Today's Golfer Travel Guide

PACKED WITH 201 DE ALS 5

TRAVEL Your guide to a world of great golf

Europe’s best new destinations Vote in our 2015 Travel Awards Win a luxury trip to Spain

On the Cover gary Player has described his new course at Thracian cliffs in Bulgaria as “europe’s Pebble Beach”.

We are inclined to agree – see page 46.

Royal Obidos – one of the new stars of the Lisbon area in Portugal.

A world of golf awaits Welcome to our pick of the best destinations for your next break

N

ot sure when and where to go for that long-awaited golf break?

Then let this ultra-informative travel guide give you a helping hand: the following pages are jam packed with brilliant courses and great-value golfing holidays both at home and abroad.

We point you in the right direction for that richly-deserved golf break, whether it be with your golfing pals, your partner or your family.

In addition, you’ll discover plenty of useful insider travel tips – such as the weather you’re likely to encounter, the best time to go and what to do off the course – plus loads more.

All you need, in fact, to guarantee you will go on the golfing break of your dreams.

After all, it is that time of the year when lots

of us are all itching to get away and escape the UK’s gloomy winter for the sun-kissed fairways and greens of foreign fields. The annual TG Travel supplement will help you to do that, with the long-established destinations of Spain and Portugal, as well as rapidly-rising hotspot Turkey, all featuring prominently.

There’s also a special feature on the great value offered by fast-emerging destination Bulgaria and we also turn the spotlight on France – which of course is preparing to host the Ryder Cup for the first time in 2018.

And though winter may be just around the corner, on the bright side many UK courses – particularly those near the coast – are perfectly playable and there are some unbelievable low-season deals on offer at

many top courses which really ought to ensure you don’t put your clubs away as soon as the main season ends.

Once again readers also have the chance to vote for their favourite courses and hotels (pages 64-65) in the prestigious TG Travel Awards, which annually cause a real buzz in the golf travel industry. I hope you get involved and vote for the venues which have impressed you this year. If you do, you could be rewarded with a two-night Majorca break worth £500 with golf at the island's top two courses, Son Gual and Alcanada.

Good golfing – wherever you are playing.

Kevin Brown, Courses Editor Todaysgolfer .co.uk TG TR AVEL GUIDE 201 5

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Travel Guide 2015 Contents

6 England... for quantity and quality

12 Scotland... a game for the people

18 Wales... enjoy the Ryder Cup ‘bounce’

22 Portugal... play proper links in the sun

38 Spain... a guarantee of a good time

46 Bulgaria... Europe’s latest sensation

Some amazing deals that allow you to play the best for less.

There's never been a better time to visit the Principality.

Why take a risk with your break? Head for cosy familiarity.

You can play the superstars – and discover a hidden gem.

Seaside heaven on the agenda in Lisbon and the Algarve.

Three thrilling courses plotted on a breathtaking coastline.

50 Turkey... Belek’s revolution continues 58 France... la creme de la creme It's now one of the superpowers of European golf travel.

No country in Europe can match its calibre of golf course.

Plus 64 TG Travel awards Vote for your favourite. 66 Prize draw Win a costa del sol break.

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The Oxfordshire is considered to be one of the most exciting courses in the country, designed

by Rees Jones, this is the only course in the England designed by the ‘Open Doctor’ who has been responsible for the redesign of several US Open courses in recent years.

Previous host venue to major tournaments such as the Benson & Hedges International, Andersen Consulting World Championship and Ladies English Open, this course boasts significant heritage in the golfing world.

www.theoxfordshire.com

The Oxfordshire Rycote Lane, Milton Common , Oxford, Oxfordshire OX9 2PU Tel: 01844 278300

Destination England

A royal variety show From links to heathlands to parklands, England serves up them all WO R D S k e v i n b r o w n P I C T U R E S k e v i n M U r r AY, G e T T Y i M AG e S

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ew countries can offer the variety of courses that England can. Spectacular seaside links? Tick. Picture-postcard heathlands? Tick. Immaculate tree-lined parklands? Tick. And England is packed with courses in each of these categories – courses we can all enjoy, not just the high-priced star names. For evidence, read on...

THE NORTH The cities of Leeds and Newcastle are the centres of this ever-evolving golfing region.

In a classy corner of West Yorkshire you’ll discover some of the best inland golf in the land: Alister MacKenzie’s Alwoodley; the first official Ryder Cup venue in the UK, Moortown; and Sand Moor are quite literally down the road from one another. Also close by you’ll find magical Moor Allerton, Robert Trent Jones’ first UK course design and a member of the 2-FORE!-1 scheme.

The north of the White Rose county has plenty to offer, too, with gorgeous Ganton – think of Turnberry without the sea – and York’s pride and joy Fulford – a former popular European Tour venue – topping the list. Both are in great condition year-round and in winter you can play Fulford from £30 (from £45 in October).

Go East and you can take advantage of the Golf Coast Passport (golfcoastpassport.co.uk) which gives you a great chance to experience the pick of the area’s courses on the cheap – £58 for three rounds, £70 for four & £80 for five during a seven-day period. Participating courses are: Flamborough Head, Filey, Hornsea, Bridlington and Bridlington Links.

And if it’s stunning views you’re seeking, head for unsung South Yorkshire pair Silkstone and Hickleton, near Barnsley and Doncaster respectively. Both provide sensational Pennines panoramas.

The north east has been significantly boosted in recent times following the opening of two exciting new resorts (Close House near Newcastle and Rockliffe Hall just outside Darlington), joining the already wellestablished Slaley Hall. Also new on the scene is the championship parkland layout at Ramside Hall, named the Cathedral Course after the famous Durham landmark and World Heritage Site.

Some great golf is available in Northumberland including Braid coastal classic Goswick plus the lower-profile links of Bamburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle.

The Castle courses guarantee fun and inexpensive holiday golf. The county also

boasts England’s oldest nine-hole links at Alnmouth Village.

You can enjoy a round at Bamburgh as well as Alnwick Castle and Seahouses as part of a two-night B&B break at the Bamburgh Castle Inn, Seahouses, for £142pp based on two sharing (alnwickgolfbreaks.co.uk).

GREAT dEAls n Rudding Park, North Yorkshire TG exclusive. Two-for-the-price-of one attending Rudding Park Residential Golf Schools – bring a friend for free and learn together.

Offer valid Sun-Thurs between Nov 2 and Mar 2015. Costs from £125pp (normally £250pp).

Call 01423 873400 and quote ‘Today’s Golfer.’ n Stay, Play & Dine Golf Break at Rockliffe Hall, Co Durham – One or two-night break including 18 or 36 holes, accommodation in a luxury Tiplady Lodge bedroom, plus a twocourse dinner in The Clubhouse each evening, from £115pp. Call 01325 729999. n Stay at the Mercure Bradford Bankfield Hotel on Sunday night for DBB with two rounds at The Bradford (one Sun afternoon and one on Monday) for £80 (sharing a twin/ double room). To book call 01943 609888. n De Vere Hotels & Resorts (including Slaley Hall near Newcastle and Oulton Hall near

Silkstone: probably one of the best courses you've never heard of.

expect lots of thrilling hazards at Carden Park.

Leeds) Book before the end of October and receive an exclusive group offer where one in 12 goes free. 2014 golf break prices are being held for 2015, and start from £79pp.

Packages include dinner, B&B and spa treatment. Book at deveregolf.co.uk and for the best available green fee rates at De Vere Golf resorts visit dvteetimes.com n One night’s B&B at The Hogs Head Inn and a round at both Alnwick Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle costs £73.50pp (based on two sharing). To book call 01665 602632.

a staggeringly good £80). There’s some outstanding stay-and-play venues too, with The Mere, Mottram Hall and Carden Park among the best.

GREAT dEAlS

NORTH WEST England’s Golf Coast is King and with a cluster of world-class links stretching from Lytham St Annes to Hoylake, it reigns supreme. With Royals Birkdale, Liverpool and Lytham among its ranks, why wouldn’t it?

This is arguably the best time to check out the fabled Golf Coast. Not only will the courses be considerably quieter after the summer, they’ll be considerably cheaper too, with Autumn (Oct 13-Nov 30) three-round/ two-night packages costing from £150 a time.

One of EGC’s unsung heroes is West Lancs even though it’s been around since 1873 and is the oldest on Merseyside. Make sure it’s in your end-of-season diary by lining up in either the Pairs Open on Oct 19th (£60 per pair) or between Nov 1-Mar 14, when you can savour it for £200 per fourball, including soup, sandwiches and coffee.

You all know about the Open Championship courses, but it’s unlikely you’ll know much about Caldy, a clifftop thriller on the Wirral Peninsula, and St Annes Old Links, a top seaside venue in its own right that offers excellent value. The par-3 9th is so good, the legendary Bobby Jones took measurements of it so he could recreate it in America!

Ormskirk, a wonderful mature parkland

West lancs Golf Club is one of the unsung heroes of england’s world-famous golf coast.

alternative with a great variety of holes is also well worth considering. Indeed the region has plenty of special inland courses too with Delamere Forest, a shot-but-sweet centuryold Herbert Fowler heathland, and Sandiway, a fascinating combination of woodland and heathland, among them. And for something completely different there’s Blackburn’s Pleasington, an unusual parkland/heathland combination – 12 holes on the south side of the railway run through mature parkland while the other six weave through natural heathland.

