Great Golf Magazine Issue 4 by Great Golf Media

Great Golf

No.2. 2012 £4,95

Magazine

China

A Mission in the Hills

• Italy - The bright side of life • Darren Clarke - The Man and his passions • Six tropical golf courses • Fashion - Royal Albartross • Bentley - A regal ride • Arizona Spa’s - Pampering for the soul • England - Kent’s golden oldies • Property - Sotogrande - A Jewel in the Crown • WIN luxury trip to Turnberry

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Whether at the controls of one of his jets or his many other flying machines, John Travolta daily plays his own role: that of a first-rate pilot who has notched up over 6,000 flight hours and eight certifications on various types of aircraft. That of a man who is passionate about everything embodying the authentic aeronautical spirit. On his wrist is a Breitling Navitimer with its famous aviation slide rule. A cult-watch for all devotees and professionals of the conquest of the skies, equipped with Breitling Caliber 01, probably the best selfwinding chronograph movement. For John Travolta, it is simply the ultimate chronograph legend. 5-YEAR BREITLING WARRANTY £5760*

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Great Golf

No.2. 2012 £4,95

Magazine

China

A Mission in the Hills

Great Golf

Magazine

Cover photo: Mission Hills

Six tropical golf courses City Break – Miami

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Contents

www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk

26 Fashion – Royal Albartross 34 Portugal – In the swing of it 40 Spain – The rugged coast 48 China - A Mission in the hills

Darren Clarke – The Man and his passions France – A work of art

Italy – The bright side of life

78 3 legends on Par 3 84 Great products 88 Bentley – A regal ride

England – Kent’s golden oldies

100 South Lodge – Dining with the Chefs 108 The vineyards of Languedoc 116 Arizona Spa’s - Pampering for the soul

Property – Sotogrande - A Jewel in the Crown Golf guide

122

136 WIN luxury trip to Turnberry, see page

14 7

Great Golf

Magazine

The Club Guide

UK Turnberry Resort 137 Kingsbarns Golf Links 138 The Duke’s St Andrews 139 The Gleneagles Hotel 140 Dundonalds Links 141 Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses 142 Trevose Golf & Country Club 143 Saunton Golf Club 144 Royal North Devon Golf Club 145 Burnham & Berrow Golf Club 146 Prince’s 147 St Enodoc Golf Club 148 Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club 149 East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa 150 Bovey Castle 151 8

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The Manor House Golf Club 152 Chart Hills 153 Formby Hall 154

FRANCE Cote d’Opale 155

ITALY Donnafugata 156 Bellosguardo Vinci Golf Club 157

SPAIN Sherry Golf Jerez 159

TURKEY Gloria Hotels & Resort 161

GOLF TRAVEL YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE... WELCOME to issue 4 of Great Golf Magazine, your golf travel & lifestyle publication. Yet again the globe has been traversed in our never ending mission to bring you the latest on where to go and what to do when you get there. You will notice that we have added several new features to this issue starting with an article to warm the heart of all of us as we head into the cold winter months, ‘Tropical Golf’. This is followed by ‘City Breaks’ with Miami being the focus of our attention. The main feature of this issue is Mission Hills in China. Golf is growing in popularity in the land on the dragon and money is being poured into the building of golf developments. This location is a must for all the adventurous golfers out there who just simply have to try somewhere new. All I can say is, you are in for a treat! Both Portugal and Spain, as well as Italy are covered in separate articles before we move into an in depth one-on-one with golf legend Darren Clarke. Expect a twist with this interview as Angus our intrepid luxury products man and encyclopaedia on the mechanical workings of haute horology went in with a totally different angle to the interview. Also don’t miss his article on the new Bentley Mulsanne which he put through its paces. As usual wine is investigated and food is eaten in the quest to give you not only places to play golf, but also recommendations on what to eat and drink when you are there. We have not forgotten our own courses here in the UK, with Kent covered as well as a trip to South Lodge and Mannings Heath in West Sussex. Please make sure that you enter our fantastic competition to win a two night stay at Turnberry with flights from London City Airport and car hire from Glasgow all included. We would like to thank all the people and organisations that have helped to bring this latest issue to you: our travel hardened journalists who must endure a life of constant golf, five star accommodation and fine dining; the locations that have put up with them, and also the tourist boards who have provided on-the-ground assistance when needed. Finally a big thank you to Sophie Morrison We hope that you enjoy this latest issue of Great Golf Magazine. We do want to make sure that you will always receive your copy so if you cannot visit one of our distribution locations, please visit our website and subscribe to either the hard copy or the online version.

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)20 7193 6406 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 LUXURY PRODUCTS

Angus Davies angus@escapement.uk.com EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS

Sophie Morrison Linda Jackson MARKETING MANAGER

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

Ian Hadlow Dena Roché Shaun McGuckian Published by IPB Publishing Ltd Company No 6484115 Printed by Halcyon Print Management www.halcyonline.co.uk . All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent of Great Golf Magazine UK

What Is It With Ireland And The Majors?

Time To Find Out. Six majors captured by Irish players in just a few years is more than just coincidence. Find out exactly what it is by playing the courses where these champions shaped their games. World-beating links, exceptional parkland courses. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all here. And when the round ends, the fun is only beginning. This is Ireland, after all.

Time To Play. Go to discoverireland.com/golf

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Great Golf

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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

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No.2. 2012 £4,95

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China

A Mission in the Hills

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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.

Dominican Republic

Island in the sun...

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Will you play better golf for reading Great Golf Magazine? Probably not, but you will know where to go to hone your skills. No renewals without your knowledge, subscription is on a yearly basis and we will contact you to confirm your continued service. Make sure that you get each and every issue. Just visit our website at www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk and fill in the online form to Subscribe for 2013. Yearly subscription is priced at £4.00 per issue (Prices will vary for locations outside the UK). Alternatively you can subscribe to our online issue. To receive this service direct to your inbox please visit our website and register. All subscribers will receive Great Golf Magazine updates and news of special offers.

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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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Bodø / Helge Grønmo / www.nordnorge.com

Hov i Lofoten / Christer Høglund / www.lofoten-golf.no

Bodø / Helge Grønmo / www.nordnorge.com

Harstad / Knut Hamann / www.nordnorge.com

DID YOU KNOW...? As you look towards the green on the fifth hole, it can be a little hard to concentrate. It is one o’clock in the morning, and the midnight sun is shining in your eyes. Way out on the beach, and just north of the Arctic Circle. In Northern Norway the golf courses are open 24/7 in the middle of summer. Read more at www.northernnorway.com/golf

TROPICAL CLUBS

Paradise found. Six Tropical

courses By Linda Jackson, photos The Resorts

SEYCHELLES – Lémuria – Praslin Featuring holes that border two idyllic beaches on the island of Praslin, the Constance Lémuria Golf Course is a tropical gem, and the only 18-hole championship golf course in the Seychelles archipelago. Designer Rodney Wright, an American architect involved with the design of several superb Hawaii courses, has kept to his philosophy of respecting the natural character of the environs. As a result, an abundance of palm trees line the first twelve fairways, while the last eight holes meander through lush tropical rainforest. Expect some steep hills and

breathtaking views. From the tee on the par-3 Signature 15th hole the tee, which sits on a ridge 55 yards above the green, there are magnificent vistas of Anse Georgette and the Indian Ocean. Opened in October 2000, this Par-70 course is free to play for Constance Lémuria Resort residents but mandatory golf carts are charged for. The exclusive six-star resort, a member of Relais & Châteaux, offers exotic accommodation, spectacular views, and a stunning setting. http://lemuriaresort.constancehotels.com/

BAHAMAS – Emerald Reef - Great Exuma Boasting no fewer than six Signature holes, Sandals Emerald Reef Golf Club on the remote island of Great Exuma – one of the Out Islands of the Bahamas – just has to be one of the best ocean-side courses around. This little piece of paradise was designed by golf legend Greg Norman and opened in 2003. Around the greens are plenty of ‘bump and run’ opportunities – characteristic of Norman’s design. The front nine holes on this 18-hole Par 72 course meander inland through mangroves. Particularly memorable are the 4th hole with its

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slick two-tier green - a short par-4 which is a favourite of Norman’s, and the 6th, a tricky par-3 with an island green where wind can be mean. The back nine features six fantastic holes that hug the craggy Emerald Bay peninsula and enjoys magnificent turquoise-green ocean views. The adjacent Sandals Emerald Bay Resort (formerly Four Seasons) offers upmarket allinclusive butler-service accommodation, a luxury spa, and a wide range of ‘luxury-included’ activities. www.sandals.com

BARBADOS – The Green Monkey – St James Ultra-elite Sandy Lane hotel on the West Coast of Barbados boasts two 18-hole and one 9-hole course, but it’s their Green Monkey course that equals the exclusivity of the hotel itself. Play is restricted to hotel guests so tee times are luxuriously far apart. Designed by Tom Fazio, the Par 72 course has some truly awesome holes where tiered fairways have been carved out of an old limestone quarry. Memorably unique is the Signature hole, the downhill 226-yard Par 3 16th where the elevated tee

perfectly showcases the large green monkey-shaped grass island set in the middle of a huge bunker fronting the green. The chic clubhouse offers fantastic views over two golf courses and the Caribbean Sea from its spacious shaded terrace, a great ‘sun-downer’ spot. Favoured by Michael Winner, film director and food critic, the Sandy Lane Hotel (a hotspot for A-list celebrities and VIPs), is sumptuous, its location idyllic, and the beach one of Barbados’ best. www.sandylane.com

MAURITIUS – The Paradis – Morne Peninsula Built within the grounds of The Paradis Hotel & Golf Club the 18-hole Paradis course hugs the scenic shoreline of the Morne Peninsula and enjoys a towering backdrop of the iconic Morne Mountain. The breathtaking panoramic views are unforgettable as fairways wind alongside the water’s edge. The Par 72 course is flat, so easy to walk if preferred. There’s a small elegant clubhouse and friendly guest golf competitions are held regularly. The course is a David Dutton design with later bunker and fairway enhancements made by

golf professional Tony Johnstone. Coconut and royal palms are plentiful and plantings of bougainvillea, flamboyant trees, and poinsettias dotted around the fairways add vibrant colours to this idyllic tropical island course. The outstanding Paradis Hotel, located adjacent to the golf course on the south-western tip of Mauritius, is a great familyfriendly resort offering numerous activities and dining options, and accommodation in rooms, suites, or villas within yards of the beach and lagoon. www.paradis-hotel.com

TROPICAL CLUBS

JAMAICA – The White Witch at Rose Hall – Montego Bay With a name that derives from a 19th century Plantation owner (Annee Palmer), who reputedly ill-treated her slaves, killed off three husbands and cast evil spells, the White Witch is a gem of a golf course. It winds through the rolling, wild and mountainous countryside of the exclusive Rose Hall Plantation in the Montego Bay area of Jamaica. Enjoying spectacular Caribbean Sea views and cooling trade winds, the Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril designed Par 71 course opened in 2000 and has been rated Number 1 Golf

Course in the Caribbean by Condé Nast Traveler. Each hole is different. Expect long carries over intimidating rainforest territory with deep ravines and challenging winds and greens, all in a colourful landscape with some great ocean views. The 18-hole championship course is the property of the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort set out in 5,000 acres of exotic grounds. The resort is the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in Jamaica. www.ritzcarlton.com

HAWAII – The Challenge at Manele – Lana’i Crashing surf and lava cliffs are dramatic features of the scenic Challenge at Manele golf course in Lana’i, a short ferry ride from Maui, Hawaii. The Jack Nicklaus Signature course sits 200ft high on the top of cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and has been ranked in the world’s top 100 golf courses by Condé Nast Traveler. The setting is spectacular – the red cliffs and black lava crevices contrast strikingly with the lush green fairways, deep white bunkers, and dark blue ocean. To score well on this

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challenging Par 72 championship course demands concentration, good placement of tee shots, and accuracy into elevated greens. The choice of five tee positions, however, does soften the blow of unforgiving shots over ravines and ocean waves, so golfers of all standards need not be demoralised. Overlooking a white sandy beach the ocean-side Four Seasons Resort Lana’i offers an unlimited golf packages and use of GPSenabled golf carts at both Manele Bay and The Lodge at Koele. www.fourseasons.com/manelebay/

CITY BREAK

Some like it hot...

Tired of the cold and the rain? Then pack your golf clubs and head off to The Sunshine State By Camilla Kaas-Stock, photos courtesy The Resorts

After what one can only describe as a disastrous British summer, you might feel the need for a bit of a pick-me-upper, and perhaps a city break with a spot of golf and some retail therapy is just what the doctor ordered. Add some sunshine,

fantastic beaches and a bit of glamour – and you have the recipe for the perfect getaway. I am of course talking about Miami. It’s not surprising that Florida and Miami are so popular with tourists and retirees; with its wonderful year round climate it is the perfect place to escape the winter blues. The summers tend to be very hot and humid with temperatures up in the 30’s, but through the winter months the weather is dry and pleasantly warm.

The Biltmore As the richest city in the US, Miami has plenty of glamorous hotels to offer and you can’t get much more up-market than The Biltmore Hotel. Built in 1926 and surrounded by 150 tropical acres, this National Historical Landmark is located in the Coral Gables area right in the heart of the city and just minutes away from the excitement of South Beach. The hotel, which in its heyday played host to everyone from President Roosevelt to Judy Garland and even Al Capone, is designed to emulate the finest in classic Mediterranean architecture. The Biltmore's centrepiece is its 93-foot copper-clad tower, modelled after the Giralda Tower in Seville, Spain. Here you will >

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find all that you would expect in a luxury hotel - sumptuous rooms, award-winning restaurants, spa, a 23,000 sq. ft pool and, last but not least, an 18-hole championship golf course where, if you’re lucky, you might rub shoulders with stars such as Robert Redford, Will Smith or perhaps Bill Clinton, who are frequent guests at the Biltmore. The course was originally designed by the legendary golf architect Donald Ross, but has since had a $5 million makeover and now hosts the annual Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Championship. It was here that golf legends such as Tiger Woods and Christie Kerr first proved their metal.

Plenty of restaurants When you have had your fill of golf and shopping pamper yourself in the 25,000 square-foot Spa and fitness centre or lounge by the 7,500 square-foot Laguna Pool. The resort also

Turnberry Isle Miami Situated within the lush surroundings of Aventura, an exclusive enclave in North Miami Beach, lays Turnberry Isle Miami. This award-winning Mediterranean-style resort is located just across the street from Aventura Mall with its 300 specialty shops: in other words a pretty good location for those who have money burning a hole in their pocket. With 408 guest rooms and suites the resort aims to provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort. French doors open onto private terraces with spectacular views of the gardens, pools and its two championship golf courses. The South Course and North Course, originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., have both undergone extensive renovations. They offer lush, tropical grounds accentuated with a variety of elevation changes, contoured fairways, doglegs, and strategically placed water features.

has plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from so there is no danger of starvation. And just a short shuttle ride away, guests can enjoy Turnberry Isle’s private Beach Club.

Ocean drive You can't come all the way to Miami without seeing the sights and soaking up the special atmosphere so where better to start than at South Beach – a favourite hangout for sun-seeking tourists and the rich and famous alike. Golden sands, turquoise water, hip sidewalk cafés, designer boutiques, bars and >

CITY BREAK

dusk-till-dawn clubs – this is truly the place to see and be seen. And when you've had your fill of the beach, take a walk down Ocean Drive with its beautiful pastel coloured Art Deco buildings. There are more than 800 of these historically significant structures, most of which were built in the period between 1923 and 1943. As you stroll along you will notice the porthole windows, ship-like railings and sleek curves, all inspired by the big ocean liners that docked at the Port of Miami in the 30's.

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Here a camera is definitely a must, and at night the accent lighting makes the buildings even more impressive.

The Design District Miami is also a great place for some retail therapy; especially popular is the Design District where you’ll find luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior and Cartier as well as art galleries, antique shops and plenty of eateries. If you prefer shopping malls, a favourite American pastime, then no worries, Miami can deliver. As well as shopping you should not miss the opportunity to visit Little Havana for a taste of Cuba. And while there, why not pop in to Versailles, a landmark restaurant famous for their Cuban empanadas filled with spinach and cheese, fried yucca and ropa vieja, and finish off with a great Cuban cigar. There is so much to see and do in Miami, and so many wonderful golf courses to play, that you can’t possibly fit it all in in one single trip. So when the winter blues sets in, don’t despair, just pack your bags and take a Jumbo across the water. www.turnberryislemiami.com www.biltmorehotel.com GGM

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CHINA

A Mission in the Hills With 600 golf courses and counting, China is rapidly becoming a major player in the world of golf. They also have the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest golf resort. Text by Ian Hadlow, photos Mission Hills

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CHINA

World’s largest golf resort and the numbers are certainly impressive. It boasts 12 courses, 216 holes, 3000 caddies, 1000 golf carts, 180 ground keepers 2 hotels and Asia’s largest spa.

reparing for my trip, my research showed one thing – Mission Hills is all about size! The Guinness Book of Records recognises the complex as the world’s largest golf resort and the numbers are certainly impressive. It boasts 12 courses, 216 holes, 3000 caddies, 1000 golf carts, 180 ground keepers 2 hotels and Asia’s largest spa. Built in 1994, Mission Hills is situated just over the border from Hong Kong, in a stretch of land between Shenzhen and Dongguan.

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Its two main sites are easily reachable via Hong Kong Airport, and there’s even a mini-bus pick up from several Hong Kong hotels.

Luxury and service I was booked in to stay at the Dongguan Hotel as the Shenzhen complex was closed for complete refurbishment. As I pulled up to the hotel I was met by Mona Li, the Director of Brand Development and my contact for the two-day stay. Walking

through the opulent lobby to the premier check-in desk I very quickly realised that the Mission Hills experience is not just about size, but also about luxury and service. My accommodation, a Grande Premiere Room, allowed me to enjoy personal butler service, a complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails and access to the Premiere Lounge. The room was sumptuous and modern with stunning views of the lake and the 18th hole of the course that I would later be playing. The

personal welcome on the TV screen was a nice finishing touch.

Wealthy customers As I settled in and unpacked, a fresh bowl of fruit was delivered just in case I felt peckish. After refreshing quickly I headed down to meet Mona for lunch.Walking to the Dongguan clubhouse (which happens to be the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest clubhouse), I got a sense of the wealthy customers that Mission Hills has been built to 29

CHINA

On our way to the World Restaurant we passed through an avenue of shops representing some of the largest luxury brands serve. On our way to the World Restaurant we passed through an avenue of shops representing some of the largest luxury brands – all which would look at home in any high-end shopping mall around the world. Apart from the lavishness of the place it’s obvious that here golf is “king”. There are TV screens everywhere showing highlights of golf from competitions around the world – all on Mission Hills’ own television station.

