Great Golf Magazine Issue 3 by Great Golf Media

No.1. 2012 Great Golf Magazine

Great Golf

No.1. 2012

Magazine

Dubai

The sky´s the limit... Deep in the heart of Texas • Turnberry - A legend by the sea Magical Morocco • Bahamas - The Abaco Club • Spain - The road to La Manga Donnafugata - The Sicillian job • Property - Luxury living desert style Fashion - Designer Tony Q´aja.

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G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

Great Golf

No.1. 2012

Magazine

Great Golf

Dubai

The sky s the limit... Deep in the heart of Texas • Turnberry - A legend by the sea Magical Morocco • Bahamas - The Abaco Club • Spain - The road to La Manga Donnafugata - The Sicillian job • Property - Luxury living desert style Fashion - Designer Tony Q aja.

Magazine Cover: Emirates Golf Club Photo: Dubai Golf

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Contents Dubai - The Sky’s the limit

24 Fashion - Let the game begin 34 USA - Deep in the heart of Texas

Scotland, Turnberry - A legend by the sea

Scotland, South Ayrshire - The Scottish Golf Coast Spain - The road to La Manga Magical Morocco

68 Great watches - Admiring the passage of time 76 Italy, Donnafugata - The Sicilian job 80 Greece, Costa Navarino - In the Lap of the Gods 88 Spain, Gran Canaria - A Continent of its own 96 Great Food - Auberge du Lac 104 Nailcote Hall - The Long and short of it 114 Great Wine - Sicilian nectar 120 Great Property - Luxury living desert style 126 Golf guide 140 Bahamas, The Abaco Club - A little piece of Heaven

Great Golf

Magazine

The Club Guide

Bovey Castle 155

Turnberry Resort 141

The Manor House Golf Club 156

Kingsbarns Golf Links 142 The Duke’s St Andrews 143 The Gleneagles Hotel 144 Dundonalds Links 145 Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses 146 Trevose Golf & Country Club 147

Cote d’Opale 157

PORTUGAL Quinta do Peru 152

Saunton Golf Club 148

SPAIN

Royal North Devon Golf Club 149

Club de Golf Alcanada 159

Burnham & Berrow Golf Club 150

Sherry Golf Jerez 161

Prince’s Golf Club 151 St Enodoc Golf Club 152 Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club 153 East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa 154 8

FRANCE

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

Morocco Golf Festival

“Third Edition”

Sunday 7th to Sunday 14th October 2012 – MARRAKECH £885 per GOLFER / £765 per NON-GOLFER £120: Single room Supplement (for 7 nights) £85: HALF BOARD Supplement for 7 Nights (Dinners + DRINKS ½ Wine + Mineral Water + Tea or Coffee)

Prices include: • Return Flight from London Heathrow to Marrakech (Operated by BMI) inclusive of taxes + “LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE: up to 10 Kg for Hand Luggage + 30Kg for Luggage in the hold & Golf Clubs) • Seven Nights’ Accommodation in the five star KENZI FARAH HOTEL in central Marrakech • Daily Buffet Breakfast • Five Rounds of competitive golf at the SAMANAH, AMELKIS, PALMERAIE, AL MAADEN and ROYAL • Two Cocktail Parties (Monday 08 Oct and Friday 12 Oct) • Prizes Presentation Ceremony on Saturday 13 Oct • Gala Dinner with entertainment & Drinks on Saturday 13 Oct • Half Day guided tour of Marrakech on Thursday 11 Oct. or a round of golf at the ATLAS GOLF MARRAKECH (9 Holes) • Excursion (for Non-Golfers / Accompanying persons) to the OURIKA VALLEY at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountain & Visit of Berber villages • Transfers: Marrakech Airport – Hotel – Marrakech Airport • Daily transfers: Hotel – Golf – Hotel • Our Permanent assistance in Marrakech For bookings & Further details please contact: MENARA TRAVEL LTD Tel: 0207 371 2030 Email: info@morocco4golf.com

www.moroccogolffestival.com

GOLF TRAVEL YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE... WELCOME to another issue of Great Golf Magazine, your Golf Travel & Lifestyle Publication. We continue on our journey to exciting locations around the world, both near and far. With each issue, you have at your fingertips, a unique and detailed source of information and inspiration when planning your travels. We have several new subjects and sections in this issue. Firstly we visit ‘The Marrakesh Golf Club Assoufid’ to view the clubs luxury Villas. This is followed by ‘Golf Property’, where you will find golf villas and apartments from around the world, both for holiday rent and for sale. Fashion is covered in an interview with Tony Q’aja, regarded as being instrumental in changing the landscape of golf clothing. In our new ‘Prestige’ feature, we will introduce you to Breguet, the most illustrious name in Haute horology. Our journalists have yet again travelled far and wide. Dubai is our main feature, a true Mecca for any golfer. Texas, Sicily, The Bahamas and The Canary Isles are just a few of the locations covered, bringing you in depth and informative articles. Back in the UK, we visit the legendery Turnberry, taste the culinary delights of Michelin Star restaurant Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall, and test our mettle on the Championship Par 3 course at Nailcote. We would like to thank all the people and organisations who have helped us to bring you this latest issue, our constantly travelling journalists, tourist boards, golf courses, and not forgetting our wonderful proof reader and technical expert Martyn Watkins. A big thank you also goes to Angus Davies from Escapement for his article on Breguet. We hope that you will enjoy this latest edition of Great Golf. If you would like make sure that you never miss an issue, please visit our website and subscribe. What could be better than receiving your copy directly to your door. Happy Golfing wherever you go. The Team 10

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

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

Nils Bjornes nils@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EXCECUTIVE EDITOR

Camilla Kaas-Stock camilla@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Linda Jackson linda@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ART DIRECTOR

Ketil Plassgaard ketil@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANT

Martyn Watkins MARKETING MANAGER

Mike Stock mike@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

Tony Smart Linda Jackson Angus Davies Irene Mathews Published by IPB Publishing Ltd 30 Eridge Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HR, UK Company No 6484115 Printed by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.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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No.2. 2011/12

Spring/Summer 2011

Scottsdale/Arizona

Desert dreams... Aphrodite Hills - Fit for a Goddess • St Andrews - Golf on hallowed ground

Bovey Castle - Where eagles fly • Czech Republic - Bohemian Rapsody Cote d’Opale - The French connection • Malaysia - It s a Jungle out there

Great Golf

No.1. 2012

Magazine

Dubai

Dominican Republic

Island in the sun...

The Seychelles - A fairway to heaven • Singapore - Golf in the Lion City • Good Morning Vietnam! • South Africa - Where oceans meet • Amazing Venice • Norway - Golf in the Midnight Sun

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DUBAI

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

THE SK IS THE LIMIT They have the tallest building on the planet and a skyline that dwarfs most other metropolises. There are shopping centres complete with indoor ski-slopes and giant shark filled aquariums. Here it seems that bigger is definitely better. It shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come as much of a surprise then, that their golf courses are pretty spectacular too. By Mike Kaas-Stock, photo Dubai Golf and The Address Hotels + Resorts

DUBAI

n informing a very good friend of mine, who happens to live in Dubai, that I was coming out to write a feature, he replied “Great, just make sure it’s not in August, unless you like the feeling of being steamed alive”. Well, I don’t scare easily but I took my friend’s advice and scheduled my trip for October. It’s a 6 hours and 50 minutes flight from London to Dubai. Long enough to have the potential to be either relatively pleasant or complete torture, depending on who you fly with. I had the good fortune to fly Emirates which I have to say is a complete joy. Being in the cheap seats as usual, I expected the journey to be somewhat arduous and most definitely a bore. It was none of these. There was ample leg space, my seat came with its very own entertainment system, complete with movies, TV series and a vast selection of music, and the cabin crew were attentive and friendly. I arrive at Dubai International Airport at 8pm local time, a vast and cavernous terminal that seemed very quiet (I later found out that most flights arrive late at night to avoid the heat). My friend, Greg, meets me at the gate and we head for his car. Now, I have lived in many countries over the years, but I have to say, the Middle East has not been among them. Naturally I was prepared for heat, but the humidity came as a complete surprise. And yes, I am glad that I didn’t come in August.

The Park Hyatt After an uncomfortable night on my friends couch, I head off for my first port of call, the truly wonderful Park Hyatt Hotel which is situated next to the Dubai Creek Yacht Club & Golf Course. I arrive at the main entrance and am welcomed by members of staff dressed in traditional Arab clothing. My bags are taken care of and I’m soon relaxing in my very comfortable room overlooking the yacht club. The first thing to do is take a tour around the hotel grounds. I wander down to the pool area, a truly wonderful place to relax and work on that tan, not to mention the fact that the Spa is close by if you fancy some pampering. The hotel is modern, opulent and of course being in Dubai, it has plenty of wow-factor. I have a table booked at Le Traiteur, one of several restaurants in the hotel and early in the evening I make my way there. At the restaurant, which serves classic and contemporary French cuisine, I am met by the restaurant manager who instantly makes me feel welcome. For starters I choose the Soupe á l’oignon gratinée au Compté (baked onion soup), which is quite delicious and always one of my favourites. I have been given a bottle of a very nice French red wine but no chance of finishing it all by myself unless I want to start my round of golf tomorrow with a hangover. For main course I choose the Filet de bœuf Rossini (Chateaubriand Rossini style with a truffle sauce), simply perfect. I finish the meat with a heavenly Crème brûlée.

Little bit of History After my meal, I go for a walk in the grounds. It’s a beautiful evening, and I head for a hotel bar for a glass of something cold. Sitting looking out over the marina, I can understand why so many of us Brits have come here to work. The pay for Westerners is exceptionally good and the lifestyle really is something else. But why is Dubai such a metropolis? This is a question that has been going around in my head for quite some time. What is it that Dubai has? As dear Kirsty from that well known TV show always says, Location, location, location! It’s not so much a case of what is or was here, but really where this particular place is! Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates and is located on the Arabian Peninsula. In 1892 Dubai came under the protection of the United Kingdom in an 16

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effort to keep the Ottoman Turks out, but also to protect British interests in this very strategic location. Its position on the route to India and further made it an important point of trade between East and West. This is still the case today. Fly to India, China or a myriad of other places, and the chances are that you will pass through Dubai.

Dubai Creek Golf Course The next morning I head for the golf course; it’s hot, but not too hot. This Par 71 course was opened in 1993 and has hosted many tournaments including the Dubai Desert Classic on two occasions.

DUBAI The first hole is a nice par-4 which doglegs left. As long as you clear the water hazard in front of the tee and avoid the bunkers on the right, all will be well. The creek to my right is glimmering in the sun and birdsong fills the air. The 6th hole comes as quite a surprise. Teeing off from a floating island in the creek is always going to be an adventure for me with my talent for losing golf balls to water. Add to this the fact that you also have to watch out for a large water hazard down the left side of the fairway and all my nightmares have come true. To my amazement and utter joy, I land squarely on the fairway.

A sail in the desert Dubai is obviously a desert city, but there seems to be an awful amount of water here, most of it in my way, I hasten to add. I resign myself to the fact that I am sure to lose a few balls at some point in the proceedings, but the course is wonderful and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m getting a tan that will be the envy of all my pasty friends back in the UK. As you would expect in such a location, the courses are immaculately kept, and here at Dubai Creek you have that wonderful club house in view from many holes. Designed to look like the sails of a traditional Arab Dhow, it really is an impressive feature. Whether by sheer luck, or down to my exceptional ability (the former is the most likely), itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not until the final hole that I lose a ball to the dreaded H2O. With water right and left of the fairway, and guarding the green one has to bow to the inevitable. A superb course next to one of the top Dubai Hotels, I could stop here and feel content. But no, on to my next destination.

The Address Montgomerie Links That afternoon I bid a fond farewell to the Park Hyatt and take a taxi to The Address Montgomerie. The journey is along a single highway that seems to run from one side of the city to the other and passing close by many of the iconic buildings that have made Dubai so famous. I notice that the metro system seems to also follow this highway and I make a mental note to do some exploring tomorrow.

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

DUBAI Dubai Mall Now, I go to the Mall with the wife and kids on a regular basis. I can usually be found hiding in a cafe with a nice Latte and chocolate muffin. However in Dubai, going to the mall is a whole new experience. I don’t think they have the facilities for feeding sharks and manta rays at my regular place of consumerism. You can just imagine the planning meeting for Dubai Mall. Somebody suddenly puts their hand up and says “I know, let’s have a huge aquarium complete with manta rays and sharks”. ”Brilliant!” they all shout. “That will be one in the eye for those cocky so and sos over at the Mall of the Emirates with their fancy indoor ski slope. All those in favour say “aye”.

Gigantic mall This place will fill all red-blooded men with utter dread, there are 1,200 shops here. Can you even begin to imagine how long it would take for your wife or partner to go to each and every one? I personally think there must be an area that’s full of old men with long beards whose women just went off for a spot of shopping and have yet to return. When you finally escape from the clutches of consumerism, almost next door, as if competing for the wow factor, you will find the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world at 829 metres. I get dizzy just looking up at it. Opened in 2010, this colossus amongst high rises dwarfs everything around it.

No crime

The Address Montgomerie is located not far from the Dubai Marina and is also conveniently close to the Emirates Golf Course, making a trip to both Montgomerie Links and The Emirates easy. Ah, another luxury hotel, the life of the travelling journalist is a hard one. I have the feeling that my return home will involve a severe wakeup call! I check into my room and then head out to survey the course. This 18-hole Championship golf course is managed by Troon Golf and was designed by eight-time European Order of Merit winner and Ryder Cup star Colin Montgomerie, who incidentally is staying in the room next to mine! Should I ask him if he fancies a round? Best not I think.

Not for walking That evening I have an excellent meal at Bunkers, the clubhouse restaurant, and I retire early in preparation for a busy day of sightseeing. The next day I decide to walk down to the metro by the Marina. As I can see the towers down there, how far could it possibly be? A nice walk in the sunshine will do me good. About an hour later, after negotiating some major road works that have sent me off in completely the wrong direction, I am standing on an overpass, hot, tired, fed up and in fear of being arrested for jaywalking. Why didn’t I just take a taxi? I can see the marina and metro just a few hundred metres away, it’s just that there seems to be no way to get there without being horribly mutilated by a passing 4x4. I’m also in danger of overheating if I don’t find a way over soon. Luckily for me I do and my first port of call is a kiosk to buy some water before I pass out. I board the metro and head for my first stop.

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

That evening I meet up with Greg and we head for an expat bar in the Marina. Much of the population here are expats from western countries, but many more are from the Philippines and India. In fact locals make up for less than 15%. I have to say that not once have I felt threatened or even in the slightest danger (apart from my adventure on the freeway) here in Dubai. Greg tells me that there is hardly any crime. Anyone found to have flouted the law is arrested and treated to a night in a cell with some rather clumsy police. They are then deported. Rather severe, but you have to recognise the positive results for everyone else who keeps to the straight and narrow.

Montgomerie Links Early next morning, I am on the first tee and ready to go. It’s a beautiful day and I really am looking forward to playing this course. The first hole is a straight forward Par-4 with an undulating fairway. The only object to complicate matters is a well placed tree in the middle of my line of shot. I resort to my best tactic and aim straight at it. As to be expected, I miss the tree and end up well placed on the fairway. I reach the 4th which is a Par-4 and known as “The Snake Hole” due to the bunkering behind the green and the ridge separating the two fairways in play. I happily wile away a bit of time in those bunkers, but nothing can spoil the feel good factor that I am getting from this course. It was with good humour then, that I reach the sixth hole, which is just as well, as there was not much hope of me landing on the green safely here. This par-3 is one of the most daunting holes that I have come across. There are water hazards running short, long and right of this very narrow green. Naturally I took a risky shot and was rewarded with my ball becoming an underwater feature. Needless to say, this course is absolutely wonderful, and the only way to experience it is to play it. I have to mention the eighteenth, what a way to end a round. Water, water everywhere, and no chance of stopping my ball ending up in it. Ah well, I am very pleased to have played this course, and feel that I have not done too bad considering. Yet another stunning course, one more to go.

DUBAI

Nineteen That night I dine at Nineteen, an International restaurant overlooking the 18th green, where I’m treated to the culinary delights of David Attwater, the Chef de Cuisine. I will need my strength for my round at the Emirates tomorrow. So after an enjoyable meal, I head back to my room for an early night. I arrive in the afternoon after having a relaxing morning by the pool. The reputation of both courses here at the Emirates precedes them, and what a view! It really is quite extraordinary to play a round of golf with the Dubai skyline as a backdrop. And of course you have the famous Emirates clubhouse designed to resemble traditional Bedouin tents. It was here that the first grass championship course in the Middle East was opened in 1988. There are two courses to choose from, the Majlis and the Faldo Course.

The Faldo Course It was a busy day on both courses as there were competitions taking place, so I had to tee off where I could. In the end, I teed off from the sixth hole on the Faldo Course. Remy Milana, the Assistant Golf Course Manager who has brought me out advises me to aim for the lone tree on the fairway. There is a large water hazard to my right which makes me decidedly nervous. Oh great gods of golf, grant me a good shot in front of Mr. Milana. To my utter joy, my ball heads straight for the tree and lands, although awkwardly placed, underneath it, never the less exactly where I had aimed. Mr. Milana congratulates me and to my relief, leaves me to fend for myself. The remainder of the hole, a Par-4 with a stroke index of 6, goes well and I settle down. The 8th, a dogleg right, turns out to be interesting with water to the right the whole way. I play safe and am rewarded with a decent result.

Not intimidating I reach the 12th which is a nice Par-3. A sneaky little number as my choices are to play over water on this dogleg left, or risk ending up in one of the bunkers to the left and right of the green. Well, it’s good to put that sand wedge to use. As with all the courses that I have played here in Dubai, you can appreciate their complexity without feeling intimidated. It’s an enjoyable and fulfilling round whether you are a hacker or professional. The courses are very well maintained and the contrast between Dubai Skyline and nature is really something else. By the time I arrive at the 18th, the sun is going down, which just seems to add to the enchantment. It would have been great

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

to have played both courses, but I cannot complain with my lot. The next day I am on my Emirates flight back to London. Sure, Dubai is a great place to shop and see the sights, but my lasting impression will be the fantastic golf courses and truly luxurious hotels. Could I pick a favourite? Probably not. And as I relax in my comfortable seat with my personal entertainment system and a glass of wine, I have one piece of advice for the red blooded golfer, by all means bring your partner here to shop, just make sure it’s on a day when you are on the golf course!

GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE Emirates fly UK to Dubai from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow. For flight details visit www.emirates.com or call 0844 800 2777 GETTING AROUND Taxis are cheap and there are plenty of them. A trip from the airport to central Dubai costs roughly 60 Dirham’s (£10). Dubai has a metro system that will get you to most tourist locations at a very affordable price. A one day all zones adult ticket is less than £2.50. Information can be found at http://dubaimetro.eu CURRENCY Dubai uses the United Arab Emirates Dirham. The exchange rate is 5.78 AED to the Pound. WHEN TO GO It’s probably best to avoid July and August as heat and humidity can be intense. The high season is between November and April but Spring and Autumn are also ok. CONTACT www.dubaigolf.com Dubai Golf Central Reservations Tel: +971 (0)4 3801234 Call Toll Free: 800 TEETIME (800 8338463) Email: golfbooking@dubaigolf.com Pa rk Hyatt Duba i Tel: +971 4 602 1234 Fax: +971 4 602 1235 Email: dubai.park@hyatt.com Website: http://dubai.park.hyatt.com The Address Montgomerie Duba i Tel +971 4 390 5600 Fax: +971 4 360 8981 Email: montgomerie@theaddress.com Website: http://www.theaddress.com

TEXAS - USA

Falconhead 17th hole

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

Deep

in the Heart of Texas

It’s cowboys in big hats, it’s “Dallas” and J.R, it’s cattle and oil, politics andpresidents. We’re of course talking about the Lone Star State. By Nils Bjornes. Photos also by Texas Tourism, Lakeway Resort and Hyatt Hill Country Resort

TEXAS - USA

ould you believe that Texas is larger than France and twice as big as Germany? I certainly do after my recent road trip that took me some 430 miles from Austin to San Antonio, and from Corpus Christi to Houston. And I still only covered a fraction of this vast state. But hey, I got to visit some wonderful golf courses and resorts along the way – it’s all in a week’s work. But every road trip needs to start with the beginning. I flew from London to Austin by way of Newark, New Jersey. And, might I suggest that if you’re traveling to any part of the US other than the New York area, then you try to avoid a transfer at Newark airport, it’s not a pleasant experience. Going through customs with hundreds upon hundreds of people in line, it takes forever. In this case it made me think that this must have been how our European ancestors felt like when they arrived in the New World at Ellis Island outside New York. Add to this that Newark constantly seems to have long delays and you have many reasons to find alternative routes.

Caught in the rain I arrived in Austin around midnight and had just got into the rental car and started out from the airport when “the heavens opened” and I found myself caught in what was described the next day as one of the worst thunderstorms in the area for years. As the roads became increasingly flooded and visibility was reduced to practically zero, I was forced to stop under an overpass and it wasn’t until 3 o’clock in the morning that I finally arrived at the hotel.

Lakeway Resort Lakeway Resort and Spa is located on the shores of Lake Travis, a man-made lake on the Colorado River some thirty miles northwest of Austin. Being sixty miles long and four and a half miles wide at the widest point, Lake Travis is a popular place for all kinds of boating, water sports and fishing. The rain had stopped when I got up the next morning, but the view over the lake from my balcony was rather disappointing as the heavy rainstorm over night had done very little to remedy the months of drought which had resulted in extremely low water levels.

The Hills

Hills 9th hole

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

After breakfast at Travis Restaurant I meet up with Jack Bickart, director of sales and marketing and Aaron Chilek, director of golf to take a tour of the golf courses. There are a great number of golf clubs in Austin and Lakeway Resort offers guests access to some of the most exclusive private clubs. The Hills of Lakeway is home to two 18-hole championship courses; The Hills and Flintrock Falls. The 7,035 yards par 72 Hills signature course was the first golf course in Austin designed exclusively by Jack Nicklaus and has hosted the Champions’ Tour a number of times. In spite of the rainstorm the course looks in remarkably good condition, except that quite a few of the 45 bunkers now have turned into water hazards and the grounds crew are still working to clear fallen branches from the paths and around the fairways. The greens are undulated and sometimes ridged or tiered. It’s a course that provides an excellent challenge for all levels of players. The 7th hole - a 184 yard par-3, is simply breathtaking. A wide cascading waterfall fronts the raised green - creating a memorable scene - and a daunting tee shot. As the newer of the two, Flintrock Falls, designed by Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II which opened in 2002, is noted as

TEXAS - USA

The Oasis at sunset

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Photo by Drew Kolb

having two of the most picturesque holes in the country, the spectacular par-3 and the par-5 fifth which has landscaped, cascading waterfalls. The course is well designed, with some 78 sand bunkers and eleven holes which have water in play in some shape or form.