Further north in Cumbria there’s plenty of choice too, both coastal and inland. The latter not surprisingly features a number of courses – including Windermere GC – sprinkled around the Lake District and therefore offering superb views. Meanwhile, Seascale is a challenging vintage links – it staged the 2012 English Amateur Championship – overlooking the Irish Sea. As you’d expect, it’s top nick year-round and winter rounds start from £20 (a Saturday fourball is available for

n england’s Golf Coast: Two nights’ B&B in liverpool & 54 holes (Caldy, Wallasey & West Lancs) starting from £222. Valid March 1April 17. Or, two nights’ B&B in Southport & 54 holes (Formby, Hillside and Southport & Ainsdale) starting from £225. Valid Mar 1-Apr 17. Or, two nights’ B&B in Southport or Fylde & 54 holes (Hesketh, Fairhaven & Royal Lytham & St Annes) starting from £255. Valid March 1-April 17. To book call 01704 807800 or visit englandsgolfcoast.com n de vere Hotels & resorts (including Mottram Hall, Cheshire): Book before the end of Oct and receive an exclusive group offer where 1 in 12 goes free. 2014 golf break prices are being held for 2015 and start from £79pp. Packages include dinner, B&B and spa treatment. Book at deveregolf.co.uk and for the best available green fee rates at De Vere Golf resorts visit dvteetimes.com n Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa, Cheshire – One night’s dinner, B&B and two rounds from £89pp - plus 20 per cent off food/drink and 1 in 12 golfers go free. Based on two sharing a twin or double room. Book before end of October and valid from Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2015.

To book call 0844 879 9294.

SOUTH EAST The south east has it all, from the historic, classy links of the Kent coast to the wonderful array of heathland courses of the Home Counties – Wentworth, Sunningdale, The Berkshire, Walton Heath… the hallowed names endlessly trip off the tongue.

Obviously playing top courses costs top

Todaysgolfer .co.uk TG Tr avel Guide 201 5

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Destination England St enodoc has 12 of the finest holes in england.

dollar so on your behalf we scoured the area in search of quality courses you can enjoy and experience without having to break the bank to do so. And we reckon you’ll be both surprised – and delighted – with the results.

For under £30 you can tee it up at super Surrey pair Pine Ridge, plotted within a pine forest on superbly draining sandy soil, and Traditions, a cleverly-designed Peter Alliss parkland layout. For a bit extra you can experience the likes of Camberley Heath, a century-old Harry Colt classic, and Crowborough Beacon, a stunning Alister MacKenzie heathland with fine views in neighbouring East Sussex.

Kent is dominated by links legends Royal St George’s, Royal Cinque Ports and Prince’s but nearby Littlestone is a championship links in its own right and boasts great greens. Further inland in Kent, Hever Castle is well worth trying – especially if you take advantage of the winter warmer deal that consists of coffee & bacon roll, unlimited golf and a one-course meal for £36pp (Nov-Mar).

Dorset’s jewels include Ferndown, Broadstone and Parkstone but the Isle of Purbeck – once owned by ‘Noddy’ creator Enid Blyton – is pretty special too. Awash with charm and character within an exquisite heathland/nature reserve, it’s always in great

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nick and you can play it from £30 this winter.

There is plenty of good value in Hampshire too, with the Bell Inn, New Forest, winter packages, comprising a one-night stay and round of golf costing from just £82pp.

Brocket Hall, just off the A1 in Hertfordshire, is an outstanding all-round venue with two contrasting 18-hole courses (Palmerston & Melbourne) and provides a memorable golfing outing whatever the time of year. So it’s worth noting that large groups (minimum of 12) can enjoy a round, coffee and bacon roll, two-course buffet-style meal and a pint of beer from just £65pp (Jan & Feb) and £75pp (Nov, Dec & Mar).

GREAT dEAlS n Sun-Fri for overnight B&B accommodation at Goodwood, West Sussex, (signature double or twin room) and one round on the Park course and one round on the Downs course, costs £115pp. Valid Oct-Dec. To book call 01243 775537 and quote Today's Golfer. n One night’s dinner (twin or double room), B&B at Old Thorns, Hampshire, plus two rounds of golf for £109pp until the end of October, midweek only. To book call 01428 725885, www.oldthorns.com n The royal Hotel, deal, Kent - Two nights’ B&B (twin/double share) and three rounds

(Littlestone, Prince’s & North Foreland) for £322pp. To book call Countrywide Golf Holidays on 01637 879991. n Overnight dinner, B&B accommodation at East Sussex National and 36 holes of golf from £130pp, November-February. To book call 01825 880088. n Prince’s, Kent – 18 holes of Championship links golf and a three-course Christmas Lunch for £45pp. Valid December 1-23 (Mon-Fri, min. 12 players). To book call 01304 611118 or email office@princesgolfclub.co.uk

SOUTH WEST The region is centred around the stunning cluster of Atlantic Links courses but isn’t entirely about the likes of Saunton, Trevose, St Enodoc and co. Far from it in fact.

True, you’ll find most of the very best golfing attractions in the popular seaside holiday destinations of Devon and Cornwall but overall the south west offers a lot more – especially when it comes to value for money.

The Atlantic Links courses are top quality throughout the year and you can experience two of the best – Trevose and St Enodoc – for £120 this winter – and that includes an overnight stay at Trevose G&CC. Add another tenner to that price and you can enjoy historic Royal North Devon, the oldest links in the

Open venue Prince's has just been revamped.

Broadstone is a classic Harry Colt heathland.

Cornwall Golf Breaks 2015 country, and nearby Saunton East plus overnight accommodation at a three-star Barnstaple hotel.

Visit atlantic-links.co.uk/breaks/winter-specials Cornwall’s other coastal treats include ancient West Cornwall – it’s the county’s oldest course – and Perranporth, a rollercoaster of a James Braid layout dramatically perched on the cliffs. Both belong to 2-FORE!-1 – West Cornwall in winter only – while you can encounter Perranporth in a Winter Foursomes event on Oct 19 for £50 per pair. It’s a short drive from Newquay GC – a flat, easy-walking links – which you can try out in a Pairs Open on Nov 6 (£20 per pair).

Meanwhile, inland challenges don’t come any tougher or more intimidating than the mighty Nicklaus course at St Mellion.

It may surprise you to know that Devon’s Manor House is the country’s biggest golfing venue: in total, it offers 99 holes of golf plotted on a 600acre complex nestling in the foothills of Dartmoor National Park. All guests receive free golf and four-night November breaks are available from £175pp.

Other highlights include Somerset’s Worlebury, which spectacularly sits 200ft above sea level, while Thurlestone is somewhat unheralded... even if it is regarded as ‘Devon’s Pebble Beach’!

The Ryder Cup may be done and dusted but if you’re keen to put your matchplay skills – and nerve – to the test, then Bristol duo The

‘Devon’s manor house is the country’s biggest golfing venue with 99 holes on offer’ Kendleshire and The Players Club will duly oblige. They both feature plenty of risk-reward holes with the former even boasting a Sawgrass island-green lookalike.

GREAT dEAls n The Port Gaverne Hotel, near Port Isaac, Cornwall – Two nights’ B&B (twin/double share) and three rounds (Royal North Devon, Trevose & St Enodoc) for £284pp. Book with Countrywide Golf Holidays on 01637 879991 or visit www. atlantic-links.co.uk n The Royal & Fortescue Hotel, Barnstaple, North Devon – Two nights’ B&B (twin/double share) and three rounds (Burnham & Berrow, Saunton East & RN Devon) for £320pp. Book with Countrywide Golf Holidays on 01637 879991 or visit www.atlantic-links.co.uk n Winter Special – Two nights at the Molesworth Arms Hotel, Wadebridge, Cornwall & three rounds (Perranporth, Trevose & St Enodoc) for

2 Day Golf Break £89.00 3 Day Golf Break £172.00 4 Day Golf Break £225.00 £10.00 Bar & Food Voucher per person if booked before 31/12/2014

Trethorne Golf Club Kennards House Launceston Cornwall PL15 8QE

01566

86903 www.trethornegolfclub.com

Destination England land adjoining the Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve – and is playable year-round. So the winter package of £30 for a round plus allday breakfast is great value as is entry (£65 per pair) for the club’s Pairs Open on Dec 5th.

You’ll find the pick of the links, though, in neighbouring Norfolk, which boasts seaside layouts such as Royal West Norfolk and Hunstanton closely pursued by Royal Cromer and Sheringham. King’s Lynn and Thetford meanwhile are the inland heroes.

Suffolk decisively punches above its weight in terms of quality of courses. Felixstowe Ferry is one of the best and provides a real coastal treat while wonderful Woodbridge is a hidden heathland masterpiece plotted in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You’ll find stunning heathland golf aplenty in Nottinghamshire and at Notts GC (Hollinwell) in particular. The good news is that from November 1 a fourball can experience it, including a one-course meal, for £240.

The Lindrick, just outside Worksop and the scene of the 1957 Ryder Cup, is worth visiting this winter too: a Nov-Mar tee-time (between 10-11am, Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri) costs £120.

GREAT DEALS The 4th green at royal West Norfolk: magic.

£200pp Nov-Feb. Book with Countrywide Golf Holidays on 01637 879991 or visit www. atlantic-links.co.uk n Winter Special – Two nights at Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell, Cornwall, and three rounds (Trevose, Carlyon Bay & St Enodoc) for £225pp Nov-Feb. Book with Countrywide Golf Holidays on 01637 879991 or visit www. atlantic-links.co.uk n Winter Special – Two nights’ dinner, B&B at St Mellion International Resort, Cornwall, and three rounds (two on Nicklaus, one Kernow) from £189pp till Feb 28. Mention TG when booking for complementary wine on your first evening! Call 01579 351351.