Glorious meal The menu for the set lunch had my mouth watering. To get the taste buds going I was first served an appetiser of ‘Tuna with Sesame, and Vegetable and Walnut Salad, Spicy Tomato and Seafood Soup’, followed by ‘Baked Garoupa with Crab Meat in Champagne Cream Sauce on Angel Hair Pasta with Seasonal Vegetables,’ and finished with ‘Tiramisu’. All beautifully presented and expertly cooked as you would expect. After such a glorious meal it seemed sacrilege to rush off, but my tee time was approaching and I needed to get ready for the highlight of my trip.

Olazábal’s signature course Of the five courses at the Dongguan I was to play the Olazábal Course, which is José Maria Olazábal’s inaugural Signature course 30

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and one of the clubs strongest tests. This course is used for the Omega Mission Hills World Cup. It plays to 7,300 yards and boasts 151 bunkers (including 24 on the 15th hole alone), reflecting Olazábal’s reputation as a master with the sand wedge. It is also considered to be the prettiest course in the Mission Hills armoury. I couldn’t wait; I just hoped my golf was ready for the challenge. I was introduced to my caddy, Mimi (all Mission Hills caddies are female and undergo a minimum of three months training), and found that her English was excellent. Once we had loaded up the cool box with water and towels, as the temperature was a modest 34°C, I was ready for the task at hand.

Fast greens We started on the par-4 1st hole (stroke index 9) which offered a nice, open dogleg right, challenged with the requisite strategic bunkers. My first impressions were good; the course looked immaculate and well cared for with beautiful views over the surrounding area. After a nice starting drive down the left-hand side of the hole and a couple of good approach shots, the speed of the green caught me out to score a double bogey, not a great start and a reminder about warming up and practicing properly before a round. We moved on to the par-3 2nd hole, a nice tree-lined hole

where accuracy and distance are paramount. The caddie’s expert advice counted for everything here and it got me on to the green with a nice simple putt for my par.

The heat of the moment The 3rd hole is a picturesque par-5 with a small stream cutting the green off from the rest of the open, undulating fairway. After a straight drive, a disastrous second and third shot left me still with the stream to cross. A hooked fourth managed to get me over, and a nice chip and double putt finished the hole. In my defence I have to say that at this point the heat was really starting to be a factor and I would advise liberal use of sun protection and plenty of fluids if you are intending to come here in the summer. My caddie made a quick call on her radio and an umbrella to protect me from the glare was soon on its way.

experience of the course’s famous bunkers. As expected, these are beautifully maintained and tested my skill with the sand wedge. The gigantic par-5 9th hole is the hardest on the course. It curves first right and then left with a path crossing about two thirds down, and offers a nice view across the resort from the tee. The 11th plays downhill against the beautiful backdrop of the mountain, helping to take your mind off the high number of obstacles on this difficult par-5. I was left very satisfied with my par.

Testing but beautiful

In the bunkers

The 15th is the signature hole on the course and is a beautifully landscaped par-5 dogleg left around the edge of a lake. The 24 bunkers are bound to claim many a stray ball. The final hole is a nice par-4 and leads to the hotel along the edge of a lake, and at least offers a small chance to finish well. The Olazábal Course was at times testing and frustrating, but always beautiful and a pleasure to play.

The tree-lined dog leg left par-4 was next and played without too much drama as I was beginning to learn this course rewarded accuracy and shot planning, giving me a par for my trouble. The par-5 7th is a stunning downhill hole that is littered with bunkers surrounding a small green. This hole played well for me and gave me a well-earned par. It was here that I got my first

After a cold beer in the Clubhouse I freshened up and headed to the Spa, where I was treated to a full body massage that eased away all the aches and pains I had collected from the afternoon’s activity. The Spa is luxurious and tranquil and the range of treatments astounding.

The feast

CHINA

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Feeling like a new man I met Mona again who was to join me for my evening feast at the Tao Yuan Restaurant, where we enjoyed the finest of Chinese cuisine. The meal was exquisite and the Hand-made Noodles with Beef Brisket were some of the best I had ever tried. The chef seemed very pleased with my praise when he later came out to introduce himself. Being completely sated I decided to retire to my room.

Guided tour After a buffet breakfast I was given a tour of the resorts’ large and impressive facilities. The first stop was the ‘Kids Club’ where they have planned activities with patient English-speaking staff. There is an excellent gym as well as a large outdoor and luxurious indoor pool. We then jumped on the Mission Hills bus that regularly runs between the Dongguan Resort, Shenzhen Resort and the Country Club, to have a look at the Shenzhen Hotel and Clubhouse. It was obvious that on completion of the re-development, the Shenzhen location would be equally as impressive as Dongguan.

The last supper To finish my Mission Hills experience I was treated to a final meal at the Shenzhen based Japanese Restaurant. We started with Avocado and Sesame Salad, followed by a Seafood Soup served in a teapot. Next was a plate of Mixed Sashimi and Sushi followed by Pan Fried Cod and Prawn and Vegetable Tempera. The meal was finished off with Black Honey Ice Cream. My final thoughts as I left Mission Hills were that this is a Five Star resort of spectacular dimensions which has plenty to offer, whether you come on your own, or with the family. But where it really excels is with its twelve fantastic courses, and no golf tour of South East Asia should miss Mission Hills – but then, GGM considering its size, I don’t think you could.

GOOD TO KNOW FLIGHTS TO HONG KONG Jet Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Air New Zealand fly from Heathrow and Emirates from Gatwick. FROM THE AIRPORT Situated along the intersection of the Meiguan Expressway, the Guanshen Expressway and the Jinhe Expressway, Mission Hills is easily accessible from any direction. The golf club is reachable from the city centres of Shenzhen and Dongguan within 30 minutes and from Central in Hong Kong within two hours. HOTEL SHENZHEN Grande Deluxe Room £135 Grande Premiere Room £195 Grande Premiere Suite £382 Grande Premiere Family Suite (Two Bedrooms) £480 HOTEL DONGGUAN Grande Deluxe (Lake View) £145 Grand Premiere (Lake View) £205 Grand Premiere Suite (All Lake View) £382 Presidential Suite on both locations £3,820 Golf Rate (all courses) including green fee, caddie and cart Weekday £190 Weekend £230 http://www.missionhillschina.com

SEEN as t foot

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he w Roya ear by m ultimat e l of a Albartro any golf e y s who oung Br s is the rs, it s b the w e ambiti ish desi rainchil gn d o shoe orld’s fin n was to er e c all th that not st golf s reate o h e cern require nly wou oe. A in ld m wou g golfer ents of satisfy ld t b Rum make a ut that he disalso or ha fash By i s o it – i Nils n sta Bjo t rne ’ s s by R catc temen , ph otos oya t. hing l Alb also artr on... oss

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piece

GREAT FASHION

e’re driving through the Province of Ancona in the Marche region of Italy, where the coastal strip along the Adriatic Sea with its wonderful sandy beaches is mostly popular among Italians rather than foreigners. But we are soon leaving the coast moving inland, an area of rolling farmland with sloping vineyards and hilltop towns close enough for people to shout across. The area is known for producing red and white wines mainly of the Sangiovese, Montepulciano and Verdicchio grape varieties, whilst the mountain zone further inland is famous for its black truffles. Well, I’m not here to sample the agricultural gems of the area, but rather to visit a shoe factory, namely the one that makes Royal Albartross golf shoes.

The entrepreneur We’ve heard golfers rave about them, seen pictures and even had ads for them in the magazine, so we decided to find out more 36

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about this exclusive footwear. That’s why I now find myself in a car driving through winding roads on an Italian countryside with Alex Bartholomew, founder, company director and designer of Albartross shoes, to pay a visit to the factory that makes them. As requested by my travel companion we won’t mention the name of our final destination. It is not a particularly picturesque town, rather a bit grey with a mixture of new and old buildings that have seen better days. The factory itself, an anonymous looking building which in no way reveals that, within these brick walls, they’re making shoes of the very finest quality and not least the golf shoes we have come to see.

The smell of leather We are met by the boss himself, Mr. Genesio, and the young Antonluigi, who is Alex’ contact person and who, on this occasion also acts as translator since Mr. Genesio speaks no English. As soon as we enter the factory floor we are greeted by the

unmistakable smell of leather. Shoes are everywhere and a handful of employees are busy working with the different stages of the production. This is no high-tech factory that spews out thousands of shoes every day. Here the shoes are crafted by experienced workers using traditional hand tools and three generations of carefully preserved techniques. Each golf shoe requires more than 250 tasks including stitching the leather, moulding and compressing the upper onto the last and attaching the cleated sole. Believe it or not, it actually takes eight weeks and 70 hours of precise craftsmanship to finish each pair. Walking through the factory with Mr. Genesio I can clearly see that this is a painstakingly slow process. Nothing is left to chance – from the choice of the finest French calf leather down to the smallest details of the finishing touches, everything has to be perfect.

“

Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.

”

– Marilyn Monroe

A coincidence Back at the hotel we have time before dinner to sit down for a chat with Alex to find out what made her start making golf shoes. Born in Zimbabwe to British parents and growing up in South Africa, Alex was not a stranger to golf, but when she at 19 moved to the UK to study Fashion and Textile design at Brighton

University, golf was the last thing on her mind. “It was actually a bit of a coincidence. During the course at the University we had a period of work experience within the industry and I ended up working for a shoemaker. I’ve always been interested in shoes so when I came back to the University I told them I no longer wanted to do textile, I wanted to do shoe design.” ”They convinced me that I could continue the course and make shoes from the materials we had available. When I was told that one of the men’s shoes I designed looked so much like a golf shoe, I decided that this was something I wanted to explore further.”

Found supplier Alex went on to Cordwainers College in London, continuing to focus on shoe design. Her first job came as a quality controller at LK Bennett and later as a consultant with Burberry. While working for Burberry she spent a few months in Florence, Italy, and here she found a supplier that was interested in her shoes. The time had come to find a shoemaker.

GREAT FASHION holomew Alex Bart

“It certainly wasn’t easy. I wanted to make shoes that not only were beautiful but that would need to have the right grip, the stability and support, and of course be comfortable; finding the right shoemaker was essential.” While searching Alex had contact with several manufacturers before finding this small family run factory in Italy, who were experts in quality workmanship and small production runs. “The others were either too big, didn’t have the right approach or charged too much. Mr. Genesio and his workers are highly skilled shoemakers who are dedicated to perfection. I feel lucky to have found them,”

First collection In 2007 Alex had her first sample range of ten pairs of men’s shoes ready to take to a Trade Show in Orlando, Florida. There was no doubt her collection made an impact for the orders started to build up. In 2009 with the help of a personal bank loan and her husband's backing, she launched the website which, beside a growing number of retailers around the world, stands for the majority of her orders today. So what are the secrets behind all her achievements? "I believe it's the finer details that you cannot get from a "thousand-of-pairs-a-day" production line that make the difference. The polished lace tips, stainless eyelets, extra padded collars and the beautiful smell of leather that you are greeted with when you open each box. We have deliberately broken boundaries and added shots of exotic colour to the regular footwear palette allowing you to be who you are. People like to be noticed and I think our shoes make a fashion statement.”

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New ladies collection Over dinner that evening at Casa de Campo, Alex’ favourite agriturismo restaurant, we continued our talk about golf and fashion and what lies ahead for Royal Albartross. “We have just launched a new ladies’ collection which I’m very proud of. They are a fashionable take on traditional golf shoes without losing the appeal of classic proportions and brogue detailing. They are beautifully made, using the highest quality leathers, featuring our signature metal lace tips and high-shine eyelets. The colours are on trend and will appeal to a range of stylish Lady golfers, from the conservative to the more flamboyant. We are also in the process of introducing a cheaper, spike-less shoe that can be worn in the club house as well as on the green.”

No large empire “It’s not a huge factory, do you think you can deliver if demand keeps rising?” “Expanding is not a problem, but I’m not interested in building a large empire and I don’t need lots of money. What I want is for people to love the shoes and, as for myself, I wish to stay true to the idea and the ethics I had when I started out.” Seeing the workmanship and care that goes into making each pair of Royal Albartross shoes has convinced me they’re worth every penny, and even if they don’t make you play better golf, at least you know you are looking good. www.albartross.com GGM

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PORTUGAL

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OF IT.. g n i . w s

IN THE

On the Southern tip of Portugal, bordering mile upon mile of golden sands and the rugged beauty of the Ria Formosa National Park, Quinta do Lago Resort not only boasts three of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best golf courses, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a perfect place to improve your swing... By Linda Jackson, photo Linda Jackson and Quinta do Lago

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itting very pretty in the Algarve and clearly unaffected by the general economic downturn that some sunshine resorts are facing, the Quinta do Lago resort appears to be protected by an invisible luxury ‘bubble’ – a much sought-after, high-end bubble at that, I might add. From the minute I enter the resort and meander along its maze of immaculately maintained roads lined with exotic flowering shrubs, manicured grass verges and rustling palms, I feel as though I’ve been enveloped in the highest quality cashmere you can find. What a comforting, luxurious, expectant feeling it is to be assured just by the very surroundings that you are on the verge of a blissful golf break. With a 95% guarantee of sunshine year-round and luxury exuding from every blade of grass, this golfing break promises to be very pleasurable indeed – especially if I can iron out my frustrating golfing problems while I’m here.

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Mind over matter Golfing problems! We all have them. Mine are mostly between the ears, specifically in the mind. ‘Mind over matter’ they say, but that doesn’t quite work in golf does it? So, to rid myself of negative thoughts and lousy golf shots, my intentions are to spend time at the Paul McGinley Academy at Quinta do Lago getting a strong dose of tuition medicine as well as playing the superb championship courses on-site. I also want to try out the TaylorMade Rocketballz golf clubs that I’ve been hearing golfers rave about. How delighted I am, then, when I hear that European Tour player Paul McGinley himself, renowned ex-Ryder Cup player, will be there for the duration of my stay. I’m sure you’re in the know about Paul McGinley, but just in case you’re not, he’s the very important guy who holed the European winning putt in the 2002 Ryder Cup. Born in Dublin in 1966, he only turned professional in 1991. He has a strong personal involvement at the

Academy (founded late-2011, it’s the only academy in the world that carries his name) and also owns a house on the Quinta do Lago resort, so he and his family are regular visitors to the Algarve – a destination and climate he loves. He’s no fool.

Gaelic football

Lago restaurant – a casual, trendy eating place located on the edge of the lake – Paul tells us how the latest TaylorMade clubs add yards to everyone’s game. Yippee! That means when I try out the much-talked-about Rocketballz at the TaylorMade Fitting Centre (attached to the Paul McGinley Academy), I can expect no less than a miracle.

Paul McGinley is also very charming. I am delighted to be in a privileged group that has the pleasure of dining in his company that evening. The light-hearted song When Irish Eyes Are Smiling slips into mind. His eyes do a lot of smiling, but not so much when he’s talking about Peil Chaelach (Gaelic football); it’s a serious matter, and a game he’s as passionate about as golf. He was, in fact, a talented Gaelic footballer with a bright future ahead of him until, catastrophically, he broke a kneecap. It was only then that he turned his full attention to golf. Sitting opposite him and chatting over dinner at the Casa do

Casa do Lago restaurant is in the most idyllic, romantic setting. Candles flicker, the lake glistens in the moonlight and the swimming pool glows a gorgeous turquoise. We sip cocktails on the terrace before dinner, soft music is playing in the background, the stars twinkle above and the warm breeze gently caresses bare shoulders... so romantic, so seductive. Then the guys get out the golf clubs and challenge each other to hit a ball onto a small floating green 80 metres or so from the

Seductive and romantic

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There are also wonderful rental townhouses and villas at Monte da Quinta.

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shore. So much for the romantic setting! Actually, it is fun and (do I need to say) McGinley lands his ball fairly and squarely on the green which appears to be little more than one metre in diameter.

Spacious suite Checking in at the Monte da Quinta Suites in the heart of Quinta do Lago earlier in the day, I was pleased to see it is only a short walk from the Academy. There are also rental townhouses and villas at Monte da Quinta but I am more than satisfied with my spacious one-bedroom/two-bathroom suite. The more hotel-like ambiance suits me to a ‘T’. It has a separate lounge, a fullyequipped kitchen and, being on the ground floor, direct access to the lovely gardens. The two- and three-bedroom suites should be ideal for families: cook in or eat out – perfect! There’s a kids’ club too, with lots of supervised activities for the little darlings, plus a spa for older darlings that need pampering. Long, cool corridors are flanked by tall bamboo plants, a grand piano sits in the lobby bar and huge, comfy sofas are dotted around the outside landscaped upper terrace. The terrace on the lower restaurant overlooks an inviting swimming pool, subtly lit at night. I think I’ll like it here. A lot.

Koko Lane Restaurant Lunch, with a bunch of other golf enthusiasts, was at Koko Lane Restaurant which is located next to the outdoor Academy and overlooks the driving range. I chose the fish ‘catch of the day’. Delicious, I thought. Until, that is, I detected the aroma of mouth-watering pizzas as they emerged steaming hot from the wood-fired pizza oven.

We all move as one to sit beside the driving range where Paul gives a number of helpful tips to improve our game. He explains how the high-tech 3D TrackMan Pro analyses a player’s swing and ball flight from hitting to landing, then hits a selection of clubs to show the difference between playing with bespoke clubs versus playing with clubs not suited to the player. What a difference a club makes. At this point, all the golfers are eyeing-up the bags of TaylorMade trial clubs and the waiting pyramids of practice balls, champing at the bit to get on the driving range to try them out. Rather than ranting on about how nice they are to play with, and that the ball really does go farther, I’ll leave it for you to test drive them for yourself. But get the credit card ready.

Portugal’s best We meet for breakfast the following day on the clubhouse terrace at Laranjal, one of three championship golf courses owned by Quinta do Lago. Our small group of wannabe pro-golfers are full of anticipation at playing what was named Portugal’s Best Golf Course 2011 (Portuguese Travel Awards). Located in the country well away from any villas, created in the grounds of an old orange grove, Laranjal is a real peach. It’s long, with beautiful fairways and large, undulating, well-guarded greens; five big lakes; and orange trees dotted around the course. Within its 18 holes are five par-3, eight par-4 and five par-5 holes, which is an unusual configuration but a welcome change to the norm. Before you drag yourself away from this challenging course, don’t miss out on a glass of freshly-squeezed orange juice; it’s the best I’ve tasted.

Laranjal was named Portugal’s Best Golf Course 2011 (Portuguese Travel Awards).