Falconhead Falconhead Golf Club was opened in 2003 and the course fifth laid out by the PGA Tour Design architects to meet the standards of the PGA Tour. At 7,302 yards from the back tees, this is a course that is fun and fair but challenging for all level of players where the sixth, ninth, eleventh and seventeenth holes might be the ones you’ll find most impressive. Particularly the the 17th, a 184 yard par-3, where the green is built out on a ledge over a flowing stream - pretty daunting. Falcon Head is a course you will remember both for the scenery and for the fact that it throws a bit of everything at you; the blind shots, the trees in the middle of the fairway, the dog legs, the wind and the water and the huge bunkers.

The Oasis I had dinner that evening at a place called Oasis with representatives from the Austin CVB (Convention and Visitors Bureau) and Texas Tourism, and what a place! Called the Sunset Capital of Texas, Oasis is a large shopping center built on a clifftop overlooking Lake Travis with bars and restaurants on several levels where you can sit outdoors on huge terraces and balconies overhanging the cliff. The views are breathtaking. We were seated at a window table in Soleil Bar & Grill where Chef David Burton Sanchez serves up a blend of many cuisines which signify some of the world’s greatest foods. Among a selection of starters for us to share was sauted local goat cheese and shrimp sliders - grilled shrimp patties with coriander horseradish slaw and pickles. For my entrée I chose Mojo Chicken, flat grilled served with seasoned black beans and avocado pico and accompanied by a surprisingly good local red wine from McPherson cellars. An excellent meal with good wine in pleasant company, the perfect way to end a long day.

Going south Early next morning I’m heading south to San Antonio and the Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa. This 500 room luxurious “ranch style” resort set on 300 wooded acres is home to three nine hole golf courses, each with a different layout and character that can be played in the combination of your choice. The courses have a wide-ranging terrain with rolling meadows, steep hillsides, wooded ravines and tree-shaded plateaus, as well as the deceptively tranquil treat of lakes and ponds. Several long par-4s, with an interesting mixture of par-3s and a number of distinctive par-5s, demand both strength and strategy from golfers of all levels.

Remember The Alamo Like many of my generation I grew up with Hollywood’s western movies, mostly about cowboys and Indians, but I can still vividly remember “The Alamo” with John Wayne as Davy Crocket where a small band of Texans held out for 13 days in a battle against the Mexican army of General Santa Anna. It was therefore with a great deal of expectation that I programmed my Sat-Nav and took off to finally see the famous place. I’m not sure what I expected, but to me it was a big disappointment. Yes, the reconstructed Mission building was there, and apparently on the same spot, but surrounded with high rise hotels and office buildings it felt totally misplaced. It might

TEXAS - USA

La Cantera, Resort Course 7th hole

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as well have been in Disney World. However, it’s still the most visited attraction in Texas.

Beware of the wind Just a short drive from Hyatt Resort lays the Westin La Cantera resort with its two golf courses, the Resort Course, designed by Jay Morrish and PGA Tour professional Tom Weiskopf, and the Palmer Course designed by the master himself, Arnold Palmer. Although this is the Texas Hill Country, it’s not exactly dizzying heights you experience, especially not for a Norwegian like myself, but at the eleventh hole on the Resort Course you stand on top of one of the highest points in all of San Antonio, and on the seventh hole, a 316 yard par-4 appropriately named “The Rattler,” you’ll have an eighty foot drop from the tee to the fairway and a magnificent view over San Antonio. But just be aware of the wind and try not to hit people on the roller coasters at the Six Flags amusement park nearby. Would be a perfect place for a picnic I thought to myself, That evening, after an early dinner at the hotel, I decided to enjoy some peace and quiet sitting on the patio outside my room with a glass of wine, accompanied by bird song.

On the road again On the morning of the fourth day I made an early start for my last port of call, Corpus Christi, on the gulf coast, some three to four hours drive to the South. This part of Texas is not particularly scenic, it’s flat, rather boring, but of course the roads are excellent and endlessly straight forward, and I managed to get to my meeting with the representative from the Corpus Christi CVB ahead of time. Her name was Colette Rye and she had kindly offered to be my guide for the day. Among the golf courses we visited during the next few hours were Padre Isles Country Club and North Shore Country Club. Padre Isles is a semi private club with an 18-hole, 6,623 yards par 72 golf course created in the early 1970s by Bruce Litrel.

Plenty of water Like most other seaside and link courses the course is flat, but still offers members and guests one of the most challenging rounds of golf in South Texas. With the ever present sea breezes and the dunes covered in deep natural grasses, some players have nicknamed Padre Isles Country Club "The St. Andrews" of Padre Island. Water is ever present with 15 of the 18 holes featuring the challenge of strategically placed lakes. Northshore Country Club is located in the area of Portland on the Northeastern side of Corpus Christi Bay. This links style course features 6,805 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72, and many of the holes along the shore offers a spectacular view of the Bay and the City on the other side.

U.S.S. Lexington On the way back to the City you may want to take the opportunity of visiting the World War II aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Lexington, which is located on North Beach. Here you have a chance to climb behind the controls of a jet fighter, take a ride in the flight simulator, and of course enjoy the views from the flight deck. A city with a population of just over 300 000, Corpus Christi is according to my guide Colette, a quite close knit community with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and with plenty of good “eateries.” We enjoyed lunch at Harrison’s Landing, a cozy little restaurant on the waterfront, and in the evening we had dinner

TEXAS - USA

Newport Dunes Golf Club

at the very popular Doc’s Seafood & Steaks, where I had some heavenly crab cakes and mouthwatering bacon wrapped shrimps with new potatoes. The place can be highly recommended.

Luxury living Tired, but quite content after a rather hectic day, I was happy to finally get to my hotel, the Port Royal Condominiums on Upper Padre Island. “Hotel” might not be the right description because my “room” was in fact a two bedroom luxury apartment, fully equipped with wide screen TV’s, kitchen with all modern appliances and a huge balcony overlooking several swimming pools and Jacuzzis. On the kitchen bar there was even a welcome basket including a bottle of wine. What a joy! But before a glass of wine I decided to relax in the Jacuzzi and enjoy a swim in the pool.

Newport Dunes After breakfast on the balcony and a refreshing morning swim in the pool, I pack my camera equipment and head for the golf course which was the reason I wanted to include Corpus Christi in the trip. Situated not far from Port Royal, The Newport Dunes is a true links course designed by Arnold Palmer who has said; "Being here and seeing this course has aroused some enthusiasm in me I hadn't felt for a while. I can tell you that I've not enjoyed playing any golf course more than I did this one. This is a fantastic setting." And a fantastic setting it is. Measuring some 6,900 yards from the back tees, this par 71 golf course meanders through sweeping untamed native dunes and offers spectacular views of both the Gulf of Mexico and Corpus Christi Bay. It certainly reminds me of the coastal links in Scotland, and it challenges golfers with ocean breezes, rolling fairways lined with native grasses and imposing greens. But there is a downside to this. On a golf course that was recognised as America’s best new course in 2009 you would expect some pretty luxurious facilities to go with the rest, but the “Club House” is more like a “collection of porta-cabins,” and is a bit of a disappointment. When the golf course opened in 2008, the project was launched as “Newport Dunes Beach and Golf,” a luxury resort complete with condominiums and Italian style villas. Then came the economic downturn and the project came to a halt. “The timing was bad and the developers ran into financial problems,” explains General Manager Kevin Michael. “However, things are looking up, now we have financial support from the 32

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bank who took over and we expect to have the course back in shape very soon. We also have high hopes there will be new owners in the very near future so we can get the project back on track.” Whatever happens you shouldn’t let it discourage you from playing this wonderful golf course. My guess is that someone out there very soon will see the potential in this project, and for me it was well worth the trip.

Homeward bound It’s Sunday morning and time to pack the car and head for Houston and the flight back to the UK. It’s been a busy and eventful week, and my head is filled with impressions. Somehow America always seem to have a certain allure that envelopes you and make you start missing it even before you’ve left. The positive “you can do it” attitude which is still there despite everything, the vast landscapes and flourishing cities – America is still the land of dreams and opportunities. The expression “everything is bigger and better in America” is also very fitting when it comes to golf, and Texas is no exception.

GOOD TO KNOW HOW TO GET THERE From London Heathrow, United Airlines offers daily services to Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Washington D.C. Fares from London Heathrow to Houston start from £666.06. Readers can book by calling 0845 8 444 777 or by visiting www.united.com Car hire in the USA from £19 per day, subject to availability and change. Visit www.avis.co.uk or call 08445810147 Where to stay & eat AUSTIN Lakeway Resort and Spa www.lakewayresortandspa.com The Oasis www.oasis-austin.com SAN ANTONIO Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa www.hillcountry.hyatt.com The Westin La Cantera www.westinlacantera.com/golf CORPUS CHRISTI Port Royal Condominiums www.port-royal.com Doc’s Seafood & Steak www.docsseafoodandsteaks.com VISIT U.S.S Lexington www.usslexington.com For further information on Texas visit www.traveltex.com

Nailcote Hall Hotel 7th - 10th August 2012 For sponsorship or playing opportunities please contact:

08453 313031 bp3@championsukplc.com www.britishpar3.com VENUE HOST

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GREAT GOLF FASHION

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Let the

game begin ...

What do Sir Alex Ferguson, Samuel L. Jackson, Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke and Robbie Williams have in common? Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all stars within their own fields of course, but they also like to be dressed by stylist and designer Tony Qâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;aja... 35

GREAT GOLF FASHION

...on the streets and the fairways

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

hat you wear when you step onto the golf course i s n’t j u s t a b o u t practicality and etiquette, it’s also about looking and feeling your best, and who knows perhaps that will help improve your swing? Designer and stylist Tony Q’aja has, with his bespoke tailored clothing made fashion icons out of golf stars, helped Olympic hopefuls look like winners and developed a loyal following among Hollywood celebrities. I meet Tony in his office just around the corner from The Ritz and Fortnum & Mason, and with The Arts Club as his closest neighbour. Bentleys line the streets and smartly dressed people hurry past me on their way to important meetings or perhaps just a quick coffee before returning to clench that deal. This is an exclusive address and probably the perfect location for a stylist and designer of bespoke clothing.

Q for Quality “For me it has always been about creating the ultimate product, not so much about reaching pricing targets,” says Tony as we sit down for a chat in his office. “I believe that the people who want quality will be willing to pay a bit more for it”. A philosophy that seems to have stood him in good stead, as his business has grown purely from recommendation and now includes Hollywood stars like Samuel L. Jackson as well as Premier League footballers and TV personalities, but perhaps it is in the golfing world that he has made his biggest mark.

A passion for fashion “I got into fashion at an early age,” he tells me, “perhaps it was partly due to the fact that my father was a very dapper dresser. This was in the 60’s when it was common to wear tailored suits and I remember very well getting my first one at the age of 8 or 9”. Tony was born in Kashmir, but came with his family to live in London at the age of 5. “When I finished school I studied textile and went into the retail business to learn the trade. I took to selling easily and by the age of twenty one I was manager of a large fashion company. We had a lot of celebrities coming in and because of my position, I was the one that looked after them. When I eventually started on my own, a lot of the clients I had been dealing with followed me into my own business. Sporting stars especially appealed to me because of my own sporting background,” he says. 37

GREAT GOLF FASHION Sporting success Initially Tony concentrated on ready-to-wear, but soon found that this didn’t quite fit sports people’s body shapes as well as it should. He therefore decided to learn the trade of tailoring, especially focusing on measuring. “I’m not really into sewing, but understand the construction,” he says apologetically. “In 2002 I was approached by Puma who were sponsoring the Commonwealth Games in Manchester and needed some help to make the tailored clothes for more formal wear. I created a “shape” that would fit all the athletes, with a few minor adjustments, and it was very successful. Following this I was asked by Ben Sherman to be an advisor for the Athens Olympics” he continues. In fact Tony’s success was such that when it was time for the Winter Olympics in 2006 he was asked to do it on his own. “This was of course a great honour,” he says, “but then I like a challenge and, if I may say so myself, it went very well,” he smilingly continues. A treasured moment was when Tony got a phone call from Princess Ann’s dresser to thank him on behalf of the Princess and to tell him that it was the best outfit she’d ever had for the

DNA and body shape, so I need to create an outfit and style that is both flattering and appropriate for their personality,” he continues. “Darren was an extrovert and larger than life person, but his clothes didn’t reflect this and made his frame look larger than it was.”

The V Slit Tony started by making one suit for the golfer who was so pleased with the result and all the compliments he got, that he asked if Tony could do something for his golf trousers too. “I told him I would look into it,” says Tony. “I noticed that golfers fiddled a lot with their pockets and realised if I made pockets especially designed for their tee’s, balls, marker etc, it would make it easier for the players to access them. Golf trousers also seemed to be very baggy, they would flap in the wind and because golfers didn’t like the trouser leg to ride up when they bent down they would wear them long. This meant that the trousers would lie in folds over their shoes when they were standing and this is why I came up with the V Slit on the bottom.

”Sporting stars especially appealed to me because of my own sporting background.” Tony Q’aja www.qaja.co.uk

Aesthetics & functionality

Aesthetics play an important part in my designs, but I look at functionality first,” he says. And so the ultimate golf trouser was created. Giving the trouser a more tailored look, with pockets to improve the functionality and the now famous V Slit which enabled the trousers to flow, the Q’aja golf brand was truly born.

From a young age Tony had been passionate about sports and all though he had never played golf he’d always followed it on TV and, of course, kept a keen eye on the apparel. “In the 70’s and 80’s the fashion was fun – chequered trousers and lovely Argyle jumpers, but then things changed and it all got a bit drab,” Tony tells. But that was of course before Tony got his hands on it. As with most of Tony’s business, his first golf client came through word of mouth. His restyling of golf agent Andrew “Chubby” Chandler caught PGA tour professional Darren Clark’s eye, he was so impressed with the change that he approached Tony to see what he could do for him. “Before I meet a potential client I research them,” says Tony, “because I need to get a feel for who they are and what sort of people they mix with. I look at each person as having their own

With help of Tony’s design and styling Darren Clarke ended up becoming a fashion icon and this was the beginning of golf fashion making a comeback. Now colour is once more making a splash on fairways around the world and golf has become street fashion. “That’s perhaps the biggest compliment,” says the man who’s become the favourite with world tour players like Phil Mickelson, Matt Kuchar and Graeme Mcdowell, with pop stars like Robbie Williams and Ronan Keating, and Hollywood stars like Samuel L Jackson, Morgan Freeman and Vinnie Jones, to name just a few. And if you would like to join the ranks of the rich and famous and bring a bit more colour and style to your game, then why not let Tony help you out the Q’aja way.

Olympics. “This meant a lot,” he says. The word of Tony’s skills spread and next it was the Premier League football teams turn to get some of that special Q’aja treatment.

From fairways to street fashion

By Camilla Kaas Stock, Pictures courtesy of Tony Q'aja. 38

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TURNBERRY - SCOTLAND

a legend by the sea

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Many dream of coming here while the lucky ones never forget.

With Presidents and movie stars on the guest list and names of famous players that reads like a “Who’s who” in golf, one does not simply "go to Turnberry", one "arrives..." By Irene Mathews, Photos by Turnberry Resort

TURNBERRY - SCOTLAND

rom the moment we were picked up by private hire car from Glasgow International Airport, we experienced nothing but genuinely friendly, efficient and helpful service. Ricky, our driver from a local firm used by the Turnberry Resort for airport transfers, was a font of local knowledge, keeping up an interesting commentary during our 45 minute journey. Rangers’ football ground, Souter Johnny’s house and the farm where Rudolf Hess parachuted in whilst on a secret mission during WW2 and was captured by a local farmer, were a few of the places of interest which may well have gone unnoticed without his input.

Rich history On arrival at the hotel, we were warmly greeted by Jim the doorman, resplendent in full highland dress, who gave us a quick orientation. The hotel and golf course have a rich and varied history which he was keen to share. All service during our stay was very personalised. The majority of the staff are Scottish and obviously enjoy their work - which shines through in the way they deal with the guests. All queries and requests were speedily and efficiently dealt with. The main areas of the hotel are reminiscent of the Edwardian era, when it was built, but have been tastefully refurbished with modern touches. My husband and I had a deluxe sea view room, where we could sit and enjoy the view of the first tee on the Ailsa course and across the sea to Ailsa Craig even from the bath, so carefully placed by the window.

“Silver service” All bars and restaurants in the hotel face the sea and embrace this view. Jim the doorman was especially proud of the Grand Tea lounge, where you can enjoy refreshments such as afternoon tea with charming old-fashioned “silver service” which was a nostalgic reminder of my childhood experiences in my grandparents’ tea rooms. You can also sit quietly and read or perhaps drink in the view, watching the golfers tee off on the Ailsa course and return from the Kintyre course. Jim said that we were even welcome to sit here in our bath robes as guests are encouraged to relax completely and “feel at home”. The 1906 restaurant (so named because of the date the hotel opened, and the opening time in the evening) has old fashioned elegance, teamed with modern cuisine and the wine list on an iPad. Just down from the hotel, in the clubhouse is the Tappie Tourie restaurant which serves drinks and light meals. We had a pleasant lunch there overlooking the starter’s hut on the Ailsa course. A shuttle service is available on request or you can walk down the impressive steps or take a more leisurely stroll round the drive.

Long history At the turn of the twentieth century the Marquess of Ailsa who was the Captain of Prestwick Golf Course, (the location of the 1st Open Championship in 1860) built a private course on his Culzean estate, which in turn put Turnberry on the map. A crucial point in its history was during the golden age of steam, when the Marquess agreed for the Glasgow & South Western Railway to take over this enterprise, and set up a link with the railways by building an extremely fine station. This was then followed by the construction of the 42

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hotel, making this fantastic links course available to visitors from far and wide. Another piece of fascinating history surrounding this links course, is the fact that around 1939 the whole course was completely transformed beyond recognition by flattening, excavating, concreting and tarmacing as it became an RAF training base for torpedo and air sea rescue units.

The Ailsa Course Our first day of golf started with a warm welcome from Peter the starter, and one of the professionals Scott Clarke, who explained the course was named after Ailsa Craig the dramatic rock sitting 11 miles out to sea. The feeling one gets when on the same tee as the great names in professional golf is hard enough to describe, add to this names such as Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Bill Clinton and our own Royal golfer the Duke of York and you can understand why. As is common with all links courses there is a distinct lack of trees and water, and there is a proliferation of bunkers quite often on both sides of the fairway, which always helps to keep the mind focused. Being a par 70, and at 7,211 yards Ailsa Course was exceedingly kind to us for the first 4-5 holes, as the wind that usually blows straight off the sea was just a light breeze.

A favourite hole En route to hole 5 which is one of Jack Nicklaus's favourites, you will see the Isle of Ailsa Craig standing proud in the Firth of Clyde, all laid out in front of you, beautiful! Nine bunkers are strategically placed on this dogleg right to left par-4, and three of the little devils protect the green. Hole 6 demands your concentration, being a 231 yard Par-3 and one of the courses’ most difficult holes, therefore club selection is paramount to reach the elevated green and avoid the usual protective bunkers. Holes 7 and 8 will equally give you something to think about, and lead you to my two favourite holes, number 9 - Bruce's Castle and 10 - Dinna Fouter, translated "Don't mess about." Both of these holes I can only describe as "spectacular." The remains of Robert the Bruce’s castle can be seen clearly in the distance, and the craggy rocks and the sea below makes the whole scene something special. If you have the opportunity on number 9, walk back to where the pro's tee off, and you won’t believe your eyes. This hole has no bunkers whatsoever, but the fairway is raised in the middle throwing you to either side, and the green has a steep left slope. I didn't say it was easy.

Unusual bunker The 10th hole lives up to its name, "don't mess about." Hit your tee shot too far left, and you're in the Firth of Clyde, hit it down the middle you're possibly in one of the two pot bunkers placed most strategically. You should aim very slightly right or left of the two bunkers, and then if you succeed, your second shot has to avoid the most unusual bunker I have ever seen - an "island bunker" middle to right of the fairway. Make sure you buy a Stroke Saver if only for this hole alone. The back nine slowly leads you away from the sea and the iconic Turnberrry Lighthouse landmark, with many of the holes having had a number of enhancements. These consists of new bunkers, elevated tees, a remodeled 16th creating a long 458 yard par-4 dogleg, then finally leading 45

TURNBERRY - SCOTLAND

to the 18th re-named “Duel in the Sun” after the famous 1977 Open Championship where Tom Watson had a one shot lead over his great rival Jack Nicklaus.

The Kintyre Course The Kintyre Course, equally of Championship status, offers you the chance to walk the historic land of the 1st golf course built at Turnberry, formerly known as the Nine-hole Arran. Kintyre offers undulating greens, some high tees, glorious fairways, thick Scottish rough. and although the avenues of gorse offer some protection from the wind, Kintyre's challenge is relenting. The 8th a 309 yards par 4, is my favourite and also the "signature" hole. An elevated tee creates a dramatic panoramic view of the ocean, with a blind second shot to the green, which is set in a gully way down by the rocks. Although equally unseen from the tee box, and assuming you are safe on the fairway, your second shot requires just a delicate pitch to avoid the two protective bunkers. Sounds easy doesn't it?

Take a walk After your round, that is if you have any energy left, why not take a walk down to the lighthouse. What a chill! As I walked along the path of the golf course, all I could hear was a robin singing in 46

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a nearby bush and crows further away in the tall trees by the hotel. Then the sound of the sea lured me over the top of the dunes and I was rewarded by an unspoiled beach and that view of Ailsa Craig. Depending on the time of year you can have the whole beach to yourself and it’ll take you about an hour to reach the lighthouse. I couldn’t resist exploring the beach and the rock pools before heading up to the iconic lighthouse and the remains of the ancient Turnberry Castle where I was greeted by more stunning views round the corner from Turnberry Point. In season you can stop for a cuppa at Halfway House. I then took the more direct route back to the hotel down through the Kintyre course and along the remains of the runway from the WW2 training aerodrome. This took about half the time.

The Spa If you want a bit of pampering, then the Spa is for you. On one of the days of our stay, I chose to relax by the pool having a leisurely swim and trying out the jacuzzi and sauna. On my second visit, I had booked a facial. The whole area around the treatment rooms have a tranquil atmosphere with soft candle light in the corridors. My therapist discussed which treatment would be most beneficial for me and as I slipped under the towel on the bed, I

realized it was heated.....instant relaxation. The therapist inspected my skin with a special lamp before starting the facial. It was deeply relaxing with lots of attention to neck, shoulders and décolletage and a head massage to finish whilst waiting for the face mask to do its work. The process ended with advice about my skin care regime and suitable beauty products. I was then encouraged to chill out for a while in a relaxation room with drinks to get the full effect of the treatment. If you feel more energetic you can “go for the burn” in the well equipped gym.