EAST & MIDLANDS Covering a sizeable slice of the country, it is the proud home of some of England’s finest inland layouts, including Ryder Cup venue The Belfry in the Midlands, while the East Coast is renowned for the quality of its links courses.

The Belfry has benefited from a £26m hotel refurbishment worthy of its three 18-hole courses – Ryder Cup track The Brabazon ably backed-up by the PGA National and The Derby. The iconic venue offers great value stay-and-play packages but is far from being the region’s lone star, being surrounded by a collection of classy if less well known courses;

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Seacroft is a wonderful links course in lincolnshire about which more really ought to be known.

heavenly heathland tracks Copt Heath and Beau Desert readily spring to mind.

Astbury Hall, near Bridgnorth, is one of the best new courses to emerge in England in recent times and is a true rock and roll modern venue being owned and run by exJudas Priest guitarist KK Downing.

Woodhall Spa, the home of England Golf, is a must visit and it’s well worth tackling both courses at this remote Lincolnshire venue.

The Donald Steel-designed Bracken course is an outstanding parkland alternative to its superstar neighbour the Hotchkin – one of the top five courses in England.

Seacroft is the only true Lincolnshire links – an out-and-back layout on a narrow strip of

n Stapleford Park, leicestershire Luxury Golf Break for Two package: Overnight B&B accommodation, three-course dinner and unlimited golf plus use of the comprehensive leisure facilities, from £140pp per night. To book call 01572 787000. n de vere Hotels & resorts (including Dunston Hall near Norwich and Belton Woods near Grantham): Book before the end of October and receive an exclusive group offer where 1 in 12 goes free. 2014 golf break prices are being held for 2015 and start from £79pp. Packages include dinner, B&B and spa treatment. Book atdeveregolf.co.uk and for the best available green fee rates at De Vere Golf resorts visit dvteetimes.com n ufford Park Hotel and GC, Suffolk – Two nights and three rounds for £209pp (based on two sharing a twin/double room). One free place when 16 guests booked on a golf inclusive package. To book call 01394 383555. n The Brabazon experience package – One night’s B&B and two rounds, use of leisure facilities, Brabazon Experience gift including bag tag, golf cap, yardage book & pitch repairer. Costs from £139pp (Brabazon & Derby) and £149pp (Brabazon and PGA National). To book call 0844 980 0600. n Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel, Suffolk – Golf & Ale Trail including two nights’ B&B accommodation, two rounds of golf, evening meal and a choice of brewery tour between the Green Jack Brewery and Adnams, costs from £228pp. Valid until December 1st. To book call 01728 454926.

Great Golf, Excellent Value Looking for the perfect venue for your golf break?

Then come to Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa, located just off the A12, near Ipswich.

1 night Golf & Spa Breaks from ÂŁ89 per person Top winter, 18 hole, par 71 golf course 2 storey floodlit driving range (free club hire available) Doctorgolf academy American golf store Special rates at other top Suffolk golf courses Luxury thermal spa Open to members and non members

t 0844 847 9460 w www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

Destination Scotland

The people’s choice Why you don’t need to cough up for the big names to get elite golf WORDS kevin brown PICTURES GeTTY iMAGeS

O

ne of the aspects that makes Scotland an appropriate cradle for the sport is the fact golf is a game for the people in the country. Yes, there are exclusive clubs and high-priced courses. But they are overwhelmed by the number of small villages that don't have a Post Office, a shop or even a pub... but do have a golf course. It's what makes Scotland so special – you can discover your own piece of heaven where few have looked before. Here are a few pointers...

Trump Links has made Aberdeen one of Britain's finest areas.

NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS PERTHSHIRE & BEYOND All golfing eyes were focused on Perthshire’s pride and joy, Gleneagles, last month following the momentous staging of the Ryder Cup and unquestionably the ‘Palace in the Glens’ – home of three stunning 18-hole courses – is a magical place to play and stay.

However there’s a lot more to offer if you venture north of Edinburgh and Glasgow than the 2014 Ryder Cup venue. Indeed Perthshire

alone is awash with a terrific variety of courses ranging from the two wonderful layouts at Blairgowrie (Rosemount & Landsdowne) to the sensational wee nineholer of Comrie.

Blairgowrie is playable year-round and is offering a number of low-season deals, including £150 for a fourball throughout October while between January and March you can play the prestigious Rosemount course for just £30 with a coffee, bacon roll

and one-course meal thrown into the mix!

Another top deal, available until April 30, is an overnight dinner, B&B stay at The Red House Hotel, Couper Angus, and a round on both courses for £120pp.

In Perth itself, quirkily perched on Moncrieffe Island you’ll discover the unique King James VI course. Tee up on a Tuesday until the end of October and you’ll be forking out a mere £15 for 18 holes, hot drink and bacon roll. The winter warmer deal (from November 1) is even better – a tenner for 18 holes, soup and a roll.

Aberdeenshire has long been a golfing paradise owing to leading links Royal Aberdeen and neighbouring Murcar but has now gone up a notch since the 2012 opening of the awesome Trump International Golf Links just outside the Granite City.

Owner Donald Trump claims it’s the “world’s best course” and to be honest he’s

not far off the mark. Don’t be surprised to see it hosting major events in the not-too-distant future. TIGL is closed for the winter but stick it in your diary for 2015.

The same applies to Scottish Open venue Castle Stuart, the new shining star of the Highlands. It has joined the breathtaking Royal Dornoch as a ‘must play’ in the area.

Most visitors agree links golf doesn’t get any better than Royal Dornoch and you can experience it on the cheap thanks to the Dornoch Firth Golf Pass (dornochfirthgolf.co. uk) which costs £40 and entitles you to 30 per cent off when you play Royal Dornoch’s Championship Links and Struie courses, as well as Brora, Golspie and Tain.

The region’s less-familiar attractions include Boat of Garten, a hidden gem of the Highlands, and Brora: this ancient links is another timeless James Braid design and everyone who plays it comes off buzzing –

Blairgowrie is home to two fabulous 18-hole courses of differing qualities in addition to a terrific nine-holer.

and not just because they accidentally touched one of the green-protecting electrified fences! It is more likely to be because it is one of the most enigmatic, exhilarating links in the world. Another lovely but under-rated seaside track is Fortrose & Rosemarkie where the sensational Moray

Destination Scotland Castle Stuart is a Gil Hansedesigned, playable links.

Brora is a ‘must play’ for Braid converts.

Firth views are worth the green fee alone.

Another highlight, this time inland, is the Dave Thomas-designed Spey Valley, which sits underneath the Cairngorms with the river Spey running through it. “There is nothing more enjoyable than playing a challenging round, your only distraction being the panoramic scenery or choosing your next club. At Spey Valley, you get that in abundance,” says Sandy Lyle.

Angus is the home of arguably the toughest links of them all – formidable Carnoustie, widely regarded by pros and hackers alike to be no.1 when it comes to a serious golfing examination. Nearby you’ll find Braid’s tight and challenging Panmure where Ben Hogan practised for his only Open

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Spey Valley has an idyllic location.

appearance, and subsequent victory at Carnoustie in 1953. Pick of the region’s inland layouts is Downfield, which provides pure parkland pleasure and is a splendid foil for the nearby links greats. Set in beautiful parkland, Dundee’s premier course had the distinction of being a Final Qualifying venue for the last two Carnoustie Opens.

GREAT dEAls n One night’s B&B at Meldrum House, dinner for two, bottle of champagne in room on arrival & a round of golf each on the Knights course, costs £375 per couple. Valid until end of October. To book call 01651 872294. n Strathmore Golf Centre sThe Tullyfergus offer, including coffee or tea & bacon roll on

arrival, 18 holes & two-course meal for £40 midweek and £46 weekends. To book call 01828 633322. n Highland Golf Links – Two nights’ accommodation at the Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch, one round at Royal Dornoch and two rounds at Castle Stuart until November 16 for £315pp (based on sharing twin/double room). Call 01463 796111. n Two nights’ B&B stay at Dornoch Castle Hotel with one three-course dinner, two rounds at Royal Dornoch (one on Championship, one on Struie), £15 lunch voucher at the golf club, costs £209pp in November. To book call 01862 810216.

CENTRAl & THE sOUTH This is the proud home of St Andrews, the 'Home of Golf' which is already preparing to stage next year’s Open. Fife’s Old Grey Toon and the historic Old Course in particular is something extraordinarily special.

And the beauty of golf is that you can tread in the footsteps of the legends and there is nowhere better to do that than on the Old – especially at this time of year, when the fabled layout is not as busy. A round on the Old usually costs £160 but amazingly you can savour the experience plus three nights’ B&B accommodation and two other rounds from £252.50 per person (min. two golfers). The St Andrews Links winter package, based at the town’s Ardgowan Hotel, also features the New

or Jubilee championship courses, the more forgiving Eden and Strathtyrum or the spectacular Castle Course.

Nearby resort Fairmont St Andrews is running a similar winter golf offer, comprising two nights’ luxury accommodation with three rounds including a guaranteed tee time on the Old Course (costs from £249pp).

Just down the coast you’ll find the magical links of Elie and until March 29 The Golf House Club Elie will be offering a winter rate of £40 per round which includes soup and sandwiches or coffee and bacon roll.