PORTUGAL Paul McGinley and me. I’d certainly return to his Academy when I am next in Quinta do Lago.

A testing course My golfing prowess, I regret, is not as pretty as the course so my decision is easy; it’s Full Day School at the Paul McGinley Academy for me, for a total review of the strengths and weaknesses of my game before I tackle the Quinta do Lago South and North courses. Having played both South and North before, I’m really looking forward to taking on the challenge of each again after my hopeful ‘upgrade’ session at the Academy. Quinta do Lago North is one of the Algarve’s best. This testing course features lots of umbrella pines, fairways are great year-round and greens are true and fast. The longer Quinta do Lago South course is nearer the sea and features wide inviting fairways, large greens, lakes which come into play on several holes and a number of elevated tees offering spectacular views. The Portuguese Open is often played here. Bear in mind, though, that play can sometimes be slow at peak times due to the popularity of the Quinta do Lago courses. Other ‘must play’ courses on the doorstep are Pinheiros Altos and the stunning San Lorenzo.

Back to school Enough dreaming about alluring golf courses… tomorrow I’m going back to school. My Full Day School course means three hours’ instructional workout on the range, then a 9-hole course management session, video analysis, long irons and woods, chipping, pitching, bunker and putting instruction. Finally, I’ll be presented with a personal plan to keep me on the straight and narrow forever. It had better work. If I had thought a full-day workout was a bit OTT, then I could have chosen from a whole range of instruction options, like private lessons, group or playing lessons and a choice of schools from half-day through to five days.

Ideal holiday Never did I think I’d want to return to school, but I’d certainly return to the Paul McGinley Academy when I am next in Quinta do Lago. What an ideal holiday solution this is for golfers who are thinking of changing their clubs, considering replacing offthe-shelf ones with bespoke clubs, and those who want to turn up their game a notch or two. As for the ‘bubble’ that Quinta do Lago is sitting pretty in? Well, having a high-tech Academy with McGinley’s involvement, first-rate teaching professionals, a range of luxury accommodation, fantastic golf courses, a golf-perfect climate, plus myriad activities for all the family: that Quinta do Lago ‘bubble’ is certainly not up for bursting. GGM 46

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GOOD TO KNOW QUINTA DO LAGO: www.quintadolago.com Location: 15 minutes from Faro Airport Airline Carriers: British Airways, easyJet, Monarch Airlines, Ryanair, Air Portugal TAP QUINTA DO LAGO ACCOMMODATION 5* Hotel Quinta do Lago (prestigious luxury hotel, member of ‘Leading Hotels of the World’): www.hotelquintadolago.com 5* Conrad Algarve (contemporary luxury hotel, spa & health club – opens October 2012): www.conradalgarve.com 4* Monte da Quinta Resort (1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchen; townhouses & villas (2-5 bedrooms): www.mqclub.com 3* Four Seasons Country Club Hotel (one & two bedroom villas): www.fsccquintadolago.com Real Estate (San Lorenzo North): 26 exclusive plots designed for detached villas with views over the Ria Formosa Natural Park and San Lorenzo Golf Course (show villa opening late-summer 2012) GOLF Paul McGinley Academy – driving range – TaylorMade Fitting Centre with 3D TrackMan Pro Green fees: North, South & Laranjal – 18 holes from approximately €101-€197 depending on season (discounted for Quinta do Lago residents) ACTIVITIES Tennis – walking in the Ria Formosa Natural Park – watersports – fishing – biking Active Q Gym - Gigi Beach (3.5km golden sand) – Dolce Deluxe Spa – exclusive shopping mall Various events throughout year RESTAURANTS Casa do Lago: fine seafood, lovely views, lakeside setting, Ria Formosa National Park backdrop Koko Lane: relaxed eatery (with pizza oven) next to the Paul McGinley Academy Pure Boutique Café: renowned for its great breakfasts and cupcakes, overlooks golf course The Clubhouses: legendary 19th-hole atmosphere, lovely setting, delicious salads and club sandwiches

LUXURY GOLF COMPANY MAJOR GOLF TOURS, TAKING YOU TO THE MAJOR GOLF EVENTS Major Golf Tours provides luxury hospitality and aims to ensure that every golf fan has a truly memorable trip to some of the world’s most prestigious events taking place in stunning locations. Our golf hospitality is second to none. Specialising in Tickets and Hospitality to major golf events such as The Masters, The Open and The Ryder Cup and enjoy the finest accommodation, exquisite cuisine and most of all, the excitement of the final round of a Major golf tournament. US Masters 2013, 8th April – 15th Walk the fairways with the world’s greatest golfers at the first major of the golfing year….. The Masters. Be one of the lucky few to watch the exhilarating and breathtaking action of Saturday’s penultimate and Sunday’s final rounds witnessed by thousands of golfing fans, live it and be part of history. Be only feet away from the likes of Rory Mcllroy, Tiger Woods and Luke Donald playing as only they can on the near legendary course of Augusta. Augusta National Golf Club possesses what is arguably the best golfing scenery in the world to create a superb backdrop for this event.

Hear and be part of the roar of the crowd from the very first tee shot of the morning, to Amen corner and most of all on the 18th green. Reasons to book with Major Golf Tours; • 20 years’ experience taking clients to Major golf events. • Guaranteed access to watch the Masters live at Augusta National Golf Club. • Fantastic hospitality venue just moments from the entrance of Augusta. • Luxurious accommodation • You get to play on some outstanding golf courses in South Carolina. All transfers are included to and from the golf days and also to and from Augusta National Golf Club and we have experienced staff on hand throughout the duration of your trip. Book now for 2013 Book now to ensure that you don’t miss out on this unforgettable golfing experience.

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The RUGGED Coast

With Barcelona as its pulsating, vibrant capital, famous for its architecture and gastronomy, the region of Catalunya has traditionally been less popular among golfers than other Spanish Costas. Now, all that is changing... By Shaun McGuckian, Photo also by Costa Brava Tourist Board

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he last time I was in Barcelona, I was pick-pocketed. I had only been there six hours, just enough time for a shower and a drink. That sort of welcome is enough to make you take to your heels and head straight back onto the plane home. But I didn’t. Instead, two old soaks helped me up and a local teenager walked me back to my apartment apologizing on behalf of the city. “We are not like that,” he said. “Catalans are better people and we want you to enjoy our city.”

Las Ramblas In fairness, we had been warned about pickpockets before arriving. Las Ramblas is the main tourist strip in Barcelona, full of locals nibbling on tapas in between cigarette drags and tourists ordering beers in ridiculously oversized jugs. At night, the neon lights come on and Las Ramblas gets busier and louder. While it is one of the quintessential visits you must make when in this part of the world, it is also an opportunist’s dream, so ‘enjoy yourself responsibly,’ as the adverts tell us. That’s what I decided I was going to do. After all, Barcelona is a 50

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pulsating city right now. Beyond the aesthetic beauty of its marina, beach and gothic architecture, is a spiritual beauty that you can’t help falling in love with.

Barça One cannot think of Barcelona without thinking of the football club. The team plays with a quintessentially Spanish passion and style, and the whole of Catalunya supports it with every fibre of its being. One would expect no less. As Bill Shankly put it, ‘Some people believe football is a matter of life and death…I can assure you it’s much more important than that.’ And that’s not just an attitude found on the terraces. Catalans have allowed this passion to spill into every facet of their lives. Their food is no longer just cold slices of tortilla and a few olives on a bar; it’s the greatest food in the world, far richer and more exciting than the careless imitations to be found elsewhere. Places like El Bulli and El Cellar Can Roca have evolved beyond restaurants into a pilgrimage for anyone who wants to stick a white hat on their head. As such, you are just as likely to bump into a food fetishist as you are a golfer. As a hybrid of both, I spent

an enjoyable evening at Aula Gastronomica de L’Emporda cooking local dishes before devouring them with a bottle of local Emporda wine as a fitting accompaniment.

Qualifying School Music fans will also tell you that the Sonar festival is one of the best in the world. Combining this with a spot of people watching is a recipe for a cracking holiday as far as I’m concerned, but it has never really been somewhere I’d think to go for golf. That changed a couple of years ago when the European Tour moved Qualifying School to a place called PGA Catalunya. I had never heard of it before; when you think about golf in Spain, you think of the Costa del Sol. But about an hour from the high-rises of Barcelona, the Costa Brava is home to a quieter set of golf courses and while they are not as ostentatious as their southern counterparts, that doesn’t mean they are any less good.

Build it and they will come I began my golfing voyage at Golf Platja de Pals. This course is situated about half a mile from the sea. Not that you’d know it –

all you can see is trees, trees, trees. Platja de Pals was founded by a Spanish duo who made a fortune in Cuba (take that Communism!) and retired to their beloved Catalunya. They bought up a section of beach and then imported one million umbrella pines to create a narrow, fidgety course that is a real pleasure to play. Age has softened the course a little bit, but that’s only if you hit a straight ball – spray it about and you will soon find yourself surrounded by a lot of trees. Precision and strategy are key, and the bitter wind that blows down from the Pyrenees makes that all the harder.

Fantastic lunch I really enjoyed this course. There’s a good variety of holes and shots to play and it was nothing like I imagined when travelling here. Also, have lunch. It was amazing. We had a selection of starters/tapas and I could have very easily sat there all afternoon, ordering dish after dish. While I was tucking in, there were two particular holes that stuck in my mind and I’m sure they will stick in yours as well – the two spectacular par three holes at the 9th and 11th. The 9th 51

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Costa Brava - where greatness isn’t an aspiration, it’s a way of life...

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

The Forest Course gets your heart pumping just looking at it.

is beautifully framed, over water and a large bunker, and it will take a good shot to find the green. The 11th is from a raised tee and you have to play over the canopy of umbrella pines to find the green below. It really hones your concentration and reminds me a bit of the 4th at Augusta.

Can’t see the wood for the trees I moved on from Pals, taking a short drive to Emporda GC, a 36hole resort divided into two halves. The Forest Course gets your heart pumping just looking at it. The holes weave around hundreds of umbrella pines that head off into the distance across a seemingly endless mass of bunkers and humps. To add to the challenge, large bunkers, larger greens and a splash of water make this a very intimidating course. Trying to find a swing, I found myself chipping sideways a lot in the early holes. Then the water got involved and my scorecard began to look very messy. But I was still having fun. Emporda is the work of Robert Van Hagge, the architect behind Le Golf National and Seignosse, and you can see his touches in details such as the railways sleepers on bunkers and lakes. I thought every hole on the Forest Course was great in its own

right, but the 6th and 7th holes are very special. Water makes both tee shot and approach daunting and it can wreck a good start.

A good test The Links course is newer and plays that way. Water bites in places but is easily avoided and by sticking to the middle of greens you should have a few birdie chances. I saw a severed snake head on this course which may have tempered my experience – that and the fact I wasn’t playing well at all by this stage, having started to swing rather aggressively. My partners found the course a lot more enjoyable by sticking to fairways. Although it is called a links course, that’s mainly because of the style of the layout and not the playing experience. Even so, there are some very strong holes to finish so it is still a good test of skill.

Surprisingly good I must admit to being somewhat surprised by the variety and quality of golf along the Costa Brava. This particularly struck me as I raved about my trip to a passenger on the train home after he enquired where I’d been. He was a keen golfer and enjoyed a yearly holiday, usually to the Algarve, and I tried to

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The location is perfect for access to all manner of golf and water sports. convince him to have a look this way. It wasn’t just the golf I was raving about, but the serenity and comfort that surrounds it. I stayed in the Park Hotel for a night and enjoyed blissful and unencumbered views out to sea from its cliff top location over the beach of the Costa Brava. The next morning, I spent a hypnotic breakfast watching the Mediterranean sway back and forth. The hotel is quite modern in design, but the rooms are very snug so it’s probably best that you have an action-packed schedule to keep you out all day. The location is perfect for access to all manner of golf and water sports, which is another thing that this area is famous for. Should you decide to pack a wet-suit in your travel bag, you will never find yourself short of things to do.

The new home We didn’t get to play the Tour course, which is a shorter and softer test, but still one that relies on accuracy. It’s the course where some players make up some ground with some record low scores, so, on reflection, maybe it should’ve been the course to play, but where’s the fun in that? The Qualifying School has decided to make this region its home for the next few years, which gives you an indication as to how highly the European Tour values this place. Where better than an environment that encourages you not just to do your best, but to be the best? As a part of the world to spend your free time, what greater inspiration should you need? GGM

The jewel of Coata Brava But I had my sights set on bigger fish. I had been aching to test myself out at PGA Catalonia for the entire trip, and now the morning was upon us. As the new home to European Tour Qualifying School, you can expect a challenge set to test the best of your skills. It’s the jewel of the Costa Brava crown and has been voted the third best course in Europe and second best in Spain. It has drama, flair and strategy from the moment you step onto the first tee and stare down the valley where your tee shot needs to go. Unfortunately, framing that view is a lot of trees and beyond that a lot more trees. Each hole is set up like an individual theatre in which your drama can play out, drama which is heightened – literally and figuratively – by the many elevated tees.

Hidden slopes The emphasis is on solid, accurate shots. Hitting fairways makes it easier to hit greens, which are often fiercely guarded by water or sand (or both). Added to that, the greens are riddled with hidden slopes that keep your ball rolling. You definitely feel that endurance is the key to playing this course well. Mistakes can be made, but do not let them take over your round. Simply accept them and move on. I suffered a torrid front nine and my shoulders were slumped, but I picked it up on the back with some consistent shots and soon got back into the round. I personally can’t imagine what’s going on inside players’ minds over the six rounds of ‘Q School’. 54

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GOOD TO KNOW WHERE TO PLAY Golf Platja de Pals www.golfplatjadepals.com Tel: (+34) 972 667 739 Address: Camí del Golf, 64 - 17256 PALS, Girona, Spain Details: Par 73, 6850 yards, 6263m Emporda Golf www.empordagolf.com Tel: (+34) 972 760 450 Address: ctra de Torroella de Montgri a Pals, 17257, Gualta, Girona, Spain Details: Forest Course, Par 72, 6165m; Links Course, Par 71, 6304m PGA Catalunya www.pgacatalunya.com Tel: (+34) 972 472 577 Address: PGA Catalunya Resort, Carretera N-II km 701, 17455 Caldes de Malavella, Girona, Spain Details: Stadium Course, Par 72, 6588m. Tour Course, Par 72, 6030m WHERE TO STAY Silken Park Hotel San Jorge Platja D’Aro www.parkhotelsanjorge.com Tel: (+34) 972 652 311 Address: Carretera Palamos, s/n, 17250 Calonge, Platja D’Aro, Girona, Spain

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW

latest Royal Oak Offshore 44mm

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Darren is a larger than life character with a talent for striking the ball with laser-like accuracy. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a

Darren Clarke - The man and his passions man with a passion for the finer things in life, not least rare watches and in particular Audemars Piguet. By Angus Davies, www.escapement.uk.com, photos Audemars Piguet and International Sports Management

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW

t is seldom I meet someone who shares a similar physical stature to my own. However, Darren Clarke stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and is of muscular build, allowing him to drive the ball great distances. His successes on the golf course are well documented, but what about the man away from the game? That’s what I wanted to find out when I had the opportunity to meet him on a golf day with one of his sponsors, Audemars Piguet, because beneath the gregarious persona on the golf course, there is a different Darren.

A passion for the game The Ulsterman has been on The European Tour since 1991. His

Behind the scenes It is not an easy life on the professional circuit. Like many players Darren has a strong desire to return home to Northern Ireland and spend time with his family. “People look from outside and see us playing in the most glamorous places around the world, which we are very fortunate to do. But there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes that you actually don’t see. There are hours and hours of practice. When things aren’t going well, it doesn’t always smell of roses. You have got to put your head down and work. It’s a tough environment”. Whilst Darren is a long established stalwart of the game, he obviously seeks competitive advantage wherever possible. He has

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gift for the game has resulted in professional success and numerous wins including victory at the 140th Open Championship. This year he was selected as vice captain of Europe’s Ryder Cup team. There is clearly a burning ambition in Darren’s heart to collect more accolades and silverware. But he clearly enjoys the pleasure of playing the game away from the spotlight. I asked about his favourite golf course. There was no hesitation in his voice, “I am lucky that I live near one of the best courses in the world. That is where I go and play with my mates.”

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used the services of some of the best sports psychologists in the game. Fitness and diet have become increasingly important when competing at the highest level. “I go mad in the gym for nine months, leave it alone for six and then I start all over again”.

Technology in the game The game has clearly not been immune from the relentless march of technology. In the last 20 years the sport has evolved with new materials and innovation entering the game. “It is like any sport, it has evolved. Technology has become a bigger part of it and I’m fortunate to work with Taylor Made who

Discerning tastes

but at the moment I’m in Mercedes mode. I have got a SL 63, the brand new ML 63 with 570 brake horse power and the SLS”. Away from the hectic life of the professional golf circuit, Darren sometimes needs to find a bit of peace and quiet, and what better way than enjoying another of his great passions – fly fishing. At his home in the Bahamas he also has a go at game fishing, but admits that fly fishing is his favourite. “Most people would probably not think that I would have the patience to stand in the water waiting for a fish to bite, but it’s a perfect stress release and I really love it.”

Darren has acquired a discerning palate when it comes to fruit of the vine. He buys wine to drink rather than as an investment vehicle. However, his collection would grace any high-end auction house.

Darren may like wine and cars but I found his passion for haute

is at the forefront of technology. In the same way as tennis, golf has become a power game. The guys are younger, fitter and stronger. Everything is now a lot more professional“. Darren does admit that whilst many players on the circuit have nutritionists, it is sometimes difficult to always remain virtuous when it comes to food. “I manage to stick to the regime for a while, then get fed up with it and eat what I like, but eventually I pull myself together again.”

Haute horology

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Darren owns a few first-growths and admits to owning bottles of Château Margaux, Château Yquem and Petrus. These are hardly bottles commonly found at your local off-licence. I like Darren’ s unpretentious approach to drinking wine. He does not try to portray himself as a guru of viticulture, but clearly knows what he likes.

Cars and fishing Apart from wine Darren has a huge passion for cars, of which he has had a lot. “I am a lot more sensible than I used to be. I’d have eight or nine of them sitting outside, Ferraris, Lambo’s, Bentleys and all sorts,

horology especially fascinating, and I was impressed by his incredible knowledge of prestigious timepieces. Having been an avid collector of watches for many years with quite a few Audemars Piguet timepieces to his name, he was the natural choice to become one of the company’s Ambassadors, and with so many rare models his collection is simply breathtaking. Quite a few of his Audemars Piguet were limited editions at the time, and are still eagerly sought by collectors today. He often wears an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore T3, the same model as worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the film Terminator 3. Other rare timepieces include an Offshore Barrichello in rose

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW gold bearing the number, “numero uno” and an Offshore Arnold All-stars. His one-off pieces are the most coveted watches for any self-respecting watch collector. “It is obviously a little easier for me now that I’m an Ambassador to get access to the limited editions.”