Lots to offer Other facilities are multiple with choices such as off road driving, a horseback trek along a sandy sunset beach, trout fishing, falconry, clay pigeon and target shooting, hill walking, biking and so on. Finally eight luxury apartments are located just yards from the hotel offering two to six bedrooms, and some self-catering cottages are opposite the golf course with stunning views of Scotland's western ocean. But alas, for us this most unforgettable weekend had come to an end and it was time to get back to reality. Coming to Turnberry had long been a dream of mine, and now I can finally say, “I have played the legend.”

GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE Turnberry is situated just one hour from Glasgow Airport, or 25 minutes from Prestwick Airport. Glasgow airport is host to over 40 airlines serving approximately 80 cities worldwide. Glasgow Prestwick Airport offers flights to and from over 25 European cities. Scotland's second biggest airport Edinburgh International is a two hours' drive away. easyJet flies to Glasgow from Bristol, London Gatwick, London Luton and London Stansted. Prices one way start from £17.99 and include all taxes (prices are subject to change). Visit www.easyJet.com to book. Turnberry also has two helicopter landing pads. CONTACT www.turnberryresort.co.uk Phone: (44)(1655) 331000 NEARBY DESTINATIONS Ayr 25.0 km/15.5 miles Brodick Castle, Isle of Arran 62.0 km/38.5 miles Goat Fell Summit, Isle of Arran 62.0 km/38.5 miles Glasgow 86.0 km/53.4 miles Edinburgh City Centre 152.0 km/94.4 miles

SOUTH AYRSHIRE

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

BLESSED WITH A TEMPERATE CLIMATE

The Scottish

Golf Coast

and coast that is kissed by the Gulf Stream, this corner of south-west Scotland is a beautiful place to enjoy and experience some fantastic golf. What other area can boast the inaugural site of the Open Championship, two current Open venues, eight stunning municipal courses and a population who know their golf inside out? It’s an ideal location for golfers from beginners to experienced low handicappers. Rubbing shoulders with Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick, Golf South Ayrshire operates eight superb courses of the highest standard, all available to pay and play every day at a modest rate between £8.50 - £28.50. You can play at the weekend as a visitor, or as part of a visiting group and, although booking is advised, it couldn’t be simpler – you can even book online, meaning your golf tee time is assured and waiting for you when you arrive at the course of your choice.

In South Ayrshire, golf is a way of life. Local lads Sam Torrance and Colin Montgomerie will testify to that. If required, lessons are available with our qualified professionals who can help you with every aspect of your game before stepping out onto the first tee to confidently put your new skills into practice.

SOUTH AYRSHIRE SEAFIELD

Testing greens and strategically-placed bunkers ensure accuracy is well rewarded on this course. This is mostly a links course with some very hilly and memorable features. Fairly short at just 5,233 yards and with no par fives – do not be deceived! Full ball control and effective course management are essential on the narrow fairways.

BELLEISLE COURSE

Designed by renowned golf architect James Braid in 1927, this is without doubt the jewel in the crown. Inspired by the stunning surroundings and with the Isle of Arran as a backdrop, Braid managed to blend the natural features and gentle undulating ground into a series of golf holes lined by beech trees and interwoven by the Curtecan Burn. This achievement has stood the test of time, marking it out as one of the finest municipal courses in the UK and one of a handful to have hosted several professional tournaments. Alone, Belleisle is a wonderful test of golf, but play it in tandem with its little sister Seafield, and you’ll enjoy a combination of parkland and upland links in truly sumptuous surroundings.

DALMILLING

Found just a few miles away and between Ayr’s famous racecourse and the A77, playing here you are aware that you are in the heart of "Burns Country", where the famous poet was born and raised. The River Ayr borders the southern end of the course, with some of its tributary burns adding interest to the early holes, especially the sixth, a 135 yard par three that is virtually surrounded by water.

TROON LOCHGREEN

Heading a little north, you will discover a links course that rubs shoulders with Royal Troon. A former Open Championship qualifier, blending links and open parkland, Lochgreen will test your game with holes suited to any championship course and bunkers strategically positioned to test your nerve off the tee.

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TROON DARLEY

For those golfers who require a stiffer test, the nearby wildcat links course of Darley has true feline ferocity and offers its own unique challenges. Well manicured, tight fairways draw the eye to well guarded greens that will challenge your golf to the limit.

TROON FULLARTON

A shorter, more modest links challenge, Fullarton provides endless enjoyment for golfers of more modest ability or those looking for a testing morning warm-up round. This is an uplands links course, with narrow, undulating fairways generally flanked by heather and gorse. Smaller, more testing greens mean your short game will have to be impeccable.

GIRVAN COURSE

Finally a short distance away in the coastal town of Girvan lies the truly challenging Girvan course, lying alongside the Firth of Clyde. Shortest of the 18 hole courses it may be, but easy it isn’t. With the first holes running parallel to the sea, it’s as much a test of nerve as it is golf. With views out toward Ailsa Craig and Turnberry, you will enjoy a sight of the iconic white lighthouse. The opening eight holes are pure links and the second ten holes are parkland, this latter part has the added challenge of the river from which the town takes its name.

MAYBOLE

This golf course takes its name from the town and is a delightful nine hole parkland course, boasting stunning views over the nearby Carrick Hills. Do not be misled by the overall length, the fairways and well-protected greens call for shot making of a high standard. This little course provides the ideal wake-up call before tackling the more testing courses in the area. If you have time to break your concentration from the test before you, Ailsa Craig, a plug of an extinct volcanic, can be seen from most points at the southern end of the course.

GOLF SOUTH AYRSHIRE OFFERS a range of packages to suit all budgets and levels of ability, so whether you’re coming for the day, a week or longer, there’s a deal that’s right for you. And, if you are tempted to join our family of golfers then you are sure to find a membership that suits, whether it’s annual, six-monthly or a monthly membership and all representing unbeatable value for money. So, if you’ve never held a club in your life, are a casual improver, or a seasoned player, we warmly invite you to come and visit Scotland’s Golf Coast – and enjoy the South Ayrshire way of life! www.golfsouthayrshire.com or call 01292 616255 51

SPAIN

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A G N A M a L Road to

ars been the e y f o r e b m u n a r fo The s resorts and has al football teams as well as rt o p s g in d a le ’s d It’s one of the worl facility for a long line of internation est 18-hole golf courses. g fin designated trainin It’s also home to three of Europe’s By Nils Bjornes, photo: Nils Bjornes and La Manga Club s. tennis association 53

SPAIN

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urrounded by hills covered in pine trees, La Manga Club on Spain's Costa Calida (Warm Coast) in Murcia, east of Cartagena and with the Mediterranean glimmering in the horizon, is more like a small town than just a "resort". It is three times larger than Monaco they keep telling me. Why this comparison? I'm not sure. However, it's obviously something they're proud of. While Monaco, with its 36,000 inhabitants, is the most densely populated country in the world, here at La Manga Club, there is plenty of space even if all 15,000 residents should be present at the same time. This is certainly not the case at this time in late November, it seems, if not abandoned, rather void of people. Because even though La Manga advertises with 300 days of sunshine a year, it's not exactly summer temperatures today, it rains, and many of the restaurants and shops in the area are closed for the season. Still with more than 20 restaurants and bars to choose from, there are always some that are open, so there is no danger of starving. I had a very enjoyable meal at the little restaurant La Bodega one evening.

A tour of the town After getting settled into my room I enjoy a light lunch before meeting Idoa Carillo Capel, the Public Relations Manager, for a guided tour around the resort. Wide streets winds its way around and up the hillsides surrounded by hundreds of villas and apartments, small shopping areas with restaurants, bars and supermarkets. There is a bank, a gas station and everything else you expect to find in a small town. Most impressive, however, are the many sporting facilities, because La Manga Club is not only famous for golf. No less than 8 football fields and 28 tennis courts has led to a number of national football teams and clubs, especially from Scandinavia, arranging their winter training at La Manga. As well as this the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tennis Centre has, among others, been appointed by Britain's Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) as the official winter training base for their elite competition squad, granting the resort several avenues of revenue. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the golf courses that are of interest to me.

Five star hotel

Wide fairways

From Alicante airport itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just an hour's drive to La Manga on some very impressive motorways, but be prepared to pay. Three times I had to pay toll on this stretch, and unprepared as I was I found myself suddenly in front of the tollbooth without a single euro in my wallet and of course no way to turn around. Well, my despair was totally unfounded because here you can pay with credit card. La Manga Club is truly a giant resort and you really need a map to orientate yourself, but the Hotel La Manga Club Principe Felipe is quite easy to find. This 5 star hotel with 192 elegant guest rooms including 7 suites, opened in 1993 and lies in a beautiful setting surrounded by two of the three golf courses, the North Course and the South Course.

After an excellent breakfast at the Amapola Restaurant next morning I pack my camera gear and head over to the Golf Club, where I meet the head pro Mark Hook, who will show me around the courses. Mark, who also runs the Golf Academy, is from Liverpool, has lived here for eleven years and worked for La Manga Club the last eight. The North and The South Course are both pleasant golf courses in a beautiful parkland setting, that can be played by players at all levels with wide fairways and large greens. The South Course, which is a Championship Course is also the most challenging of the two. At 6,499 metres from the white tees it provides a thorough test for players right across the handicap range.

The West Course has a distinct character that makes it a good alternative to the other two more classic parkland courses 55

SPAIN Lakes and bunkers With strategically positioned bunkers and water hazards that come into play on fifteen of the holes it requires accurate driving between lakes and bunkers, and long irons or fairway woods to the green. This is especially the case on the front nine which are undoubtedly the toughest with two par-3's over 200 metres and some daunting par-4's. The back nine has a number of dogleg holes and both the 11th and the 12th hole demand precise shots to the green across water, and the par-5 18th with water on both sides of the fairway and a ravine just short of a well protected green, will prove to be a particularly tough finish. A surprising feature of both these courses is the lack of rough. Even between the trees the grass is cut short, so it is very easy to find the ball even if you end up outside the fairway. ”This is a holiday destination and we don’t want people spending time looking for their balls in the rough which also has a tendency to hold up the game for people coming behind”, explains Mark Hook.

The West Course The third golf course at La Manga Club, The West Course, a former 9-hole golf course called La Princesa, was in the mid 90’s extended to what today is another 18-hole course. Designed by Dave Thomas, this par 72 course set amid serene pine woodlands has a distinct character that makes it a good alternative to the

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other two more classic parkland courses. With constant changes in elevation, narrow fairways and frequent blind shots, the tight front nine requires precise driving to avoid ending up in the many gullies around the fairways. Hole 1, a par-4 at 306 metres from the white tee where you can see the green that has water in front, is, as my friend from Liverpool puts it, “a good starting hole”. “I think it’s important for less experienced players not to get discouraged at the start of the round. Because even though I tell my students at the Academy they should accept that they’re going to have some bad shots, many players are suffering from what I call ‘the double f-word’ – fear of failure”, says Mark. The back nine on The West Course which takes you up amongst the hills, is more open but nonetheless challenging.

Rough ride Personally I would recommend a buggy on this course because it’s quite hilly, but if you do, be prepared for a rough ride as it seems to me the buggy paths at La Manga are in desperate need of some TLC. It is said that La Manga are under the protection of The Lion Mountain which is clearly visible from The West Course, but not even the watchful lion could prevent the forest fire that raged for several days in August 2011 and reduced large swathes of forest around the golf course to ashes. On some of the holes the trees are

burned right up to the fairway on one side, while on the other side are untouched. Here it seems the fairways served as fire breaks. “It was horrific, some people were on the golf course at the time and could have been trapped up here, but fortunately no one was hurt”, says Mark.

Breathtaking views Still, with the burnt out forest around I understand the golfers who holds The West Course as their favourite. It’s certainly more spectacular than the other two down below, and when you stand on the tee of the 18th hole you’ll understand why. Not only is this a great and challenging hole with the tee high above the fairway which means the wind plays an important part, but the views are also breathtaking. The whole resort lies infront of you and in the horizon you can see La Manga del Mar Menor, a 22 km long sandbar that separates the Mediteranean from the Minor Sea, and which gave La Manga Club its name. From here you can also see why its “protector” is called The Lion Mountain. It’s a great place to finish your round.

Time for tapas The evening is getting near and something tells me it’s time for some food. I’ve already decided where I want to go because “when in Spain” you should have tapas. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle takes me to La Plaza where I have booked a table at La Bodega, a

small intimate restaurant where they serve fine Spanish wines and homemade tapas inspired by the country’s different regions. I’ve always been fond of tapas. Not only do you get a range of different tasty dishes, it’s also an enjoyable and social way to have a meal. On this occasion when I’m dining alone the social aspect is a bit lacking, but my friendly, smiling waiter Sergio, takes time for a chat between serving the different dishes - and the dishes keep coming. There is Queso Fresco a la Plancha, (grilled fresh cheese), Chistorra de Navarro, (red sausage cooked in white wine) with Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes), Gambas al Ajilio (Spicy prawns with garlic and parsley), and of course glorious Serrano Ham. Some of the dishes I might have forgotten - blame it on the local wine that also kept coming.

The gathering storm For my last morning, after breakfast I’d planned to walk around the resort to get some more pictures, but even though the sun was shining there were dark clouds in the horizon, very dark, so I decided to make a speedy departure and head north to Alicante and the Airport and hopefully avoid the storm. No such luck. Before long I found myself in one of the worst rain storms I’ve ever experienced. The windshield wipers couldn’t cope and it got so bad I had to get off the motorway because I could hardly see the cars in front of me and the road was flooded. It was getting dangerous.

SPAIN

Lots to offer I spent an hour or so with a cup of coffee in a local café near a petrol station until the worst of the storm had passed before getting back in the car. It was still not a very pleasant drive but definitely memorable. Well, with 300 days of sunshine this was definitely not one of them! Just my luck… I arrived safely at Alicante Airport and with plenty of time before my flight back to England. In spite of the weather, I think La Manga Club is a resort that has lots to offer for sun seekers and sports enthusiasts alike, and if you should want to rub shoulders with famous sports personalities on the golf course, this is definitely the place to be.

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GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE EasyJet flies to Alicante from many UK locations. For more info go to: www.easyjet.com Rental cars: You’ll find all major Car Rental Companies at the Airport. On leaving the airport, turn left towards the E15 / A70 and follow the signs for Murcia. After about 23 km the motorway divides; take the right fork (junction 724) onto the AP7 toll motorway towards Torrevieja and Cartagena After approximately 76 kilometres, take junction 800 onto the MU312 towards La Manga; follow this road for 12 kilometres. As you pass two red fuel stations (one on either side of the motorway), take the next exit right (junction 8) to Los Belones and Portman. At the roundabout, turn right towards Portman and 'Campo de Golf'. Follow signs into La Manga Club. For more info go to www.lamangaclub.com

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MOROCCO - MARRAKECH

Magical Morocco Snow-capped mountains

, palm trees, stunning golf courses and the odd camel. Sounds exotic? Then why not head off to Marrakech and find out for yourself... By Mike Stock & Simon Richards, pictures The Marrakesh Golf Club Assoufid, and La Palmeraie

hat a treat - off to Morocco just as it starts getting cold and dark in the UK! I fly out with British Airways on a three and a half hour flight. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not long before the Atlas Mountains are looming up ahead. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m here to cover some of the excellent golf resorts and see what other delights can be found in the old city of Marrakech.

La Palmeraie I am met outside the airport by a driver from the Palmeraie Golf Resort - my first port of call. Now anyone who has been to 60

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Marrakech will sympathise with me when I say that - depending on your frame of mind - being in a car here is either a thrilling or a nerve wracking experience. There seems to be no logic to the road system, and people work on the assumption that others will get out of their way if they drive straight at them. My driver seems perfectly calm and manages to weave his way through this chaos without any damage to us or the car. Within half an hour we are passing through the entrance to La Palmeraie Golf Resort. Palmeraie by the way is French for Palm Grove. Legend has it that the palms grew from the pips spat out

onto the ground by the all conquering army of Youssef Ben Tachfine who arrived here in 1071. This really is a large resort. There are several hotels in the complex, with a total of 1,500 rooms along with a conference centre, spa and of course the 27 hole golf course. I’m booked in to stay at the clubhouse. My room is authentic, but with all the mod cons of a modern hotel. My first plan of action is to see if I can get some pictures of the golf course with the Atlas mountains in the background. It’s the perfect light at this late stage of the afternoon so I go to try my luck. The humidity has dropped and the mountains are visible, it’s a wonderful sight

and I really am looking forward to getting on the golf course.

An early start Its standard practice here in Morocco to go out with your own personal caddy, and they are all very keen to be of service. But due to the fact that I’m here to work and take pictures, which therefore means that I will take my time, I decide to go it alone. This is a nice course in a beautiful setting. The original 18 holes were designed by Robert Trent Jones, with the addition of 9 holes added later. 61

MOROCCO - MARRAKECH

I tee off early in the morning with dew still on the ground. The sun is up and it’s another beautiful day. One of the more unusual sights that I see while playing my round, is a nomad who has made a shelter out of grass beside the golf course and is grazing his three camels, not actually on the course itself I hasten to add. November is a great time of the year to be here and I am rewarded with a good mornings golf. What I really notice is the lack of visitors from the UK, most guests are French with a smattering of Germans. Whether it’s the fact that French is the main alternative language, I don’t know, but I can say without a doubt, we Brits are missing out on some good golf.

Exploring the city In the afternoon I head into town, there’s nothing that I like better than trawling around interesting city centres and the Medina is

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awaiting my attention. The old red walls that surround the Medina are something to behold. It’s worth being a little prepared for the organised chaos that will greet you if you visit any of the Medina’s in the cities of Morocco. You enter a place far different from whence you came. The sights, sounds and smells hit you all at once. The roads and squares teem with locals and tourists alike. Beware, many locals will want to offer you their services, but for a price. I spend a good hour or so exploring the squares and back alleys of this vibrant area and then head off to the new city centre to let my senses recover from the all out assault that they have just been subjected to. The new centre I find to be the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by, its late afternoon and people are on their way home from work. The roads are awash with scooters,

motorbikes and taxis. I sit and enjoy my coffee and let the world revolve around me.

Lost For my return to La Palmeraie, I decide to walk. I’m convinced that the journey was not too far and this will be the best way to see the city. It takes me over half an hour to reach the road going north and out of town towards the resort. After another hour of walking, I am beginning to get just a little desperate. The road is empty and I start to wonder if I possibly have gone the wrong way. Ahead I see a sign for a roundabout, I remember that there was one on the journey into town and my spirits lift. If I’m correct, La Palmeraie will be to the right, my journey will be over and I can give myself a pat on the back for being so ingenious. As I get close to the roundabout, the sign comes into view. Soon I am

close enough to read the words, the sign says Casablanca 220 kilometres! My heart sinks, I’m sure that Casablanca is a wonderful place, I just don’t want to go there right now, especially on foot. I pass over the roundabout and keep going. Will I end up lost in the desert with no water? I can see the news headlines, “British golfer found dead in the desert, the authorities are baffled as to why he ended up there, and why he had neglected to bring his clubs” To my utter relief there’s a turning to the right and lo and behold the sign here does say La Palmeraie. I arrive back at my room exhausted.

Marrakech Golf Club Assoufid A trip to Marrakech would not be complete without visiting the newest golf development, Marrakech Golf Club Assoufid, located just 10 minutes drive from the city centre. I arrive mid morning

MOROCCO - MARRAKECH

and am met by the golf director, Guy Maxwell. We have a chat in the porta-cabin that serves as his office while the development is going on. I soon realise just how special this resort will be. The golf club is named after the village of Assoufid, where an ancient waterway (known locally as a shaaba) has etched its way into the landscape over the centuries. We take a trip in a buggy to view the progress so far. The course is dominated by two key features; the Atlas Mountains which in clear weather provide a hugely impressive backdrop to the course,

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and the natural ravine that comes into play on several holes. Niall Cameron, the course designer has said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is not a golf course born from a computer to be fitted into a predefined location, we spent many days playing an imaginary course with real clubs and balls to the astonishment of the locals. Step by step a real course appeared, moulded into the landscapeâ&#x20AC;?. Guy is passionate about the whole development and I can see why, although there is still a lot to be done.

The Course The first hole is a relatively short par 4, followed by a long uphill par 5. Beware, the fairway slopes to the left and the green runs off into the rough. The ninth hole is a par 5 which dog-legs left, followed by a short but tricky par 3 which is protected by bunkers to the left and a steep run-off to the right. The start of the back nine offers no respite with a treacherous approach shot over the ravine.

All four of the final holes require careful strategy. The fifteenth requires a drive over the ravine which meanders along the right hand side of the hole, but a bunker awaits on the left hand side of the fairway for those who play too safe.Â At the sixteenth, an uphill par 4, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to keep the tee shot to the right, as the fairway slopes down to the left where the ever present ravine awaits. The seventeenth is the highlight of the back nine, a par 3 of around 150 yards over the ravine with large bunkers at the back to capture wayward shots.

MOROCCO - MARRAKECH

Along with the course, clubhouse and luxury villas, a hotel is planned which will be managed by Rocco Forte.

Samanah Country Club My time in Morocco was coming to an end, but I just had time to visit Samanah Country Club before my return to the UK This exclusive club is situated 14 km from the centre of Marrakech and 8 km from the international airport. To play here, you have to be staying at the hotel, own one of the golf properties or be a guest of an owner. This 18 hole Desert course is the closest to the mountains and so has fantastic views. So, if you want space to play in stunning surroundings, this is for you. Designed by the world famous Nicklaus Design Company, this championship course is worthy of a visit.

The flight back to Gatwick with British Airway is pleasant and relaxed. My abiding memory of my trip to Marrakech will be the fact that within the space of just a few hours, it is possible to visit a land that contrasts so dramatically to my daily surroundings. After all, I have yet to find a camel on any golf course here in Kent!

GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE British Airways flies 3 times a week from their newly refurbished state-of-the-art home at London Gatwick to Marrakech. Prices start from ÂŁ69 one way. Visit www.ba.com/gatwick La Palmeraie Marrakech www.lapalmeraiemarrakech.com reservation@pgp.ma Tel +212 524 334 343 The Marrakech Golf Club Assoufid www.themarrakechgolfclub.com info@assoufid.com TEL +212 618 368 368 Samanah Country Club. www.samanah .com golf@samanah.com. +212 524 498 585

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

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THE ABACO CLUB - BAHAMAS

With more than two miles of unspoiled, white

sandy beaches and the world’s first Scottish-style golf course in a tropical location, The Abaco Club on Winding Bay offers the ultimate in exclusive island living. By the way don’t be surprised if you run into 007... By Tony Smart. Photo: The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club

A little piece of Heaven

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THE ABACO CLUB - BAHAMAS

t takes a special kind of person to look out on 550 acres of tropical jungle and envision a superb Scottish-style tropical links golf course, a clubhouse, a luxury Elemis Spa, and a discrete real estate development comprising 60 one/two acre beachfront home lots and 75 fully furnished ocean front luxury cottages. But that's exactly what Peter de Savary did on Abaco Island in the Bahamas in 2002 and less than two years later much of the above was already in existence, so I guess that makes Peter de Savary a special kind of person. Just the way he discovered Abaco is pretty special, scouring the Caribbean for the perfect site by land, sea and air for four years and then, when he’d found it from the air, returning by boat, landing, machete in hand, and hacking his way through the undergrowth, up the hillside to the summit from where he finally saw the setting for his vision. Certainly what he created at The Abaco Club on Winding Bay is very special indeed, and it was the culmination of de Savary's 31 year love affair with the Caribbean (though he is now working on something even bigger in Grenada). By 2008 de Savary had sold The Abaco Club to the hotel group Ritz-Carlton who made it part of their Destination Club brand though he remains as Chairman of this exclusive club right on the Atlantic Ocean.