For a change of scenery, The Duke’s is St Andrews’ only inland course – and what an absolute belter it is too. Dramatically overlooking the Home of Golf, it’s a serious challenge and has really benefited from recent improved drainage which means it’s more of a year-round venue these days. After October 16 you can play it for £50, which includes free range balls.

You can also save cash with the Links with History golf pass that offers discounted rates at four of Scotland’s leading clubs – Crail Golfing Society, Ladybank, Lundin and Scotscraig – three of which stage Open Final Qualifying. You can play any two courses between Nov 1-Mar 31 for just £22.50 per

The iconic lighthouse at Turnberry.

‘you can play at any two of scotscraig, crail, ladybank or lundin for just £45’ course (£50 per course from April 1-September 30, 2015) provided you book a minimum of two venues. For more details visit www.linkswithhistory.com So if it’s great-value golf you’re after, Fife is clearly the right place. But fantastic bargains such as these certainly don’t just apply to St Andrews because other major hotspots, including East Lothian and Ayrshire, also get

in on the act. Both areas are packed with top courses with the latter boasting Open Championship venues Turnberry and Royal Troon. The Gulfstream package is on offer at the iconic Trump Turnberry Resort until March 31 and costs £105 to play the Ailsa and £75 for the Kintyre. In addition you’ll receive a bacon roll and coffee on arrival and following your round to remember you can

Celebrate Mach-toberfest!

2 nights | 2 rounds and more for just

£125

2-Night All-Inclusive Stay & Play from Just £125!* ook at the great deal we’ve got on tap: Enjoy two nights at the award-winning Village at Machrihanish Dunes, including

L

2 rounds of golf on our thrilling UK Top-100 Mach Dunes links course, 2 full Scottish breakfasts, and 2 three-course dinners from our special Mach-toberfest menu — all for just £125 per person!* Every weekend will feature special beer and live music events,

too. Space is limited, though — so book now!

Book today by calling +44 1586 810 000 or online at MachDunes.com, promo code TG2014OCT. The Village at Machrihanish Dunes | web: machdunes.com | tel: +44 (0) 1586 810 000 | e-mail: info@machdunes.com *Offer valid 1 Oct – 31 Oct. Subject to availability. Price is per person, double occupancy. £30 supplement for single-occupancy. Dinners limited to Mach-toberfest menu.

Destination Scotland relax and enjoy a three-course lunch in the first-floor Tappie Toorie restaurant.

You can also save loads of money with any of the following Ayrshire passes: South Ayrshire Golf Pass – three rounds on any listed course for £60 (www.golfsouthayrshire. com); Ayrshire Open Qualifier card – three or four-round packages from £150 (www. ayrshiregolfpass.co.uk); Arran Golf Pass – seven rounds for £99 (www.golfonarran.com); Gailes Golf Experience – three rounds from £120-£215 (www.gailesgolfexperience.co.uk); Prestwick Golf Pass – three rounds from £120-£175 (www.stcuthbert.co.uk).

East Lothian, a short trip east of Edinburgh, is great golfing country too – it is known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, with magical Muirfield and North Berwick the stand-outs. A dozen of the area’s leading clubs have formed the East Lothian Golf Tourism Alliance and they are behind the Earl’s Package featuring two nights’ B&B at Duck’s Aberlady and three rounds (Longniddry, Kilspindie & Craigielaw), costing £262pp (weekdays). All three courses are tenants of the Earl of Wemys & March.

New emerging star in Border country is the New Woll Estate (www.wollgolf.co.uk), which offers free golf to all self-catering guests. The par-70 parkland layout has been significantly

The Duke's is an ever-improving heathland.

developed and plans are in the pipeline to further improve it this winter.

GREAT dEAls

Crail's Balcomie course.

Fairmont St Andrews: A top play and stay.

n Three-day golf package at The Old Course Hotel, two rounds at Kingsbarns and a round at The Duke’s, costs £300pp. Valid until end of October. To book call 01334 474371. n A Breath of Fresh Air package includes one night’s B&B at Fairmont St Andrews & 18 holes on either the Torrance or Kittocks courses, costs £115pp. Valid October-March.

To book call 01334 837000. n Golf Glorious Golf package includes one night’s B&B at Fairmont St Andrews & 18 holes on the Championship Torrance & 18 holes on the Kittocks, costs £155pp. Valid Oct-Mar. To book call 01334 837000. n Sunday Bunkers & Beer package includes one night’s (Sun) B&B at Fairmont St Andrews & 18 holes on the Torrance & 18 holes on the Kittocks, costs £145pp. Valid Oct-Mar. To book call 01334 837000. n Homecoming Golf Experience package includes two nights’ B&B at Fairmont St Andrews, three-course dinner in either La Cucina or the Clubhouse, 18 holes on the Torrance & Kittocks, costs £245pp. Valid Oct-Mar. To book call 01334 837000.

No pressure. No audience. Just glorious golf.

Create your very own spectacular moments on The 2014 Ryder Cup course at Gleneagles.

gleneagles.com 0800 704 705

Destination Wales

On the crest of a wave Following its Ryder Cup, there’s never been a better time to visit Wales WO R D S k e v i n b r o w n P I C T U R E S k e v i n M U r r AY, G e T T Y i M AG e S

Nefyn is one of the most spectacular courses in Britain and Ireland.

M

ake no mistake, Wales is a great golfing country. It may be slightly in the shade of the other home countries, but it’s a class act with plenty of quantity and quality to the courses dotted all across its scenic landscape.

Wales had been a special golfing hotspot long before it successfully staged the Ryder Cup for the first time at Celtic Manor four years ago. But since 2010 it has pushed on and moved up a notch or two. The Ryder Cup and ensuing worldwide TV coverage helped to firmly, and deservedly, place Wales on the golf destination map. It enjoyed its spell in the limelight and is continuing to reap the rewards. There is no doubt that in terms of green fee value at top courses, Wales is in a class all of its own.

In golfing terms Wales is a country of two

Expect the unexpected at Pennard.

halves – the North and the South. There are plenty of decent venues in between, but the North and South really dominate the scene.

If you’re going to Wales for golf, it’s highly likely you’ll head for the wondrous links of Snowdonia country or venture over the Severn Bridge on the M4 to encounter the collection of courses on offer at three classy resorts (Celtic Manor, The Vale & St Pierre) or the stunning links of Royal Porthcawl, scene of this summer’s Senior Open Championship.

Porthcawl is a links treasure and is ably supported by a plethora of layouts which will similarly blow you away – Ashburnham, Southerndown and Pennard are all guaranteed to do precisely that. Take out Ashburnham’s modest start and finish and you’ve got a course as good as Porthcawl while Southerndown is often described as a links but is more downland in nature. Mind you, the turf is linksy so a delight to strike irons from – but the gorse and bunkers are also seaside-esque. Pennard is even more loftily located – it’s known as ‘the links in the sky’ as it’s perched on clifftops 200ft above sea level. Holes weave in between sand dunes and are routed over classically undulating and tumbling linksland, full of hummocks, hillocks and hollows.

Pyle and Kenfig, simply known as P&K, is another coastal classic: with one of the best back nines in the UK, P&K is a really underrated course.

The front half is perfectly decent and well worth its green fee but come the second half you are playing holes which usually cost you three times as much to play.

TG can also recommend a visit to Rolls of Monmouth, which is steeped in history with the idyllic, gently undulating parkland layout weaving across the majestic Rolls Estate,

‘Porthcawl is a links treasure and is suPPorted by a Plethora of other fine layouts’ former home of Charles Stewart Rolls, cofounder of Rolls Royce cars. It’s fair to say the course has remained an underrated parkland gem since opening in 1982 although in the early days it was represented on Tour by a young but talented Greg Norman. The stately mansion clubhouse is pretty special too.

Both the Wales National at outstanding Vale Resort and Machynys Peninsula, Llanelli, are modern masterpieces: the former, an inland championship layout, is now over a decade old and is maturing well while the Nicklaus-designed Machynys opened in 1995 and is a must-play coastal challenge overlooking Carmarthen Bay and the Gower Peninsula.

North Wales is home to over 60 courses and many of them are top drawer – yet this is where the real value strikes home with three money-saving passes up for grabs.

Probably the best is the new Snowdonia Golf Pass (www.snowdoniagolf.co.uk) which enables you to play three of Snowdonia’s finest for just £99. That is superb value-formoney when you consider the featured courses are Royal St David’s, Abersoch, Nefyn & District, Porthmadog and Pwllheli.

Hugging the North West coast, the courses are in tip-top playing condition yearround with Royal St David’s, majestically laid out under Harlech Castle, and Nefyn the best known. The latter unusually offers 26 holes including several on the Old Course

Todaysgolfer .co.uk TG Tr avEl GuidE 201 5

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Destination Wales ‘aberdovey is a wonderfully raw links... with ian woosnam one of its biggest fans’

Porthmadog opens out onto classic linksland in the back nine.

spectacularly perched on a fairly narrow strip of land on a peninsula towering high above the coastline. The Ty Coch Inn is conveniently located close to the 16th green for a quick refreshment as the round concludes!

Porthmadog is a class act, a well-bunkered links with top views of Snowdon and a brilliant back nine. But Abersoch, which sneaked into sister magazine Golf World’s Top 30 Courses in Wales ranking, and inlandlinks hybrid Pwllheli are pretty special too.

Picking just one to play out of those three courses is a tough call!