Never on the golf course A mechanical watch is a collection of tiny parts, some barely visible to the naked eye, working in harmony. Cogs, wheels, pinions and springs coalesce and communicate with pleasing outcomes. However, watches should never be subject to excessive forces and wearing a mechanical watch whilst playing golf is

never to be recommended. “Last year at The Open some of us were given prototypes that Audemars Piguet had made. These were very lightweight golf watches made of titanium with rubber straps. They wanted to see how they would perform on a golf course, and because I was the winner, I was lucky enough to be able to keep mine. I think Darren’s passion for watches is obvious to all who meet him. I only wish I could replicate his good fortune and own some of the remarkable pieces which form his impressive collection. Sadly for me, my golfing talents are best reserved for playing crazy golf, and fame and fortune from mastering a Links course will always elude me. GGM

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His gift for golf has resulted in professional success and numerous wins including victory at the140th Open Championship.

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FRANCE

A WORK OF art

With medieval towns and cities, rolling hills and snow-capped mountains,

the region of Languedoc in southern France is famous for its wine and food, and once was a favourite amongst celebrated artists like Matisse, Picasso and Chagall. A perfect backdrop for a game of golf. By Mike Kaas-Stock, photo Colloure Tourist Board and Le Mas D'Huston Golf & Spa Saint Cyprien

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FRANCE

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Many come to follow in the footsteps of the great artists who were inspired by Collioure’s castle and medieval streets. Among them, Picasso, Matisse, Derain, Dufy Chagall, Marquet, and many others set up their easels here and immortalized the small Catalan harbour in their paintings.

t’s a warm day in May when I set off for the Languedoc region courtesy of the South of France Tourist Board. I am visiting Montpellier, then heading down towards the Spanish border to experience some fine culture and good golf. There’s only one problem, I have two cracked ribs from my other passion, Karate. Maybe the two don’t mix and something has to give? Unfortunately my ribs already have. OK, so I am going to just have to view the golf courses rather than play a round. I know that we have some bad weather moving in, in fact it’s going to rain for several days, but today the sun is shining as I emerge from Montpellier airport.

Me and my Alfa Romeo Car hire has been arranged with Europcar. The polite assistant behind the desk, who speaks impeccable English, informs me that they have given me an upgrade. To what, I ask expectantly, Porsche, Ferrari? “We have a brand new Alfa Romeo for you” says the assistant. Well you cannot complain about that; South of France in a brand new Alfa, I am off to a good start. My first meeting is with the Montpellier Tourist Board and I have an hour to travel the 15 or so kilometres and the satellite navigation seems to be behaving. Unbeknown to me, there has been extensive redevelopment of the road system in the centre of the city. One and a half hours later, and after several frantic

calls to the person I am supposed to be meeting, I arrive slightly stressed and very apologetic. I drop my bags off at the Mercure, which is where I will be staying for the night and head into town with Marie, my tour guide.

A treasure trove Montpellier is a city steeped in history and is the Capital of the Languedoc- Roussillon region. Once you immerse yourself in the backstreets, you’ll find a treasure trove of small shops residing in ancient buildings. The city was a centre for trade and commerce during the Middle Ages and has had a thriving and diverse community ever since. For lunch we find a table at Bistrot Gourmand where we are joined by Aline from press relations. The restaurant is set within a small square and we decide to sit outside to soak up the ambience. I order Aligot, which is a local recipe consisting of sausages and mashed potatoes with cheese mixed in. It’s quite simply delicious.

No spitting We spend the afternoon viewing more of the city and quite a bit of time tasting local wines. I know you’re supposed to spit the wine out, but it is rather good so I opt for small mouthfuls. That evening, after a brief rest back at the hotel, I head back into town for a meal at Le Carré which is located in the Place 65

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St-Ravy. This restaurant is also situated in one of the small plaza’s to be found in Montpellier. To sit and enjoy good food and wine in such a charming setting is truly magical. After the meal I take a stroll before heading back to the hotel.

Hotel Golf Montpellier Juvignac I wake up early and after a quick breakfast, jump in the car and head for the golf resort which is a short drive from the centre. The heavens have opened and it’s absolutely pouring down, visibility is down to a minimum and the roads are flooding. To go for a tour of the course may require a boat at this rate. I arrive at the Hotel Golf Montpellier Juvignac dry and in one piece. The hotel is modern and well laid out with a total of 44 rooms and 42 Suites. As well as the main golf course there is a 9-hole course for beginners and the biggest golf school in the region. I am met in the Pro shop by Robert Lazure who is the Course Manager. Robert, who is originally from Montreal, has been here for three years. I ask him how he would describe the course. “Difficult and technical” he replies. “It’s a physical course, in some places hilly and with a lot of diversification. It will be hard to get bored here as every hole is different. This course will test you and you cannot expect to play to your handicap on your first round. Usually in competitions, people play twice their handicap”. 66

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Full of surprises The rain has miraculously stopped and the sun is shining as we head on to the course. It’s a beautiful location and as Robert says, full of surprises. Due to the weather we have the place mostly to ourselves. The first hole is a par-4 with a stroke index of 17, a reasonably easy hole to begin your round. By the third, you begin to see what Robert means about diversification as the holes become more taxing. The fifth particularly grabbed my attention as it’s a shared green with the second green shielded by trees. By the time you reach the ninth hole you will be relieved to find it to be a reasonably straight forward par-5.

Test of accuracy Robert is keen on the sixteenth which, with a sharp dogleg right and a water hazard to the right of the fairway, is going to keep most golfers on their toes. But if it’s a test of accuracy that you are after, the seventeenth will not disappoint. From the back tee and looking down towards the green, it’s a shot over trees, across a ditch and followed by another line of trees before you reach the relative safety of the green, which incidentally has a bunker in the middle. The eighteenth is the perfect way to finish what is most definitely a test of prowess, 517 metres from the back tee par-5 with a dogleg left. This is a beautiful and conveniently placed city course which I would recommend

The eighteen hole course, designed by Scottish architects Wright & Tomlinson, is built on fenland which is part of a bird sanctuary, with the majestic Mount "Canigou" as a backdrop.

to any golfer. If you want a mixture of culture, history, good food and good golf, Montpellier is an excellent choice for a city break or longer. I bid farewell to Robert and promise to return to play a round with him. I make a mental note to get some practice in before then.

Saint Cyprien Golf Resort The drive south from Montpellier is a straightforward journey on the A9. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a pleasant half hour drive to my next location, Saint Cyprien Golf Resort which is located roughly 30 kilometres from the Spanish border and only a few kilometres from the sea. With 48 rooms and nestled between sea, lake and mountains, the Mas d'Huston has much to offer, including a swimming pool, sailing school, thalassotherapy, gourmet restaurant , spa, pro shop, golf academy and of course, 27 holes. I am welcomed and shown to my room by Aymeric Parcelier, who is in charge of customer relations, and we plan to take a look at both the nine hole and eighteen hole course.

Wildlife habitat The eighteen hole course, designed by Scottish architects Wright & Tomlinson, is built on fenland which is part of a bird sanctuary, with the majestic Mount "Canigou" as a backdrop.

This course obviously offers plenty of water hazards and is well placed within what is a wonderful wildlife habitat. With the sea close by you can be guaranteed of some coastal breezes to take into account. The first hole is a beautiful par-4 with Mediterranean fir trees on either side of the fairway and a water hazard on the right hand side. Nothing too taxing apart from the distance of 401 metres from the back tee. I soon realise that you need to have a decent length to make par on this course with the seventeenth coming in at 550 metres from the back tee. Having said that, there are some very nice par-3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such as the third hole where the green is on a peninsula, so be careful not to roll off the back unless you are particularly good at underwater shots.

The Forest course With wide fairways but still plenty to keep you on your toes, this is a fun course to play and I am tempted to see if my poor cracked ribs would hold out. Better not be silly, a trip to a French hospital would cause no end of problems to my busy schedule. I am always surprised at how many golfers seem to avoid the nine hole courses. Here at Saint Cyprien, the nine hole is an absolute joy. Known as the Forest Course, this is a pleasant contrast to the eighteen holes on the other side of the resort. 67

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Lined with trees and having a completely different feel, this is a great course to play. That evening I enjoy a superb meal in Le Restaurant Gastronomique with excellent food and sweeping views over the nine hole course. Competition between restaurants in France is something that is taken very seriously. Here, Chef Julien Boy really excelled himself and I retired that evening a very happy man.

Le Spa du Mas I’m not a big fan of massages. I don’t have the patience, and my wife has suggested that perhaps someone should try hitting me over the head with a sturdy object to make me relax. But the next day I spoil myself with a massage at the resort spa. It was, however, with a little trepidation due to my injuries, but I must admit that Pauline who was charged with reviving my bruised body, managed to do wonders. I left feeling relaxed and ready for my onward journey later that day.

Collioure It’s just a short drive south to my final location on this trip; to the beautiful town of Collioure which is located only a few kilometres from the Spanish border. Throughout history this has been a strategic location due to its position and its access to the Mediterranean Sea from two easily defended bays. Phoenicians, Romans, and Greeks have left behind a rich archaeological heritage. Changing hands between France and Spain on several occasions, it finally became permanently part of France in 1659. Now, as well as visiting here for its beauty, many come to follow in the footsteps of the great artists who were inspired by Collioure’s castle and medieval streets. Among them, Picasso, Matisse, Derain, Dufy Chagall, Marquet, and many others set up their easels here and immortalized the small Catalan harbour in their paintings. With roughly thirty galleries, there is plenty to keep the art lovers busy. The fortress jutting out from the harbour is a perfect backdrop for this Catalan town with its narrow backstreets and diverse shops.

Picasso’s favourite That evening I dined at a restaurant that was a favourite of Picasso, there is even a photograph on the wall of him arm-in-arm with the owner’s father. Afterwards I head over to Grand Hotel du 68

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Golfe; nothing to do with the game I hasten to add, but more to do with its location looking out to sea. I spend the evening drinking some local wine with the hotel owners who are absolutely charming and afterwards retire to my bedroom which has views over the ocean. The next morning I drive back to Montpellier Airport and say goodbye to the Alfa Romeo. The rains of the last few days are long gone and the sun is again shining out of a clear blue sky. It’s easy to see why France is such a popular destination: just make sure to not miss out the Languedoc region. I for one will be back, but this time without the cracked ribs. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW easyJet flies to Montpellier from London Gatwick and London Luton. Flight prices start from £34.49 per person (one-way, including taxes based on two people on the same booking). Visit www.easyJet.com to book. CAR HIRE Europcar Aeroport Montpellier-Mediterranee Tel +33(0)467 47 16 12 www.europcar.co.uk FEATURED HOTELS Mercure Centre Tel +33(0)467 99 89 89 www.mercure.com Golf Hotel Montpellier Juvignac Tel +33(0)467 45 90 00 www.golfhotelmontpellier.com Le Mas d’Huston Golf & Spa (Roussill Hotel Group) Tel +33(0)468 37 63 63 www.roussillhotel.com Grand Hotel Du Golfe Tel +33(0)468 81 00 2 www.hoteldugolfe-argeles.com FEATURED RESTAURANTS Bistrot Gourmand Tel +33(0)467 66 08 09 www.bistrotgourmand.com Le Carre Tel +33(0)467 86 46 50 www.le-carre-montpellier.com Le Resaurant Gastronomique Le Mas d’Huston Golf Resort & Spa Tel +33(0)468 37 63 63 www.roussillhotel.com

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ITALY

The bright side of life With the azure blue Adriatic as a backdrop, mile upon mile of olive groves and a scenic countryside dotted with trulli houses, Puglia has all the charm of Italy paired with one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest golf courses... Text & photo: Linda Jackson, photos also Masseria San Domenico, Masseria Cimino San Domenico Golf Club

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n addition to golf, Formula 1 racing is one of my great interests. The speed that the racing drivers manoeuvre around race tracks is breathtaking. I mention Formula 1 because the sport involuntarily enters my mind during a speedy transfer from Bari airport to the small Apulia hotel where my husband and I are staying for a few days on a leisure and golf break. Never have I held my breath or kept my eyes squeezed shut as long as during that everlasting 40 minutes’ drive. Within minutes of landing in Bari and having jumped into the hotel transfer mini-bus, I am convinced the driver can be no other than Lewis Hamilton in disguise. Yes, I do enjoy watching high-speed racing – but not actually participating in it. And no, I will never, ever get used to the way Italians drive, no matter how many tens of visits I make to this captivating country. However, looking on the bright side, a speedy transfer does give me extra quality time at the destination.

Wine and olives My terminus is Apulia, or Puglia, a highly fertile and almost flat region which is located on the ‘heel’ of Italy in the Southern Adriatic, which boasts around 495 miles of coastline, two seas and consequently a great variety of fish dishes. Northern Apulia is 72

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known for its splendid architecture (churches and castles) while the central region is famous for its traditional dry-stone houses with conical roofs called trulli (singular = trullo), originally built as storehouses or homes for farm workers. Being very much an agricultural region, it is also renowned for its wine and olives. The Apulian province of Foggia has been cultivating the bella della Daunia olive variety since around 1400. There are 65 million olive trees in Apulia and 65% of the oil production in Italy comes from here. The coastline around Bari is mostly rocky, but near Brindisi are miles of sandy beaches such as Marina di Ostuni.

In the middle of nowhere From Bari airport to the hotel, the road is a straight dual carriageway until maybe two miles from our 18th century Italian guesthouse, Masseria Cimino, and then we wind through a series of narrow lanes. Eyes now open, no longer clutching the seat, I wonder where on earth we are heading (it seems miles from anywhere, no street lights, no sign of other cars, silent) and whether I’ve made a big mistake in choice of accommodation. We stop at a gate, the night pitch black. The gate is opened remotely and we are dropped at the end of the drive, still dark, lots of trees, and there’s a pleasant fragrance lingering in the night

The ambiance is amazingly relaxing, and the walls are cleverly adorned with a variety of old farming tools.

air which I later learn is from a fennel field nearby. Someone in an electric golf cart welcomes us and collects our luggage, and we gingerly follow him around the corner.

A stunning place We find ourselves in a small courtyard subtly, simply yet stylishly lit. There are lights in two wall alcoves adorned with hanging dried flowers and an ancient, huge, illuminated olive tree. Interior lights glow through small windows and there’s a covered terrace at the back of the building with candles flickering on small wooden tables. The door to the reception is open welcomingly, and inside – WOW – the chic high-ceilinged interior and soft furnishings are all white, and candles are burning just everywhere. I instantly love the place. WOW again. The ambiance is amazingly relaxing, and the walls are cleverly adorned with a variety of old farming tools and several bunches of prickly-pear cladophylls that look artistically stunning on the white walls.

Intimate dining Salvatore, the maître d’hôtel, is waiting for us. Dinner is routinely set at 8.30pm for guests, but he’s stayed late to fit in with our

arrival. We check in to our room – suite more like – and then we eat in the intimate candlelit dining room where huge bunches of realistic tomatoes hang from the ceiling and doors open out onto a terrace. Every evening, Salvatore informs us, there are two starters (antipasti and fish, for example), one main, and one dessert. We start with antipasti: aubergine and red peppers, green beans in garlic butter, Mozzarella and tomato, grilled aubergine with mint garnish, sautéed courgettes with Parmesan, roast peppers with capers, and stuffed squid. Main course is moist roast chicken and potatoes, followed by apple tart and ice cream plus a selection of fresh fruit: apricots, cherries, apples and pears. Because of its basic ingredients, Apulian cuisine is generally considered rather simple, but if all the meals are as delicious and healthy as the first, we’ll be very satisfied.

Gorgeous accommodation We drop into bed immediately after dinner as our tee time at San Domenico Golf is at 9am. This isn’t a problem as it’s just a half mile walk down a country lane, in fact, the golf course backs onto Masseria Cimino and the bedroom in our ‘suite’ overlooks it. Two bathrooms, a small lounge, stone floors, comfortable, stylish furniture, dimmable lighting, lots of cubbyholes and shuttered 73

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The course is flat with gently rolling fairways and there are constant views of the sea in the background, so walking the round is really pleasurable

windows make up our accommodation. It’s no less than gorgeous, and there’s even a tiny outdoor courtyard with table and chairs off the bedroom. Each of the 15 rooms at Masseria Cimino has a Mediterranean-style character of its own, we later discover, and the serene gardens feature a small swimming pool and a shaded chill-out lounge area.

Magnificent clubhouse After a buffet breakfast where we meet our co-guests – German, French, English, and Italian couples – we stroll down to San Domenico Golf. It’s a pleasant walk down a quiet lane flanked on both sides by dry-stone walls, agricultural fields on one side, lots of olive trees and the golf course on the other. As we are combining golf with leisure we have decided to hire clubs rather than have the hassle and expense of flying them out with us, so they are waiting at the clubhouse. Style is never lacking in Italian culture, no matter what. San Domenico Golf clubhouse follows the pattern and is magnificent – marble floors, high ceilings, swish changing rooms – all very grand. There’s a large casual dining terrace, an even larger formal dining hall, excellent changing rooms and hire clubs of reasonable quality. 74

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Water hazards San Domenico Golf is a par 72 course (5,993 metres from the yellow tees, 5,158 from the red) and water comes into play on only two holes – the 1st and 5th. It is cruel to be faced with a long carry over a lake for your very first shot. In fact, there are two menacing lakes to contend with, as the lake which borders the 5th fairway also comes into play. One lake cuts into the first narrow fairway quite a bit, a threat we couldn’t see from the tee. Wicked. So a wise decision would be to hit a few balls in the driving range to warm up before playing and, even wiser, buy a course planner and read it before starting.

Tough rough After the first hole, as long as our aim was straight, we didn’t run into many problems. The rough, however, is not forgiving; just don’t go there – it’s quite tall in places. The course is flat with gently rolling fairways and there are constant views of the sea in the background, so walking the round is really pleasurable – no need for a golf cart. The wind, we soon discover, varies considerably and we have to count every par-4 into the wind as at least a par-5. Memorable holes are the first two; the 5th (where the lake

The small town of Alberobello is considered the trulli ‘capital’ and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Itria Valley.

sneaks well into the fairway just in front of the green), the 6th par-5, which plays like a par-7 when into the wind, and the 14th, our favourite hole with its fairway split by a gigantic bunker and tricky, narrow approach to the green. Yes, we could very happily play two or three rounds on this course over our short break, especially as it is so near Masseria Cimino. And – a big bonus – there is no queue of golfers waiting to play, so golf here is as relaxing as golf can get. No pressure from behind and no slow play to contend with.

is considered the trulli ‘capital’ and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Itria Valley. In the old part of this hilly town the narrow streets are lined with trullo after trullo, intriguing and attractive, their grey, conical roofs providing a most unusual skyline. Many of the trulli roofs are topped with different shapes such as a ball or hemisphere and feature white painted roof ‘logos’ depicting a number of primitive, magic, and zodiac symbols.