The rich and famous And what a club it is. The clubhouse, Spa and cottages sit on a headland with the Atlantic on one side and Winding Bay on another, whilst the majority of home lots lie between the beach and golf course, the houses that have already been built half-hidden by the surrounding palm trees. The club which costs US$85,000 to join for golf membership, or US$42,500 for social membership, numbers Sir Sean Connery, Greg Norman, Ernie Els and Tim Henman amongst its members. Home lots start at US$490,000 and the fully furnished cottages start at $1.7 million - prices that haven't deterred World Number Two golfer Lee Westwood, Open Champion Darren Clarke, and English cricket hero Freddie Flintoff from buying them. Fractional ownership of one of these cottages is also available starting at US$110,000 through the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club.

Links course However, anyone can visit the Abaco Club, stay for a week or more, play the fabulous golf course, enjoy the rest of the facilities, and think about joining the club or buying property there, provided they can afford US$399 a night to stay in one of the 20 luxury cabanas that exist solely for that purpose. It may sound expensive but it's worth it to stay in what is, for me, a little piece of Heaven on Earth. The club's centrepiece is undoubtedly the stunning golf course, a true Scottish-style tropical links created by Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie and described by Ernie Els as “a phenomenal golf course”, where the first 14 holes wrap themselves around the half-moon shape of Winding Bay and the last four play alongside the Atlantic on the other side of the headland.

Howling winds All the fairways are tight, steeply ridged on many holes, and bordered by beach scrub mixed with beautiful tropical plants in some places and impenetrable jungle in others. 70

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THE ABACO CLUB - BAHAMAS

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Tall sand dunes dominate several holes on the front nine, acting as a magnet for stray tee shots. Many of the greens are huge and severely undulating, placing a premium on putting and choosing the right club for your approach shots, whilst strategic bunkering - many of them deep pot bunkers that would not be out of place on St Andrews or Carnoustie - adds to the challenge. Measuring 7,123 yards, par 72 from the back tees the Abaco course can be a monster, particularly when the wind is howling in from the sea. Fortunately a variety of tees mean that men can play it at just 6,010 yards and ladies at just 5,395 yards, but whichever set of tees you choose to play from you will never forget your round on this magnificent course.

The 5th hole Whilst virtually every hole at Abaco is memorable there are three holes in particular worthy of special mention. Firstly the 312 yard, par-4 5th, a stunningly beautiful hole that is driveable provided you can carry large sand dunes and three pot bunkers 240 yards from the tee and then negotiate another pot bunker just in front of the green. If your ball veers left off the tee you’re on the beach or in the turquoise blue waters of Winding Bay. On one of the days I played the wind was behind and one of my playing partners, a good 4-handicapper, nonchalantly stepped up to his tee shot and smote a five-wood to one foot from the hole for a tap-in eagle. Easy game isn’t it, sometimes.

Accurate tee shot The other two holes that really linger in the memory are the last two. The par-3 17th, played from an elevated tee to a green right by the Atlantic Ocean, is truly picturesque and can play 204 yards from the back tee. It's completely exposed to the elements, requiring a very accurate tee shot to carry the two pot bunkers

front right of the green and hold the right level on the four-tiered putting surface. Meanwhile the 18th - a 572 yard par-5 - is also quite breathtaking. Played from an exposed tee on a cliff top most of the hole plays down a slightly sheltered valley before ending up on an elevated green so close to the Atlantic that, on a wild weather day, the crashing waves can shower you as you’re putting. One of the world's great par-5’s and finishing holes.

Delicious seafood After your round on this magnificent link you’ll probably be in need of refreshment which you can either take in the luxurious octagonal clubhouse that sits high on Ocean Point affording great views across Winding Bay, or relaxing on the beach at Buster’s Beach Bar. Gourmet cuisine is available in the clubhouse and you can feast on delicious local seafood dishes like Broiled Spiny Lobster, Colossal Shrimp, or Caribbean Seafood Stew, and meat dishes such as Tavern Beef Stew (utterly delicious on the night I tried it), Guava Glazed Game Hen, or the 12-oz New York Strip Steak I had on my opening night at Abaco which, with an organic green salad and sweet potato fries, was superb but left no room for dessert. I was able to rectify that on subsequent nights and can highly recommend both the mouthwatering Warm Molten Chocolate Banana Cake and the Guava and Peach Cobbler, though not at the same time unless you have a superhuman digestive system.

“Bahama Mama” Lighter fare like soups, salads, club sandwiches, and superb burgers are served at Buster's Beach Bar and Archie the colourful, larger-than-life barman, mixes cocktails here, like his Bahama Mama (Bacardi Gold, Bacardi Coconut, Pineapple juice and 73

THE ABACO CLUB - BAHAMAS Grenadine) or his Winding Bay Wind-Up (Apricot Brandy, Bacardi Gold, Pineapple and Orange Juice floated with Myers Rum), that are out of this world. You can also get one of the Abaco Club's chefs to personally cook your own favourite meals and serve them in your cottage/cabana, or even on the beach.

Enjoy the sunset If golf isn’t your thing or you still have energy left after your round there are a whole host of other activities available at the Abaco Club. You can work out in their gym, which I did on one evening, whilst gazing in awe through the floor-toceiling window at the spectacular sunset over Winding Bay, or perhaps relax in the heated pool, steam or sauna rooms, or even enjoy a luxurious massage treatment in the Elemis Spa where I indulged in a heavenly 50-minute Balinese Massage after one round of golf. There are also a couple of shops at the club where you can buy Abaco Club souvenirs or any essentials like sunscreen that you might have forgotten. Other activities available include playing a gentle game of croquet or more active pursuits like horse riding, tennis, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, wind-surfing or kayaking. Or you could just swim around in the beautifully clear water of Winding Bay where, being a keen snorkeler and kayaker, I spent many of my daylight hours when not on the golf course, or take a leisurely stroll along the private 2¼ miles of white sandy beach. Pure Heaven.

Beware of sharks

Remember to have a look at

the luxurious ocea

n front cottages

refrigerator, and complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the property. Two, three, and four bedroom cottages are also available to rent on a nightly basis with prices available on request. Guests staying at the Abaco Club also get their own golf cart which they can use to drive around/explore the property during their stay.

The club is also able to arrange deep-sea fishing and diving trips all around Abaco Island and one early morning I found myself Second to none snorkeling in 50 feet of water in the Pelican Cays National Park And whilst at Abaco, even if you can’t afford to buy one, please lazily following a ten foot long do take a look at those Caribbean Reef Shark gliding luxurious, fully furnished, through the water some 20 feet ocean front cottages. There are beneath me. This was followed always one or two available as GETTING THERE by lunch in Hope Town and a British Airways (www.britishairways.com) flies five times a week show cottages and they are from London Heathrow to Nassau Airport in the Bahamas. From trip to the top of the famous quite magnificent. If I had the Nassau there are 5-6 35 minute flights daily to Marsh Harbour Airport candy striped lighthouse there, money I’d buy one now on Abaco Island with either bahamasair (www.bahamasair.com) or one of the last manually operated without even thinking twice SkyBahamas Airline (www.skybahamas.net). The Club will pick you lighthouses in the world. about it and happily spend the up from their private terminal at Marsh Harbour Airport. rest of my life at this world class WHEN TO GO Luxury and comfort piece of heaven where the golf, Best time to go is November to April when the temperatures range The cabanas that non-members food, surroundings and service from 70ºF to 76ºF and it's pretty dry. From May-October the stay in are quite beautiful and are second to none. Ranging temperatures get higher (77-82ºF) but there's also more chance of located alongside the first from 2-4 bedrooms, at least rain, especially in June, September and October. fairway, just a few yards from the two of which have sumptuous CURRENCY beach. Mine was luxuriously en suite bathrooms and walk-in The currency is the Bahamian dollar though US dollars are just as decorated in Caribbean colours wardrobes, and with huge acceptable. The exchange rate is 1$B = 1$US though it's best to with a king-size bed, walk-in fitted kitchens and living areas, take US dollars as Bahamian dollars are virtually worthless outside the Bahamas. cedar closet, and glass mosaic and large verandas with tiles in the en-suite bathroom. breathtaking ocean views, they ESSENTIALS There was also a sitting area with really are incredible, as is the Lots of sunscreen and mosquito repellent, and an international plug adaptor. sleeper sofa, 42-inch plasma telewhole of the Abaco Club. I vision with DVD/CD player, cannot recommend it too CONTACT Bose sound system, wet bar, highly and I’m already saving Call 1-800-278-0121 or visit the website under-the-counter sub-zero www.ritzcarltondestinationclub.com up for my membership.

GOOD TO KNOW

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

GREAT WATCHES

Admiring the passage of

time

A watch is not only something that gives you the time. It is also about taking delight in the relentless pursuit of excellence. It is the hours of toil expended by time-served artisans trying to make the finest timepieces without compromise. By Angus Davies, www.escapement.uk.com, pictures provided by Breguet

GREAT WATCHES

ike many young men, I worked hard with industrious fervor and sought material wealth. I remember purchasing my first “proper” wristwatch and thinking I had somehow arrived. The brand name was part of common-place parlance back in the 1980’s and was a token of success. With hindsight I cringe at my youthful naivety, believing that my wristwatch somehow marked my professional maturity. Haute horology is not about brandishing your bank balance. It is about taking delight in the relentless pursuit of excellence. It is the hours of toil expended by time-served artisans trying to make the finest timepieces without compromise. A fine-timepiece should be purchased for one’s own delight not to crassly convey fiscal fortune.

It starts with Breguet If watches are new to you, you may not have heard of AbrahamLouis Breguet (1747 - 1823). He was the most celebrated of all French clock and watchmakers and in my humble opinion the greatest watchmaker of all time. He was an innovator, a man ahead of his time. He had a rare blend of technical aptitude in union with commercial acumen. Many of his inventions continue to feature in mechanical watches to this day. Breguet timepieces were bought by royalty and leading members of society. The customer list is deeply impressive; Marie Antoinette, Napoleon Bonaparte, The Duke of Wellington, Louis XVI, Louis XVIII, Czar Alexander and George IV to name but a few. After Breguet’s demise the demand for his timepieces did Abraham-Louis Breguet (1747 - 1823) n o t a b a t e . In t h e 2 0 t h c e n t u r y, S i r W i n s t o n Churchill owned a Breguet, along with Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninov as well as many others. Alexander Pushkin wrote in his literary masterpiece “Eugene Onegin”; “A dandy on the boulevards, strolling at leisure, until his Breguet, ever vigilant, reminds him it is midday”. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769 – 1821)

Marie Antoinette (1755 – 1793) 78

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A watch must be mechanical Quartz watches nearly spelt the death knell of the mechanical watch industry back in the 1970’s. They offer accuracy at a low price point yet lack character or passion. Fortunately, haute horology and Swiss watchmaking survived and now enjoys record popularity despite the economic woes in some markets. It is not merely about arriving at your destination but the wonderful

journey you take getting there. A fine mechanical timepiece harnesses skill of the artisan but also the romanticism of time keeping. To the untrained eye the inside of a magnificent timepiece may appear like a mechanical mélange, but immerse yourself in the world of; going trains, spring barrels, balance wheels and escapement levers and you will soon become hypnotized by horology. Its charms can seduce the coldest heart. There are two choices for purchaser; hand-wound or selfwinding. Hand-wound necessitates the wearer turning the crown, imparting energy to the spring barrel. Self-winding watches, sometimes referred to as automatic, contain a rotating weight which transmits energy from the movement of the wearer’s wrist to the spring barrel. This offers convenience as it will not require winding whilst being worn.

Complications - more than hours and minutes A complication is a term used to describe extra functions the watch offers in addition to imparting hours and minutes. There are several complications available. An annual calendar, for example, shows the day, date, month and sometimes moon-phase as well as hours, minutes and seconds. This watch will allow for months with 30 or 31 days without necessitating adjustment. It will require adjustment only once per year on 1st of March. A perpetual calendar is more complex than an annual calendar. It makes allowance for the fewer days in February, even for leap years. A perpetual calendar is more technically challenging and will therefore be generally priced higher than an annual calendar. The list of complications is endless; Flyback, Rattrapante, Chronograph, Worldtimer, Minute Repeater to name but a few. To the uninitiated reader this is best left for a later lesson. However, I have to mention the pièce de resistance of complications, the Tourbillon. Breguet constantly sought improved accuracy for his watches and in 1801 he patented the Tourbillon which countered the negative effects of gravity on the accuracy of a mechanical timepiece. Incredibly complex and expensive to produce it is the pinnacle of watch making, produced by a limited number of suitably capable artisans.

Finissage - the finishing of the timepiece A watch will contain parts moving with great alacrity in close proximity to each other. Tolerances are fine. Rough or proud surfaces may mar the smooth operation, reliability and accuracy of the timepiece. A watchmaker along with the other trades employed at the atelier will spend countless days polishing and burnishing to provide the finest finish. Screws and hands will have a beautiful blue hue achieved through skilled heat treatment. This provides corrosion resistance and greater hardness. Components will feature perlage, a circular graining motif, similar to that found on the dashboards of old racing cars of the 1930’s, albeit on a much smaller scale, executed to a finer standard and pre-dating the existence of cars. Côte de Genève will appear on other surfaces, a pattern of parallel lines, applied by hand in the case of Breguet. This type of motif exemplifies the peerless precision practised in the home of perfection, Breguet.

The inventor Breguet’s list of achievements was exhaustive. Remember, this was the latter part of the 18th Century, yet many of his inventions have not been bettered. The pare-chute was a shock-protection device which prevented damage to delicate components. It is still used today by Breguet

and has provided inspiration for alternatives which have subsequently appeared. Breguet hands, Breguet spring, Breguet numerals, the gong system for chiming watches they have become part of the horological landscape adopted by many lesser brands.

An artist of the mechanical form Breguet was a great inventor, a savvy entrepreneur but his biggest talent was his eye for design. Admire the dial of a Breguet and it has a unique design language. He eschewed convention often placing the hours and minutes off-centre. Horological custom would dictate subsidiary seconds would normally feature at 6 o’clock but Breguet would locate the seconds where he felt it fit best with due consideration for space beneath the dial. It was his careful management of space under the dial which meant his watches were slimmer than many bulkier offerings of the time.

Classique “Grande Complication” wristwatch in 18ct. pink gold, with tourbillion

The dials would feature guilloché, using a rose-engine operated by hand. A practice still continued by Breguet to this day. This detailed engraving, provides various patterns which capture the light and provide aesthetic appeal for all fortunate enough to capture a glimpse of these amazing watches. Many watches feature beautiful lugs which bring the case and strap together in steadfast union. Parallel lines appear on the vertical surfaces of the case, referred to as caseband fluting. It is the delightful design details which differentiate Breguet as one of the finest exemplars of haute horology.

DONNAFUGATA - ITALY

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

n j o b a i l i ic

The S

land It’s the largest is, famous ean in the Mediterranre and baroque u for its rich agriculthen I think of Sicily w architecture. But hea ri ng the theme rt I unavoidably sta ther”. The Mafia may fa fr o m “Th e God land plenty of press, but have given this isreasons. Now, wonderful for all the wrong like Donnafugata are new golf resorts new course... setting a , By Nils Bjornes sort & Spa nafugata Golf Re Do o als res tu pic

DONNAFUGATA - ITALY

he continuous jolts from tyres hitting the metal joints on the viaduct reminds me of train travel in the past when the clatter from the tracks used to make one sleepy. Here though it has the opposite effect and as it goes on and on it starts to give me a headache. I'm on my way from Palermo to Donnafugata Golf resort, a 200 km drive across the island of Sicily to the southern tip and the province of Ragusa. After passing through Palermo it goes steadily upwards, through wide uninhabited valleys surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and the first 100 km are pretty straight forward. Equipped with fairly detailed directions I chose not to accept the offer from the car rental company to use a satnav, which I would soon regret.

Confusing road signs My first mistake cost me half an hour, but it would get worse as I approached my destination. Maybe I was confused by the fact that all signs pointed to Ragusa in different directions, which I later found out was because both the province and the city are called Ragusa. But after spending a couple of hours being completely lost and criss-crossing the area on small bumpy roads I finally arrive at my destination. My advice would be, if you fly into Palermo, then use a sat82

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nav, or even better, fly to Catania on the east coast and arrange with the hotel's highly efficient concierge service to be picked up. Catania is just an hour away.

The resort Donnafugata is perhaps a little difficult to find, at least that was the case for me, but they definitely know how to make you feel welcome. From the moment I arrived and throughout my four day stay I was treated with real Italian hospitality making me feel like I was part of an extended family. The resort is barely two years old and the dĂŠcor throughout is minimalist. The food is simple, but although it needed a bit of seasoning to my taste, the tuna steak I was served while having dinner with Golf Director Guy Roberts that evening was certainly delicious. Thick as a Chateaubriand, tender as butter and absolutely fresh. I hope I did not offend the chef by asking for salt and pepper. My room was comfortable, set on the ground floor of one of the two story buildings where the guest rooms are located. The walls in the room could maybe have benefitted from having some pictures or paintings, but after a rather long day on the road and in anticipation of my round on the golf course with Guy Roberts, in the morning, it was time for bed.

The courses “The green, green grass of home” would not have been my choice of song as I opened the curtains in the morning to get a first look at the golf courses. The fairways were totally brown! The colour more like a cornfield after the harvest. Make no mistake, however, the courses were perfectly playable, but as for my pictures it was a bit of a disappointment. The condition of the fairways was also a surprise to Guy Roberts who arrived just a day ahead of me after spending time with his family in Malaga, Spain. “The courses were perfectly green when I left in December, so this was somewhat unexpected. The reason is that the Bermuda grass on the fairways goes dormant and turns brown when temperatures drops below zero, and this winter has been extremely cold even this far south”, explains Guy.

The Parkland course Donnafugata has two 18 hole golf courses, The Northern – The Parkland and The Southern – The Links course. The Parkland, a 6,666 metre par 72, is a Gary Player Signature Design that winds itself up and down through the rolling landscape surrounded by olive groves and carob trees. Even though the fairways are wide, this is a course that demands strategic planning, and with tricky,

undulating greens well protected by deep bunkers, it will offer plenty of challenges. As Donnafugata’s golf-pro Gary Hughes says; “There is no such thing as an easy golf course – it all comes down to the way you play.” The 12th hole, a 433 metre par-5 dogleg left, is the most challenging hole on this course where a beautiful panoramic view from the tee disguises the perils that await any errant shot. Finding the fairway is a must to give you the opportunity of a lay-up second, short of the fairway bunker on the right. At the dog-leg the 100 metre steep uphill approach requires careful club selection before having to contend with the most undulating green on the course. The 18th, a 333 metre par-4 is by most golfers considered the best hole on the Parkland Course. This slight dog-leg left is a great finishing hole and during the Sicilian Open 2011 proved very challenging for some of the world's best. In clear view from the hotel’s terrace (so expect spectators) and surrounded by water along the left and out of bounds on the right, even a well placed drive calls for a precise approach to a well protected green if your ball is to stay dry.

The Links course This 18-hole par 72 course designed by Franco Piras could very 83

DONNAFUGATA - ITALY

well look like a link if it were not for the presence of two large, artificial lakes that serve as irrigation reserves and also form a natural oasis for migrating birds. Indeed, many species are finding and recovering their natural habitat at Donnafugata Golf Resort. The course runs up and down two large valleys, each one with a lake for a challenging game every time. The fairways, lined with large palm trees and pine trees, are carved in the re-naturalized areas recreating the original atmosphere of the place. The greens are always well defended and stand out amid the Garrigue, the Mediterranean scrubland typically found growing here. The breeze blowing from the sea always makes it interesting and demands different strategies for each hole.

Small margin for error The first six holes are incredibly challenging, and if you make it through with a decent result it would certainly boost your moral. The 8th, which is the signature hole on this course, is a 299 metre par-4 where elevated tees provide an outstanding panoramic view of the Donnafugata estate. The island green allows very small margin for error, so finding the fairway before the water at around 100 metres, allowing a short iron to the green, is a must unless you wish for your ball to go swimming with the fishes. When standing on the tee of the 13th hole, a 439 metre par84

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5 with a stunning view of the Mediterranean, be wary of the prevailing wind blowing any errant shots into the gorse bushes which hug the length of this dog-leg right. With the fairway also sloping from left to right, it is advisable to aim more left than you think. Careful club selection is needed to a raised green protected by 3 large bunkers.

Steeped in history In the afternoon on my second day, after finishing the rounds on the golf courses, I have the pleasure of being taken on a guided tour of the area in a chauffeur driven car, courtesy of the Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eminent concierge-service. Accompanied by the very knowledgeable Barbara Lurato we set out into the magnificent country side to take a closer look at some of the Historical towns in this fascinating part of the island. The origins of the regions capital, Ragusa, can be traced back to the 2nd millennium BC when the Sicels, who have given the island its name, came over from mainland Italy and settled here. After a devastating earthquake that destroyed most of the town as well as other towns in the area in 1693, Ragusa was rebuilt in two parts, Ragusa Ibla (the old town) and Ragusa Superiore (the new town). Today Ibla is a spectacular mix of narrow streets, steep winding steps and magnificent old baroque churches.

We also visited the towns of Scicli and Modica, and if you have the slightest interest in old architecture you’ve come to the right place. I would highly recommend to let the concierge service at Donnafugata arrange the trip, because not only will you benefit by having an English speaking guide, navigating through the myriad of narrow streets in these towns requires local knowledge.

Déjà vu If you by chance should find that some of the sights seem familiar it might be because the Province of Ragusa is where famous Sicilian detective Inspector Montalbano lives and works in the fictional town of "Vigàta", in the equally fictional district of "Montelusa". In his novels the author, Andrea Camilleri, based Vigàta on his home town of Porto Empedocle, on Sicily's southwest coast, but the popular TV-series is almost entirely shot in the city of Ragusa and surrounding towns.

Pasta and seafood My guide Barbara has offered to take me out to dinner in the evening, and when asked what I would like to eat, I said pasta with seafood, not only because it happens to be a favorite of mine, but because “when in Italy…” The driver took us to Scoglitti, a small fishing village near the

town of Vittoria, which found its place in history after being selected by the Allies as the site for an amphibious invasion of Sicily during World War II. We arrived at the Cusina Casalinga, a little trattoria on the beachfront and found we were the only guests. Our waiter Massimo, who for some reason reminded me of the legendary Keith Floyd, mostly because I could imagine him having a glass or two of wine in the kitchen between servings, was a charming man who obviously liked to talk with the guests. I of course didn’t understand a word. Barbara recommended a local red wine and knowing that Sicily produces some of the best wine in Italy, it seemed the perfect choice. Massimo brought in a large tray with 5 – 6 small dishes of delicious seafood which I naturally took for starters, but that was not the case, because for the next 45 minutes or so the tapaslike dishes kept coming.