Also worth considering are the new North East Wales Coast and Anglesey Golf Passes with the former involving four clubs (Prestatyn, Rhyl, Rhuddlan & St Melyd) within three miles of each other – you can play all of them with a £70 pass.

The Anglesey pass costs £89 and offers the holder five rounds at any of the following: Anglesey, Baron Hill, Bull Bay, Henllys Hall,

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Storws Wen and Holyhead. Visit www. gonorthwales.co.uk for more details.

Another northern star of course is Aberdovey: this wonderfully raw natural links thoroughbred is flanked by breathtaking Snowdonia National Park scenery on one side and dunesland on the other.

It is loved to bits by everybody who plays it, with former Masters champion Ian Woosnam among its biggest fans. A Top 100-ranked course, it’s come a long way since its first holes were laid out with nine flowerpots to aim at over 120 years ago!

Overall, Wales offers great golf at a price to match and on the value-for-money theme it’s worth remembering it’s a 2-FORE!-1 stronghold with many courses accepting 2-FORE!-1 vouchers.

The 2-FORE!-1 participants include Conwy, one of Wales’ finest links that is right up there alongside the Porthcawls and St David’s of the Principality.

This Seniors Tour venue becomes available to 2-FORE!-1 fans throughout the low season.

Other 2-FORE!-1 links heroes include Tenby, a stunning links with several unique holes, fast and undulating greens and superb views across to Caldey island, and Borth & Ynyslas, a beautiful out-and-back traditional links overlooking Cardigan Bay on the River Dovey estuary.

GREAT dEAls n One night’s B&B at The vale resort, 18 holes of championship golf & use of extensive leisure facilities starting from £69pp. Valid until end of Oct. To book call 01443 667800. n ryder Cup Two Course package: One night’s B&B in the four-star Manor House at Celtic Manor Resort & 18 holes on The Twenty Ten course, 18 holes on The Montgomerie or Roman Road course, costs from £129pp (based on two sharing). Valid Oct-Dec. To book call 01633 413000.

WORTH A

DRIVE THIS AUTUMN

Set in over 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside the Vale Resort comprises of a luxury 143 bedroom 4✷ hotel, two championship golf courses, Wales’ largest spa, award winning dining and exceptional sporting facilities, only 15 minutes from Cardif city centre, making the Vale Resort one of the UK’s most desirable golf break destinations.

n Bridgend Birdie Break – Two nights’ B&B at the three-star Best Western Heronston Hotel and three rounds at some of Bridgend’s lesser-known courses, costs from £35pppn (based on two sharing). Total package costs from £120pp. To book call 0845 373 0837. n Porthcawl Classic break – Two nights’ B&B at the Fairways Hotel, Porthcawl, and three rounds on Porthcawl’s classic course, costs from £55pppn. Total package from £277.50pp. To book call 01656 782085. n Sunday Driver – Stay Sunday night for DBB at the four-star Quay Hotel & Spa, Conwy, and two rounds (Abergele & North Wales GC) costs from £115pp. To book visit www.gonorthwales.co.uk n Snowdonia Driver package (winter) – Two nights’ B&B (two sharing a twin/double room) at the three-star Celtic Royal Hotel, Caernarfon, and three rounds from Snowdonia Golf collection, costs from £195pp. To book visit gonorthwales.co.uk

Top to bottom The Wales National course at the Vale Hotel is a proper championship test among trees and around water hazards; Pennard is a clifftop course of spectacular views and quirky holes; Rolls of Monmouth oozes class and tradition.

AUTUMN GOLF BREAKS: n

One night luxury 4* accommodation

n

Full Welsh breakfast

n

18 holes of championship golf

n

Full use of our leisure facilities

n

FREE parking

From £69*pp

01443 667800 | www.vale-hotel.com

Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability until 31st October. Prices based on two sharing a twin or double room.

Destination Portugal

Get ready to savour the unexpected Lisbon and the Algarve offer courses other areas can only dream of WORDS CHRIS BERTRAM PICTURES GETTY IMAGES

I

n an ever-changing golfing landscape, it is very easy for the traditional countries and areas to seem a little underwhelming. A bit dated, even. Sometimes it's true that they have expanded so expansively over the years they have become so big and opulent they now seem out of reach to the ‘ordinary’ golfer.

That description might be true of some old favourites living off reputations forged decades ago, but it certainly does not apply to either of Portugal’s two main areas – the Algarve and around the capital, Lisbon.

You might have heard of high-priced

Algarve courses – they do exist, and you might well fancy coughing up for the pleasure of playing them – but trust us, you can play on the Algarve on a reasonable budget.

Before we begin our Portuguese odyssey, a word about how well equipped the areas are to satisfy the needs of golfers. It is impossible to overstate just how accommodating Portugal is to travelling golfers; the game is barely played at local level, so the clubs and courses are almost exclusively for visitors’ use. It adds even greater premium on Portuguese venues providing quality, and as

well as these internal pressures the market is made even more fiercely competitive as a result of external factors. Because, where once they only had Spain to worry about, Portugal now has Belek, North Africa, the UAE, Bulgaria and so on to contend with.

Complementing the courses are lots of tourists attractions in the two areas; both the Algarve and Lisbon are hugely popular with holidaymakers. So when you are not playing golf you can laze by the pool, enjoy some water sports, soak up the sun on the beach or take day trips to heritage sites, water parks or

Praia D'El Rey has a stunning seaside stretch.

Destination Portugal

bustling city centres. And if you want to save some euros and be extra kind to your tastebuds for a lot less money, choose your venues wisely by heading a little off the wellworn track. The same is true of the courses; choose wisely and you can feast on the golf without enormous outlay.

‘quinta do lago is the woburn of the algarve with three 18-hole courses of similar quality’

THE ALGARVE Central Algarve is home to some of the most famous names in European golf. One could safely suggest that the Vilamoura area is to golf on Continental Europe what St Andrews is to the game in Britain.

There are superpower courses wherever you look, led by Oceanico’s Old Course – a Pennink design that opened in 1969 and is often described as the ‘Grande Dame’ of Algarve courses.

Also within the vast Oceanico stable is Victoria, which burst onto the scene when it

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hosted the World Cup in 2005 just a year after opening. It is now the regular host of the Portuguese Masters. Two more ‘big’ Oceanico courses, the Faldo and the O’Connor at Amendoeira are set a little away from the busy hub and are everything you would expect of designs by Ryder Cup players.

Three more Oceanico courses are: Pennink’s Pinhal (the second-oldest course in Vilamoura), the Martin Hawtree-designed Millennium, and the interesting Laguna, laid out over low-lying coastal terrain.

The Old Course at vilamoura is one of Oceanico’s vast and powerful portfolio.

Morgado is a low-profile, highquality course.

Hawtree also worked on the bright orange coastline of Pine Cliffs – one of the bestknown sights in European golf. Its pinewood setting and Atlantic views make for a lovely evening experience.

Another Englishman, Donald Steel, created a similar pine heaven at Vila Sol and the three loops of nine that finish in front of the stylish clubhouse are highly underrated.

There are yet still more big names: Vale do Lobo is a quality complex with two top courses, Cotton’s original being split to provide the basis of both Rocky Roquemore designs, the Ocean and Royal.

There is also San Lorenzo, which offers lovely views of the Ria Formosa nature reserve and has often been recognised as the finest course in Portugal.

Finally, to the Woburn of the Algarve, a 54hole venue where it is difficult to identify the running order of No.1 to No.3. Historic Quinta

do Lago boasts the North, South and Laranjal, plus a vast array of holiday facilities and accommodation – so you could easily be based here for a week and never be tempted to leave the complex.

Head west and you’ll find plenty of terrific golf too – because the western Algarve is also low-hassle off the course and is generally much better value.

It’s also not as if you will be playing totally unknown tracks; one started the Algarve revolution and another is one of the highestranked courses in Europe.

It was Englishman Sir Henry Cotton who designed Penina in 1966 and the former Open champion’s work was so well received that he was asked to lay out three more.

Algarve golf was duly born.

The Penina complex oozes class: the course is an essential rather than extraordinary experience but the resort is a

Todaysgolfer .co.uk TG Tr avel Guide 201 5

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Destination Portugal tremendous base for groups of golfers and especially well-equipped for families.

The biggest attraction in Western Algarve is however now new-look Palmares. Owners Onyria totally revamped their popular Frank Pennink design four years ago by engaging celebrated American Robert Trent Jones Jnr and have been rewarded with 27 holes of outstanding quality. It is a European top 25 course and includes a linksy stretch.

Boavista, located between Lagos and Praia da Luz, is an excellent resort. Just a couple of minutes away from the motorway but suitably secluded, it is the perfect antidote to the suggestion Algarve golf breaks are out of reach to all but the well-heeled. You could stay and play here and savour a golf break of real quality without breaking the bank.

Other good options that won’t stretch your budget include three in the Pestana group, Portugal’s largest hotel chain: Vale da Pinta has hosted European Seniors Tour qualifying eight times and was designed by Ron Fream in 1992; Gramacho was also laid out by Fream, in association with Major champion Nick Price; while Silves is in a tranquil spot at the foot of the Monchique mountain. There’s

also another Cotton design at Pestana Alto in addition to CH Hotels’ Morgado – set in a valley between Portimão and Monchique.

Finally, there’s Pepe Gancedo's Parque da Floresta, the Algarve's most westerly course.