Splendid cuisine

The historical town centre of Ostuni is next. On approach from the coast, the old hilltop town makes an impressive picture from a distance and its labyrinth of narrow, ancient alleyways are intriguing to explore. It’s a popular tourist attraction and is busy during summer months, so for anyone who wants to miss the crowds, visit in the spring and autumn. During the summer months when it’s popular with Italians, stylish bars and a variety of restaurants are buzzing with activity. Restaurants are hidden in the tiniest of corners and bars in the deepest of alleys. You can enjoy aperitifs and far-reaching views over olive groves to the sea sitting on one of the oversized lime green bean bags on

Tourist attraction Slow food, rather than slow play, is obviously savoured by many at San Domenico Golf as lunch on the clubhouse terrace overlooking the 18th green was typically Italian – very leisurely and delizioso. For me, a glass or two of sparkling ice-cold Prosecco, a generous helping of Parma ham and juicy sweet melon, followed by the freshest of fish and salad. The regional cuisine is splendid. After lunch we decide to explore the area. Once away from the olive tree strewn plains by the coast, the countryside is very scenic. We pass vineyards and orchards and trulli can be seen dotted around in every direction. The small town of Alberobello

ITALY

the steps outside the trendy Mela Bacata Lounge Bar or, literally a few steps away, savour a pizza at cool, contemporary Il Bellavista, with its snug, cave-like interior and intimate dining areas, glass floors and see-through tables and chairs.

Boutique hotel The following day we call in at Masseria San Domenico, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and sister hotel to Masseria Cimino. What a contrast – the 47-room boutique hotel sits in large gardens in the middle of a vast olive grove. Facilities include a seaside leisure area a short distance away, an outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art Thalassotherapy Spa, two tennis courts and a modern gym. The general ambiance and traditional Italian interior furnishings are much more formal than our intimate guest house, but all very classy.

Lunch on the terrace Lunch we enjoy on the sunny terrace; there are several typical Apulian seafood dishes on the menu. First course is a choice of smoked swordfish on fennel carpaccio with orange petals, Martina Franca dried cured pork, or melon with Port wine. Next there is a seafood risotto, spaghetti with mussels, soup or a pasta dish, followed by sea bream with olives, boiled cod, thin sliced beef in red wine sauce or grilled Apulian sausages – savoured with superb white wine from the region. The pièce de resistance is the lemon dessert accompanied by a small glass of limoncello – very moreish.

Olive oil aromatherapy Having sampled the Apulian wine, how can I possibly resist sampling the olives? So I head off to check out the Spa at Masseria San Domenico. I quite fancy wrapping myself in local produce, so I decide on the olive oil aromatherapy with olive oil scrub and full body massage. It promises to leave my skin more silky and smooth to the touch and is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Spa. 76

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On that blissfully relaxing note, I must end. There can be no better ending to my stay in Apulia than a relaxing hour or two of pampering. I look on it as preparation work for our imminent Formula 1 race-like return to the airport. However, for me it’s not the treatment that is the jewel in the crown, it is Masseria Cimino – chic and beguiling – a tranquil oasis in the Apulian countryside. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW Masseria Cimino: www.masseriacimino.com Masseria San Domenico: www.masseriasandomenico.com San Domenico Hotels: www.sandomenicohotels.com Italian Tourist Board: www.italia.it GOLF San Domenico Golf, www.sandomenicogolf.com, www.golfpuglia.it Combined golf + accommodation special packages are available at Masseria Cimino and Masseria San Domenico for 3, 5 and 7 nights (see ‘Special Offers’ on www.golfpuglia.it) San Domenico Golf ‘Pay and Play’ green fees - €95 - €110pp (18 holes) ARCHITECTURAL INTEREST Ruins and Museum of Egnathia (ancient city dating back to Roman times) Martina Franca (renowned for its baroque architecture) Polignano (houses cling to steep cliffs) Lecce (rich architecture, important centre of Roman Empire) FLIGHTS & CAR HIRE Airline carriers to both Brindisi and Bari (equidistant): British Airways (Bari summer only), easyJet, Ryanair, Alitalia Hire a car to make the most of Puglia: collect from the airport but check prices and book prior to arrival in Bari/Brindisi (e.g. Hertz, Avis, Alamo, Budget etc)

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)

GREAT CARS

ating a car Walter Owen Bentley dreamt of cre . Something large, fast,

A regal RIDE

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at the pinnacle of motoring new Mulsanne refined and comfortable. With the me alive. his dream has coent. tley Motors Ltd. uk.com Photos provided by Ben

By Angus Davies, www.escapem

GREAT CARS

The exterior of the car is imposing

sat in my beloved armchair and watched the television coverage of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth IIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diamond Jubilee. The Royal Party were aboard the Royal Barge, Spirit of Chartwell, leading a flotilla of over 1000 ships sailing down the Thames. The scene was reminiscent of a Canaletto masterpiece. As I sat drinking in all aspects of the proceedings with patriotic thirst, I noted that Her Majesty The Queen arrived in a new Bentley Mulsanne. This reminded me of the pleasurable experience I had enjoyed only a few days prior when I had been granted the honour of driving this luxurious leviathan on the twisting rural roads of Bedfordshire.

User friendly The Bentley Mulsanne is, to date, the most expensive car I have ever driven. Initially I felt apprehensive at the prospect of momentarily losing concentration and damaging one of the beautiful aluminium body panels. Any personal liability could result in a pecuniary loss I would be repaying for years to come. However, my fears were swiftly allayed by the user friendly demeanour of the Mulsanne. The first thing that struck me about the engine was the 80

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absence of noise. Initially, I wrongly assumed the car was sluggish as there was no sense of revs building, no obvious pitching of the body, but then with a glance at the speedometer and look in the rear-view mirror, I soon realised that this was a swift express.

Stunning comfort The 6.75 litre power plant is a model of refinement. Quiet and smooth, it whispers with decorum and civility. However, the engine clearly has a sporty persona denoted by the impressive performance figures which would shame many a so-called sports car. The ZF 8-speed automatic swiftly changes ratios seamlessly. It was only the rev counter needle which betrayed to me that an alternative gear has been selected. My passengers were blissfully unaware. It was so smooth. The ride comfort was stunningly sublime. Road surface undulations were smothered by the cosseting ride. Some cars honed on billiard-table smooth autobahns, feel unsettled on Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cash starved blacktop, not so the Bentley. This car wafted along highways with serene refinement.

Personalised ride The trade-off for comfort is often a wallowy ride lacking precision. However, this is where the Bentley rewrites the rule book. The

It is the embodiment of perfection, where anything less is unacceptable

electronic air springs dampen magnificently, yet allow the driver to explore the performance of the vehicle with great confidence. I played with all three of the standard available suspension settings; “Bentley”, “Sport” and “Comfort” and found “Bentley” was my preferred choice. But, the beauty of the Mulsanne is you can even personalise the ride to suit your own taste with the “Custom” setting. The car is a behemoth with an overall length of 5575mm, affording a commodious cabin for occupants to luxuriate within. However, there are two potential negatives with the large dimensions of the Mulsanne; weight and manoeuvrability. These two potential disadvantages are inextricably linked, but with the widespread use of aluminium the kerb weight is 2585 Kg. This remains a significant mass but not when you consider the footprint of the Bentley and the long inventory of creature comforts it bestows upon the occupants. It is remarkable it is not substantially more.

Decadent tactility The ride for me is a fundamental revelation which distinguishes this car from anything else, but to overlook the other key aspects would be to short change the artisans of Crewe.

The interior is palatial. The seats have more in common with my favoured armchair than any car seat I have occupied before. The cream hide of my test car was beautifully stitched. The centre inserts of the seat were presented in a quilted, diamond shape pattern, proffering decadent tactility. The steering wheel was detailed with perfectly presented cross-stitch, no errant threads visible. The carpets are plush, encouraging the Choos and Laboutins to be kicked off for a moment of luxurious bare toe nuzzling in the deep pile.

Hand-made beauty It apparently takes over 170 hours to craft the interior of the Mulsanne and I see very little reason to doubt Bentley’s claim. This car is about harnessing craftsmanship and expertise borne of experience. Hand-made beauty is evident wherever you look. The Mulsanne goes beyond expedient mass-manufacture. It is the embodiment of perfection, where anything less is unacceptable. The wooden veneer dashboard had a mirror-like appearance. The rich grain of the dark stained burned walnut, visible through the numerous layers of varnish, was perfectly matched. Wood circumnavigated the interior cabin with a waistrail running along the interior of the doors, rear parcel shelf and the aforementioned 81

GREAT CARS

Mulsanne meets with a Bentley Limousine(1930) on the golf course

dash. I have never seen wood veneer more beautifully executed within a car’s cockpit.

Numerous choices The traditional finish of the Mulsanne, with the bulls-eye air vents and organ pull levers sits happily with the modernity of the technology provided for the convenience of driver and passengers alike. The compendium of comforts provided is mesmerizing. No whim or wish of the purchaser is left wanting. Bentley does offer numerous opportunities to personalise their car further with a bamboozling array of paintwork and upholstery options in various hues, but I fell in love with the blue tincture of my test car “2000 TU”.

Majestic persona The exterior of the car is imposing. Large circular headlights, one each side, are flanked by smaller lamps, again one each side. The design language is original and imparts a majestic persona in keeping with the cars target market. The superformed aluminium front wings have numerous 82

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angles which capture light and show the deep lustre of the paint shops craft. There is little front-end overhang, in stark contrast to the rear where the overhang is significant. This results in a car which appears to lean forward, hungry to devour the tarmac ahead, its strength and prowess underscored by the muscular haunches of the front and rear wings.

Conclusion It is a good time to be British. The Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics are two significant highlights of 2012. This car encourages patriotism. Whilst the parent company may be domiciled in Wolfsburg, the essence of this car is British. The historical manufacturing facility in Crewe has provided a modern car, intrinsically contemporary but harnessing all the tradition and craft of cars which have worn the flying B badge for decades. Sadly, my tenure with the Mulsanne was short-lived. Whilst the Royal Flotilla may have been a modern day reproduction of a Canaletto scene, the Mulsanne is an original piece of automotive GGM art I would dearly love to own.

IRISH GOLF TOURS L I M I T E D IRELAND`S PREMIER GOLF & CORPORATE TRAVEL COMPANY

The European Club

34 Sweetbriar Lawn, Tramore, Co.Waterford, Ireland Tel: +353 51 381728 Fax: +353 51 381961 email: info@irishgolftours.com

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WWW.IRISHGOLFTOURS.COM

NAILCOTE

Do you think that a Par 3 golf course wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offer you enough challenges? Well, you might be surprised to hear that even some of the most legendary sports personalities like Tony Jacklin, Peter Schmeichel and Gordon Greenidge find the Par 3 Championship a real test of their golfing skills. By Mike Kaas-Stock, pictures by courtesy of Champions (UK) Plc

Tony Jacklin

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3 LEGENDS ON PAR 3

NAILCOTE

ony Jacklin is one of the all-time golf greats who in1969 became the first British player to win The Open Championship for 18 years, which he followed up by winning the U.S. Open. Cricketer Gordon Greenidge had an illustrious career playing County cricket and as a member of the West Indies team, with whom he took part in 108 Test matches, scored 7,558 runs including 19 centuries. Retired Danish professional footballer Peter Schmeichel MBE was voted the “World's Best Goalkeeper" in 1992 and 1993. He is best remembered for his years at Manchester United which he captained in the 1999 UEFA Champions League Final. Unusually for a goalkeeper he scored eleven goals during his career, including one for his national team. THE GOLFER On a hot day in August I find myself at the Open Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall near Birmingham; here I get a chance to chat with the three sporting heroes and to find out why they keep on coming back to this tournament. “I really like this concept,” says Tony Jacklin. “Today a game of golf takes so long to play and I think this has become a real problem. In football and cricket the size of the arenas stay the same, while golf courses have gotten bigger and bigger. This is mainly down to the professionals with their long shots, while the amateurs just end up hitting the ball further into trouble. The Par 3 concept has got my vote 110%, and I have been part of this competition for the last 4 years.”

Peter Schmeichel

THE GOAL KEEPER Peter Schmeichel also likes the challenges of this concept. “It’s the hardest game I’ve ever played” he says. “Here you are penalised for any lack of precision. Already at the first hole you have bunkers at the front and banks at the back of the green, so it’s a small area you are trying to hit. The biggest club I used here today was a seven iron. Let’s face it; the green is where all tournaments are won. Everyone can get there, but when it comes

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

to putting it’s all down to accuracy. I’ve been taking part in this Championship for quite a few years and it has become the highlight of my golfing year. I always put it in my dairy as soon as I know the exact date, nothing else will come in the way,” he says.

Gordon Greenidge

THE CRICKE TER Although he was not a total stranger to the game, Gordon Greenidge mainly started playing golf after he retired from cricket. “In my case I think the term ‘attempting to play golf ’ would be better,” he says with a big smile. “For me, hitting the ball is not the problem; it’s more about consistency. Like so many people my short game needs a lot of work, and this is the perfect place for it. It’s all about control; if you hit too hard you can be over the back of the green; your shots have to be accurate. The ninth hole here is one to watch out for with water at the front and back and a pear shaped green which is quite narrow. This happens to be my favourite hole for that reason, we all like a challenge.” MACHO THING “Do any of you think that how far you can hit a ball has become a bit of a macho thing ?” “Yes, I definitely think so, because the advertisers always put the emphasis on speed and distance instead of accuracy,” says Tony Jacklin. ”Because of the distance the ball now travels the courses have gotten longer, but in Britain we do not have the space to build courses like, for example, in America. This is the main point of discussion at any meeting for all the hierarchy of golf.” ”It costs too much to maintain these big areas and it takes too long to play. My dad was a golfer; he would leave home on a Sunday morning at 8.30, play 18 holes, have a pint at the bar and still be home for lunch. In a Par 3 you can leave your driver at home and concentrate on the hard part because here it’s really not about lashing it 300 odd yards,” he says. Whether you are a professional or an amateur golfer, it seems that a Par 3 course can offer plenty of opportunities to test your skills, because it’s on the green that games are won or lost. But no GGM matter the final score – you can still be home for lunch.

Corporate Golf Days “Augusta does not compare with Nailcote” Brian Barnes (below, left), 1995 & ‘96 Senior British Open Champion, 6 times Ryder Cup star and Super Seniors Champion at the Farmfoods British Par 3, 2012.

Nailcote Hall is the perfect venue for a corporate event. Our golf course offers exceptional golf, located in the heart of Warwickshire and surrounded by the region’s exceptional views. Our Cromwell Course really is one of the best Par 3 courses in the world, and we are proud to offer it to you and your corporate guests for a business experience. What better place to mix business with pleasure than a championship course described as ‘better than Augusta’ by Brian Barnes.

Ian Woosnam OBE, Tony Jacklin CBE, Peter Shilton OBE and Peter Schmeichel MBE seen playing at the Farmfoods Britsh Par 3 Championship held annually at Nailcote Hall. Televised on Sky Sports in September 2012.

Our bespoke packages offer a variety of choices, including 18 holes of golf on our championship course, food and drinks. For companies looking to create a special golﬁng day we can offer selected menus, professional organisation of your event and sporting guest speakers. Whatever you need to make your day work, our team are here to make it happen.

For more information please call Rick Cressman on: 07974 386380 Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE Telephone: 02476 466174 Ǧ Facsimile: 02476 470720 Ǧ Email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk

GREAT PRODUCTS

PERSIMMON GOLF Persimmon Golf are at the forefront of the persimmon revival, producing a range of persimmon headed drivers, fairway woods and p u t t e r s f ro m t h i s h a rd , resilient American timber, long recognised as the most perfect golf club material. They are all great clubs, but the star of the range could well be their striking ‘V’Classic fairway woods. No t o n l y d o t h e y l o o k fantastic, but Persimmon Golf claim them to be the most effective d e s i g n e v e r, w i t h p e r f o r m a n c e characteristics that are impossible to duplicate in metal. The unique ‘V’ soleplate and exceptionally low centre of gravity make for spectacular launch qualities from any lie – long and very accurate.

The ‘V’Classic is available in #2, #3, #4, #5, #7 and #9 woods. There are few brands offering #2 and #9 woods, but Persimmon Golf find serious demand for both - they regard the #2 as a great dual-purpose club for both fairway and tee, long, low and ideal for shots into the wind. Meanwhile many players have discovered the unique performance of the #9 wood, particularly form poor lies and rough. Persimmon Golf are convinced that no rescue club compares. The production of each head involves over one hundred hand operations, finishing with several coats of the specially formulated sealant which ensures full protection and minimal maintenance. There is a choice of Fujikura graphite shafts or Dynamic Gold steel shafts, all in a range of flexes. Upon receipt of each order, Persimmon Golf ’s master clubmaker assembles the club to the customer’s specification, and it is despatched within 48 hours. Prices range from £205 (steel shaft) to £229 (graphite shaft) to include leather headcover, VAT and UK delivery. www.persimmongolf.co.uk

SensoGlove The world’s first digital golf glove now offers a longer battery life and Automatic Sensitivity Selection for a more accurate pressure read to ensure a consistently smooth and powerful golf swing. One of the major questions golfers ask SensoGlove is how to find the right grip pressure setting to give them the best results, since each person and golf swing can vary. SensoGlove solves this problem with the new “Automatic Sensitivity Selection” Button. By pressing this button, SensoGlove automatically finds the perfect recommended setting based on the maximum grip pressure history of the user. SensoGlove features a small, sweat-proof 1.2-inch LED digital monitor that analyzes the pressure of the swing through highly responsive sensors placed t h ro u g h o u t t h e g l ove . By swinging the golf club, SensoGlove provides real-time audio and visual feedback at 80 times per second to warn you if you exceed your target level of grip pressure. The patented SensoGlove even shows you which fingers are gripping too tightly, so you c a n a d j u s t y o u r grip accordingly. SensoGlove is priced at $89 and is available for men and women in right or left hand configurations, sizes from small to x-large. Made of cabretta leather, the built-in digital monitor can be removed to use SensoGlove as a regular golf glove. On sale at www. sensoglove.com and through distributors including www.golfstorehome.com www.intheholegolf.com www.convenientgadgets.com

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

Golf in Scotland launched in January this year and has quickly grown to be one of the largest golf promotions in Scotland. With over 100 golf clubs on board and over 15,900 Scottish golf fans subscribing to the Golf in Scotland Facebook page, Golf in Scotland has an excellent platform for communicating with Scottish golfers. Golf in Scotland has launched the ultimate guide to Golf in Scotland for the iPhone. Free to download at the app store, the Golf in Scotland app has some excellent features to help you plan your golf outing.

