Costa Rica
A feature from the IAGTO Directory 2014
Costa Rica
Costa Rica Central America’s small golf gem Costa Rica has long been known as an extraordinary nature paradise. As a rewarding golf destination, however, the “Switzerland of Central America” is still an insider tip - a small golf gem with a total of six 18-hole courses and another six nine-hole courses. Approximately 30% of the country is protected by national parks and another 10% by private reserves. Golfers who are looking for a great combination of wildlife experience and golf will be fascinated here.
La Iguana Golf Course at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
On the golf courses, you are surrounded by impressive flora and fauna at every step. Scarlet macaws fly over the fairways, iguanas, armadillos and toucans critically observe your drive, and coatis and howler monkeys celebrate your birdie with you.
Off the golf course, nature is even more spectacular; more than 30 national parks, active volcanoes, steaming rain forests, mile-long beaches on the Pacific or Caribbean coasts, hot springs, white-water rivers and bizarre mountain landscapes guarantee a fascinating nature experience away from the fairways. The year-round tropical climate makes for ideal conditions, and the friendly locals are the ideal hosts.
Reserva Conchal Golf Course
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Costa Rica
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Costa Rica’s golf courses are distributed across three regions:
Central Valley Surrounded by volcanoes and mountain ranges lies the Central Valley with the capital city, San José. Here you can choose from four courses as well as a large variety of hotels, gastronomy and shopping facilities. The fertile slopes of the volcanoes are covered with plantations of the famous Costa Rican highland coffee.
Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
Central Pacific Coast Close to national parks and mile-long beaches, there are four golf courses along the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Nature is especially impressive in this region and invites golfing visitors to go wildlife watching in between their strokes. The Marriott Los Sueños Ocean & Golf Resort or the boutique hotel, Tango Mar, near Los Delfines Golf & Country Club are great options in this area.
Guanacaste The province of Guanacaste in the north-west of the country has the three most spectacular golf courses in Costa Rica. The choice of hotels includes everything from small boutique hotels to well-known brands such as Four Seasons, JW Marriott, Westin and Hilton.
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Costa Rica
The 9th hole at The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal
Costa Rica is ideal for golfers who want to combine their hobby with a nature round trip. During the guided 11-day trip, Costa Rica Golf & Highlights, you not only play the five most beautiful golf courses in the country but also visit active volcanoes, go hiking in cloud and rain forests, relax on gorgeous beaches and immerse yourself in the life and culture of the Costa Ricans. Throughout the entire time, you will be accompanied by a professional nature guide and enjoy the personalised service of outstanding small boutique hotels. Non-golfers are offered a very attractive alternative programme while their golfing partners are enjoying their games of golf. This round trip can also be made as a self-driving journey with a rented car. Tango Mar Beach Hotel and Golf Resort
Contact details ARA Tours, Apdo. 799 Centro Col贸n, San Jos茅, 1007, Costa Rica Tel: +506 2232 04 00 golf@aratours.com www.golf.aratours.com Copy supplied by ARA Tours 60
More information on golf courses, golf resorts and round trips in Costa Rica can be found on the Ara Tours website.
Cover Photo: Majlis Course, Emirates Golf Club, Dubai • www.dubaigolf.com
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