The Eastern Algarve undoubtedly still lags behind the Centre and West – in fairness, which area of Europe wouldn’t? – but the introduction of Monte Rei has given it impetus and status.

This muscular Jack Nicklaus layout is now regarded by some as the finest in the Algarve and everything here is top drawer; the conditioning, the design and the service.

It is an explosive venue in an otherwise tranquil area, and the East is where to head if you are seeking a peaceful experience away from the big names and the bright lights; there is surely little to dislike about excellent courses, a less crowded start-sheet and subfour-hour rounds?

Alongside Monte Rei, you can play Benamor, a construction-free resort just a few kilometres from the ancient city of Tavira, or three loops of nine – Atlantic, Guadiana and the Grouse at Castro Marim. Or you might fancy enjoying the legacy of the late Seve at

‘Vale do lobo is a quality complex with two top courses’

The stunning Ocean course at Vale do Lobo.

Destination Portugal The Faldo at Amendoeria is a big beast on the Algarve scene.

Quinto do Vale, an 18-hole championship layout with six par 5s, six par 4s and six par 3s. Two more 18-hole courses at the Quintas of da Ria and de Cima demonstrate there is more than enough to satisfy even the most enthusiastic travelling golfer in the east.

AlgArve deAls n Golf Spikes & Spa Package – Minimum seven nights’ B&B at Dona Filipa Hotel & four dinners, five rounds or four-day spa access plus gift, starting from €231 per twin room (120 days advance purchase discount of 12 per cent). Valid Oct 31, 2015. To book call 00 351 289 357 220 or e-mail Donafilipareservations@jjwhotels.com n Short Break Golf & Spa Package – Minimum three nights’ B&B at Dona Filipa Hotel & two dinners, two rounds of golf or two day spa access, starting from €216 per twin room (120 days advance purchase discount of 12 per cent). Valid Oct 31, 2015. To book call 00 351 289 357 223 or e-mail Donafilipareservations@jjwhotels.com n Three nights’ B&B at Amendoeira Golf Resort & two days unlimited golf, buggies on

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‘thE algarvE is to golf in portugal what st andrEws is to golf in grEat britain’ Oceanico Amendoeira Courses, one free beer with first round, use of practice and sports facilities plus shuttle service. From €240pp (four sharing). Valid Nov 1-Feb 28. Call 00 351 282 320 671 or visit oceanicogolf.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Amendoeira Golf Resort & six days’ golf, buggies on Oceanico Amendoeira courses, one free beer with first game of golf, use of practice and sports facilities plus shuttle service, from €775 (two sharing). Valid Nov 1-Feb 28. To book call 00351 282 320 671 or visit oceanicogolf.com n Three nights’ B&B at Conrad Algarve & two rounds (North & South at Quinta do Lago), room upgrade upon availability, one free access per person per stay to the spa thermal area (except Jun & Aug) €549pp

(sharing a double/twin room). Valid Dec. To book call 00351 289 350 700 or e-mail conradalgarve.reservations@conradhotels.com n Five nights’ B&B at Conrad Algarve & three rounds (North, South, Laranjal at QdLago), room upgrade upon availability, one free access per person per stay to the spa thermal area (except Jun & Aug), €900pp (sharing a double/twin room). Valid Dec. To book call 00 351 289 350 700 or e-mail conradalgarve. reservations@conradhotels.com n Two nights’ B&B at Monte Rei G&CC in luxury one-bedroom villa & one round of golf per person (Monte Rei), shared buggy, one tapas lunch, one degustation dinner, access to Veranda facilities, costs €419pp. Valid JanFeb 28. To book call 00 351 281 950 950 or visit www.monte-rei.com n Jack Nicklaus Experience package – Seven nights’ B&B at Monte Rei G&CC in luxury one-bedroom villa & four rounds per person (Monte Rei), shared buggy, one tapas lunch, one degustation dinner, access to Veranda facilities, costs €1,286pp. Valid Jan 1-Feb 28.

To book call 00 351 281 950 950 or visit www.monte-rei.com

Award Winning Golf at Dona Filipa Hotel...

Boasting fairways that run alongside saltwater marshes, freshwater lagoons and the stunning Atlantic Ocean‌ San Lorenzo Golf Course guarantees hole after hole of challenging and entertaining golf. You will not fnd a more beautiful course anywhere in the Algarve.

Vale do Lobo, Algarve, Almancil, 8135-034, Portugal Tel: +351 289 357 200 Fax: +351 289 357 201 Email: donaflipahotel@jjwhotels.com Book online: donaflipahotel.com

Destination Portugal ribagolfe winds between lakes and trees.

lIsBON The area to the south of the capital is rapidly becoming one of our favourites in Continental Europe by virtue of its ability to offer genuinely top-drawer courses yet at prices everyone can afford.

One of the main reasons for this is the fact most of the courses fall under one umbrella, the Orizonte Group, and you can enjoy rounds at their courses for amazing prices. The multicourse deals they offer might seem almost too good to be true – but, trust us, they are simply just terrific value.

The area itself is lovely too, a taste of ‘proper’ Portugal and authentic Lisbon; the towns dotted along the coast such as Setubal and Sesimbra are picture-postcard stuff.

They have nowhere near the same extensive accommodation as the Algarve or central Lisbon, but there are enough options to stay locally in complete comfort, and you can also stay in the centre of Lisbon and drive over the bridge to play your golf. This latter

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possibility is really worth considering; stay in a vibrant capital city and enjoy all that it offers at night, and play high-class, low-cost golf in tranquil surroundings by day.

The golf on what is known as the ‘Blue Coast’, is headlined by Troia, a Robert Trent Jones Snr track set on a peninsula which takes a bit of getting to (the ferry from Setubal is the most romantic route) but this dunes and beach-dominated experience is well worth it.

The others are within the Orizonte collection and are led by continental top 100 fixture Quinta do Peru, which is the work of the underrated American designer Roquemore and has a stellar closing stretch.

There are two 18-hole courses at Ribagolfe, both set within a forest of cork oak trees. The top track is a regular host of the qualifying stages for the European Tour.

Then there is a Donald Steel design at Santo Estevao, but perhaps our favourite is another 36-hole complex, Aroeira, which

‘orizontE’s offErs may sEEm too good to bE truE – but, trust us, thEy arE simply grEat valuE’ unbelievably has never featured in a top 100 list. Set among towering pines and with more than a hint of Wentworth about it, this is genuinely high-calibre fare.

Around Lisbon, or actually just west of the city, you’ll find another stunning collection and the first port of call has to be Oitavos Dunes, often rated as the highest-ranked Portuguese course. It is one of the few venues on the continent to offer a genuine links experience. It has a chic hotel too.

Right next door is Quinta da Marinha, and this duo provide a nice contrast: for the really intense golfer, Oitavos is for you; for those

Destination Portugal

Estoril is one of Portugal’s most famous clubs.

Seve's legacy is a terrific course at royal Obidos.

looking for a holiday with some golf, Quinta da Marinha is one of the best spots in Europe to seek that. The Robert Trent Jones Snr course is well-conditioned, hosted the Estoril Open in 2002 and has some ‘wow’ views – most memorably on the short, par-4 13th which plays down towards the sea – but it is the whole package that impresses here... the food, the swimming pools, the leisure facilities and the ambience.

A couple of minutes’ drive away is the Estoril club, one of the most famous names in Portuguese golf. Host on numerous occasions to the Portuguese Open, it oozes tradition having been founded in the 1930s and been set out by Mackenzie Ross of Turnberry fame.

Nearby you’ll discover Penha Longa, home of the superb Atlantico layout that was skilfully designed by Kyle Phillips.

Also worth trying are lower-profile courses such as the historic Lisbon Sports Club and Belas, which suffers a little from being in the shadow of the big names but really is a superb parkland.

Further west – in an area known as the Silver Coast – there’s more quality on offer with the opening of Royal Obidos adding a serious championship course to what was already there, namely the similarly good Praia D’El Rey as well as Bom Successo.

The top-end golf is centred around the medieval town of Obidos – which is a day out

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Quinta do Peru is a tranquil parkland test.

‘praia d’El rEy has a rEal sEasidE fEEl and is a fixturE in all EuropEan top 100 lists’ you will always remember – and, located around 90 minutes’ drive north of Lisbon, is a peaceful location for a golf break away from the bright lights.

Praia D’El Rey, another with a real seaside feel and a fixture in all European top 100s, stretches to over 7,000 yards. Ahead of the best holes along the Atlantic Ocean, it wanders inland among fragrant pine trees.

Designed by Cabell B Robinson, the holes in the towering dunes are awesome and for a course which is less than 20 years old, it has matured magnificently.

The course is part of a large Marriott complex, so it’s a terrific base for a sunsoaked family holiday.

A matter of 10 minutes away along a little coastal road is the new Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort, which opened in the spring of 2012. This 18-hole championship course designed by the late Seve Ballesteros exudes class; it doesn’t take you more than one hole to know this stellar venue cost a lot of money to design and build.

Royal Obidos is already a top 100 course and it will only rise. Laid out over rolling terrain with mostly low-lying shrubs and trees, it mixes cute short par 4s with strong,

exacting par 5s and is now overlooked by a swish brand-new boutique hotel.

Bom Successo is a Donald Steel design with the front nine laid out on relatively flat land before the second half moves onto terrain that permits elevated drives and spectacular views. Other highlights include Steel’s wildly undulating Campo Real.

get the most from your holiday • Portugal’s summers are glorious; hot and dry yet frequently with a cooling breeze off the ocean or sea. The Algarve is located far enough south to winter well, with temperatures not dipping below 10˚C from March onwards. Indeed, it can be as warm as 19˚C in March and by May it is 22˚C+. Only in January and February is rainfall an issue.