Course Finder The Course finder feature has every course listed A-Z, you can browse through the list to find the course you are looking for or type in the name of the course. Every course listed has a high resolution image, telephone number, address, website link, email button, map function, Facebook link, descriptive text, number of holes, yardage, par and course SSS.

Near Me The Near Me function uses the GPS in the iPhone to list the courses in order of which course is nearest the phoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current location. This is ideal for finding out about all the courses in your local area, or if you find yourself in a new town you can see what courses are nearby. You can also type in the postcode of a hotel or other destination, and the app will list the courses which are nearest that point.

Map The app has a map of Scotland with all the courses plotted out in their locations, this allows you to see where you are in relation to the courses as well as how the courses are situated near each other, ideal for planning out trips and outings.

Events Calendar The events calendar lists in chronological order a number of events and opens that are scheduled at various golf clubs throughout the country. This is constantly being updated and Golf in Scotland plan to have every open competition on the calendar for 2013. Golf in Scotland are currently working on adding some accommodation providers and online booking to the app over the coming months. www.golfinscotland.org.uk facebook.com/golfinscotland

GREAT PRODUCTS

The Z3 Push Trolley The Z3 Push Trolley has received rave reviews since its launch with many industry professionals & golfers alike branding it “the best push trolley in the world”. A key feature of the Z3 Push is that it has been designed to accommodate any golf bag. If you are considering purchasing a new push trolley. Z3 guarantee that if your bag does not fit the Z3 Push, they will offer you a full refund. The Z3 Push folds up easier and smaller than any other on the market when not in use. The latest version includes: NEW: Press on / press off foot brake. NEW: Accessory points on the handle (accessories including GPS holder & drinks cooler tube available soon). NEW: Redesigned rear wheel quick release mechanism. NEW: Redesigned bag jaws to accommodate all sizes of golf bag. NEW: Coloured 'touch points' for easier identification. NEW: Colour range: liquid white, metallic blue, liquid black and matt black.

STX GOLF ANNOUNCES NEW SYNC 6 PUTTER STX Sync Series Putters offer F.E.E.L. Technology (Friction Enhancing Elastomer Layer), This patented STX technology dramatically increases the coefficient of friction to put a greater amount of forward spin on the ball and keep your putts on line. The Soft Face Insert keeps the ball in contact with the putter longer to also provide superior directional control, decreased ball skid and reduced ball deformation. The STX Sync Series 6 Putter is a modern blade with an elegant exterior pad line and flange which creates a unique and attractively shaped head. Additional weighting has been precisely distributed to provide head stability at impact for greater accuracy. This heel shafted putter is equipped with a flared neck hosel to keep the player’s hands slightly forward during the entire putting stroke. A tour inspired top-line ensures a solid set up and consistent alignment. The STX journey to produce world class, technically superior equipment began in 1970. Our mission is to offer products and choices that go beyond industry standards and conventional thinking. Our quest is to always pursue unprecedented feel and performance in each and every detail. When you choose STX, you can trust that we believe in your passion for the game just as much as we believe in the equipment with which you play. So join us on this journey… The Time is Now. Available at all discerning pro shops. RRP is £99 with the belly version at £129 www.stxgolf.com info@stx.com

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

Other features: User friendly two step folding mechanism allows the push trolley to fold and unfold quickly and simply with just two clips. Multi-function handle with ball and tee compartment, scorecard and pencil holder, drinks holder. FREE umbrella holder. Three quick release wheels for an even smaller compact state. Strong yet lightweight aero aluminium construction. Fully adjustable handle with soft grip. Z3 Colours: The Z3 is available in liquid white, metallic blue, liquid black and matt black.

FOR SALE Stunning Golf Villa Marrakesh

Samanah Golf & Country Club Villa Sitting on 4300 m² 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.

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) • 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 Philip Arnott at Moroccan Properties Immobilier & Marrakech Villa Management Immeuble El Khalil ( en face Gendarmerie Royale) Avenue des Nations Unies Marrakech 40000, Morocco Email: info@moroccanproperties.com Tel +212(0)661 101 661 Please quote ‘Great Golf Ref no RB01’

ENGLAND

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The coastal region of Kent has seen plenty of battles throughout history, but today the battles that are fought take place on what are some of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best links courses (Be prepared to prove your mettle) By Linda Jackson, photos courtesy of the Clubs

KENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GOLDEN

ENGLAND

BUNKERS

in one form or another, play and have played an important role in Kent, a county on the south-east coast which is steeped in history and widely regarded as being the ‘Garden of England’. While the attractive sand bunkers created on Kent’s golf courses make links play a pleasurable challenge for groups of golfers today, bunkers built during wartime created challenges of a different nature for our troops of soldiers. Located on land overlooking the English Channel – land and channel very much at the centre of action during both world wars – are four notable golf courses, namely Royal St George’s which dates back to 1887, Littlestone which was first played on during 1888, Royal Cinque Ports (aka Deal) where the first nine holes were constructed in 1892 and Prince’s, which opened an 18-hole course to golfers in 1906. These golden oldies, despite their ages (but with the benefit of a facelift or two), are still going strong and offer some of the best links golf in the country. 94

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The links land Traditionally, ‘links land’ is a term explicitly applied to bands of uncultivable land between sea and arable land that is made up of sandy soil, sand dunes, and treeless rolling topography. Kent’s splendid links courses owe their existence to centuries of wind, tides and the natural movement of banks of shingle, the combination of which forced the sea to recede, leaving Kent’s Roman and medieval ports miles inland. In its wake it left a heap of extra land to play with, links land, heaven sent for golf courses. Golf was predominantly played in Scotland before the 1880s. The Scots have been connected to the history of golf and the advancement of the game since the 15th century. King James IV of Scotland (1473-1513) played golf and the first Rules of the game were signed in 1744 by surgeon (and participant in the 1745 Jacobite Uprising) John Rattray, while Dr Laidlaw Purves (18421917) was instrumental in establishing the Ladies’ Golf Union and formulating the handicapping rules.

Prince’s Golf Club

Arrival of the railways Meanwhile, golf in England in the mid-19th century was mainly played in the London area. Blackheath Golf Club even has evidence of its existence dating back to 1745, but it was not until the late 19th century that more golf clubs were constructed outside London. Although motor cars had arrived on the scene, they could only cope with short journeys. It was not until the railways made headway into East Kent that travel was made easy for the upper classes of London to go to the coast for a round of golf on the fashionable new links courses that were springing up.

PRINCE’S GOLF CLUB Used as a battle training ground during wartime, Prince’s golf course did not escape unscathed. As a result, the original 18-hole links course had to be restored and redesigned in 1950, and since then the layout has remained the same – three loops of nine holes.

When the course was originally built in 1906, measuring nearly 7,000 yards, it was one of the first to be designed to cater for the long distances that the new rubber golf balls could achieve. An Open Qualifying course, Prince’s has hosted the Championship just once. This was in 1932 when American golfer Gene Sarazen (winner of 37 tournaments including seven Majors, and the first ‘Grand Slam’ winner) won the tournament and there’s a bunker named in his honour on the Himalayas course, beside the 9th green.

“Laddie” Lucas Other notable golfers connected to Prince’s include Gary Player and Phil Mickelson who are Honorary Members, and the Prince of Wales who was Club President in 1930. During World War II, Ace pilot ‘Laddie’ Lucas (MP) who was also Captain of the 1949 Walker Cup, managed to make an emergency landing in his Spitfire on the Himalaya course because he knew every 95

ENGLAND Royal St George ’s Golf Club

bump, hollow and borrow. The courses are named Dunes, Shore and Himalayas (but don’t get misled by this one, there’s no mountainous terrain to battle) and all three start and finish at the contemporary clubhouse. The original two-storey golf clubhouse, now called The Lodge at Prince’s, has recently been revamped and offers spacious luxury accommodation in rooms, suites and apartments. The location is perfect, just a drive and iron shot from both Prince’s courses and Royal St George’s – another prestigious links course which is virtually on the doorstep.

THE ROYAL ST GEORGE’S GOLF CLUB Dr Laidlaw Purves, of LGU and handicapping fame as previously mentioned, was also very much involved with the birth of St George’s. Although in the medical profession, he was also a passionate golfer who had moved from Scotland to London. 96

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Dismayed at the lack of golf courses in England, he spent many a year searching for suitable land within easy reach. Finally, in 1887, a syndicate was formed, land purchased, and St George’s was created. Even though communication wasn’t as speedy in the late 19th century as it is today, it didn’t take long for the Royal & Ancient in Scotland to hear about the superb new course that had arrived on the golfing scene. Consequently the first Open Championship staged outside Scotland was at St George’s in 1894.

Fourteen Opens The club was bestowed the title ‘Royal’ by King Edward VII in 1902. Considered to be England’s equivalent to the famous St Andrew’s in Scotland, Royal St George’s has been honoured to host no less than fourteen Opens and is today the fourth most used Open venue. The most recent Open Championship to be hosted there was in 2011, won by Northern Ireland’s Darren Clarke.

Some interesting snippets about Royal St George’s are: American golfer John Daly drove 416 yards (assisted by strong wind) from tee to green on the 5th hole on a practice day, it is reputedly home to the deepest bunker in championship golf, it boasts one of the oldest trophies – The Challenge Trophy dating from 1888, and Ian Fleming was a member of the club – he featured it under the name of Royal St Mark’s in Goldfinger (the novel, not the film).

No ladies Do not expect to see ladies’ tees or lady members at this exclusive golf club – there aren’t any. But do expect a superb golf course, long carries from tees, tough rough, deep bunkers, fast true greens, stiff breezes, and undulating fairways that wind through big dunes. Even in the early days St George’s proved to be a huge success, especially for Laidlaw Purves, who was consequently approached

to design another links course – namely Littlestone, further down the coast.

LITTLESTONE GOLF CLUB Boasting some of the most “magnificent firm, true and well-paced putting greens” in the UK, as reported by an agronomist and advisor to the R&A, Littlestone can be found sandwiched between the Romney Marshes and the English Channel. It is rated amongst the top 100 courses in England and hosted the first ever LGU Ladies’ Championship in 1894. Designed by the same Dr Purves and the Pro David Herd, and enhanced by tweaks and advice from James Braid, Frank Pennink, Donald Steel and Peter Allis, Littlestone has become a noteworthy links in the United Kingdom. The course was damaged by military action in the 1914-18 war, after which golf architect Alister MacKenzie (who later designed Augusta National, Cypress Point and Royal Melbourne 97

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in Australia) surveyed the course, suggesting improvements – this culminated in some excellent holes that remain today.

Landing strip During the First World War, part of the golf course was temporarily used as a landing strip and again later as an emergency landing ground. Part of the ‘Mulberry Harbour’ (two floating artificial ‘harbours’ constructed to be towed across the Channel during World War II) which somehow did not make an appearance for the D-day landings in 1944 can still be seen from the 17th tee at Littlestone – an area steeped in wartime history. (Of particular historical interest in the region are Dover Castle with its warren of wartime tunnels, and the Kent Battle of Britain Museum). As for Littlestone golf course, the rough can be punishing – as can the bunkers – so just don’t stray into either. Playing into the wind can make par-4s seem like long par-5s, the greens are tricky but true and there are some great finishing holes, especially the 16th and 17th.

ROYAL CINQUE PORTS GOLF CLUB Not for want of trying, Royal Cinque Ports (usually called Deal) has hosted the Open Championship just twice, in 1909 and 1920. Sadly, on three other occasions, when it was due to stage the championship – in 1915, 1938 and 1949 – disastrous circumstances beyond anyone’s control prevented it from happening, namely the outbreak of the First World War and then the flooding by the sea of the course in 1938 and 1949. But looking on the bright side today, the Club has been awarded The Amateur Championship in 2013 and is still a final qualifying course for an Open at neighbouring Royal St George’s, as well as being the venue for several prestigious amateur events.

Royal patrons Royal Cinque Ports has indeed been graced with some very royal connections over the years. A J Balfour, who was to become Prime Minister, was Club Captain in 1898, The Prince of Wales (1900), who became Edward VII, played often here and was President of the club (1905-1907) and King George V was a patron (19101935) who visited frequently with the Prince of Wales. The Club assumed the ‘Royalty’ title in 1910 to coincide with the patronage of the King. War, however, interrupted the connection with the royals until 1949, which was when King George VI reconfirmed the Royal label. The latest Royal Patron who accepted the position in 2002 is Prince Andrew, Duke of York. 98

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War damage Hurriedly constructed as a 9-hole course in 1892 by Henry Hunter (Greenkeeper and Professional) with the second nine being added at the end of 1896, Deal golf course (aka Royal Cinque Ports) suffered considerable damage during the First World War, necessitating a layout reorganisation in 1919 by James Braid. World War II also took its toll but play recommenced in 1946 after being restored by Sir Guy Campbell, assisted by Henry Cotton. Added to this melange of course architects is Donald Steel, who has been involved with Deal for some years.

Punishing course The course is an out and back layout so be prepared for the prevailing wind on the inward nine. Good placement of the ball means golfers can score well, but be errant and the course will be punishing. There are rolling fairways with few flat stances, plenty of bunkers and a canal that plays havoc with the mind. The wind is certainly a force to be reckoned with and if the breeze isn’t tough enough on the back nine, don’t worry, there’s also a serious of tough par-4s to contend with. The threat of wartime on Kent’s links land might well be long gone, but the challenges of these four premier links courses remain to be fought – they’re tough battlefields. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW The Royal St. George's Golf Club Sandwich www.royalstgeorges.com/ Prince's Golf Club and The Lodge at Prince’s Sandwich Bay Sandwich www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Littlestone Golf Club St. Andrews Road Littlestone www.littlestonegolfclub.org.uk Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, Golf Road, Deal www.royalcinqueports.com

Great Spa

Been in the rough? Time to relax...

GREAT SPA - ARIZONA

As you stare out of your office window looking at another cold, dreary, grey winter day, your dreams of

Pamp

sun, fun, golf and spa seem far away. But all it takes is a hop across the pond to

sunny Arizona to make your dreams a reality. By: Dena RochĂŠ, photos courtesy the Resorts

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or the sou f g n i l r e

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M I R AVA L

ARIZONA

conjures up images of the Wild West; gunslingers, showdowns at High Noon and Native Americans. But this stereotype of America’s West belies the fact that in reality Arizona is home to some of the top spas and resorts in the States. If you’re planning a road trip and feel the need for some pampering, here’s a selection of the best of the best.

warm woods and clean-lined furnishings, is simple and sophisticated and helps guests relax and unwind. The facility features 23 treatment rooms, including six outdoor, a relaxation room that overlooks the stunning desert mountain landscape, saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and a private outdoor patio off the women’s locker room.

Tucson

The spa, three-years in the making, is a collaboration between Miraval and Clarins, the top selling European skin care line. Working in tandem, over 40 exclusive new treatments were created including the Anti-Aging facial, Detoxifying Botanical Body Wrap and the Deep River Stone massage. One of the unique treatments I had a chance to experience was the Naga, a Thai massage that incorporates silk scarves that hang from the ceiling. The silks are used by the therapist for entwining and gracefully suspending themselves as well as wrapping and supporting your body. My therapist Melanie, who trained extensively in Thailand,

The Naga treatment Miraval is consistently ranked as a top destination spa in the world thanks to its innovative programming and genuine spirit, but it wasn’t until this May with the unveiling of the Life in Balance Spa with Clarins, that Miraval actually had a spa worthy of the resort. The new 16,000 square-foot spa embodies Miraval’s philosophy of life enhancing minimalism. “Balance is what this spa is all about,” said Miraval Chairman Philippe Bourguignon. “It is the opposite of affluence and opulence.” That said the spa is luxurious in an unpretentious way. The design, done in neutral beige and grey tones layered with texture, 102

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THE PHOENICIAN’S CENTRE FOR WELL BEING

was extremely knowledgeable about physiology and anatomy and explained to me why my left hamstring is tight and resistant to stretching, and what is causing some of my chronic aches and pains. It turns out it all stems from a structural issue with my left hip and a weak left glute that isn’t doing its fair share of the work. Armed with this new knowledge, I have a new goal at the gym (Operation Butt Build!).

Golf For the golfer Miraval tees up several experiences. Choose a private golf lesson with Glen Griffith, a PGA of America member since 1993 and learn his unique mind/body approach to the game. At the nearby Golf Club at Vistoso, a Tom Weiskopf designed course voted Tucson’s top public course, you’ll learn a new approach to the game emphasizing balance, awareness and connecting breath and focus with your target. Miraval also offers an on-course coaching session that applies this technique in match play. I had the opportunity to stay in one of the Catalina Suites, the suite’s décor was soothing and so peaceful. As I sat outside on

my private patio reading and writing my notes I realized it was the first time in a long time that I could hear myself think. There is something magical about Miraval. I don’t know if it’s the positive energy that is so palpable you can feel it; if it’s the secluded site in the mountains or what, but I do know that I feel relaxed and recharged every time I come here. If you want to extend your stay in Tucson and check out other golf courses look no further than the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain, featuring a Jack Nicklaus designed course, or the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort showcasing two Tom Fazio designed 18-hole courses.

Scottsdale Luxury If Arizona is known for spas, then Scottsdale is the pinnacle of pampering. The city boasts a concentration of four- and five-star spas that is hard to rival in the States, and the Phoenician’s Centre for Well Being is one of the top facilities in town. Not only does the five-star resort have a world-class spa, it will also keep the golfer in your group satisfied with a 27-hole course 103

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comprised of three unique nines that offer several 18-hole combinations. In addition to the courses, the resort features a fullservice driving range, chipping green and putting green. The Phoenician Golf Academy offers full-day classes suitable for beginners to scratch golfers. The 22,000 square-foot spa offers 24 treatment rooms, a fitness studio, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. One of my favorite features is the Meditation Atrium, a calm oasis with leather chaise longues that I relax in while reading a magazine and listening to the trickling fountain in the sun-kissed room.