Mysterious dishes There were a variety of sardines, some small some large, there was octopus of different sizes prepared and served in a variety of ways, and there was shrimp and crayfish and some dishes I didn’t recognize. All of it obviously fresh and most of it delicious. I must admit however, my courage failed with some of the more mysterious looking dishes. 85

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By now I had more or less forgotten about the pasta, but suddenly, after about an hour, there it was. A large steaming plate with home-made tagliatelli in a rich sauce and loaded with mouthwatering seafood. It looked and smelled absolutely delicious and I did my best to eat some of it, but there comes a time when even a descendant of the Vikings must lay down his fork. I certainly was happy to be driven all the way to the door of the hotel.

The morning after Needless to say I did not have much appetite for breakfast the next morning, but because I had a long drive to Palermo ahead of me, I made a couple of sandwiches for the trip. This time I chose to drive via Catania to catch the motorway and to avoid getting lost on the small roads again. It also gave me a chance to see Mount Etna, the largest and most active volcano in Europe. It’s certainly an impressive sight and despite making my trip an hour longer it was well worth it. If you don’t mind a bit of driving, traveling via Palermo definitely gives you the possibility to see more of this captivating island, but the next time, I for one will fly to Catania, and this time will be sure to leave some room for the heavenly seafood pasta…

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GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE EasyJet flies to Palermo and Catania from London Gatwick. Prices one way start from £32.99 and include all taxes (prices are subject to change). Visit www.easyJet.com to book. If you fly to Catania and don’t want to rent a car, contact the Resort to be picked up at the airport. The Concierge Service also arranges guided tours of the area. BEACHES Donnafugata Golf Resort & Spa offers the following options of Private Beaches. Kastalia Beach (5 Km ) - Open from June till September Private Beach by Marina Yacht Club – Marina di Ragusa (20 min) Seasonal (Easter - Mid October) CONTACT Donnafugata Golf Resort Contrada Piombo 97100 - Ragusa / Sicilia - Italia Phone: +39 0932 914 200 Fax: +39 0932 914 222 nhdonnafugata@nh-hotels.com www.donnafugatagolfresort.com

www.deutsche-golfstrasse.de

GERMANYthe new home of Golf

Germany used to be known as a country of Poets and Freethinker , famous for its Beer, Cars and Engineering. But within the last decades it became the largest golf nation in Central Europe. With over 700 courses and more than 12.300 fairways across the country, Germany offers a unique and almost unbeatable golf experience with an excellent value for money. Our internet portal www.deutsche-golfstrasse.de is the perfect site to search for valueable tips about golf vacations in Germany. Find your favorite golf package on our website plus useful information about the different regions. There´s a lot to discover. We look forward to see you soon - in Germany!

For more information or inquiries visit www.deutsche-golfstrasse.de or send an e-mail to: info@deutsche-golfstrasse.de Deutsche Golf Strasse® is a registered Trademark by Golf Tourism Development & Services D-21335 Lüneburg and a recognized Scenic Road for Germany by the German National Tourist Board (GNTB)

COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE

In the Lap of the Gods

With two of only seven golf courses in the whole

of Greece, the spectacular Costa Navarino Resort is a beacon of hope in the unfolding Greek tragedy. By Chris Worthley, photos Costa Navarino Resort

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COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE

”From my balcony I am treated to views over this vast Greek coastline. I soon discover that this is the perfect place to sit and sip a glass of wine while the sun sinks into the sea”

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y morning flight from Heathrow to Athens was due to depart at 9 am. I arrived full of enthusiasm with bags and clubs in hand, only to find out that due to strikes in Greece, our flight was delayed by two hours. These things do happen, and nothing can be taken away from Aegean Airways who were the airline of choice for this latest jaunt. They include golf clubs in the price by the way, which instantly makes them a big hit for us golfers. After a smooth flight, I was found guilty of assuming I had got away relatively unscathed by my journey! Little did I know that the hotel had only sent one small eight-seat minibus for eight journalists and six sets of clubs, a somewhat painful experience, needless to say, I would suggest taking the direct flight with Aegean Airlines to Kalamata international airport which is a mere thirty minutes from the resort.

Historical sites The Costa Navarino Golf Resort is located in the Messinia region, which is to be found in the lesser known South Western part of Greece. This area is mentioned in one of the oldest pieces of European literature - the Iliad, and the area is overflowing with archaeological sites. It was here the famous naval battle of Navarino took place near present Pylos in 1827. Nowadays, rather than the sound of battle, this area resonates to the sound of golf balls and the cry of wayward shots. This land of breathtaking beauty is now the location of one of the most exciting new golf developments to be found anywhere. Fittingly, this resort lies just two hours away from Olympia, the birth place of competitive sports. Of course they didn’t play golf at the original Games, and although it appeared briefly in 1900 and 1904, it won’t be until the Olympic Games in Rio in 2016 that golf finally will be on the agenda.

The hotels Located on a gently sloping hillside which descends down to a sandy beach and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the Costa Navarino resort comprises of two hotels; The Romanos, a 320 room member of The Luxury Collection, and The Westin which is a 445 room family oriented hotel. The warm welcome from the staff at the Westin Resort soothed my frayed nerves and the cramped journey is all but forgotten. I debunk to my very spacious hotel room to recover and prepare for the next day’s golf. From my balcony I am treated to views over this vast Greek coastline. I soon discover that this is the perfect place to sit and sip a glass of wine while the sun sinks into the sea. Perhaps this is what inspired the late Captain Vassillis Constantakopoulos, who made his fortune in shipping, to buy vast tracts of land in the area and so fulfil his dream of creating a high end sustainable resort which will feature a total of four 18 hole golf courses, a number of hotels, villas, spas and swimming pools when the second phase of the development is finished. Because despite the economic turmoil the owning company is not worried: “We’re in it for the long run”, says Captain Vassillis’ son, Achilleas. (Let’s hope it won’t become his Achilles’ heel)

Facilities It’s not only golf that can be enjoyed here; the resort is also home to the Navarino Racquet Academy for those looking to hone their tennis skills. For those looking for a bit of culture, perhaps a visit to watch a play in the open air amphitheatre, or maybe a day on the beach to enjoy one of the many water sports available. After all this, it may be worth a trip to the Anazoe Spa to sooth those weary muscles with an authentic Greek treatment. But no, I am here to play golf, and Costa Navarino has two courses to test my mettle. 91

COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE

”It’s easy to forget just how close you are to the biggest water hazard imaginable; however once on the green you overlook the gorgeous landscape that contrasts with the crystal clear water of this Mediterranean bay”

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The Bay Course The Bay Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Junior, offers some testing holes but more noteworthy, some absolutely breathtaking sights. The 4th & 5th holes run parallel to the bay, with the edge of the fairways literally a few metres from the water. As you stand on the tee of the par-4 4th hole, you are aware of the feeling of both fear and awe as the sea breeze hits your face. Anything right of the fairway and your ball is lost to Poseidon, that Greek god of the depths. However after hitting a straight drive, you can soak in the views of the stunning coastline. Playing up the long 6th hole, it’s easy to forget just how close you are to the biggest water hazard imaginable; however once on the green you overlook the gorgeous landscape that contrasts with the crystal clear water of this Mediterranean bay. For most of the holes, emphasis is on positional play for those looking to shoot low scores – this is the more accessible of the two courses, for all handicaps.

those more wayward golfers better have packed a bucket & spade in their golf bag. Having said this, the larger than normal greens found on so many of the holes offer many a chance to save par.

Tricky and beautiful

The Dunes Course

The last two holes of the course are truly spectacular ,with the 200+ yard par-3 17th offering many salvation with its large undulating green. However, it can be as tricky as it is beautiful. The 18th hole offers a truly stunning par-5 to finish; with 530+ yards of fairway to play with, it is still very difficult to reach in two shots with seven bunkers and the green being significantly elevated from the tee. No matter what you score on this hole, it really is a beauty for all to behold, as are so many of the holes on the Dunes Course. After this, what better way to end the day than to enjoy a traditional Greek meal at Morias Restaurant, and perhaps try the ancient art of tea service and vodka infusions with marjoram and lavender from the hotels own garden served at the 1827 Lounge & Bar.

This first signature golf course in Greece is certainly a severe test at times. Designed by Bernhard Langer, this Par 72 plays just under 6,800 yards from the back tees. With some tricky holes on the back nine, it’s easy to forget that this course has only been around for some 18 months. The front nine plays relatively easy in comparison to the back - with reachable par-4s for big hitters on the second & sixth holes. For those hitting a straight ball, the front nine should be a time to appreciate those immaculate fairways and perhaps a time to play more aggressively. The back nine however is much more testing, with Langer’s bunkers strategically placed to catch any stray tee shots. Notably holes such as the 12th boast eight bunkers, meaning

My golf soirée is sadly soon over and it’s time to leave the comfort of the hotel and head for home. The return journey to the airport is, I am glad to report, in the comfort of a luxurious 12 seat minibus. It pours down for the whole journey back to the airport. Better to rain now than while doing battle on the golf course. October, with its changeable weather might not be the best time to visit the land of Plato, but those Greek gods were, on the whole kind to us. Will I be back? Absolutely, this course is going to get better and better, but next time I may bring my swimming shorts, just in case.

The return home

COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE

GOOD TO KNOW GETTING THERE Aegean Airlines have daily flights from London Heathrow via Athens to Kalamata Airport (KLX). Also there are seasonal direct flights to Kalamata from Gatwick and Manchester with Thomas Cook and Thompson www.aegeanair.com PAY AND PLAY Seven nights pay and play at Costa Navarino starts from £1,189 pp with Elegant Golf Resorts www.elegantgolfresorts.com This price is based on two sharing de luxe garden view double room in the Westin Resort on a bed and breakfast basis. It includes two rounds on the Bay Course & two rounds on the Dunes Course, private luxury airport transfers from Athens and flights with Aegean from London Heathrow to Athens.This offer is for travel from 1 May – 14 June & 16 September – 31 October 2012. As well as playing Costa Navarino’s two signature golf courses, the region’s excellent climate is ideal for those wanting to participate in other sports, outdoor activities and explore Messinia’s rich heritage, culture and traditions. Activities at the ‘Navarino Outdoors Academy’ include mountain biking, bike trekking, hiking, and depending on the season, guests can get involved with the local grape and olive Harvests A few KM drive from Costa Navarino is Voidokilia beach, a spectacular stretch of sand which is frequently recognised among the world’s best beaches.

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Costa Navarino runs a series of ‘philosophical walks’, which take their inspiration from the ancient Greek philosophers that taught even during a leisurely walk. Professors lead walks in the countryside while covering topics relevant to current issues, through Ancient Greek writings. The walks offer an insight into the impact of ancient Greek philosophical thought on the world. TRADITIONAL COOKING The destination operates a Messinian Authenticity Programme which gives guests the opportunity to experience various local traditions and customs of the region. This includes the aforementioned olive harvesting. In the nearby picturesque town of Pylos, guests can take part in home-cooking in the houses of local women. Together, they prepare and learn about traditional recipes that have been part of the locals’ daily lives for many generations, and they all enjoy a meal. RATES FOR 2012 The Westin Resort Costa Navarino - Deluxe Garden View Room: From €140 The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort - Deluxe Garden View Room: From €200 Green Fees for guests across the two courses are €95 (18 holes) and €60 (9 holes). www.costanavarino.com

GRAN CANARIA, SPAIN

Salobre north 4th hole 96

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

A Continent of its own Originally named Tamarรกn, meaning

"Land of the Brave", Gran Canaria is also known as "The Little Continent" because of the great variation in climate and temperature. They also have golf courses that make the knees tremble on the bravest of golfers, as Linda Jackson finds out... Pictures by GranCanaria Golf, Lopesan Baobab Resort and Linda Jackson

GRAN CANARIA, SPAIN

Lopesan Baobab Resort

ithin 24 hours of arriving in Gran Canaria, WAR is declared. Not, I hasten to add a clash with one of Gran Canaria’s sister islands nor a squabble with Africa the nearest neighbour to the Canary Islands, but a battle with my husband who has accompanied me on my sojourn to discover the golf courses in the south of Gran Canaria - the third largest island in the archipelago. I am very competitive you understand, so betting on the golf course will be permitted… obligatory in fact. I take no prisoners and reap the financial rewards with immense pleasure. I hate to admit that it is a bonus to have a strong man around when gallivanting off on a golf trip: golf clubs, suitcase, heavy cameras, laptop, all the gear… it’s a heavy burden for a gal to bear. But double up the baggage when travelling with a golfing partner and ‘airporting’ becomes double hassle - but it needn’t be. My one ‘must have’ luxury (well, maybe there are one or two others) when I have to transport heavy baggage to the airport is to virtually engage my own valet.

Meet & Greet So for my golfing foray to Gran Canaria I follow my usual routine of booking a ‘Meet & Greet’ airport car parking service. What time it saves and what a pleasure it is to drive the car to the terminal entrance, hand over keys to a valet, stack gear on a trolley, meander off to check-in and not have to think about long-term car parks and hauling luggage on and off airport shuttle buses. 98

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When I return, the valet will deliver my car to the terminal doorstep. Incredibly hassle-free and wonderfully indulgent! Continuing with indulgent treats I tempt my husband to join me with a glass of fizz and a seafood platter at the airport, marginally better than an EasyJet ready-packed sandwich. After all, it is a sort of ‘last supper’ for my sparring partner before battle commences on the golf courses of Gran Canaria. We are less than a four-hour flight away from perfect golfing weather (year-round).

Diverse island The last time I had been to Gran Canaria was a few years ago and I confess that the island took me by surprise. I knew Gran Canaria was volcanic and that the major tourist area in the south was renowned for its lively bars, nightclubs and popular beaches, but what I didn’t know was that the island was remarkably diverse and that the ‘undiscovered’ core of the island boasts quaint sleepy old towns, inhabited cave dwellings, pine forests, amazing panoramas, lush sub-tropical vegetation and vibrant exotic flora - many species originating from Africa. On my last visit I stayed mainly in rural accommodation and explored the northern half of the island but this time, I am on really serious business in the south… playing four golf courses, and staying in an exclusive five-star resort stylishly furnished throughout in African-style décor, and set in exotic sub-tropical gardens which could have been plucked straight out of Africa 131 miles away.

Salobre 11th hole

Beware of ‘crocs’ A flock of flamingos stand in the shallow water below the gigantic reception entrance, and on the terrace some huge baobab trees. I can see giraffe heads poking out from treetops opposite a restaurant. There’s an elephant and calf hiding in the shade of a tree. And is that really a crocodile basking in the sun? Divinely African, the Lopesan Baobab Resort is situated in an exclusive area near the Meloneras historical lighthouse and famous sand dune beaches. With 677 spacious rooms and suites, nine heated pools (including a slow river, and pools with sandy beaches) integrated into extensive African-style gardens, plus a ‘Panchi World’ play area for children, this is one striking resort that no-one wants to be dragged away from and I should know. Drag myself away I have to… there are battles to fight. The first battlefield - sorry, golf course – is Salobre Golf South, just a ten-minute drive from the hotel. I have a hire car as not all golf courses are served by the hotel’s shuttle bus, driving is a doddle in Gran Canaria, and I have plans to go sightseeing.

On the battlefield Salobre Golf & Resort represents every characteristic of the southern region of Gran Canaria; desert scrubland, volcanic rocks, canyons and mountains. Arriving at the clubhouse, which is in an elevated position overlooking the 1st, 9th, 10th and 18th holes of Salobre South Course, I find one word to describe the view - wow! What a delightful way to start the day. Looking at welcoming lush

fairways, over the tops of Canarian palm trees to rugged mountains beyond. The scenic course winds its way up into the hills and through craggy countryside; some fairways are fairly steep, some challengingly sloping, but there’s not much water on the course to contend with. Teeing off on the 1st and 10th holes causes fingers to be crossed for luck - both fairways feature a wide ditch to drive across, exactly where your ball might land, while the short Par-3 3rd fronted by a pond does its best to psyche you out... but not as much as the 14th, a Par-3 with a rocky backdrop taken from an elevated tee way up in the hills. The golf was good, as is lunch. Do allow time for lunch at the clubhouse, it’s a must; the views are wonderful, a plate of Iberian jamon a gourmet delight.

Out of Africa Dinner back at Lopesan Baobab Resort in the intimate atmospheric Akara Restaurant (a bamboo ‘cage’) is an Africaninspired delight: an amuse bouche of crayfish, onions, coriander and lime is followed by Akara Awon (African appetisers) of minced antelope steak with spicy tomato sauce, banana crisps and hot bananas, beautifully presented. A carpaccio of beef is next with a satay sauce, rocket, and parmesan slices, followed by a moist sea bass on marinated pumpkin and couscous with caramelised dates. The mouth-watering lamb couscous with figs is served with an upright hollowed-out courgette stuffed with finely sliced carrot, asparagus and a sprig of broccoli. As you can imagine, the hibiscus pudding with palm tree sugar 99

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Anfi Tauro 2nd hole

fights for what little space is left within me. I did sway from the African theme on the wine (I’m not a fan of Chardonnay regardless of country of origin) to savour a Viňestral Rïoja (white), but returned with a full-bodied swing to a South African Kumala Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz. Chef Samuel Quevedo has created a superb African-inspired tasting menu which makes me want to emigrate for Africa immediately… or move into the hotel permanently.

All greens are large, rolling and slick. The 8th green features a stunning red stone cliff backdrop. We can see the entire Tauro Valley from the 14th, and the 13th hole - a Par-3 bordered on one side by rocks and a vast drop on the other, is punishingly wicked. You can kiss good-bye to your ball if you’re not spot on with your tee shot from the mega-elevated tees. I confess to giving a couple of kisses away on this hole.

Love at first sight

An early morning tee time means that we have time to explore late afternoon so after an excellent lunch at La Cascada Restaurant at Anfi Tauro Resort we head for Agüimes, an attractive town with narrow streets lined with terracotta and ochre-coloured houses (27 miles from Anfi Tauro/21 miles from Meloneras). With us is Armando Sosa Matos, an English-speaking guide with a great sense of humour (and an in-depth knowledge of walks and flora) he’s virtually a walking encyclopaedia. Dotted about Agüimes are a number of attractive life-size bronze statues that portray local characters and rural life, and plenty of tapas bars. There’s a camel down one alleyway, a nude milkmaid milking goats here, naked lovers on a seat there and a group of men in the town square… all sculpted in bronze. We are so lucky to have chosen this day to visit Agüimes as it is the town’s turn to host a special gastronomic tapas evening, ‘Local Seleccionada’, so all tapas bars are serving tapas at €2.50/£2

The next day a fifteen-minute drive gets us to Anfi Tauro Golf, situated in the Mogán municipality. As soon as I catch sight of the course I can’t wait to get on the first tee. I love golf courses in Arizona so trust me when I say this course is an Arizonian lookalike, and I fall in love at first sight. Desert scrub areas, cactus plants, craggy hills, risky tee shots, and ‘target’ golf on a beautifully-maintained course - what a golfer’s delight. Winding our way through the Tauro Valley where the golf course is laid out, we enjoy spectacular mountain panoramas, incredible vistas, pleasant views of the Atlantic Ocean, and exhilarating golf. At times we almost forget a serious competition is in progress. There are four lakes that come into play; the 9th and 18th have a large rolling twin green, backed by large bunkers and well protected to the front by a huge lake, accuracy is needed for your shot into both greens. 100

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Time to explore

Las Meloneras

each including a glass of wine or beer. We spend the vast amount of €7.50/£6 for three tapas, two beers and a glass of red wine, before moving on to our second tapas bar out of four.

Into the caves Not far from Agüimes is the Barranco de Guayadeque, a steepsided canyon dotted with cave dwellings highly populated in preSpanish times and where around 50 people still live in their cave houses, cosy and warm we discover, privileged to be invited inside one. We also peep inside a tiny cave church and enjoy Canarian tapas in a cave restaurant, both dug out of the solid rock by the restaurant’s proprietor. What a simple trouble-free life it is living in caves in the barranco, much of which is a designated nature reserve and where some of the island’s rarest plants grow.

Meloneras Golf Back to civilisation in Meloneras, we take up the challenge of golf at Meloneras Golf, a resort course featuring thousands of palms, a welcoming oasis in the centre of dry rugged terrain. The first nine holes have a distant mountainous backdrop while the second nine run parallel to the coast and have a completely different ‘feel’. There is plenty of room for errant shots on wide rolling fairways, until you get to the back nine that is, where the cliff drops steeply away from the fairway and where there are a couple of knee-

shaking drives to be taken over deep ravines. Following an enjoyable lunch on the sunny terrace at Meloneras Golf, we head for Puerto Mogán, 17 miles away, it’s a picturesque marina full of yachts and pretty houses, well-worth strolling through and savouring a sun-downer in a waterside bar.

Dolphin spotting Taking time-out from golf for a day we decide to go dolphinspotting on The Spirit of the Sea from Puerto Rico, both keels of the boat have a glass bottom so plenty of viewing points. What an experience that three-hour excursion proved to be, we saw hundreds of dolphins, both common and striped, plus a whale. Apparently 29 species of cetaceans have been seen in the Canaries… not a bad count when there are only 79 species worldwide. After such an exciting morning we chill out in the Meloneras area. We enjoy a flying-saucer-sized pizza in Grand Italia restaurant (one of many along classy Boulevard Faro), and stroll along the sea front promenade, past the historical lighthouse and rearing serpent, and through vast sand dunes.

A killer course Our last game of golf is back at Salobre Golf & Resort but this time on North course. Salobre North makes the knees tremble on the bravest of golfers. Ravines to the right, ridges to the left, wide 101

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Salobre north

canyons to drive across, steep runs up and down dale. Golf psychiatrists are likely to get considerable business when golfers stagger off the 18th, the course is wicked. Eat your heart out White Witch in Jamaica and Teeth of the Dog in Dominican Republic… you are tame golf courses compared to Salobre North, not to be missed. Take your camera, scenery is fantastic. Take plenty of balls, you won’t have enough.

War and peace The serenity of the hills in the middle of Salobre North is unbelievable. There’s no point in dropping a pin to test the silence but to give you an idea of the hush, the flap of a bird’s wing disturbs the peace - as does even the buzz of a bee flying past. But how can I possibly blame the birds and bees for my last bad putt? That would sound ridiculous. What a course to play as the grand finale on our pleasurable golf break in Gran Canaria. On the craggy hills of Salobre North we sadly realise that our Gran Canaria golf battle has finally come to an end and on friendly terms if that makes sense, peace has well and truly been declared - there’s not a whisper to be heard. [NB: Salobre North greens are being replaced with a drought-tolerant grass so will be closed from 1 May for six months.]