• In either Algarve (from Lagos, Portimão and Alvor) or in Lisbon (from Setubal), you should take a cruise on a boat and spot dolphins in their natural habitat. An amazing experience (and you can blend in your golfer's tan).

• Getting there is easy: you can fly to Faro or Lisbon with all the budget airlines from a myriad UK airports. This is a huge advantage for Portuguese trips; flying to either of the two destinations is just so easy, quick and cheap.

Destination Portugal

Aroeira is one of Europe's most underrated layouts.

lIsBON deAls n Three nights’ B&B at Hotel Al Foz, Lisbon, & three rounds (Ribagolfe l, Ribagolfe ll, Santo Estevao), costs £209pp (twin room).

Valid Jan 1-Oct 31. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Five nights’ B&B in a Superior Room at The Oitavos & four rounds of golf per person (Oitavos Dunes), costing from €1,135 (double occupancy). Valid Nov 15–Apr 14. To book call 00 351 214 860 020 or e-mail reservations@ theoitavos.com n The Oitavos Classic Package – The chance to play in the 4th edition of the international tournament. Includes three nights’ B&B in a Superior Room at The Oitavos & three rounds per person (Oitavos Dunes), welcome cocktail drinks, farewell dinner and prizegiving dinner.

Costs €924 (double occupancy). Valid Feb 5-8. To book call 00 351 214 860 020 or e-mail reservations@theoitavos.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Turim Hotel/Avenida da Liberdade & five green fees (Aroeira I,

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The start of the seaside fun at Praia d'El rey.

‘flying in to lisbon or faro is so Easy, quick and chEap – a hugE advantagE to portuguEsE trips’

Aroeira ll, three at Quinta do Peru G&CC), costing €663pp. Valid until May 31. To book visit www.orizontegolf.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Aldeia dos Capuchos Hotel Golf & Spa & five green fees (Aroeira I, Aroeira ll, three at Quinta do Peru), costing €505pp. Valid until May 31. To book visit www.orizontegolf.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Sesimbra Hotel & Spa & five green fees (Aroeira I, Aroeira ll, three at Quinta do Peru), costing €560pp.

Valid until May 31. To book visit www.orizontegolf.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Hotel Costa da Caparica & five green fees (Aroeira I, Aroeira ll, three at Quinta do Peru), costing €487.50pp. Valid until May 31. To book visit www.orizontegolf.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Hotel Alfoz and five green fees (Aroeira I, Aroeira ll, Quinta do Peru, Santo Estevao & either Aroeira I or II), costing €505pp. Valid until May 31. To book visit www.orizontegolf.com

Destination Spain

Reassuringly familiar Why popular Spain takes the risk out of your long-awaited golf break WO R D S k e v i n b r o w n P I C T U R E S k e v i n M U r r AY, G e T T Y i M AG e S

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f we were to describe a golf holiday in Spain as a safe option, we would do so in a wholly complimentary sense. It might make it sound a bit boring but we simply mean that you will get what you want from a golf holiday; Spain has decades of experience of meeting golfers' expectations. And that scenario stands true for all the main areas, which we now explore in detail...

COSTA DEL SOL The original low-budget destination for millions of British tourists for several decades, the Costa del Sol has earned a special place in the nation’s affection. Golfers, too, have flocked to the familiar courses wrapped right around the coastline and the Costa del Sol’s popularity remains as firm as its fairways. For many it will always be número uno.

With heaps of sunshine, modest rainfall and ridiculously mild ‘winters’, clearly the climate is a major part of the appeal of Spain’s most southerly region.

As well as gorgeous weather, there are a string of towns along the coast that between them offer a range of attractions more varied than tapas. While some are simply stuffed with boozing Brits enjoying a cheap holiday, others are genuinely glitzy and glamorous and appeal to the fashionable and famous as well as discerning golfers.

Once sleepy fishing villages like Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Mijas, Marbella and Estepona were transformed in the second half of the last century to cater for pale northern Europeans desperately seeking sunshine.

Ghastly mistakes were made in the frantic rush to accommodate tourists and a lot of the development was ugly and environmentally damaging. Thankfully much greater care has been taken in recent times, planning controls have been tightened and sustainability – particularly with regards to the irrigation of golf courses – is the watchword.

Although the recession has put paid to the construction of any new ones, the Costa del Sol is extremely fortunate not only in having nearly 50 courses, but also in being blessed with some of the best on the continent.

American Cabell B Robinson designed many of them including Finca Cortesín, Santana, Valle Romana, Las Brisas, La Reserva de Sotogrande and all three courses at the very popular La Cala resort. And for those who like resort golf there are three others worthy of serious consideration: Almenara, La Quinta and Atalaya Park.

Probably the most famous course on the Costa del Sol is Valderrama. Although over £200 a round, it’s surprisingly easy to get on.

The name Costa del Sol is a weather report in itself. Spain’s southern coast experiences

an impressive 320 sunny days a year. In summer, daytime temperatures are regularly in the 30s. In spring and autumn, you can expect highs of between 18°C and 22°C. Away from the links, why not wander around Puerto Banus, Marbella’s millionaires’ playground, pretending one of the superyachts moored in the marina is yours? The glitz factor is high on the seafront Golden Mile, which throbs with bars and clubs. But there’s a traditional side, too, in the calmer old town. No fewer than 18 airlines fly to Malaga including Monarch (monarch.co.uk), which operates year-round flights from Birmingham, East Midlands, Gatwick, Luton & Manchester with fares, including taxes, from £30.99 one way.

GREAT DEALS n Three nights’ (twin room) B&B at Gran Hotel Benahavis, Costa del Sol, and two rounds (Los Arqueros & La Quinta) for £215pp between April 6-June 30. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Autumn Golfers Dream package – Three nights in a deluxe room, breakfast buffet in the hotel’s El Mirador Restaurante, welcome drink, two green fees per person at two courses of choice – including transfers – as well as a spa treatment for golfers and threecourse dinner in the Alminar Wine & Steak

One of Spain's newer stars – the outstanding Finca Cortesin.

Arcos Gardens will hopefully soon be open as it is a Top 100-quality venue.

House restaurant. Costs €1,320 per person.

To book call 00 34 952 809500 or e-mail golf.estepona@kempinski.com n Three nights’ B&B at Finca Cortesin Hotel, Golf & Spa, Sotogrande, and four rounds per stay (one per person for two days), costs €1,500 per package based on double occupancy. Valid low season (Nov 1-Dec 24).

To book call 00 34 952 937800 or e-mail reservas@hotelcortesin.com n One week in an apartment (for four) at Lauro Golf Resort, including breakfast and unlimited golf. Cost €299pp, valid Dec & Jan. To book, email marketing@laurogolf.com. n Three nights’ B&B at Gran Hotel Benahavis, Costal del Sol, & two rounds (Los Arqueros, La Quinta) starting from £215pp (twin room). Valid April 6-Jun 30. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777.

COSTA DE LA LUZ The Costa de la Luz offers quite a contrast to most of its Costa cousins. Facing the Atlantic on Spain’s most south-westerly stretch of coast with Portugal to the north and Gibraltar to the south, it’s often described as Spain without its make-up.

This is a quiet corner of the country which is about as far removed from Benidorm as langoustines and artichoke with truffle dressing is from boiled beef and carrots.

Ever the dismal linguists, the British have struggled to pronounce Jerez properly since the days of Francis Drake who, incidentally, nicked about 3,000 kegs of wine when he

La Cala.

‘costa de la luz is often described as spain without its make-up’ sacked the city back in the 16th Century.

Nevertheless there remains a strong bond between this region and Britain. One manifestation is the names of the sherry producers; Sandeman, Harveys and Osborne.

Golf provides another strong link between Brits and the Costa de la Luz. Although not liberally sprinkled with famous names you might recognise, there are plenty of quality courses here to keep most golfers happy.

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Montecastillo has played host to the Volvo Masters and produced such illustrious winners as Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Padraig Harrington. It is quite simply breathtaking with wonderfully elevated tees, huge bunkers, lots of water and splendid greens that are as true as they are quick. If F1

cars or superbikes are practising on the neighbouring Jerez racing circuit, it won’t be the quietest round but it will be fun.

Two other courses close to Jerez certainly worth playing are Sherry Golf and Arcos Gardens. Opened 10 years ago, Sherry Golf is fairly hilly, rather demanding and, at about 7,200 yards off the tips, pretty long. El Rompido sounds a bit of fun and that’s precisely what it is. There’s the original South course, which annually hosts the finals of the Daily Mail foursomes, and now a North as well, which tends to be a bit quieter.

Unfortunately one of the region’s top venues – Arcos Gardens – has hit financial woes and is currently closed. Only a 20-minute drive from Jerez, it’s plotted on a former olive grove, and enjoys wonderful views over vineyards, cotton fields and sunflowers. With 100-plus bunkers and several lakes to avoid, it’s a serious challenge and hopefully it won’t be too long before it’s back in action. Watch this space…

July and August on the Costa de la Luz are hot and dry, with daytime temperatures rarely deviating from the high 20s and low 30s.

Spring and autumn temperatures range from 16°C to 20°C, with very little rain. Winters are pretty mild, too, with highs of around 17°C and an average seven hours of sun a day.