I opted to try two signature services starting with the Holistic Massage. This divine 80-minute treatment uses your choice of up to three different massage options to create the most personalised massage experience you could have. As someone who, despite frequent spa visits, has a neck and shoulders with knots the size of the desert boulders you will see around town, I left it up to my therapist Gene to pick the best techniques to use. To try and break up tight muscles he used a combination of neuromuscular and sports massage. At times it felt blissful, at times it was intense, but he got results.

Local desert plants

Popular with celebrities

The menu of services is broad, with many body treatments like the Desert Serenity Scrub and Prickly Pear Scrub, created from local desert plants and minerals like aloe vera, jojoba and chamomile. The spa also pays homage to Native American culture with the Well-Being Stone Ritual, a hot stone massage using the Native American custom of harnessing the power of warm basalt river stones and cool marble stones to soothe the body.

The Intraceutical Infusion Facial was by far one of the most unique Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever experienced. The feature of the treatment is the use of hyperbaric oxygen coupled with an anti-oxidant, Hyaluronic Acid and peptide cocktail. Hyperbolic oxygen is used to treat wounds and for desert sun-kissed skin it can soothe in one treatment. After cleansing my face, my therapist Luanne uses a wand, similar to that for air-brushing, aiming the concentrated

The Phoenician Golf Academy offers full-day classes suitable for beginners to scratch golfers.

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ENCHANTMENT

oxygen on my face. It feels like a cool wind. When coupled with the anti-oxidants it’s like my face is being misted. The system is designed to drive the anti-oxidants deep into the skin. The results are a minimisation of fine lines and increased plumpness and brightness. It’s not surprising that the facial is a favourite of A-listers like Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham and Naomi Campbell.

Boutique hotel Guests of the Phoenician can book rooms in the main hotel, or opt for The Canyon Suites, a boutique hotel within the resort. With 11 tennis courts, the Phoenician is one of the only places that serves up four different surfaces, including grass, where guests can channel their inner Andy Murray. Or simply relax by one of the nine pools on property and end your day dining in Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s J&G Steakhouse.

Serene Sedona A spa vacation is all about relaxing and looking inward and there

is no better place to do that than Sedona. Sedona is known for its vortexes-- convergences of spiritual energy that dot the red rock landscape. Luxury Enchantment Resort sits in the base of Boynton Canyon where several vortexes come together creating a magical escape like no other. The resort just finished a $25 million renovation with modern south-west designed casitas, and new restaurants and lounges like View 180 and Che-Ah-Chi offering views stunning enough to complement the cuisine. The resort has one of the most extensive activity programmes I’ve seen. In addition to ‘spa-ing’ or golfing at the resort’s affiliated Seven Canyons course, you can spend your day in a tennis clinic, a yoga class, learning how to create a vision board, trying Tai Chi, watching a spa cuisine cooking demo (and tasting the results!), exploring Native American culture through lectures or a medicine walk as well as hearing about the area’s vortexes. And this is just a smattering of what is available. 105

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L O E W S V E N TA N A C A N Y O N Wine, meditation and hiking The wine tasting I did was one of the most informative I’ve ever attended; focusing on what makes old and new world wines different and featuring wines that drove the point home. I also loved the evening chakra meditation in the spa’s Crystal Grotto. I have a very hard time meditating but in this setting it worked and I felt relaxed and at peace afterwards. No stay at Enchantment would be complete without a hike on the Boynton Canyon Trail, an easy path that puts you up close and personal with the unique landscape. With all the activities, it was hard to remember I came here to relax and explore Enchantment’s Mii Amo spa. Guests can choose to stay in the spa suites if they sign up for a three, four or seven days or stay at Enchantment and simply pick and choose services from a huge spa menu.

Native American traditions Like other spas in Arizona, there is a strong focus on incorporating Native American traditions and using locally sourced products. I tried the Anasazi Ubtan, which was created by Mii Amo and not available anywhere else. The Ayruvedic treatment began with a massage tailored to my Dosha using local products. It was followed by a herbal paste designed to detoxify and purify the skin. After a quick shower a lotion was applied to leave me hydrated, refreshed and smelling pretty. For my second treatment I decided to take advantage of Sedona’s energy and book the Reading of the Moment, where numerology, tarot and palm reading is used to help you understand the direction of your life. Having just gone through a traumatic experience I was anxious to see what insights I could gain, and was surprised how accurate the information about my past was. I can only hope that the future will be as rosy as my guide, Kamma, indicated.

Night time magic At night even more of Boynton Canyon’s magic is revealed as the 106

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sky is covered in a blanket of bright stars. Take a stroll around the resort, or relax in View 180 with a glass of wine and drink in the spectacular view. While the Old West can still be found in Arizona, it’s clear that the stereotype of the state is just that, a stereotype. This southwestern gem with its stark desert landscape soothes the soul with luxury spas, golf and dining that will make a trip to the Grand Canyon State something that will linger in your memory for a lifetime. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW Miraval Resort & Spa 5000 E. Via Estancia Miraval. Tucson, AZ 85739 www.miravalresorts.com

The Golf Club at Vistoso 955 West Vistoso Highlands Drive. Oro Valley, AZ. 85755 www.vistosogolf.com

Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain 15000 North Secret Springs Drive. Marana, Arizona 85658 www.ritzcarlton.com

Loews Ventana Canyon 7000 North Resort Drive. Tucson, Arizona 85750 www.loewshotels.com

The Phoenician 6000 East Camelback Road. Scottsdale, Arizona 85251 www.thephoenician.com

Enchantment Resort 525 Boynton Canyon Road. Sedona, AZ 86336 www.enchantmentresort.com

The Club at Seven Canyons 755 Golf Club Way. Sedona, Arizona 86336 www.sevencanyons.com

Great Food

After great golf comes good food...

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Head Chef Matt Gillan

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As one of the best restaurants in the country, Michelinstarred The Pass at South Lodge Hotel in

Dining with the chefs

West Sussex, was recently awarded the prestigious accolade of four AA rosettes, an honour bestowed on very few. There is also great golf to be had at Mannings Heath Golf Club. By Camilla Kaas-Stock, pictures Exclusive Hotels

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Desert on The Pass

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ust an hour’s drive from London in the heart of the Sussex Downs lies the magnificent South Lodge Hotel. This former country house, set within 90 acres of splendid woodland, is the perfect place to unwind, play a game of golf at nearby Mannings Heath Golf Club and, not least, to indulge your taste buds dining in one of the UK’s top restaurant It’s a beautiful English summer day, meaning it’s not actually raining, as we are heading down towards South Lodge Hotel in West Sussex. Since we’ve heard so much about the place and especially their acclaimed restaurant, The Pass, my husband and I just had to come and find out more and, of course, we’ll have to try the food for ourselves – ah, it’s a hard life. We park the car and walk through the large arched entrance which leads into an impressive reception hall with tall ceilings, wood cladding, comfortable seating areas and a huge fireplace. Here we are met by Sophie Menhennet, the hotel’s Sales Co-ordinator, who will take us on a guided tour.

South Lodge Hotel

Stunning views As we follow Sophie down the hallway there are rooms to either side. There’s the elegantly decorated Camellia restaurant where you can enjoy fine dining with stunning views of the South Downs, beautiful drawing rooms with ornate fireplaces for afternoon tea, the Billiard Bar for cocktails, and The Cellar where you can sample wines accompanied by a charcuterie platter. There are also twelve conference rooms which cater for anything from private parties to larger corporate events and meetings. This is one of the reasons why South Lodge Hotel was chosen to host the world leaders during the 2009 G-20 London Summit. The hotel is also a perfect wedding venue.

Build in stages In 1883, Frederick Du Cane Godman, an avid collector and explorer with a deep fascination of the natural world, started building the country house that today has become South Lodge on the site of an earlier dwelling. The house, which was developed in several stages, was built in the same neo-Jacobean style so popular at the time, and great care was taken to preserve the marvellous camellia growing between the dining room windows. The house, where Winston Churchill was a frequent guest, was used as a hospital during World War II. The Godman daughters made a great effort to maintain the house and gardens after the war. Upon their death the house was sold and became South Lodge Hotel in July 1985.

Individual design Today the hotel, which is part of Exclusive Hotels, has 89 bedrooms and suites, all individually designed, some with four poster beds and their own terrace, and one which even has its own open-air bubbling hot tub. In other words, if you want to feel spoilt in luxurious surroundings this is the place. However, we are 111

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... t s a e f e h t o Welcome t

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here to eat and right now I can feel my stomach rumbling in expectation of the feast to come.

The Pass The Pass restaurant, with Head Chef Matt Gillan at the helm, opened its doors in 2008 to high acclaim and almost immediately was awarded three AA rosettes, followed by a Michelin star in 2011. The restaurant aims to take you on a gastronomic journey and to tickle and surprise your taste buds with unusual flavour combinations. This is a restaurant with a difference because here they have taken the Chef ’s Table concept to the next level, with the whole restaurant set in the kitchen. All 22 small tables have a perfect view and there’s no need to worry that you will miss any of the “drama” because, above every table, there are TV-screens showing close-ups of the different stages of the food preparation. If this is meant to sharpen your appetite it certainly works.

Tasting menus We are met by our waiter Shaun who takes us to the table while we cast hungry glances towards the action in the kitchen. You can choose between three different tasting menus. Here the focus is not on “pile-them-high” platters, rather a number of small taster dishes that complement each other to make a complete meal. There are three set menus, The Experience with three courses, The Gourmet Experience with five courses, and The Pass Experience with no less than seven. Although I’m hungry I decide that to keep my “waiflike” figure I better go for the first option, while my husband takes the middle ground with five. Out of the goodness of my heart I can always lend him a helping hand. While waiting for the food and sipping a glass of wine, Shaun brings us a few incredibly tasty appetizers. Especially interesting I found the small “Battenberg” loafs (made for those who can’t choose between white and brown bread) served with butter and three types of salt, black, pink and white, from different places in the world, which taste amazingly different. This, we’re told, will help activate our taste buds. In the meantime Matt and his team are busy preparing our menus. We are surprised by how calm the atmosphere in the kitchen is, no shouting or plate throwing, everyone is just getting on with their work.

Delicious duck The first dish we both receive is mushroom orzo with cream and sherry vinegar – sweet and nutty. For my husband it’s followed by roasted scallop with elderflower custard, cucumber and miso. As I opted for only three courses I wait while happily sipping my Chardonnay. Our “main” dishes consist of breast and leg of duck with glazed carrots for me and a sirloin of beef with celeriac and crushed peas for my husband. Being the first time I have eaten duck I must admit to feeling a bit apprehensive, but it is deliciously tender and just melts in my mouth. My husband is then served a basil panna cotta with strawberry sorbet while I look enviously on, but I quickly decide he needs a bit of help – just out of the goodness of my heart of course. In fact it tastes so good I think I really ought to finish it for him. Finally the meal is rounded off with a white chocolate cheesecake, peach, pain perdu and yogurt. Every dish is beautifully served, like little pieces of art, and with such interesting flavour combinations.

a few minutes out of his busy schedule to sit down and talk to us. Matt started working at South Lodge in 2006, first at the Camellia before getting the opportunity to head up the brand new concept restaurant The Pass. “How I ended up as a chef is purely a coincidence,” says Matt. “I was doing a paper round to earn some money, but noticed that my best friend,who was washing pots and pans in a local pubrestaurant, was actually earning more than me. I asked him if he could help me get a job there, which he did. Little by little I got more responsibility and started helping with the food preparation. I found I really enjoyed cooking food and that I liked the buzz of it all.”

Talent and ambition It soon became apparent that young Matt had a flair and talent for the culinary art and he decided to pursue a career as a chef. His ambition to learn the trade took him through three of the country’s best restaurants, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Midsummer House, and The Vineyard at Stockcross. After taking a year off and going to Australia, where he picked fruit and vegetables and also spent time at Vue de Monde restaurant in Melbourne, he returned to the UK. “It was fantastic getting the opportunity to start up The Pass. What I really like about this concept is that here I get to witness first hand a guest’s reaction to a dish.”

Pleasure and fun Matt’s philosophy behind the food is to take a humble ingredient and turn it into something exciting. Gaining maximum flavour is paramount, and by combining this with varying temperatures, textures, surprising combinations and creative presentation, he aims to provide plates of food as unique as the restaurant itself. “When it comes down to it, food should be pleasurable and most of all, fun,” says Matt. This philosophy seems to be working as it just recently earned The Pass a fourth AA Rosette, something achieved by very few restaurants. “It’s a huge honour but I have to admit I feel a bit out of my depth; it really piles the pressure on. So now we just have to concentrate on everything being solid, and focus on doing what we do best,” he says.

The Golf Club We would have loved to spend more time with Matt at The Pass, but we are running late for our appointment at the Mannings Heath Golf Club, a mere ten minutes away. Getting there seems pretty straightforward, but somehow we manage to head off in the opposite direction and end up completely lost. When we finally arrive we realize there will be no time to play golf, something my husband is bitterly disappointed about. I, on the other hand, am quite content to have a leisurely buggy ride around the golf course.

The Head Chef While enjoying a cup of coffee and digesting the food, we have the pleasure of being joined by Head Chef Matt Gillan who’s taking 113

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You can also enjoy fine dining at Camellia restaurant and sample wines at The Cellar Part of Exclusive Hotels, Mannings Heath Golf Club has two championship courses, The Kingfisher and The Waterfall, which is the one we are visiting today. We are met by Gary Collins, the Membership Relations Manager, who courteously takes us on a guided tour despite us being an hour late.

The Waterfall Established in 1905, the Waterfall is the club's members' only course, also available for corporate golf days and residents of South Lodge Hotel. A par 72, the course winds its way through hilly terrain with dramatically undulating fairways surrounded by mature woodland and streams running alongside 11 of the holes. It is believed that the famous golf architect Harry Colt had a hand in its development and design. I’m immediately struck by the peace and quiet and the feeling of being completely alone on the course. “The sense of seclusion is one of the things that make this course so special,” says Gary. “I often come here early in the morning just to have a chance to walk around and to soak up the serenity. There’s lots of wildlife and we are very proud of our big herds of deer.”

Sodom and Gomorrah As we wiz around the course at breakneck speed Gary stops and points out some of the more interesting and challenging holes and I’m fascinated by their names. There is Sodom and Gomorrah, Hell Corner and Blaster, just to name a few. The 5th hole, which is the first of three stunning and challenging par-3s, is called the Punchbowl, and it’s easy to see why. The green sits in a hollow which fits its name perfectly. The 10th, also a par-3 at 175 yards, is the signature hole and has given the course its name - the Waterfall. Here you should take a moment to savour the view, it’s really idyllic. But remember to stay focused because this hole can catch you out. I snap a few pictures before jumping back into the buggy to 114

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continue our journey around the course. It’s hilly and rather steep in places so I imagine it would be rather testing on the leg muscles for those who choose to walk it.

Beautiful and testing Ranked among the best golf courses in the UK, The Waterfall at Mannings Heath Golf Club is still not that widely known which is a shame, it is a beautiful and testing course. The sun is getting low in the sky as we arrive back at the 17th century club house, but we still have time for a quick cup of coffee in the cozy lounge before we have to say our goodbyes. As we head off to the car my husband is throwing longing glances at the golf course, and I have a feeling he’ll find an excuse to come back here soon – and I can already think of a good one – namely the opportunity to have another wonderful meal at The Pass. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW South Lodge Hotel Brighton Road, Nr. Horsham, West Sussex General bookings and enquiries Tel: +44 (0) 1403 891 711 Hotel Room and Restaurant reservations Tel: + 44 (0) 1403 892 235 Conference and Meetings Tel: + 44 (0) 1276 478 476 www.southlodgehotel.co.uk/ Mannings Heath Golf Club Hammerpond Road, Mannings Heath, Horsham, West Sussex General bookings and enquiries Tel: +44 (0) 1403 210228 www.manningsheath.com

Great Wine

A good round is worth celebrating

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The vineyards of Languedoc

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The Greeks came here and planted vineyards in the 5th century BC. By the 14th century the wines of this area were being prescribed for their healing powers. Should you find yourself in the Languedoc - Roussillon region of France, make sure that you have time to partake in this local medicine. By Mike Kaas-Stock, photo Paul Palau, Colloure Tourist Board and Chateau Valmy

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FRANCE - WINE

Let’s face it,

when travelling in France you are never short of vineyards to visit.You could get yourself in a lot of trouble with the local constabulary if you stop at each and every one that you find. The Languedoc-Roussillon region through which I’m driving covers an area between the west of the Rhône and Camargue and on down to the border with Spain. The Pyrenees Mountains form the perfect backdrop to the land with the glittering sea constantly on your left. The vineyards of this sunny region form one of the largest expanses of wine growing in the world and production actually exceeds that of Bordeaux. With a Mediterranean climate and breezes wafting in off the ocean, you can see why viticulture is just part of life here. I am on my to visit and taste the wines of Chateau de Valmy which is located just outside the town of Argelés-sur-Mer.

The history of the Chateau.

Château de Valmy

Château de Valmy is one of three grand residences that were commissioned by local notable Pierre Bardou in the late nineteenth century. Being a loving father he built one for each of his three children. All three were designed by the Danish architect Viggo Dorph-Petersen whose work was greatly appreciated by the rich families in the Roussillon region. Pierre’s father had made the family fortune with the invention of the individual ready–to-roll cigarette paper. Before his eureka moment smokers had to tear their own by hand from large sheets prior to rolling, something that I would love to have seen attempted one-handed! As I pass out through the town I see the Château situated on a mountain slope and looking out towards the Mediterranean. The residence makes quite a statement; in fact it’s everything you would expect a French chateau to look like, complete with a hint of Disney fantasy mixed in. The estate has been in the hands of the Carbonnell family since 1930 and is now owned and run by husband and wife team Bernard and Martine. As well as producing wine, the Château is open to paying guests with five beautifully decorated individual rooms.

Local market Back at the vineyard I am shown around by Bruno Saget who is the Commercial Director. He informs me that only 100,000 bottles are produced here per year. “Our market is 50% local with most of the rest going to other regions of France. Production is too low for mass export overseas although we do send some to select wine merchants in several European countries. We also have a constant flow of tourists from all over the world arriving for a tour and leaving with a bottle or two”. The vineyards cover an area of 24 hectares that surround the entire Château. This area of France has a combination of chalk, limestone and gravel based soils inland, with more alluvial soils nearer the coast, all adding to the region’s individual taste.

