. In Guilin; morning play golf; afternoon fly to Shanghai; Evening cruise on HuangPu River.

Day 9. In Shanghai; morning play golf; afternoon city tour.

Day 10. Tour ends.

16 day tour Days 1 to 9 as above.

Day 10. Fly to Yichiang; board cruise vessel.

Day 11-13. Cruise through the 3 Gorges on the Yangtse River.

Day 14. Disembark at Chongquing; train to Chengdu.

Day 15. In Chengdu: visit Panda Breeding Centre.

Day 16. Tour ends.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Six rounds of golf during the 10 day tour.

• Guided tour of the Forbidden City in Beijing.

• Guided visit to the Great Wall outside Beijing.

• Guided tour of the Summer Palace in Beijing.

• Guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors at Xi’an.

• Guilin: boat cruise on Li River to Yangshuo.

• Guided city tour of Shanghai.

• Evening cruise on the HuangPu River at Shanghai.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN CHINA: 9 or 15 nights accommodation in 4 or 5 star hotels; 6 rounds of golf; sightseeing tours in Beijing, X’ian, Guilin and Shanghai; river cruise at Guilin; River cruise on Yangtse (15 day itinerary only); visit to Panda Research Centre (16 Day itinerary only); transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in China.

TOUR DURATION – 0 days Beijing to Shanghai or 16 days Beijing to Chengdu.

Outline itinerary 10 day tour Day 1. Arrive Beijing; visit Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City.

Day 2. In Beijing: morning round of golf; afternoon visit to the Temple of Heaven.

Day 3. In Beijing: morning round of golf then drive to the Great Wall; visit to the Beijing Summer Palace.

Day 4. Morning flight to Xi’an; afternoon play golf.

Day 5. In Xi’an: morning visit to terracotta Warriors; afternoon visit to Xi’an City Walls; evening visit to Tang Dynasty Show.

Day 6. Fly to Guilin; afternoon play golf.

Day 7. In Guilin; cruise on Li River; visit to Yangshuo.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Beijing/Shanghai (10 days) or Beijing/Chengdu (16 days).

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 9 or 15 breakfasts; 2 or 6 dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, internal flights, boat.

GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boat crew.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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SCOTLAND & N.IRELAND

Golf, Whiskey across the North Sea. TOUR SUMMARY This tour offers a long weekend with a difference. We start with a round of golf on the Mull of Kintyre followed by a Scotch whisky tasting afternoon; then the next day we take a fast RIB across the Irish Sea to play a course at Portrush followed by an Irish whiskey tasting. And then we return to Scotland on the RIB. A chance not only to compare two golf courses but also to compare the delights of two distilleries.

This is not a tour for golf fanatics looking only for world class courses, but it offers a chance for the average golfer to play a few rounds as a part of the experience of visiting Scotland and Ireland. Since there are several interesting ways to pass the day away from the golf courses this tour is ideal for nonplaying partners who can sample other delights of the area, such as the Spa at Machrihanish Dunes, and then join their partner for our adventures after the golf is over each day.

Please note the sequence of golf rounds and sightseeing may on occasion vary from that described below, in order to fit in with our tee-off times.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR • Two rounds of golf; one in Scotland and one in Ireland.

• Guided tour of the Springbank distillery in Campbeltown • Guided tour of the Bushmills distillery in Portrush.

• Return crossing of the Irish Sea by RIB. TOUR DURATION – 4 days.

Outline itinerary Day 1. Arrive Campbeltown. Optional round of golf (must be pre-booked) if arriving on early flight. Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. At Campbeltown: Morning round of golf at Machrihanish Golf Club; afternoon visit to the Springbank Distillery.

Day 3. Early morning departure by RIB to Portrush; round of golf; visit to the Bushmills Distillery; return on RIB to Campbeltown. Prize-giving and Dinner.

Day 4. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY: 3 nights accommodation in a 4 star hotel; 2 rounds of golf; tours and tasting at Springbank and Bushmills Distilleries; transport as detailed below.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Campbeltown.

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available subject to space.

INCLUDED MEALS – 3 breakfasts; 2 dinners.

TRANSPORT – Car or coach, RIB boat GROUP SIZE – approximately 16.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – local guides on distillery tours, drivers and boat crew.

ACCOMMODATION STANDARD – The hotel used for this tour is 4 star standard, with bar and restaurant facilities.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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PERU AND BOLIVIA

Golf & more in the Andes.

TOUR SUMMARY Our 9 day Peru and Bolivia tour offers a mixture of the fairways of Peru and Bolivia, the stunning scenery of the Andes and Lake Titicaca and the fascinating culture of the Quechua and Aymara people, as we journey from Lima on the Peruvian coast to La Paz high on the Bolivian Altiplano in the heart of the Andes, stopping along the way to play the best of the local golf courses.