Arts & crafts Our day of departure: golf matches have been played, packing is done, but there’s one very last thing I must do before we leave the Lopesan Baobab Resort - I must dash into their African arts and crafts boutique, I’ve some prize money to spend and I need to 102

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GOOD TO KNOW Gran Canaria Golf: www.grancanariagolf.com Gran Canaria Tourism: www.grancanaria.com easyJet: www.easyjet.com Meet and Greet car parking service: tel. 01293 515403, www.ilovemeetandgreet.co.uk Green fees vary tremendously: there are high and low season prices that also vary depending on how you book your golf/with whom you book your golf holiday. Several hotels belong to Gran Canaria Golf Association and offer favourable green fees and hotel packages, while specialist golf Tour Operators offer competitively priced golf-included packages English-speaking guide: Armando Sosa Matos, tel. 0034 686 713475, armandososamatos@hotmail.com Spirit of the Sea (dolphin sightseeing): www.dolphinwhale.es Lopesan Baobab Resort: tel. 0034 928 154 400, www.lopesanhotels.com Dólar Rent a Car: tel. 0034 609 982 727 or 0034 627 932 258, dolarcar@hotmail.com

check if the shop sells African carved wooden spoons. After all, I do have an award to make and my husband does deserve the very best of wooden spoons. The battle is over… for golf matches anyway. But unfortunately, having experienced superlative cuisine and magnificent evening buffets (banquets is more descriptive) served at the Baobab Resort, I now have a far more serious battle to fight… the battle of the bulge

Great Food

After great golf comes good food...

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BROCKET HALL - AUBERGE DU LAC

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The Lodge by the Lake “The English do not have a cuisine, my friend, they just have food”, says Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot. But I’m sure even the famous Belgian detective would have changed his mind after visiting Brocket Hall’s Michelin starred Auberge du Lac restaurant. Oh yes, the name is French but the executive chef Phil Thompson is from Essex By Camilla Kaas-Stock, pictures Brocket Hall Phil Thompson

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BROCKET HALL - AUBERGE DU LAC

et in the splendid Hertfordshire countryside, a mere 45 minutes drive from the hustle and bustle of London, you will find 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 star restaurant, and today it is our rumbling stomachs that draw us here. My husband and I arrive at Brocket Hall on a cold and very wet winter morning. I know there has been a lot of talk about the drought this year, but today it seems the weather Gods are trying to make amends and the rain is literally bucketing down. We park the car and decide to make a run for it. First to the club house because, despite the rain, there is a golf course that deserves our attention. Besides, this will help sharpen our appetite before the feast.

The Courses Brocket Hall’s two golf courses take their names from the Prime Ministers who once resided here, The Melbourne Course and The Palmerston Course. 106

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Brocket Hall’s two golf courses take their names from the Prime Ministers who once resided here, The Melbourne Course and The Palmerston Course. The Melbourne Course, which is the one we

”The Michelin star adds a certain amount of pressure, but it is good pressure and the most important thing, after all, is to cook for the customers and keep the restaurant busy.”

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. Looking out through the window of the club house, we try to muster up the courage to venture out in the rain and I am silently praying that my waterproofs live up to their promise. Across the lake, set in the estate’s former hunting lodge, I can see Auberge du Lac and the thought of all the wonderful food awaiting spurs me on. We grab our golf carts and wander down to tee off just below the club house. The first par-4 runs along the lake and requires an accurate tee shot to allow for the slope. My hands already feel frozen and as my ball veers off to the right and rolls down to the waters edge, I know that this will not be one of my best games. Luckily most other golfers have sensibly decided to stay warm and dry, so there won’t be many witnesses to my wayward shots. The Manor House with its many windows is looking down on us from the brow of the hill, but this magnificent building has witnessed more than its share of intrigue and scandal, so doesn’t pay much attention to two wet golfers.

Romantic frolicking Brocket Hall was built in 1760 by renowned architect James Paine for the owner, Sir Matthew Lamb, whose son became the first Lord Melbourne. This was largely brought about through the efforts of his wife who was also the mistress of the Prince Regent, later George IV, a frequent visitor at the Hall. In fact, romantic frolicking and scandalous behavior seems to have been abundant at Brocket Hall with the wife of the second Lord Melbourne, Queen Victoria’s first Prime Minister, being rumored to have had a great passion for the poet Lord Byron. Queen Victoria is another Monarch who often spent time at the Estate, having developed a close friendship with Lord Melbourne. After his death in 1848, the Hall passed to his sister who later married Lord Palmerston who also became Prime Minister. He apparently died in somewhat bizarre circumstances at Brocket Hall, allegedly involving a chambermaid. More recently Baroness Thatcher spent time at the Hall where she wrote her memoirs. After hacking our way through the golf course, we finally arrive at the 18th hole. This is a great par-5, where the ball needs 107

BROCKET HALL - AUBERGE DU LAC to find the green on the other side of the water (mine fails miserably) and is finished off with a short ferry trip across the water. This is a great way to end the round and despite the miserable weather and the not so memorable game, we both feel quite cheery and very deserving of some fantastic food…

Auberge du Lac

mouthful, even if that means stealing from the person next to you.

A chat with the Chef We finish our meal and retire to a comfortable lounge for coffee. Here we are joined by the chef himself, Phil Thompson, who is taking a break and sits down for a quick chat. We compliment him on the food and ask him how it all started? “I come from a whole family of chefs, so I guess it’s more or less in my blood,” he explains. Phil joined Auberge du Lac in 2002, following engagements at leading London venues such as L'Escargot, the Lanesborough and St. Martins Hotels. “When I was offered the job as sous chef I drove up here to have a look and the peace and idyll of the place really appealed to me after years of working in the capital - not that I have much time to enjoy it,” he says smiling, “but my work is my passion and I enjoy every minute of it.”

After changing out of our wet golf clothes (and no, my waterproofs didn’t live up to their promise…) we wander down to Auberge du Lac filled with expectation. We both love good food and after our endeavors on the golf course, having braved the wet and the cold, we are both absolutely famished. The Michelin starred restaurant, under the expert guidance of executive chef Phil Thompson, has gained the reputation as one of the most interesting out-of-London restaurants in the country, so we both know we are in for a real treat. After a warm welcome we are finally seated at a table by the window and with a A star is born glass of Champagne and some stunning In 2005 Phil was appointed executive chef views over the lake and golf course, the at Auberge du Lac and in 2009 all his hard memories of bad shots soon melt away. work and dedication paid off when he and While we study the menu we are served a the restaurant was awarded the much While we study small aperitif, just to whet our appetite. coveted Michelin star. “Getting the star was After much deliberation I decide on creamed wonderful,” he says, “although I first the menu we are served goats cheese mousse, served with smoked doubted myself when changing menus. The a small aperitif, just pecan biscotti, celery and a red wine star adds a certain amount of pressure, but vinaigrette, while my husband opts for it is good pressure and the most important to whet our appetite. ragout of squid with pearl barley and a thing, after all, is to cook for the customers hazelnut mash. Impeccable French waiters make sure our glasses and keep the restaurant busy.” are filled and we are offered delicious homemade breads which we Phil is one hundred percent hands-on in the kitchen, and happily chomp on while we wait for our food to arrive, and luckily combines the best traditions of classic French cooking with his we don’t need to wait long. own English background. “Although there is a big French I have never been a huge fan of goats cheese (apart from the influence here I also cook some British dishes, but with a twist,” caramelized one from my home country of Norway), but thought he says. “I find that British cuisine is often a bit dense, so I try to that if I am to be converted, this is the right place. The mousse is lighten it up.” But Phil’s success with Auberge du Lac is not just creamy and delicate and perfect with the crunchy biscotti and the down to his own talents and efforts. “I have a great and very hard sharpness of the vinaigrette, so I feel very pleased with my choice working team behind me,” he points out. ”They’re a good bunch and decide that from now on I love goats cheese – at least at of lads and I enjoy teaching them and watching them grow. There Auberge du Lac. I try a bit of my husband’s starter too, which is are a lot of laughs and bantering going on, which is important as absolutely delicious. we all work such long hours.”

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Sweet temptations

Fulfilled by work

For our main course I choose roast wing of Cornish skate with moules marinère and pomme frites and my husband chooses roast rump of Dingley Dell pork, fondant potato with braised cabbage and squash purée. The food looks so beautiful and simply melts in our mouths and I decide not to share any with my husband, not even one pomme frites, which were the best I had ever had. Good food obviously makes me very selfish. The wine is lovely and by now we are both feeling happy and very content – but it isn’t over yet, because there is still dessert to contend with and I can’t wait. Spiced poached pear, caramel sauce, shortbread and ice cream –what can be better, apart that is from my husbands choice of peanut butter parfait with dark chocolate ice cream and banana jam. Well I manage to sneak a few mouths full of his too. When you’re at a Michelin starred restaurant then you want to savour every moment and every

Phil explains that personal life and relationships all have to come second as days off are a rarity. “I am fulfilled by my job,” he says with a smile, “Of course this doesn’t mean I want to work this hard forever, but I have so much I want to achieve before I take a step back.” And what about another Michelin star? “Well, that would be nice,” he laughs,” but the most important thing is to cook to the best of my ability and to enjoy the work.” As Phil Thompson makes his excuses and returns to the kitchen, our foray into the culinary arts are over for now. I try to make my coffee last just that little bit longer as I don’t want it all to be over. The wonderful food, the subtle flavors, the fantastic service and atmosphere – this is truly a little bit of heaven. I look out of the window at the rain still falling outside and decide that somehow I must find an excuse to come back soon – very soon…

G R E AT G O L F M A G A Z I N E

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ROBOCUP

RoboCup is an automatic ball return robot that fits inside a standard-depth golf cup, pinging your ball back via its battery operated ball return. It’s the only device designed to work on any practice green. It doubles or triples the number of practice putts you can take because it saves you so much time retrieving your shots, as well as the wear and tear from bending your back. When your practice putts drop in the hole, RoboCup™ shoots them back to you at distances of up to 14 feet. The product also comes with the RoboCup Caddy Cord that goes around the hole, so even missed putts will get fired back to you

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PowaKaddy, has announced the launch of its latest iteration of the world famous Freeway franchise, the world’s bestselling electric trolley for the last decade. PowaKaddy’s new offering has a number of stand-out features. Most notably the soft-touch ambidextrous digital ‘T’ bar handle complete with built-in responsive 9-speed control roller, fully-integrated LED display screen, and electronic digital distance function. The new Freeway Digital’s lightweight and robust frame takes its inspiration from the state-of-the-art PK SPORT. The oversize frame combines with sporty low profile five-spoke wide wheels to complete the new modern look. The whisper quiet motor, ensures that the Freeway Digital is not only visually stunning, but is also constructed to the highest possible specifications delivering outstanding performance. Other highly functional features include PowaKaddy’s revolutionary, 3-way simple-to-use folding mechanism; a brand new battery tray incorporating a built-in interchangeable battery connection that can be utilised with both lithium and lead acid batteries; and a unique and versatile bag grip and exclusive Key Lock system that, when utilised with any PowaKaddy cart bag, restricts all lateral movement. The new Freeway Digital is available in classic black or a more fashion-orientated white frame. The Freeway Digital has a suggested retail price of £349.99 (18-hole lead acid battery), £379.99 (36-hole lead acid battery) and £529.99 (Lithium battery). The Freeway Digital also has 2 year warranty period. www.powakaddy.com

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NAILCOTE HALL

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT Set in an idyllic location in the Warwickshire countryside Nailcote Hall Hotel, Golf

& Country Club has a challenge for all golfers brave enough to leave their drivers at home. Accuracy, patience and above all position playing are what are called for here. So, the question is, have you got what it takes... By Mike Kaas-Stock, Pictures by Peter Blanchflower

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took a trip to my local driving range before I headed off to the Nailcote Hall Par 3 Championship Press Day. As I stood there with club in hand and not another golfer in sight, the rain coming at me in an almost horizontal direction, I did wonder if I was going to arrive to find the whole event to be a washout. After using up my quota of golf balls and watching the wind take them off to far flung corners of the range, I battled my way back to my car and headed off. Three hours later I pull into the drive at Nailcote Hall and the sun is shining from an almost clear sky. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m late and the other journalists have spent the day playing this Par British

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Championship course while I have had to deal with the rigours of the M25 and M1 motorways. Located not far from Birmingham, this 17th century country house set in fifteen acres of parkland is a picture postcard. Built in 1640, the name is believed to be derived from the Norman French word for armourer. As well as the golf course, the 40 bedroom hotel also boasts a gym, jacuzzi, swimming pool and steam room.

The Cromwell Course I meet Rick Cressman, the owner of Nailcote Hall and the creator of this nine hole Par 3 course. Anyone who has met Rick will

know how passionate he is, not only about the Cromwell course, but also the Par 3 tradition. It has its origins in the old Short Course Professional Championships which were played at the Palace Hotel, Torquay from 1933 to 1973. Sid Mouland, who won at Torquay in the 1960s, and in later life became the golf professional attached to Nailcote was the inspiration behind the tournamentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resurgence. Distance has become a bit of a macho thing within the golfing fraternity. Your ability seems to be judged by how far you can hit a ball rather than accuracy, and we all know that once you have teed off, it all becomes a short game. The par 3 takes this concept

and makes it harder. Tight fairways and copious water hazards mean that accuracy is the only thing that is going to count.

A game of presicion By mid afternoon, all the other journalists have left and I get a chance to walk around the Cromwell course with Rick. The attention to detail that has gone into the course is quite staggering. New bunkers have been created over the past year, along with additional water hazards that just seem to be waiting for their daily supply of golf balls to devour, particularly the third hole with a water hazard in front of the green. Dangerous bunkers strategically placed 117

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All 40 bedrooms are furnished to a consistently high standard and reflect the different styles and aspects of this luxury hotel. Many have views of the gardens and the delightful mature trees on the estate. These are echoed in the individually decorated rooms of the 17th Century house, "Magnolia", "Mulberry", "Holly", and "Cherry. behind the greens are a surprise for any golfer who overshoots. The fifth hole which is aptly named “Needle’s Eye”. Whilst one of the shorter in distance, it is framed on the approach by oak trees on either side. Avoid these and you still have to deal with the bunker to the front of the green. Once you make it to the ninth, you again face a water hazard that virtually turns the green into an island, add to this a steep gradient, and you will have a lesson on why accuracy is vital.

A star cast It’s no surprise that this course is so popular and frequented by such notable celebrities as Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson, Willie Thorne and Jasper Carrot to name but a few. The Par 3 Championship is taking place here on the 7th – 10th August and among the contenders for the Trophy will be Masters Champion Ian Woosnam OBE along with his old Ryder Cup skipper Tony Jacklin CBE. For anyone looking for a new and challenging course to play, I would recommend that they come to Nailcote Hall. If you want 118

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to work on distance with your favourite driver, this will not be for you, but if you are looking to improve your game, maybe it’s time to take the challenge.

GOOD TO KNOW Address Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE, United Kingdom Nailcote Hall Hotel, Golf & Country club is located 9 miles from Birmingham Airport, 15 miles from Birmingham City Centre and 7 miles from Coventry City centre. Travel by car; M1 junction 17 (M45), M42 junction 5 to Solihull and M6 junction 4 toWarwick/Leamington. Telephone +44 (0) 2476 466174 Website http://www.nailcotehall.co.uk Email address info@nailcotehall.co.uk

Great Wine

A good round is worth celebrating

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Nectar for the gods

Legend has it that Ulysses pacified the cannibalistic Cyclops by offering wine from

Mount Etna. The divine drink was so intoxicating that the one-eyed monster described it as

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By Nils Bjornes, photo also Azienda Agricola COS

drinking “nectar and ambrosia all in one.” And in today’s Sicily they are still producing wines worthy of the gods, but they always spare a glass or two for a weary traveler... 121

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o one should go to Sicily without tasting the wine, so on my trip to Donnafugata Golf Resort earlier this year I took the opportunity to visit Azienda Agricola COS, a local wine producer near the town of Vittoria in the southeastern region of the island. The company was founded in 1980 by Giambattista Cilia, Giusto Occhipinti and Cirino Strano, three friends who wanted to take up what had once been the work of past generations. The acronym of their surnames gave the company its name, and at the time they started they were the youngest winemakers in Italy. The company follows the principles of biodynamic viticulture to keep in balance and harmony with nature and let the wine express the character of the various soils. It’s not like wine making is anything new on this beautiful Mediterranean island, in fact there is evidence that Mycenaean traders cultivated grapes here as early as 1,500 BC. When the Greeks began to settle in Sicily in the 8th century BC, they too were unable to forgo their favorite libation, "oinos", and introduced several varieties of vines.

Terracotta containers At the COS Winery, history is repeating itself. Here they are replicating the ancient method used by the Greeks and the Romans by storing wine in giant amphoras, a vase-shaped container made of terracotta. How this came about and why, coowner Giusto Occhipinto explains: “We started using these vessels with the 2000 vintage, partly 122

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out of curiosity and partly because we were tired of using barrels. The first few attempts were not completely successful and it took some experimenting to figure out how to make it work.”

Stored underground The one hundred and fifty 400-litre amphora’s used are based on an ancient Spanish design with three types of clay. They are stored underground in a deep bed of gravel - firstly for stability since the amphora are almost egg shaped, but also because being submerged keeps the temperature constant and cool. “The wooden barrels somehow tend to alter the wine,” says Giusto, “We felt it would hide the true distinction of the wine from our territory. The clay in the amphora is a material that breathes like wood, which is very important for wine, but does not give any characteristic flavor. We feel this will accentuate more accurately the origin of the grapes and the wine, because we think the wine is an expression of the earth where the grapes are grown.”

More than Australia Twenty years ago there were little more than three dozen commercial wine producers on the island, today the number is nearer three hundred. In fact, Sicily now has more vineyards than any other region in Italy, and while most produce grapes for the production of marsala, a sweet and dry fortified wine, many are now focusing on traditional red and white wines. Sicily now produces twice as much wine as Australia, and it has become the island's main source of income.

Owners Giambattista Cilia, Giusto Occhipinti

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SICILY - WINE Good conditions

The character of the soil

Sicily offers excellent natural conditions for viticulture. Mountainous terrain and thin volcanic soil with good drainage create perfect conditions. The best vineyards are often located at higher altitudes, in some places at up to 1000 metres above sea level where steep slopes give the grapes excellent exposure to the sun. The night time temperature at these higher climes is lower, which means that the grapes develop freshness and complex aromas, thus avoiding the “boiled” and pickled fruit character that might otherwise be a problem this far south. The southeast of the island is much drier than the north, and the landscape is characterized by lower hills which are suitable for different varieties of grapes.

Says Giusto "Firstly, we were interested in finding out how the minerals in the soil influenced the vine. “We harvest the grapes at different times in order to obtain the maximum result from different maturations. Although the grapes for some cuvees, such as Pithos Bianco, can macerate in the amphora for up to six months, the amphora only accounts for 40% of the total fermentation process, with the remainder carried out in separate tanks, terracotta of course being the natural choice.”

A young wine The COS Winery has become synonymous with Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOC, a medium full-bodied, juicy and often slightly sparkling red wine from a blend of the grapes Frappato and Nero d'Avola. These wines are intended to be drunk young, when they have their charming, cherry-like fruit flavor intact. Employing used barrels rather than new, COS produces arguably the finest version of this delicious wine. They also make a fine Frappato and an excellent Grecanico called Pithos Bianco. Some of Sicily's most exciting wines are being made in Vittoria. They often have a fruity flavor, together with hints of spice and minerals.

Nero di Lupo 2008 This is a varietal Nero d’Avola aged in stainless steel. Sweet, ripe and cherryish with a bit of warmth and spice on the nose. There’s some earthy depth on the palate and nice spiciness. Elegant and warm.

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Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico 2007 Warm spicy nose is quite intense. The palate shows elegant fresh cherry fruit with spicy, earthy depth. Elegant and warm, but pure. Delicious and mineral.

Grape juice becomes wine The winemaking process in amphora is similar to conventional techniques, however, the breathability and the ability to maintain low fermentation temperatures of 28/30 ° C without any interference of flavoring from wood, makes all the difference. “There is nothing magical about the amphora, it’s all down to the quality of the grapes. I feel this process gives more precision, a purer flavor of the grapes and the land where they’re grown,” says Giusto Occhipinto. If you happen to travel to Sicily around the 11th November, the day dedicated to Saint Martin, look for signs announcing the local Festa del Vino or "Festival of the Wine". It is believed that on this date the new wine is ready for consumption, hence the saying: Il giorno di San Martino il mosto diventa vino, or "On Saint Martin's Day the grape juice becomes wine." www.cosvittoria.it

Maldafrica 2007 Cabernet and Merlot with a splash of Nero. Sweet, slightly volatile nose with liqueur-like cherry fruit. The palate is fruity, sweet and pure with cherries and a tannic, spicy edge.

Pithos Bianco 2009 100% Grecanico, aged in amphora. Yellow/orange color. Complex, taut, nutty, spicy palate with savoury, mineral notes. Powerful and broad with dried apricot, spice and nut flavours.

Pithos Rosso 2008 This is the same blend as the Cerasuolo, but it’s fermented in amphora. Superbly elegant, subtly meaty cherry fruit nose. Floral. The palate is profound: elegant pure and mineral with lovely spice and earth notes. Some complexity, and a bit of tannic structure.

Great Property

because you need a place to put your clubs

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MOROCCO GOLF PROPERTY

LUXURY LIVING... For the keen discerning golfer looking for that touch of luxury, perhaps your own villa next to a stunning golf course, the Marrakech Golf Club in Morocco may be just the place.

...DESERT STYLE

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The Art Deco

By Mike Kaas-Stock, pictures by Marrakech Golf Club

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ituated only 15 minutes from the centre of Marrakesh and with stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh Golf Club Assoufid is in the process of building 80 exclusive high end villas, not to mention a Rocco Forte hotel and spa. There will be no apartments or semi detached houses on this development. Each villa will sit on a vast 10,000m2 plot of landscaped heaven. The accompanying hotel, which will be part of the Rocco Forte collection, will have 100 suites and will be situated in an existing olive grove with views toward the Marrakech Golf Course and the Atlas Mountains to the south. Many of the suites will include private gardens and the penthouses will also include private swimming pools. The facility will include numerous public gardens, a spa, several swimming pools, a conference centre, two restaurants and a rooftop bar with expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Desert and oases The villas are designed by Paul Udris of U+B Architecture & Design based in Minneapolis USA. Paul says of the project: “The site development strategy for Assoufid is driven by a desire to reveal and accentuate the poetry of this unique site. While most of Marrakech is quite flat this site’s rolling topography includes a rustic desert landscape with natural oases mixed with groves of fruit and olive trees and extensive views of the Atlas Mountains. Development of the master plan for a hotel, golf course and the residential development is based on indigenous concepts of environmental sustainability that respond to the unique climactic conditions of each portion of the site. This includes optimizing solar and wind orientation, efficient water usage, selective and appropriate use of plantings, and minimizing negative impact on the surrounding natural landscape”.