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FRANCE - WINE Splash of colours In autumn the vine leaves create an amazing splash of colour across the hillside, in stark contrast to the blue of the Mediterranean sky. Most notable types of grapes grown here include Syrah, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat for the production of red wine, while Grenache Blanc, Viognier, and Marsanne are used for white wines. At the centre of production are the cellars with ranks of

stainless-steel vats and the traditional wooden barrels which are used for maturing wines in an air-conditioned environment. Red, white, and several sweet wines of both colours are stored here awaiting completion of fermentation and then bottling. Bruno guides me to the tasting area so that I may find out for myself just how good the wine is. Sitting outside with a view of sea and mountains and with the vineyard all around, it could just be that I have discovered exactly why the wine for this reason was considered medicinal, I certainly feel better for it. GGM

Le Premier Valmy AOC Côtes du Roussillon

Château Valmy Rosé AOC Côtes du Roussillon

L'Or de Valmy AOC Muscat de Rivesaltes

Château Valmy Rouge AOC Côtes du Roussillon

With a stony soil and the constant sea breezes the wines here have a strong but subtle flavour, especially Le Premier De Valmy. This is a red wine which is made from Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache Noir grapes. Hand-picked and treated to traditional vinification and long maceration, it is then aged in oak casks in the climate-controlled cellars for twelve months.

Grown on well exposed slopes, Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre are harvested by hand. After sorting, the harvest is fed into the vat by gravity for a short maceration. Made from a gentle pressing, the first pressed juice is blended with the run-off juice: the fermentation is temperaturecontrolled. Cheerful, fruity aromas dominate this character blend with its rich and refreshing flavours. Serve well chilled, the light structure goes equally well with a plate of Collioure anchovies, Serrano ham, or even spicy dishes.

The Muscat à Petits Grains from which this cuveé is made are cultivated on poor soils on high terraces. An early ripening grape variety, the harvested grape bunches are placed in small crates of 10 kg. Fermentation is performed with constant temperature control. Bottling takes place in the spring following the harvest after which the bottles are stored in an air-conditioned cellar. This wine is characterized by its fresh fruit aromas and its smooth and silky texture. Serve around 8°C as an aperitif with foie gras, fresh goats’ cheese; or, equally enjoyable, with desserts based around white fruits.

A preponderance of Syrah accompanied by Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre. Low yields are grown on the pebbly terraces with their shallow soils, and harvesting is done by hand. Partly vinified by carbonic maceration, temperatures are constantly controlled in order to maintain the deep purple colour of this cuveé with its fruity character. The balance in the mouth is characterized by a wholly supple and round structure. Its charming nature means it complements both red meats and, if lightly chilled, simply prepared fish dishes.

Château de Valmy 66700 Argeles-sur-mer, France Phone +33 (0) 4 68 81 25 70 Fax. +33 (0) 4 68 81 15 18 www.chateau-valmy.com Email - contact@chateau-valmy.com 120

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Great Property

because you need a place to put your clubs

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SPAIN GOLF PROPERTY

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Jewel IN THE CROWN A

ARE YOU thinking of buying a golf property in the sun? Well, if it’s exclusivity you’re after then you can’t get much better than Sotogrande in southern Spain. With five fantastic courses on your doorstep, including the famous Valderrama, you will never suffer from boredom. By Mike Kaas-Stock, photos Sotogrande SA and Savills 123

SPAIN GOLF PROPERTY

hen it comes to choosing a golf location for a second home, or even possibly as a main abode, Spain has always been high on most peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list. Good connections by land, sea and air as well as fair weather, prove to be important factors. But for the discerning buyer with a view to owning a property near one or several top golf courses while also having excellent amenities for other activities, there is really only one choice, a location that has become a byword for luxury, Sotogrande.

50th anniversary Spain like everywhere is suffering in the present economic climate, but there is a certain level of opulence that shines through even in the darkest of times. Sotogrande is no new fly-by-night property location, you might purchase a new property here, but the development has a maturity that can guarantee a level of quality purely by the weight of its name. Located in southern Spain and nestled between the foothills of the Sierra Almenara and the Mediterranean Sea, the resort of Sotogrande has established itself as one of the most prestigious addresses in the world. This is Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest privately owned residential and sporting estate, a gleaming jewel that covers roughly 4,400 acres. As the development approaches its 50th anniversary, a far cry from its humble beginnings, this could possibly be the best time to buy that perfect piece of golfing real estate.

The History of Sotogrande In 1962 the prestigious American entrepreneur Joseph McMicking and his wife bought five adjoining farmsteads on an expanse of land just east of Gibraltar. They had a vision, and that was to create the number one luxury resort here on the sun drenched shores of the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Today Sotogrande has achieved just that and is among the very best residential developments in the world, a popular choice for discerning international property owners everywhere. So what has made it so successful? Its appeal lies largely in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, but the careful planning of each and every addition to this grand estate adds to its attraction. As well as the obvious lure of five fantastic golf courses which includes the world famous championship course of Valderrama, home to the 1997 Ryder Cup, there are also eleven polo fields and an equestrian club.

Tennis & water sports Additionally there are excellent facilities for tennis and all manner of water sports as well as an Andalucian National Park, Wildlife and Nature reserve covering 27 hectares. These are impressive features that make it hard for any new contender in the world of luxury development to surpass. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not only the golf properties that make this location special, but also the coastal developments. The harbour of Sotogrande is visited by some of the finest yachts to be seen anywhere. Also on offer here are charter boats for anyone wishing to travel around the coast of the Costa del Sol and further afield.

Las Cimas de Almenara 11 One of the new projects, Las Cimas de Almenara 11, is an exciting development that is made up of only eighteen luxury villas, of which fourteen are detached and four are semi-detached. All the

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A gleaming jewel that covers roughly 4,400 acres.

Today Sotogrande is among the very best residential developments in the world.

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SPAIN GOLF PROPERTY properties are of an extremely high standard and consist of four bedrooms and bathrooms, an individual personal garage and private garden complete with swimming pool. The villas are built to ensure the desired level of privacy that prospective purchasers demand. The presence of a porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office and a personalised security service provides owners with the peace of mind that, should they require help in any way and at any time, someone is on hand. The views from the properties are quite simply spectacular, stretching across the Sotogrande Estate and on down to the Almenara golf course. Owners also have direct access to all the facilities at the nearby Almenara Hotel including the use of its laundry, room service and discounts for the Spa, Gymnasium and of course the golf course.

La Reserva de Sotogrande If you have ever wanted to be more involved in the design and build of your own luxury villa, a plot of land in La Reserva could make this dream come true. La Reserva de Sotogrande is situated in the heart of the estate and next to the fairways of the famous Club de Golf La Reserva de Sotogrande. On offer here are land plots for villa construction directly around this Cabel Robinson designed course and with direct access. This private golf club offers membership to owners at a very competitive rate. There is a wide selection of land plots with price ranges and sizes to suit. The Sotogrande team can introduce buyers to project managers, architects, builders and landscape gardeners to complete the whole building and design project to individual tastes.

Space and privacy The commitment at la Reservas de Sotogrande to low density housing has created a luxury estate that sits comfortably in its natural surroundings with a feeling of space and privacy. The whole resort has been planned and developed with continuous and careful consideration to aesthetics, resulting in an elegance and style that has become an integral part of the life in the famous resort. La Reserva also offers a 24-hour manned security entrance that allows access to residents and their guests. So for those looking for the security of a proven location at which to purchase Sotogrande, with 50 years of history to its name, has to be a real contender. Possibly now is the time to invest before prices again begin to rise. We cannot predict the future, but we can enjoy where we spend the present. GGM

GOOD TO KNOW Sotogrande is roughly 15 minutes and an hour respectively from Gibraltar and Malaga Airports. PROPERTY CONTACT David Vaughan Savills Residential International dvaughan@savills.com Telephone - +44 (0) 20 7016 3814 Website for La Reserva de Sotogrande â&#x20AC;&#x201C; http://search.savills.com/property-detail/gblaixlai120585 Website for Las Chimas de Alminaras 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; http://search.savills.com/property-detail/gblaixlai120587

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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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England

CHART HILLS GOLF CLUB

hart Hills is recognised within the professional golfing community as one of England’s foremost courses. Set in 200 acres of gently undulating Kent countryside between quintessentially English villages, Chart Hills is just 13 miles from the county town of Maidstone and 20 minutes from the Eurostar terminal at Ashford meaning the club is easily accessible by road and rail. The Club was officially opened in August 1993 and was the inaugural golf course to be designed by world-renowned golfer and six-times Major winner, Sir Nick Faldo. In Chart Hills, Faldo has created a visually stunning and challenging course, able to keep both visitors and long-standing members equally enthralled. Among its many incredible features is a unique island green on the par-3 17th hole and an impressive 130 bunkers including ‘The Anaconda’ on the 5th hole, which at 200 yards is the longest bunker in Europe. With a grass driving range, practice short game area complete with bunkers and target greens, and an excellent putting green,

Chart Hills offers the best possible practice facilities. The Clubhouse at Chart Hills is similarly impressive, having been fully refurbished in 2007 to the highest standard and including a popular restaurant that is open to all throughout the week. Chart Hills is consistently named among the best courses in world: In 2012 The Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses was the latest publication to recognise Chart Hills as a top destination. In addition The Peugeot Golf Guide recognised the club as one of the top 20 courses in Europe, with a rating of 18 out of 20 (the second highest score in the guide); Golf World Magazine named Chart Hills ‘Best New Course in England’ in 2004 and the course is currently ranked 87th by the Top 100 Golf Courses in Great Britain and Ireland, (the only in-land course in Kent to feature in this list) With so many accolades, it is no surprise that Chart Hills has become high on the list of “must play” courses. For more information and to book your round go to www.charthills.co.uk or call on 01580 292222

CONTACT

Chart Hills Golf Club, Weeks Lane, Biddenden, Kent, TN27 8JX www.charthills.co.uk

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England

FORMBY HALL GOLF RESORT & SPA

n 2008 Formby Hall was transformed into a stunning 27hole Golf Resort and PGA Golf Academy boasting some of the finest Golf, Leisure, conference & hotel facilities in the North West of England. The AA rated 4-star hotel offers 62 sumptuous rooms in spectacular surroundings, accompanied by Restaurant, Cocktail bar and 19th Hole, two main celebration rooms, the Diplomat & Ambassador suites and two meeting rooms. Formby Hall is centrally located in the heart of what is known as England’s golf coast. Liverpool city centre is just 12 miles away and Southport 5 miles offering the ideal location both in terms of accessibility and in the resort experience. England’s golf coast includes the three famous Open Championship courses of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool and the 2012 Open venue Royal Lytham & St Anne’s. The cluster of other great local courses includes Hillside, S&A, Formby and West Lancashire making Formby Hall also a superb location to

stay when planning a North West golf trip. The Old Course offers a challenge to golfers of every level, measuring over 7,000 yards off the blue tees and 6,500 of the yellows. The course provides a consistent playing surface all year round, draining well in the winter months. Links style pot bunkers, wooded areas and water hazards provide definition and character to a course that has hosted the European Seniors, Challenge Tour and Euro-Pro Tours. Our 9 hole PAR3 course captures the true challenges of links golf with strategically placed riveted pot bunkers and large fast undulating greens, added to this the presence water hazards and the seaside breeze and you have the sternest of tests for golfers of all levels. Length: 7048 yards Holes: 18 Par: 72 Type: Parkland

CONTACT

Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, Southport Old Road, Formby, Southport, L37 0AB Telephone: 01704 875 699 www.formbyhallgolfresort.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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Italy

DONNAF UGATA GOLF RESORT & SPA

he award-winning venue lies 110km (90 minutes) Donnafugataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s courses are complemented by a fully-equipped from Catania Airport near the south-east coast of golf academy that features a 70-bay driving range, putting/pitching Sicily and only a short drive from the Baroque city greens, and a highly qualified multilingual golf professional. of Ragusa. Airport and helicopter transfers are The award-winning luxury spa comprises a 900m2 area and available on request. features an indoor heated pool, fully-equipped gym, hydro The resort has 202 rooms including 10 Suites and 192 Deluxe, massage, sauna and steam baths and six treatment rooms offering Superior and Classic rooms. Each has a terrace or balcony and a range of beauty and body care treatments based on the renowned offers Wi-Fi access, satellite television and coffee maker. All are CULTI concept. elegantly furnished in keeping with its status as a five-star hotel. Donnafugata has a choice of six restaurants and bars featuring Golf in Sicily has made great strides in recent years with a wide assortment of dishes prepared with top-quality local Donnafugata leading the way, offering two exclusive 18-hole products, creatively presented and accompanied by perfect wines to championship golf courses, which are open all-year round. enhance their flavors. The par-72 Parkland Course, designed by South African In addition to an open-air swimming pool and its own private legend Gary Player, hosted the Sicilian Open in 2011 and winds beach and Beach Club, Donnafugata lies near to the town of its way through a mixture ofcarob and olive trees. Ragusa, the cradle of Sicilian Baroque architecture with its In contrast, the Links Course, also a par-72, runs up and down neighboring towns listed among the pearls of the UNESCO two valleys and nestles between two nature reserves with the World Heritage Sites: Modica, Scicli and Noto. Mediterranean as a backdrop. CONTACT

Donnafugata Golf Resort & Spa, Contrada Piombo 97100, Ragusa, Italy. Tel: +39 0932 914200 www.donnafugatagolfresort.com; nhdonnafugata@nh-hotels.com

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

Italy

BELLOSGUARD O VINCI GOLF COURSE A TRULY TUSCANY GOLFING EXPERIENCE

ellosguardo Vinci Golf Course, the Tuscan Golf destination. Known for its Wine and Oil production, Bellosguardo Vinci as its name suggest is located close to the birthplace of the great Leonardo Da Vinci. Nestled in the undulating hills of Tuscany, the golf course consists of 9 plus 9 holes with an overall length of 6322 m playing two rounds. The fairways can all be viewed from the vantage point of the club-house, a perfect place to sit and taste the local wine. Immaculate greens follow a wide valley as it winds its way through a picture perfect Tuscan landscape that will capture the imagination of any golfer.

Our team of attentive staff will consider it their mission to make your visit something to remember whether in the clubhouse or on the golf course. Make use of our well stocked pro-shop to purchase or hire anything that you may need to make your round of golf complete. Our exquisite restaurant where chef Marco Pagni creates food to match the charming view over the Tuscan landscape is a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the ambience of to location. We offer our guests who want to stay and truly experience all we have to offer excellent accommodation with the choice of four comfortable and tastefully furnished rooms, all with views of the breathtaking countryside and with views directly to the golf course.

CONTACT

BELLOSGUARDO VINCI GOLF COURSE. Via Provinciale di Mercatale, 25 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 50059 VINCI (Firenze) Phone +39 0571. 902035. Fax + 39 0571. 901015 www.golfbellosguardovinci.it

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LE TOUQUET - FRANCE Manoir Hotel and Golf Resort

From â&#x201A;Ź 160*

Punch Communication 03 21 32 69 69

Enter a World Apart and let us Care for You.

TEL. TEL. 00 00 33 33 ( 3 ) 2 1 06 06 28 28 28 28 FFAX AX 00 00 33 33 ( 3 ) 2 1 06 06 28 28 29 29 EEMAIL MAIL manoirhotel@opengolfclub.com manoirhotel@opengolfclub.com

* Price per person sharing a double inclusive of 2 nights, buffet breakfast, one welcoming dinner (excl.drinks) and 3 rounds of golf. Valid from 21st October 2012 to 17th March 2013. Subject to availability.

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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Turkey

GLORIA HOTELS & RESORTS

ocated on the Turkish Golf Coast that runs from Antalya to Belek, Gloria Golf Club, which was designed by renowned French architect Michel Gayon is the biggest Golf Complex in Turkey. Complete with 45 holes spread over three fantastic courses comprising of the 18 hole ‘Old Course’ the 18 hole ‘New Course’ and the 9 hole ‘Verde Course’ The resort also has the largest practice facilities in the country. We make golf an unforgettable pleasure for our guests, with all the comforts that Gloria Hotels & Resorts has to offer and complemented by the unique nature of this stunning Mediterranean location. Here at Gloria Golf Club we have all the facilities for you to experience your passion within a unique holiday concept that is complemented by the comfort and facilities of Gloria Golf Resort, Gloria Verde Resort, Gloria Serenity Resort and Gloria

Select Villas to provide something for the whole family. Experience tastes from many different world cuisines as well as authentic Turkish food, all on offer at the resorts wide selection of restaurants and of course not forgetting our Golf Club House to complete your special sports and holiday with dining to match and complement. Everything at Gloria Golf Club is designed to let you enjoy your golf at the highest levels while also providing many other facilities that include three Spa and Wellness centres, the La Source Spa & Health Centre, Asklepion/Thalasso Therapy & Spa Centre, Serenity Spa Centre, and of course over 1 kilometers of long Mediterranean sandy beaches. We also have the best stocked golf pro-shop to be found anywhere in Turkey, where you can purchase whatever you require for your game. A complimentary shuttle service is provided between the accommodation location and the golf courses.

CONTACT

Gloria Golf Resort. Acısu Mevkii Belek Serik, Antalya. Tel: +90 242 710 06 00 Gloria Verde Resort. leri ba ı Mevkii Belek Serik, Antalya. Tel: +90 242 710 05 00 Gloria Serenity Resort. Acısu Mevkii Belek Serik, Antalya. Tel: +90 242 710 23 00 www.gloria.com.tr • info@gloria.com.tr

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THE NEXT ISSUE

Great Golf

Magazine

... and the journey continues We really hope you have enjoyed this edition of Great Golf Magazine and that you have found some inspiration for where to go on your next golf holiday. In the next issue we will be travelling to the beautiful Thracian Cliffs in Bulgaria, exploring the highest and the lowest golf course in the world as well as visiting the Azores and Northern Ireland. We will be talking to Bubba Watson about the sport and other things close to his heart, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be an article about Aston Martin and, of course, great food and wine. Big things are afoot for GGM; for the first time the magazine will be available in the United States, placed in select Virgin Atlantic lounges including those at JFK and Newark. 2013 will see an increase to three issues per year with a planned move to quarterly in 2014. For those who would like to enjoy the magazine online, we are going digital with an app soon to follow. Just go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk Remember that if you want to be sure of receiving your online or hard copy issues, you will find a subscription form on the website. To advertise in the next issue, please visit our website or call us on +44 (0) 1892 544 872

See you soon! 162

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

Only a Pre-Owned Bentley has passed the most exacting technical inspection by technicians trained by Bentley. Only a Bentley dealer can offer you this reassurance and fully validate its service history. And only a Bentley dealer will check it against our own original build speciďŹ cation records to ensure authenticity. Only then can it carry a comprehensive and exclusive 12-month Unlimited Mileage Warranty with 12 monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bentley Roadside Assistance. Quite simply, a Bentley cannot just become Pre-Owned; it has to earn it.

For more information visit preowned.bentleymotors.com/gg