For those who wish there is the option of extending our stay for a further six days to visit Cuzco and the incomparable Machu Picchu before enjoying an additional round of golf in Lima.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Four rounds of golf during the 9 day tour; five rounds during the 14 day tour.

• Tour of Lima.

• Visit to the Lurin valley and Paso Horses.

• Guided visit to Larco Herrera Museum • Guided tour of Arequipa and Santa Catalina Monastery.

• Excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit Uros Indians.

• Visit to Tiahuanaco site.

• Guided tour of La Paz. • Visit to Chacaltaya.

• Guided tours of Cuzco, Machu Picchu and the Urubamba Valley (14 day itinerary only).

• Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout the tour.

TOUR DURATION – 9 days Lima to La Paz or 14 days Lima to Lima.

Outline itinerary 9 day tour Day 1. Arrive Lima; Welcome Dinner.

Day 2. In Lima: morning city tour; afternoon visit to Lurin Horses.

Day 3. In Lima; morning play golf; afternoon visit to Larco Herrera Museum.

Day 4. In Lima: morning play golf; afternoon fly to Arequipa.

Day 5. In Arequipa: morning city tour; afternoon play golf.

Day 6. Fly to Juliaca; drive to Puno; afternoon excursion by boat on Lake Titicaca.

Day 7. Drive from Puno, via Tiahuanaco, to La Paz;

afternoon La Paz city tour.

Day 8. In La Paz: morning play golf; afternoon visit to Chacaltaya; evening Farewell dinner Day 9. Tour ends.

14 day tour Days 1 to 8 as above.

Day 9. Fly from La Paz to Cuzco Day 10. In Cuzco; city tour; visit Sacsayhuaman.

Day 11. Full day visit to the Urubamba Valley.

Day 12. Full day visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 13. Fly from Cuzco to Lima; afternoon play golf.

Day 14. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY IN PERU AND BOLIVIA: 8 or 13 nights’ accommodation in 5 or 4 star hotels; 4 (9 day itinerary) or 5 (14 day itinerary) rounds of golf; guided tours of Lima, Arequipa and La Paz; visits to Lurin valley and Paso Horses, Larco Herrera Museum, Tiahuanaco and Chacaltaya; boat excursion on Lake Titicaca; transport as detailed below; visits to Cuzco, Urubamba valley and Machu Picchu (14 day itinerary only); services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager throughout your journey in Peru and Bolivia.

START/END OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS – Lima/La Paz (9 days) or Lima/Lima (14 days).

SINGLE ROOM OPTION – available at all night-stops.

INCLUDED MEALS – 8 or 13 breakfasts; 2 Dinners.

TRANSPORT – Coach, flights, boat; and train on 14 day itinerary only.

TOUR LEADER/STAFF – Local Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager; local guides on sightseeing tours, drivers and boatmen For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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Upcoming

Great Golf Adventures Golf & Adventures in the Atlas Mountains - Morocco Golf & Horse Racing - Ireland Golf & Fishing – Lake & River Fishing in Ireland, Deep sea fishing in Scandinavia Golf & Chocolate Making - France THE GREAT GOLF WEEKEND CLUB. We are introducing a series of short weekend trips that give you the opportunity to leave work on a Friday, spend 2 days at a fantstic location with a focus on golf and something more, and still be back home by Sunday night. No need for any time off work.

Our first two Weekend Club trips will be Lisbon and Barcelona, both with a mixture of Golf Wine tasting and the possibility to drive on a Grand Prix Circuit.

GOLF, WINE & CITY – LISBON: • FRIDAY: Evening arrival in Lisbon. Welcome Dinner.

• SATURDAY: Morning golf; afternoon wine-tasting.

• SUNDAY: Morning golf; afternoon optional activates including driving performance cars at Estoril grand Prix circuit; • Evening flight home.

GOLF & F1 RACING – BARCELONA: • Friday: Evening arrival in Barcelona. Welcome Dinner.

• SATURDAY: Morning golf; afternoon wine-tasting.

• SUNDAY: morning golf; afternoon optional activities including driving a Ferrari at Circuit De Catalunya Grand Prix circuit.

• Evening flight home.

Watch the Great Golf Magazine website for full details, dates and prices.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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GREAT GOLF WEEKEND CLUB

Lisbon Long Weekend

TOUR SUMMARY This tour offers a long weekend with a difference. We include four rounds of golf, one each day, but between the rounds there’s time for some wine-tasting, and a rather different tour of Lisbon by motor-bike and sidecar. There will be a competition covering the four included rounds on the tour, for those who want to take part, with a trophy presentation at our last meal together.