Mountain views The individual residential properties will be enclosed within traditional Moroccan garden walls that balance the desert landscape with the lush garden tradition of Marrakech. Each house has been placed for optimal solar and wind orientation, and to maximize views to the Atlas Mountains to the south. The low density of development also allows a great deal of privacy between the residential properties. The houses vary in style including models inspired by indigenous hillside architecture, Art Deco homes based on Morocco’s colonial buildings of the 1920’s, and contemporary houses with a clean, harmonious aesthetic. All of the house styles integrate and embrace details rooted in local craft traditions that still remain vibrant in Marrakech, making each of these homes unique.

Limited membership The villas will have an internal space of 550 m2, but all residences will also consist of a pool house, double garage, caretaker’s lodge, staff quarters, shaded car park, technical room and landscaped gardens.There will be covered terraces totaling 450m2 and of course, that all important swimming pool. Membership of the golf course is to be limited to 300, with immediate, guaranteed inclusion for all villa owners, who will enjoy priority of play. 128

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Contemporain

The Art Deco 129

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Hivernage

Three designs The three different villa designs are called Art Deco, Contemporain and Hivernage. The Art Deco design is inspired by the iconic architectural and design movement of the mid-20’s, and is characterised in these villas by sweeping curves, stepped forms and chevron graphics. The distinctive colonnaded porch on each property will present a simple but streamlined exterior aspect. Contemporain typifies modern Morocco – full of contemporary clean lines combined with local materials and the rich craft traditions of Marrakech. With precise design to create a pleasing and generously apportioned space that is light and spacious. Hivernage is a rich and ornate design template inspired by the homes of wealthy merchants of the past. Arabian, Spanish, Portuguese and French, are utilised to create an eclectic style of largely Moorish-influenced architecture that reflects a long and rich history. The simple exterior face of the Hivernage villa gives way to an interior space that is intricately and lavishly appointed.

The Clubhouse The design for the Golf Clubhouse draws inspiration from indigenous Moroccan architecture in both building style and site strategy. The Clubhouse takes advantage of optimal views to the Atlas Mountains with a large outdoor dining terrace to the south. The prominent tower included in the design, functions as an orientation point for the golfers and creates a dramatic vaulted entry for the Clubhouse. 130

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GOOD TO KNOW Location – 20 minutes from the town centre and towards the Atlas Mountains. Prices start at €2.3 million which also includes club membership, , security and logistical services. Membership at this exclusive Golf resort is limited to 300. Website for villas - www.assoufid.com Villa enquiries - info@assoufid.com TEL +212 618 368 368 GOLF COURSE ENQUIRIES Golf Course website - www.themarrakechgolfclub.com Golf course enquiries - info@assoufid.com TEL +212 618 368 368 Golf Course designer – Niall Cameron VILLA AND HOTEL ARCHITECT Paul Udris, AIA, LEED AP U+B architecture & design, inc. 2609 Aldrich Avenue South, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55408 p 612 870 2538 f 612 870 2731 c 612 616 1915 paul.udris@uplusb.com www.uplusb.com

Rental Golf Villa Marrakesh

Samanah

Golf & Country Club Villa Sitting on a half acre plot with numerous trees & plants, this property is a front line riad style villa of approx 630m². The property is situated by the 18th hole of the Jack Nicklaus designed Golf Course and with a direct route to the club house which is located roughly a 2 minute buggy ride away. The view from the front is towards a lake and the clubhouse with the Atlas Mountains to the rear. The whole Villa is fully furnished to a very high standard.

FACILITIES • Separate well equipped kitchen with cooker, steam oven, microwave, gas hob, coffee machine, two large fridges and a freezer. With a separate utility room. • Separate Sitting room, Dining room and Salon • Swimming pool (7x14 metres). • Six Bedrooms, all with en-suite. • Air conditioning in all bedrooms and living areas • Satellite TV (with film channels) • A cook for breakfast and either lunch or dinner is included in the rental price. • The villa also has its own Hamam The property is over three floors, including a roof terrace BBQ area with panoramic views of the golf course and the Atlas mountains. Chauffer service to and from the airport upon arrival and at departure. Transport can also be supplied for up to 18 people for excusions and daily outings. CONTACT gallery@arnott-lawrence.com Tel +212(0)661 101 661 Please quote ‘Great Golf Ref no RB01’

KENYA GOLF PROPERTY

Alfajiri Villa:

• Sitting on the gorgeous white sands of Diani Beach, Alfajiri Resort in Kenya is ideal for a golfing holiday with a difference. Located half a mile from the villa, the Leisure Golf Club is often frequented by celebrities looking for a golfing escape in the most beautiful of settings. The 18-hole championship course, home to the Diani Beach Masters, is recognized as one of the most exciting golf courses in East Africa. Consisting of three private properties, The Cliff Villa, The Garden Villa and The Beach Villa, each with a private pool, Alfajiri Resort delivers the perfect setting to relax after a long hard round. A large veranda provides stunning views over the white sand beach and across the Indian Ocean, with direct access to a private beach. Designed to reflect the regions link with Asia, Alfajiri Villas are bright and breezy with flowing fabrics, East African artefacts, wooden beams and carved Lanu doors. Each villa has its own personality and unique design yet all maintain the same award winning service. Each villa can accomodate up to eight guests with 4 en-suite bedrooms, a dining veranda and a lounge which dominates the front of the villa and overlooks the swimming pool and ocean. A host of other activities are available, including deep sea fishing and diving, kite surfing, quad biking, and day safaris. Alfajiri is an all inclusive resort, offering you a private chef to conjure up a menu to your taste. Seafood is caught daily and includes some of the freshest crabs, prawns and lobsters available. To compliment, a choice of good quality South African wines are provided to help guests unwind after an action packed day. Having won awards including ‘Best undiscovered golf location 2008’, Alfajiri Resort has built a reputation of delivering an impeccable service. Golf club hire, along with transfers to and from the Club are included in the rental price and the welcoming staff are committed to making your stay a memorable one. Alfajiri villas are always rented on exclusive use and our rates are based on the number of guests occupying the villa. The villa and can be rented on a per day basis.

Rates from just $7,000 per week. Please quote‘Great Golf’. Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/17294

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The 18-hole championship course, home to the Diani Beach Masters, is recognized as one of the most exciting golf courses in East Africa.

BALI GOLF PROPERTY

The Edge:

• This dramatic villa is guaranteed to offer its guests a sublime taste of life on The Edge. Located in Pecatu, Bali, with ‘The Leading Golf Resort in Indonesia’ only a stone’s throw away, The Edge offers exceptional services and outstanding accommodation. Perched on a cliff, lying eighty meters above the Indian Ocean and spread over 1.5 hectares; The Edge has one bedroom, two bedroom, three bedroom and five bedroom villas. Each villa boasts stunning views, a spacious living area and a complete kitchen with 24 hour dedicated butler service to cater to your every need. Located only five minutes away from The Edge, you will find New Kuta Golf Course, carved out of harsh limestone and edged between the brilliant white limestone cliffs and the endless blue horizon of the Indian Ocean. This championship golf course ranks among Asia’s best and most challenging. Why not experience this championship layout first hand while staying at one of the most breathtaking residences on the island? After a long day on the course, visit The Edge’s Spa, clinging to the sea cliff rock face. Awarded 2010’s Most Innovative Spa of the Year by Asia Spa Magazine, it features a liquid floor, w a l l - l es s ro o m s, se n su o u s c u r ve s a n d o ffe r s quintessentially Balinese spa experiences. Perfectly positioned for a golfers getaway yet still offering the luxury and lavishness of a villa escape, The Edge offers the best of both worlds.

Located only five minutes away from The Edge, you will find New Kuta Golf Course.

Rates from just $5,700 per week. Please quote ‘Great Golf’ Inclusions: 24 hour dedicated butler service, roundtrip airport transfer in a luxury vehicle, VIP airport processing, daily breakfast prepared in the villa and served by the butler. Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/24202

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PORTUGAL GOLF PROPERTY

Villa Pine Cliffs:

Flanking the course, each of the individually styled private villas are of an exceedingly high standard.

• Azure Atlantic waves crash onto the white sands of Falesia beach, where terracotta cliffs rise to be crowned by verdant pine forests. Martin Hawtree chose this home for the Pine Cliffs Golf Course and Academy, due to the dramatic and colourful location, where golfers can enjoy panoramic sea views whilst shaded by the towering trees. This magnificent setting is home to one of the sports most impressive holes, the infamous par 3, 6th hole “Devil’s Parlour”, requiring a 198 metre carrying shot over cliff tops to the deep but narrow green. Flanking the course, each of the individually styled private villas are of an exceedingly high standard, discretely hidden away behind those towering pines. Large al fresco dining areas overlook manicured gardens, each with glistening pools offering a cooling respite from the sun and a day of sport. Inside, the spacious 4-bedroom villas are contemporarily styled and fully air-conditioned and would be the perfect setting whether traveling with family or friends. The awards are also piling up fast – “Portugal’s Best Resort”, “Best Golf Resort” and “Best Family Resort” are just some of the accolades. The Pine Cliff Villas are located within the Sheraton Algarve Resort and benefit from the numerous amenities including superb Porto Pirata children’s Club, floodlit tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools and “Ritual” Spa. Here, you find yourself situated between the famous resorts of Albufeira and Villamoura, with more than 5 championship courses in the immediate vicinity, International Marinas, eclectic nightlife and some of the Algarve’s finest bars and restaurants.

Rates from just €4,620 per week. Please quote ‘Great Golf’. Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/17394

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MAURITIUS GOLF PROPERTY

Lunea Villas, Anahita Resort:

These three, four and five bedroom luxury villas are perfectly positioned on the golf course.

• For the ultimate golfer’s holiday, where better to stay than on the golf course itself? At Lunea Villas, Anahita Resort in Mauritius, you can! These three, four and five bedroom luxury villas are perfectly positioned on the golf course, offering either a view of the lagoon or the beautiful mountains of Mauritius. The villas offer a spacious living and dining area with each double bedroom boasting an en-suite bathroom. The large contemporary kitchen provides the flexibility to prepare a gourmet meal or alternatively you can dine in the restaurant or 'dial-a-chef' for the evening. Guaranteeing that your stay at a Lunea Villa is easy and enjoyable, a private host is assigned to each villa. You won’t be staying on just any golf course! Anahita’s Championship Golf Course was designed by the world renowned golfer, Ernie Els. Complimenting the leading design of the golf course is the service, managed by Four Seasons, the worldwide leaders in Hotel & Resort Management. Four Seasons have been retained to ensure the "Four Seasons Resorts" experience extends to The Anahita Golf Course. For those seeking to improve their game, let the Four Seasons Golf Academy help you. Covering all aspects of the game, including the full swing, the short game, course management, practice technique, mental training, golf fitness and properly fitted equipment, the Academy aims to improve the golf games of lady and gentlemen golfers of all ages and levels of ability, from complete beginners to scratch players. Making your golfing holiday an unforgettable one, the Lunea Villas at the Anahita Resort has it all!

Rates from just $8,880 per week. Please quote ‘Great Golf’ Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/17264

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TURKEY GOLF PROPERTY

Villa Belek

• Located on the Turkish Riviera, Villa Belek delivers sweeping views across sandy beaches to the crystal sea beyond. The famous Lykia Links Golf Club is situated alongside the spacious 2 bedroom villa, allowing quick and easy access to this unique, stunning golf complex. The centerpiece of which is an 18 hole championship links course designed by celebrated golf architect Perry Dye. The course is one of the finest in Turkey and is a must visit for dedicated golf enthusiasts. A l l 1 8 h o l e s o n t h e Pa r 7 2 c o u r s e h a ve commanding panoramic views of the sea to the south and the surrounding mountain peaks. But try not to let the scenery distract you; the prevailing winds on the four coastline holes will challenge even the most adept golfers, often requiring Scottish-style 'punch and run' shots. In fact, the whole course represents a test of ability and nerve for golfers of all skill levels. Villa Belek provides the ideal place to relax after a challenging round. With private indoor and outdoor pools, private sauna and free and easy access to the all inclusive spa, tired minds and aching muscles can be refreshed and reinvigorated at this charming property. On top of this, the villa boasts spacious living areas and balconies overlooking the manicured gardens to the coastline beyond. With a long list of amenities including a private butler, concierge service, air-conditioning, Espresso machine, TV/DVD, stereo and a Minibar, Villa Belek puts the ‘luxury’ into luxury golf holiday.

Rates from just €6,650 per week. Please quote ‘Great Golf’ Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/25352

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Villa Belek provides the ideal place to relax after a challenging round.

SPAIN GOLF PROPERTY

Villa El Cid:

• With approximately 50 golf courses between Malaga and Gibraltar, the Costa del Sol is a golfer’s dream. Indeed, with the highest concentration of golf courses in Europe, it’s not surprising that many have dubbed the area the ‘Costa del Golf ’. Directly overlooking Flamingos Golf Club and boasting stunning views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and the African coast, Villa El Cid has been designed to provide the ultimate in golfing luxury. It is located within a gated community and boasts eight double bedrooms, a large living space and is wheelchair friendly. Before heading to Flamingos Golf Club, which has played host to the PGA European Senior Matchplay Championship, practice your putting in private on your own professional putting green and practice area at the villa! Then choose between the three championship quality golf courses at the Club, all varying in design and difficulty. Enjoy the breathtaking sea views from ‘Los Flamingos’, the original of the three golf courses which has hosted the European Seniors Matchplay and the 2010 Ladies Spanish Open. Each of the holes is technically demanding. The Arroyo de Taraje stream passes through the course and ends in a lake which acts as a natural border.The second course ‘Alferini´ is a true championship course and a Costa del Sol contender for the 2015 Solheim Cup. The third and final course, ‘Tramores’ with its American Golf Academy, offers a true executive golf experience for golfers of all standards who wish to improve any aspect of their game. Villa El Cid is the ultimate golf property, a fantastic venue in which to indulge your golf dreams.

Villa El Cid is the ultimate golf property, a fantastic venue in which to indulge your golf dreams.

Rates from just €6,900 per week. Please quote ‘Great Golf’ Contact: Quintessentially Villas www.quintessentiallyvillas.com Email: info@quintessentiallyvillas.com Contact Telephone Number: +44 (0)845 269 6673 Property link: www.quintessentiallyvillas.com/villas/17390

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Great Golf Guide

A selection of outstanding courses - at home and abroad...

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Scotland

TURNBERRY RESORT

VE R V I E W Turnberry, an icon of Scottish VERVIEW: hospitality and home of four Open Championships, has been treasured for more than a hundred years. Turnberry Resort is part of Starwood’s acclaimed Luxury Collection portfolio following a multi-million pound restoration in 2009. LOCATION: West coast of Scotland. Approximately 55 miles (one hour) from Glasgow Airport, 25 miles (30 minutes) from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and 100 miles from Edinburgh Airport. ROOMS: A total of 150 rooms, including four Specialty Suites and four eight-bedroom lodges. Eight newly renovated Lands of Turnberry self-catering apartments are also located in the heart of the resort. GOLF: Turnberry offers some of the best golf facilities in the world, with 45 holes of magnificent golf, the world’s first links golf academy and a sociable Clubhouse. The 18-hole Ailsa championship course – venue for The Open Championship in 1977, 1986, 1994 and 2009 and consistently ranked as the UK and Ireland’s top golf course.

The 18-hole Kintyre championship course – a final qualifying course for The Open Championship in 2004. The 9-hole Arran course – used as a teaching course by Turnberry’s Colin Montgomerie Links Golf Academy. Scotland’s first and only TaylorMade Performance Lab. THE SPA AT TURNBERRY: Featuring an inviting 20-metre indoor pool, eleven individual treatment rooms, fitness studio, heat experiences and pool-side Jacuzzi and offering a range of treatments by ESPA including reflexology and hot stone massage. CUISINE: Turnberry has six restaurants, bars and lounges – the signature restaurant 1906, Duel in the Sun bar, The Ailsa Bar & Lounge, James Miller and The Grand Tea Lounge. In the heart of the Turnberry kitchens is the ultimate dining experience, The Turnberry Chefs Table. Turnberry also boasts the Tappie Toorie restaurant, which is situated in the Clubhouse. OUTDOOR PURSUITS: Rifle target shooting, clay target shooting, 4x4 off-road driving, trout fishing, archery, quad biking, falconry, horse riding, all-terrain carting, mountain biking and children’s activities.

CONTACT

TURNBERRY, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, Maidens Road, Ayrshire, KA26 9LT, (0)1655 331 991 www.luxurycollection.com/turnberry • turnberry@luxurycollection.com

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Scotland

KINGSBARNS GOLF LINKS

ocated just seven miles south-east of St Andrews Kingsbarns is a must-play seaside links course which regularly features in top 100 golf course rankings in the world. Designed by Kyle Phillips, the golf course opened in 2000 and is set in an amphitheatre along the coast line, so nearly every hole boasts spectacular views of the sea. At 7,181 yards from the championship tees, Kingsbarns is a formidable enough test to be included in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship rota each autumn alongside the Old Course, St. Andrews and Carnoustie Golf Links. Kingsbarns prides itself on excellent customer service and great accessibility of tee times. As Kingsbarns does not operate a membership programme, visiting golfers are each treated like members for the day, with staff on hand to ensure that they each enjoy the golfing experience which the team at Kingsbarns are so proud of.

Kingsbarns Golf Links offers an unforgettable golfing experience, which is proving increasingly popular with the corporate market. Companies are using it as a venue for both large and small groups when they really want to make a favourable impression with clients or show their appreciation to valued members of staff. Our proximity to St Andrews and a wide range of accommodation providers makes us a no hassle venue to book. With two five star hotels, The Old Course Hotel Golf Resort and Spa and The Fairmont, St Andrews on our doorstep along with a choice of 4 and 3 star hotels, there are accommodation offerings for every budget. There is an extensive range of flight options from London to Edinburgh (1hr 20 minutes from St Andrews) and CityJet fly from London City to Dundee (20 minutes from St Andrews) offering a no charge for your clubs option.

CONTACT

KINGSBARNS GOLF LINKS, Kingsbarns, St. Andrews, Scotland, +44 (0)1334 460861 E-mail: info@kingsbarns.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.kingsbarns.com

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Scotland

T H E D U K E´S S t A N D R E W S

he Duke’s is the only heathland course in St Andrews daring to be different amongst the famous list of links courses, including of course the Old Course, in the Home of Golf. The Duke’s rolling terrain and elevated position above St Andrews provides spectacular panoramas of the surrounding countryside, The Grampians, the West Sands and the “Auld Grey Toon”. Moreover the sheltered inland location of the course offers a welcome respite from the blustery, sometimes brutal linksexperience elsewhere in the location. Owned like the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa by the Kohler Co., The Duke’s was originally designed by five-time Open Champion Peter Thomson and was officially opened by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York, in 1995. However American Tim Liddy, a protégé of distinguished golf course designer Pete Dye, remodeled The Duke’s in June 2006 transforming it into a majestic layout reminiscent of the true heathland courses of the 1920s.

It now boasts five completely new holes and the addition of 118 natural, rough-edged bunkers. The championship course now measures 7512 yards and is a Par 71 that offers a set of five tees on each hole, making it a challenge for golfers of every standard. The Duke’s Clubhouse offers five-star service and a warm Scottish welcome in relaxed surroundings. Amenities include The Duke’s Bar & Grill, a traditional wood-panelled bar and restaurant with a terrace overlooking the course for al fresco dining on warm days, The Captains’ Room for private dining or meetings, a well stocked Pro Shop and equipment hire. It also boasts comprehensive practice facilities that include a large practice range, extensive putting green, two practice par-3 holes and a chipping/bunker area. The Duke’s was recently voted the ‘Best Club in the UK’ by the Golf Club of the Year Awards and in 2008 & 2010, Golf World magazine included The Duke’s course in its Top 100 Courses in the UK. Today the course is very much on many players “must-play” list.

CONTACT

THE DUKE’S ST ANDREWS, Craigtoun, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 8NS. Contact: Alan McColm, Golf Coordinator T: 01334 470214, Green Fee Summer £115/Winter £55 www.playthedukes.co.uk • alan.mccolm@oldcoursehotel.co.uk

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T H E G LEN E AG LE S H O T EL

et in its own magnificent 850-acre estate, The Gleneagles® Hotel 5 Red Star resort is only one hour’s drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh and is a byword for style, elegance and comfort. Gleneagles offers 3 championship golf courses set in the heart of the stunning Perthshire countryside. The King’s and the Queen’s are both top Scottish Championship courses, whilst The PGA Centenary has been chosen to host the 2014 Ryder Cup Matches. The golf courses were the inspiration of two of the world's most famous golfers, James Braid, five times winner of the Open Championship who designed the King's and Queen's, and Jack Nicklaus, Golfer of the 20th Century, who created the PGA Centenary Course. As well as playing great courses at Gleneagles golfers can also brush up their skills at The PGA National Golf Academy that offers tuition for all abilities, beginner to scratch player, and a 320-yard double ended driving range. For those who want to

practice what they have learnt but are not quite ready to take on an 18-hole championship course, they can make the progression to the testing but fun 9-hole par 3 PGA National Academy Course. Once golf is over you can retire to the newly refurbished Dormy Clubhouse facilities, and rue the lipped putts and toast the holed chips while enjoying food and drink of a quality that no-one can argue with, all while looking out over the 18th greens of the King’s and Queen’s courses. As well as golf, there are a host of outdoor activities including riding, fishing, off road driving, falconry, shooting, archery and gun dog lessons. To relax further there’s an award-winning destination spa by ESPA with all the latest therapeutic treatments, as well as a range of bars and restaurants, including the Two Michelin starred Andrew Fairlie. Gleneagles is a sanctuary from the modern world, offering the best of Scotland every day of the year.

CONTACT

THE GLENE AGLE S HOTEL, Auchterarder, Perthshire, PH3 1NF, Tel +44 (0) 1764 662231 www.gleneagles.com • resort.sales@gleneagles.com

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Scotland

DUNDONALD LINKS

he West coast of Scotland is famous for its stunning championship links and Dundonald sits right up there alongside the very best of them. Opened in 2003, this modern day classic links was inspired by the timeless architecture of the great Ayrshire links courses of Royal Troon, Prestwick and Western Gailes, all connected by the historic rail line. Acclaimed architect, Kyle Phillips, also known for Kingsbarns and The Grove, intimated from the outset that it was his intention “to create a championship Ayrshire links that felt and 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 amateur tournaments, including pre-qualifying for the European Tour for four consecutive years and the Senior British Open Championship.

The course is located at the very heart of Ayrshire’s golf coast, just 10 minutes from Prestwick Airport, half an hour from Glasgow, and an hour and a half from Edinburgh Airport, A wide selection of accommodation to suit all budgets can be recommended within easy reach, including the 4 star Gailes Hotel on its doorstep, and the 5 star Turnberry Resort. Players can benefit from good accessibility to weekend teetimes and a new online booking system now ensures you can book in advance and guarantee the best rates and availability. Owned by Loch Lomond Golf Club, the course is renowned for its exceptional standards of service and a warm welcome awaits. 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 proud to be recognized for its best environmental practices and recently achieved its goal of zero waste to landfill, the first in the country to achieve this status.