This is not a tour for golf fanatics looking only for world class courses, but it offers a chance for the average golfer to play a few rounds as a part of the experience of visiting Lisbon for the weekend.

Tour Duration – 4 days.

Outline itinerary • Day 1 Morning arrival in Lisbon. Afternoon round of golf. Welcome Dinner.

• Day 2 Morning tour of Lisbon by motor-bike and sidecar; afternoon round of golf.

• Day 3 Morning round of golf; afternoon wine-tasting.

• Day 4 Morning round of golf; prize-giving and Farewell Lunch. Tour ends.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN TOUR ITINERARY: Long weekend: 3 nights’ accommodation in a 4 star boutique hotel; 4 rounds of golf with use of buggy; vineyard tour and wine-tasting; tour of Lisbon by motorbike and sidecar; Welcome Dinner and Farewell Lunch; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager.

Short weekend: 2 nights’ accommodation in a 4 star boutique hotel; 2 rounds of golf with use of buggy; vineyard tour and wine-tasting; tour of Lisbon by motor-bike and sidecar; transport as detailed below; services of a Great Golf Adventures Tour Manager.

For more information and reservations, call Great Golf Adventures on +44 (0)1992 579 697, email us at info@greatgolfadventures.com or go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk/golfing-holidays and fill in the online enquiry form.

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Scotland

DUNDONALD LINKS he West coast of Scotland is famous for its

T

amateur tournaments, including pre-qualifying for the European

stunning championship links and Dundonald sits

Tour for four consecutive years and the Senior British Open

right up there alongside the very best of them.

Championship. The course is located at the very heart of Ayrshire’s

Owned by Loch Lomond Golf Club and opened

golf coast, just 10 minutes from Prestwick Airport, 30 mins from

in 2003, this modern day classic links was inspired

Glasgow, and 90 mins from Edinburgh Airport, A wide selection of

by the timeless architecture of the great Ayrshire links courses of

accommodation to suit all budgets can be recommended within easy

Royal Troon, Prestwick and Western Gailes, all connected by the

reach, including the 4 star Gailes Hotel on its doorstep.

historic rail line. Acclaimed architect, Kyle Phillips, also known for

Players can benefit from good accessibility to weekend tee-times

Kingsbarns and Yas Links, intimated from the outset that it was his

and an online booking system ensures you can book in advance and

intention “to create a championship Ayrshire links that felt and

guarantee the best rates and availability.

played as though it was an old, rediscovered course.” The course is featured in the Top 100 in UK and Ireland.

Dundonald Links is now recognized as one of Europe’s “must play” links having played host to a number of professional and

A team of PGA Professionals will co-ordinate group golf days to suit your individual requirements whether it’s to impress clients or simply for pleasure. The course is renowned for its exceptional standards of service and a warm welcome awaits.

CONTACT

DUNDONALD LINKS, Ayrshire, Scotland T: +44 (0)1294 314000 E: reservations@dundonaldlinks.com • www.dundonaldlinks.com The course has recently been awarded the prestigious title of UK Environmental Golf Course of the Year and GEO Certification, in recognition of its sustainable practices.

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Spain - Cadiz

SHERRY GOLF JEREZ esigned by Stirling & Martin from Global Golf Company, Sherry Golf appears like an accessible course for amateurs and challenging for professionals. Proof of this are the many important tournaments we have had the honour to host, like the Spanish Open Amateur Championship, two years in a row, and the Seniors International Championship. We are also the official venue of the 2nd Stage of the PGA Qualifying School.

The layout is characterized as being one of the most pleasant walkthroughs in Spain: - 18 holes Championship course: 6572 meters, Par 72 - Pitch & Putt course: 911 meters, Par 3 Sherry Golf is within the new concepts of American golf course design: fun but safe in the game with undulations and well placed hazards, without making it too hilly, in order to ensure a pleasant

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walkthrough. Wide fairways and ample greens, puts Sherry Golf into the category of a luxury course.

The Clubhouse counts more than 2,800 sq metres designed under the Sherry flair, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere just like the city of Jerez. Its facilities caters to every single aspect of the sport as well as tournaments, including pro-shop, club storage room, locker rooms, restaurant, terrace grill, cafeteria, spike bar, lounges, golf academy, and much more.

The exceptional geographic location of Jerez and its surroundings make this area the perfect destination for the visitor.

3,200 hours of sun light per year, gives this area of the coast its name, Costa de la Luz (Coast of light).

Sherry Golf is located only 5 minutes from the international airport of Jerez, 50 minutes from Seville airport and 1 hour from Malaga International, thanks to the new motorway from Jerez to Los Barrios.

CONTACT

SHERRY GOLF JERE Z, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz Telephone +34 956 088 330. Fax +34 956 088 331 Email info@sherrygolf.com • www.sherrygolf.com

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