CONTACT

DUNDONALD LINKS, Ayrshire, Scotland T: +44 (0)1294 314000 E: reservations@dundonaldlinks.com • www.dundonaldlinks.com

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Scotland

MURRAYSHALL HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF COURSES

urrayshall Hotel is the home to both the Murrayshall and the Lynedoch Golf Courses, two prestigious but very different eighteen hole courses, providing a hugely enjoyable challenge for all golfers. The Murrayshall course meanders through tree lined fairways, undulated parkland and has several natural burns which have been used to protect the large greens. The introduction of the white sand bunkers which are a feature of the Murrayshall course lie in waiting for errant shots. In creating Lynedoch the course designer made great use of the existing Scots pine woodland, utilising the wild flower meadows and carved a real wee gem of a course. Both courses are a real contrast to one another - Murrayshall the wider, longer course requires length and accuracy from the tee shot, this will allow golfers the opportunity to approach greens from the correct angle, widening the view of the pin. Lynedoch

however is shorter but no less a challenge, tighter fairways, bracken filled gullies and tall Scots Pine trees narrow the golfer’s view of fairways and greens. With two different golf courses, both set out to a fabulous standard of play, the courses have attracted national and international events over the years. Currently the home to the Paul Lawrie Scottish Schools Championship Murrayshall and Lynedoch have also hosted PGA events along with SGU National Finals and most recently was the Inaugural Scottish venue for the Sky Sports Trilby Tour. Murrayshall also gives our resident golfers the chance to visit the famous courses of St Andrews, Kingsbarns, Carnoustie and Gleneagles, which are all within short driving distance of the hotel.

With so much on offer to keen golfers of all levels, it’s no surprise that Murrayshall House Hotel has become renowned as a provider of top quality golfing breaks and golf days out in the historic home of golf.

CONTACT

MURRAYSHALL HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF COURSES, Scone, Perth, Scotland, PH2 7PH, +44 (0)1738 551171 sales@murrayshall.co.uk • www.murrayshall.co.uk

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England

TREVOSE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

heltered by the majestic Trevose Head, the experience of playing the Championship Course at Trevose Golf & Country Club is enhanced by the spectacular views of the North Atlantic Ocean, wide sandy beaches and dramatic North Cornish coastline. A true test of links golf, the course was designed by Harry Colt in 1925 and will test all aspects of your game. As with all of Colt’s designs, the course is in two loops of nine holes with the front nine holes hugging the sand dunes and coastline and back nine forming inland links, although the sea can be seen from every single hole. Like all great links courses the difficulty lies in the wind – so beware when the wind blows! No two days are ever the same, and those who are prepared to be more creative with their shot making will be well rewarded. The greens are quick all year round and due to the temperate micro climate the area enjoys, the course condition is excellent 365 days a year. Come rain or shine, wind or calm, Trevose

will test every shot in your armoury and every club in your bag! As one of the top championship links golf courses in the British Isles, Trevose hosted the 2008 Brabazon Trophy (English Men’s Amateur Stroke Play Championship) and The McGregor Trophy in 2012 and it regularly plays home to touring professionals and top amateurs alike. Indeed Paul Way, exEuropean Tour and Ryder Cup player, has said of Trevose, “I have played lots of Harry Colt courses and Trevose is up there with his best. The setting is fantastic and you need every shot on this course.” With a range of 3 to 5 star on-site (self catering) accommodation, as well as first-class dining, three tennis courts, a beauty/therapy salon, swimming pool, children’s play area, seven nearby beaches and three courses to choose from, Trevose offers the ideal golf destination with a relaxed holiday atmosphere. Trevose, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5.

CONTACT

TREVOSE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB, Constantine Bay, Padstow, Cornwall PL28 8JB Contact: Nick Gammon T: 01841 520208. Green Fee £65 Summer/Winter £40 www.trevose-gc.co.uk • ngammon@trevose-gc.co.uk

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England

SAUNTON GOLF CLUB

wo of links golf’s most precious gems are set in the remote shadows of the towering sand dunes of Braunton Burrows at Saunton Golf Club in North Devon, less than half a mile from the Atlantic Ocean. When the club was inaugurated in 1897 its clubhouse doubled up as the local post office, yet now its two championship courses, East and West, are considered among the greatest links in the world. The basis for the present East Course was laid out under the direction of the renowned course architect W. Herbert Fowler in the 1920’s. A completely natural layout set amid the spectacular sand hills, the East Course provides a peaceful environment with only the sound of the sea for company as well as a great test of golf for players of all standards. The West course is also an exceptional challenge in its own right and it was here in 1997 that a 17-year-old Sergio Garcia

won the British Boys Championship, just two years before making his Ryder Cup debut. Indeed over the years Saunton has played host to many major national and international championships during its 113- year history. The East Course will host the South West Amateur Championships and West of England Championships in 2011 whilst the West course will be used in 2012 by the English Golf Union for the Mid Amateur Championships, Logan Trophy. England’s most successful modern day golfer, Nick Faldo, has been one of Saunton’s many fans since playing here as a boy. The multiple major winner once said of Saunton’s East Course, "I've no doubt if the East Course were located on the coast of Lancashire or Kent it would have hosted an Open Championship by now." Saunton, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5 and A361.

CONTACT

SAUNTON GOLF CLUB, Nr Braunton, North Devon EX33 1LG Contact: Peter McMullen T: 01271 812436. Green fee £74 weekdays/£79 weekends www.sauntongolf.co.uk • gm4@sauntongolf.co.uk

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England

R O YA L N O R T H D E V O N G O L F C L U B

golfing pilgrimage to Royal North Devon is a must for anyone interested in the history of golf. Dating back to 1864, Royal North Devon, or Westward Ho! as it is also known, is England’s oldest links course and is often described as windswept, wild and interesting. The layout has hardly changed over nearly 150 years and to play it is like taking a step back in time and seeing how golf was played over a hundred years ago in Victorian England. The golf course is carved out of the natural terrain that gently undulates alongside the North Atlantic coastline and is set on common land on which to this day livestock still graze. Despite its age, the course has stood the test of time and is still a great test for any standard of golfer. While JH Taylor may have served as Burnham & Berrow’s first pro, it

was here at Royal North Devon that the golfer started his career as a caddie and later finished it as club president. With such history and heritage, it is no surprise that the clubhouse houses a veritable treasure trove of golf memorabilia, honors boards and club trophies, second only to the collection found in the Royal & Ancient club house of St Andrews. As far removed as possible from many of the modern, manicured and manufactured courses of today, Royal North Devon is deemed a great championship links that combines pure raw exhilaration with the experience of playing a fast running links in a stiff breeze that still tests the very best in the game. Royal North Devon, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5 and A361.

CONTACT

ROYAL NORTH DEVON GOLF CLUB, Golf Links Road, Westward Ho!, Bideford EX39 1HD Contact: Mark Evans T: 01237 473817. Green Fee Friday & Saturday £55/Sunday to Thursday £48 www.royalnorthdevongolfclub.co.uk • info@royalnorthdevongolfclub.co.uk

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England

BURNHAM & BERROW GOLF CLUB

omerset’s Burnham & Berrow Golf Club is a fine example of a classic English links course that offers a superb challenge to golfers of all abilities. Founded in 1890, the championship layout is particularly noted for its distinct sand hills that form stubborn, natural obstacles along with the buckthorn and even a marsh mid-way through a round that golfers are advised to avoid. As with all links golf the challenging factor is the wind and its unpredictability, which means that the course can play differently almost every day. The prevailing south westerly winds that whip in from the dramatic backdrop of the North Atlantic Coast and along the Bristol Channel ensure that golfers are treated to a links challenge that is not for the faint hearted. The greens are renowned as true and quick and the temperate coastal location means that the course is guaranteed to be in good condition all year round. Excellent drainage due to the sandy subsoil ensures that the course is rarely, if ever, closed.

The nature of the course demands that you use almost every club in the bag, ensuring that the experience is both memorable and challenging.The course has evolved over the decades but today’s layout is largely the work of Harry Colt. The club’s first professional was the legendary JH Taylor, five times an Open champion, who played an important part in development of the playing side of the club and once described the course as “one of the most sporting courses conceivable”. Burnham & Berrow has hosted a string of prestigious amateur tournaments from as early as 1906 when it staged the Ladies British Open Amateur Championship. More recently it has been proud to be chosen as the venue for the 2006 English Amateur Championship and the 2009 Tillman Trophy. In 2011 it will be the host venue for The Brabazon Trophy as well as the British Boys Championship. Conveniently located just off the M5 in Burnham-on-Sea, Burnham & Berrow is part of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network.

CONTACT

BURNHAM & BERROW GOLF CLUB, St Christopher’s Way, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset TA8 2PE Michael Blight T: 01278 785760. Green fee £70 www.burnhamandberrowgolfclub.co.uk • secretary.bbgc@btconnect.com

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England

P R I N C E´S G O L F C L U B

fantastic facility less than two hours drive from central London, with excellent rail connections, this is the ideal place for Links fanatics. Prince’s offers all that is best in modern golf: with its 27 holes of championship Links golf, practice facilities to match and a centrally located clubhouse with helpful, attentive staff who understand your needs. A sand base and a mild climate ensure that the course remains in fine condition throughout the year, at more than 7200 yards the championship set up is a severe test for the game’s finest players, but a selection of more forward tees ensures that players of all abilities can enjoy their game on this historic Links. A fine addition to Prince’s Golf Club is The Lodge at Prince’s. The Lodge at Prince’s, with two adjoining Lodge Houses, has 38 en-suite well-appointed bedrooms with either sea views or over the courses. The 12 Lodge bedrooms are located across two floors and are

complemented by a further two doubled bedded suites. The Links and Bay suites provide a more lavish experience with each being decorated in a contemporary style. The Links suite offers fantastic views across the courses with additional private dining and lounge facilities. The Bay, which is also used as the Bridal suite, offers his and hers bathroom fittings and uninterrupted views of the Bay of Sandwich, ideal for those celebrating a special occasion. The Lodge Houses, offering 12 two bedroom Apartments, are perfectly suited to groups and societies for up to 4 people sharing. The en-suite Apartments also have a well-appointed lounge with fantastic views, an area for club storage and battery charging facilities. In addition, The Lodge also offers a gym, snooker room, lounge, terrace, private room for dining or board meeting as well as The Brasserie on the Bay, a modern, contemporary dining experience where the emphasis is placed on Kentish produce.

CONTACT

office@princesgolfclub.co.uk • www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Prince’s Golf Club • Prince’s Drive • Sandwich Bay • Sandwich • Kent CT13 9QB Tel: +44 (0) 1304 611118. Fax: +44 (0) 1304 612000

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England

St ENODOC GOLF CLUB

ornwall’s St Enodoc, designed by celebrated golf course architect James Braid, is a sparkling jewel of links golf in South West England that once trodden, is never forgotten. Founded in 1890, it boasts a magnificent setting amongst the rolling sand dunes and exposed cliff tops that overlook the Camel Estuary and the dramatic coastline of the North Atlantic ocean giving it some of the greatest sea and estuary views of any course in the world. Indeed St Enodoc prides itself on its stunning panoramas over the water that can be seen from every single hole. St Enodoc’s Church Course is so called because of the 11th century Norman Church that was uncovered from amongst the sand dunes in Victorian times in the middle of the course at the bottom of the winding 10th hole. This is where the Poet Laureate John Betjeman lies following a lifelong love of Cornwall and the golf course. The undulating track that trails the natural contours

of the landscape has no two holes the same and is world renowned for its towering Himalaya bunker - reputedly the tallest bunker in Europe - that entirely blocks golfers’ view of the 6th green from all but a slither of fairway. Testament to the quality of the course St Enodoc, one of the most charming championship links courses in England, has played host to top amateur events including the English Ladies Amateur Championship in 1993 & 2002 and the English Counties Championship in 1989 & 2005. Over the years, the charm of St Enodoc and its history has lured a host of legendary Open Champions to its fairways including James Braid of course, Henry Cotton, Jim Barnes and Tom Watson which has added to the prestige of this exceptional course. The club offers excellent practice facilities complete with driving range, two putting greens and two PGA coaching professionals and recently invested heavily in a new short game practice area, a new target green on the range and a new covered bay facility.

CONTACT

ST ENODOC GOLF CLUB, Rock, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 6LD Contact: Tuck Clagett T: 01208 863216. Green Fee £67 www.st-enodoc.co.uk • tuck.clagett@st-enodoc.co.uk

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England

A S H D O W N PA R K H O T EL & CO U N T RY C LU B

et within 186 acres of beautifully-maintained parkland, with its own secret gardens, carp-filled lake, walled garden and woodland trails; the impressive Ashdown Park Hotel is tucked away, as if intended to be a secret, at the heart of the Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. The landscaped Sussex countryside makes it the ideal setting for a leisurely round of golf. There is a Par 3, 18 hole golf course, driving range, putting green and indoor nets, and if you are wanting to improve your game, we can also arrange for tuition from an experienced coach. As well as the golf course, the Country Club offers an impressive range of facilities for both invigorating and relaxing pursuits as well as informal refreshments in the Fairway Lounge. The gym is well-equipped and personal training is available. In addition there is an aerobics studio, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, table tennis and snooker as well as outdoor pursuits including jogging trails (an experience not to be missed

during the bluebell season), tennis courts and croquet. The Revitalise Spa, located within the Country Club, offers a wide range of bespoke signature treatments combining different styles and techniques from around the world, producing a completely unique spa experience. Membership starts from ÂŁ86.00 per month which includes full use of the Country Club facilities as well as preferential rates on spa treatments, food & drink and accommodation in the hotel. When you break from your round of golf or take time out from the facilities in the Country Club, head to the Fairway lounge and enjoy lunch or dinner. The Fairway is a Brassiere-style restaurant located in the Country Club which overlooks beautiful views across the golf course. It is the perfect place to enjoy light lunches throughout the week and a less formal meal on Friday & Saturday evenings. The menu offers a wide variety of meals from delicious club bites to mouth-watering main courses and sweet treats.

CONTACT

ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB, Wych Cross, Nr Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JR T +44 (0)1342 824988. Fax: +44 (0)1342 826206 www.ashdownpark.com

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England

E A S T S U S S E X N AT I O N A L

et in 1100 acres of quintessentially English countryside, yet only 40 minutes from Gatwick Airport and close enough to several major transport routes to make travelling a breeze, we can’t think of anywhere more conducive to a relaxing, awe-inspiring golf break than right here in this glorious setting. Boasting two world class 18 hole Championship Golf Courses as well as 104 bedroom hotel, a fully equipped health club, 20 metre pool and a nine treatment room spa, East Sussex National has it all. From the moment you tee off, to the first drink back at the clubhouse, we’re confident it’s an experience you will want to repeat time and again. We welcome everyone who wishes to spend time on our spectacular courses; we just want to give those who enjoy the game a chance to live the experience. Today, it represents the nearest you can get to perfection in the design and condition of the golf courses. Our meticulous attention to detail and clubhouse facilities among the finest in Europe,

make the game even more enjoyable. SUPERIOR COURSES, UNRIVALLED APPEAL Both our championship courses were designed by Robert E Cupp, one of Jack Nicklaus’s course architects, with major championship golf in mind. It’s no wonder that the club staged two European Opens and played host to some of the world’s leading players including Nick Faldo, Ernie Els, Vijah Singh, Colin Montgomerie, Jose Maria Olazabal, Nick Price and Ian Woosnam. GOLF ACADEMY The East Sussex National Golf Academy boasts some of the finest practise facilities in Europe: a 13 acre driving range, with open grass tee and covered bays, greenside and fairway bunkers, pitching and chipping areas, three putting greens and a championship three hole academy course featuring a par 3, par 4 and par 5 holes.

CONTACT

EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL, Little Horsted, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 5ES. 01825 880088 www.eastsussexnational.co.uk

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England

BOVEY CASTLE

ovey Castle is an internationally-renowned five-star resort, with special breaks for golfers available throughout the year. The rich heritage of Bovey Castle’s former life has been lovingly-complemented throughout and reflects the hotel’s ambience and luxurious hospitality. Set within its own private estate in Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is 40 minutes from Exeter by car and just over two hours by train from London Paddington to the nearest train station – Exeter St.Davids. The hotel’s Land Rover transfer service can be arranged from any location in the UK. The Old Course at Bovey Castle is a challenging and beautiful 18-hole championship course, designed in 1926 by JF Abercromby, one of the finest British golf course designers of the Golden Era. The course has gained its reputation as one of the most enjoyable places to play golf due to its glorious setting and varied challenge.

Designed to rival its sister courses at Gleneagles and Turnberry, this course has been described as an experience of golf never to be forgotten, presenting the pure challenge of golf to professional and amateur alike. At just 6303 yards, golfers should not consider the Old Course a simple task as Bovey Castle puts a precedence on accuracy, with many tee and approach shots crossing a variety of hazards. With the River Bovey coming into play on the first eight holes, clear thinking and strategic positional play is vital to score well around this course. The course’s par three 3rd, surrounded by water on three sides, is matched only by the most famous hole at Bovey Castle – the par four 7th, once described by Sir Henry Cotton as “one of the most challenging par 4’s on an inland golf course.” The clubhouse is well-equipped with changing rooms, golf shop, restaurant and bar area with outdoor seating overlooking the course

CONTACT

BOVEY CASTLE, Dartmoor National Park, Devon, TQ13 8RE Golf professional, Richard Lewis, 01647 445009, www.boveycastle.com/golf

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England

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB

ne of the finest resorts in the south west, The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club is situated in 365 acres of beautiful park and woodland. Its silently secluded setting alongside the Cotswold village of Castle Combe places it within easy reach of the world famous Bath and only 90 minutes from Paddington station. Designed by the renowned BBC commentator Peter Alliss and his designing partner Clive Clarke, the championship course combines hand cut tees and greens with mature oak trees and the meandering Bybrook River to create one of the most spectacular courses in the UK. Home to one of the top 10 par 3’s of the world, the undulating landscape has attracted many professionals over the years. Justin Rose chose to play the course on the morning before his wedding describing it as “a wonderfully scenic golf course that complements the outstanding Manor House Hotel”. Luke Donald described it as “a truly stunning course” going on to say that “he would definitely be coming back” With PGA trained pro’s on hand and comprehensive USGA

practice facilities including a driving range playing off natural turf, a chipping and bunker area and an immaculate putting green to get a little practice in you are sure to be well prepared before tackling the greens. The immaculate standards of the course are complimented by the welcoming faces and attention to detail in the recently refurbished club house. From the sun soaked terrace you can look out across the enchanting lake and 18th green or you can take a seat in one of the sumptuous lounges where a new “Great British Menu” serves traditional dishes recreated with produce from local suppliers. Nestled in the Bybrook Valley the 14th century Manor House Hotel boasts a Michelin star restaurant and 48 rooms and suites all individually designed so no two are the same, whether you opt for the main house or the Mews Cottages, there is something for everyone. If you find time to spare between playing the championship golf course, enjoying Michelin star fine dining or strolling in the grounds then try your hand at fishing, laser-clay shooting, archery or even go-karting at the local race circuit.

CONTACT

The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club, Castle Combe, Nr Bath, Wiltshire, SN14 7HR Tel +44 (0) 1249 784809 www.manorhouse.co.uk • enquiries@manorhouse.co.uk

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France

C Ô T E d´ O P A L E

ituated in Northern France, just across the Channel, the Côte d’Opale brings together all the charms of the region, including a choice of eleven 18-hole courses. Set within an exceptional environment, this golfer’s paradise offers a diversity of golf courses from natural links to pine forests, each accessible to all levels of players. In order to maintain their excellent quality, considerable investments have been made at many of these golf clubs and each offer top-class facilities including comfortable club houses, restaurants and function rooms. Côte d’Opale is the heart of French Golf.

Golf en Côte d’Opale comprises of the following clubs: Dunkerque – 27 holes Wimereux – 18 holes Hardelot – 36 holes Le Touquet – 45 holes Saint-Omer – 27 holes Abbeville – 18 holes Nampont-Saint-Martin – 36 Holes Belle-Dune – 18 holes Arras : 27 holes CONTACT

www.golfencotedopale.com • contact@golfencotedopale.com GOLF EN CÔTE d´ OPALE. Route de la Trésorerie. 62126 Wimille Tél: + 33 3 21 10 34 60.

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Majorca

L CA AD N

CLUB DE GOLF ALCANADA

lub de Golf Alcanada on the Mediterranean Island of Mallorca opened for play in October 2003. It is considered to be one of the top courses in Spain according to a variety of golf guides and has been voted for the last 3 years as the most prefered golf course in Europe by the readers of “Golf Journal”. Peter Porsche, member of the famous car dynasty, made one of his lifelong dreams come true – to build and own a golf course. His eye for perfection and high quality can be seen in every corner of the complex. As an avid golfer himself it was important that his golf course would be a natural asset to the local enviornment. The world renouned golf course designer, Robert Trent Jones Junior, is responsible for the layout of this course in the Bay of Alcudia. A three hundred year old Mallorcan Mansion houses pro

shop, lockers and club restaurant. The picturesque island of Alcanada with its lighthouse, which lends its name to the course, is the dominant feature from most points of the course. In summer, with the restaurant also open evenings, Alcanada is probably one of the best spots to enjoy a dinner on the island of Mallorca. At Alcanada, with its gently rolling fairways, well placed greenside bunkers and tricky fast greens, challenge each player. To fine tune play, Alcanada offfers a practice area incorporating spacious pitching area, roofed driving range and two practice putting greens. The multi language golf school under the supervision of PGA teacher Peter Dost offers a variety of courses and classes and is able to create personal and personalized lessons (www.dostgolf.com) to suit both beginners and experienced players.

CONTACT

CLUB DE GOLF ALCANADA, Tel: 0034-971-54 95 60. Fax: 0034-971 -89 75 78 www.golf-alcanada.com • info@golf-alcanada.com

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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

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 â&#x20AC;˘ www.sherrygolf.com

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Great Golf

Magazine

... and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next? continues ... and the journey Our journalists are already out there, covering ground for the next issue of Great Golf Magazine; Abu Dhabi is a serious contender as is Kenya. We shall be featuring Golf Property in the Algarve, and visiting Southern France to see what is on offer. You can be sure that we will be covering some far flung destinations as well as more close to home. Remember that if you like the magazine, why not subscribe. Just go to our website at www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk where you will find an online form. For any wishing to advertise in upcoming issues, please contact: mike@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk or call +44 (0)1892 544 872

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Foto: Salten Golfklubb / www.nordnorge.com

those mountains, the beach, the fjord, it was so beautiful. so it took forever just to start teeing off. around midnight, we asked the man in the clubhouse about closing time. he laughed and said “sometimes in august”. then we put our sunglasses back on and carried on playing

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