There are as many different types of sherry as there are ways of making bogey. Some sound familiar like Fino and Amontillado, while others like Manzanilla, Oloroso and Palo Cortado are less well known over here. Visit a

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Destination Spain bodega and try as many as you dare. BA, Iberia and Flybe are the key airlines flying to Jerez; between them, they have flights from all the London and most provincial airports.

THE Top dEal n Seven nights’ half-board at Valle del Este Golf resort, Almeria, and five green fees for €340 per person in Jan plus one free in groups of eight. To book call 00 34 952 896725 or visit www.golfhotelpromotions.com

CaTaloNIa Catalonia has its own language, distinct culture, appealing architecture and proud traditions. Look for a bullfight and you’ll be disappointed. There’s no Flamenco dancing either but there’s plenty of quality golf to be experienced. The concentration of courses isn’t as high as in southern Spain, but there are some belters around the Costa Brava.

Golf Platja de Pals has hosted four European Tour events and is the oldest course in the area. Just as the opening bars of an overture set the tone for what is to follow, so the 1st hole gives the golfer a clear clue as to what sort of course this is – tight and tree-lined. The impressive 100-year-old umbrella pines alongside the fairways provide

The Stadium Course at PGA Catalunya.

‘PGA CATALUNYA'S STAdiUm wAS oriGiNALLY CoNCeived AS A PoSSibLe rYder CUP veNUe’ a menacing presence that is sufficiently threatening to unhinge the hesitant.

Under the same ownership and about 15 minutes away is the sister course, Golf Serres de Pals. Surrounded by open agricultural land and close to the medieval town of Pals, it has welcomed European Tour Qualifying School and is almost three courses in one with three distinct sections – open hilly, tight woodland

and lovely lakes. Emporda completes the Costa Brava’s ‘Golden Golf Triangle’. Opened in 1990, it has steadily expanded and now offers four sets of nine that together make up 36 fabulous golf holes. Although colour coded into blue, gold, green and red nines, in reality the 36 can most easily be divided into two – wooded and links-like.

But the undoubted jewel in Costa Brava’s

crown is PGA Catalunya. There are two courses. Designed by Neil Coles and Angel Gallardo, the Stadium was originally conceived as a possible Ryder Cup venue.

Had planning and construction issues not hindered initial progress and delayed the opening until 1999, it, rather than Valderrama, might have hosted the 1997 match. Never mind, although it missed out on the ‘Big One’, the Spanish Open was played here in 2002 and 2009 and, partly because of its association with the European Tour, it’s also a regular Qualifying School venue.

Carved through pine forests with lush and rolling fairways it’s an absolute cracker as is the Tour course nextdoor. Along the coast, summers are dry and hot with sea breezes and a maximum temperature of around 30°C. Winters are cool or slightly cold with spring and autumn typically the rainiest seasons.

Inland is hotter and drier in summer – up to 35°C or even 40°C – and it’s very much colder than the coast in winter.

There are dozens of outstanding restaurants in the area; seafood is the connoisseur’s choice and there are enough great local wines to keep you cheerful even after the most disappointing round. Add a touch of history, glorious scenery, especially

PGA Catalunya's Tour track.

€575pp (based on two sharing). Valid Oct 10May 31. To book any of the above visit lumine.com or email travel@lumine.com n Three, five and seven nights’ stay & play packages with Costa Daurada Golf vary from two days' unlimited golf and three nights’ accommodation from €239 to five days’ golf and seven nights from €499. To book visit www.costadauradagolf.com

MURCIa in the foothills of the Pyrenees, and the truly beautiful city of Barcelona and you can see why Catalonia is growing in popularity as a destination for golfers.

Between them Ryanair, easyJet, BA and Monarch fly to either Barcelona El Prat or Girona-Costa Brava from London and most UK regional airports.

GREaT dEals n Lumine Golf & Beach Club, Costa Dorada, stay & play packages: One night’s B&B & one round of golf starting from €99pp (based on 2 sharing). Valid Oct 10-May 31; Three nights’ B&B & three rounds starting from €295pp (based on two sharing). Valid Oct 10-May 31; Seven nights’ B&B & five rounds starting from

Murcia, in the south-eastern corner of the country, is Spain’s unofficial capital of golf resorts. They are scattered throughout this hot and sunny region offering a wide range of facilities and obviating the need to go anywhere else. The list is as long as a thumping drive – Serena Golf Resort, Roda Golf and Beach Resort, Peraleja Golf Resort, the InterContinental Mar Menor Golf Resort and Spa, La Torre Golf Resort and so on.

Of course, the grand-daddy of them all opened here many decades ago. Created by a visionary American, magnificent La Manga is more a small town than a holiday resort and offers everything a sports fanatic could possibly want. It boasts three fabulous golf courses, two dozen tennis courts, squash courts, countless swimming pools, a spa and

Destination Spain fitness centre, eight football pitches, Spain’s finest cricket wicket, rugby and hockey pitches, bowling greens and more besides.

But most go for the golf and there are three outstanding championship challenges. The longest and most renowned is the South.

Remodelled by Arnold Palmer 20 years ago and completely refurbished in 2004, it has hosted numerous Spanish Opens and the European Tour Qualifying School.

The North is significantly shorter but demands more in the way of precision. It also contains a barrage of barranca (natural storm gullies) that present real problems. The large greens are tricky and several are tiered.

The West has the greatest elevation and consequently the best views. Despite the height, the course is still eminently walkable.

Set amid pine woodland, it’s tight at times and some regarded it as the toughest.

Serena Golf Resort is the nearest to La Manga and lies on the shore of the Mar Menor. Designed by Manuel Pinero, it’s a flat course that’s easy to walk but tricky to play.

If it’s length you’re after then Hacienda del Álamo at 7,353 yards off the tips is for you.

It’s yet another impressive resort with a Dave Thomas-designed course at the heart of it all.

Sensol Golf offers a game of two halves with a fairly gentle front nine followed by an altogether stiffer examination on the back.

Undulating and set amid unspoilt scenery, it’s certainly worth a visit.

La Manga offers a staggering 54 holes of golf.

The worldfamous La Manga Club.

Murcia enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate with mild winters and warm to hot summers.

Temperatures range from 16°C in January to 33°C in August. The record stands at an eggfryingly high 46.1°C recorded on July 4, 1994.

Off-course attractions include the largest, open-air, mud therapy area in Europe – located at the top of the Mar Menor in Las Charcas de las Salinas. And you should also visit Murcia city itself with its rich legacy of art and contrasting cultures.

Murcia is a popular destination with a number of airlines including easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, BA and Iberia, who between them cover most UK airports, flying there.

GREAT dEAls n Three nights’ (twin room) B&B at La Manga Club, Las Lomas Village, Murcia, and

three rounds (on the North & West courses) for £189pp between March and May provided booking made at least 90 days in advance.

Plus one in eight go free. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Five nights’ (twin room) B&B at La Manga Club, Las Lomas Village and four rounds (on the North, South & West courses) for £249pp between March and May provided booking made at least 90 days in advance. Plus one in eight go free. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Winter stay & play package at Las Colinas G&CC, near Alicante – Three nights in a twobedroom apartment (based on four sharing), breakfast, two rounds per person, costs €235pp. Valid until May 31. To book visit www.aworldapart.es or e-mail residences@ lascolinasgolf.es

Destination Spanish Islands Abama is a beautiful beast of a course.

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hree Spanish islands – Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Majorca – all provide world-class golf whatever time of the year you choose to visit. They’re all outstanding golfing hotspots – with hot being the appropriate key word, especially as far as the two Canary Islands are concerned. When the UK is shivering in deep winter, the sun is bound to be shining on Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Like the Spanish mainland, all three destinations offer an array of courses and the other major plus is that generally speaking they’re considerably cheaper to play than their mainland counterparts…

TENERIFE The largest of the Canary Islands has come a long way in golfing terms since the grand old Real Club de Golf opened in the mountainous north in 1932, making it the second oldest course throughout Spain. Nowadays it boasts nine varied courses and with a perfect yearround climate, is literally one of the hottest winter destinations around.

We visited Tenerife earlier this year and were extremely impressed – the courses not only looked good but more importantly played well too and you can’t ask for more than that can you?

Standing head and shoulders above the rest is Abama, a five-star resort with a golf course to match. It’s a rollercoaster of a layout and Augusta-like with its pristine

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‘as the UK shivers in winter, the sUn is boUnd to be shining on gran canaria and tenerife’ conditioning and fast, wickedly sloping greens. Having said that, it’s given a good run for its money by brilliant if remote Buenavista, far away from the madding crowds on the north-west coast. It will similarly take your breath away – a masterpiece of a Seve Ballesteros layout between the mountains and sea. Whisper it, but it has the look of Pebble Beach to it.

You’ll find most courses, though, in the south with former European Tour venue Golf del Sur (27 holes) and nearby Amarilla dramatically overlooking the Atlantic. They are well worth playing, as are both Costa Adeje and Golf Las Americas. All guarantee excellent holiday golf as well as being at the hub of the chief off-course action on offer in the popular resorts of Las Americas and Los Cristianos. Finally, the breathtaking Donald Steel-designed Tecina is a 40-minute ferry ride on the stunning island of La Gomera – a magical adventure well worth experiencing.

Tenerife boasts an annual average temperature of 23˚C and rainfall is rare.

It’s blessed with more than 70km of beaches and a wide range of cultural highlights and activities both on and off the water. You’re afforded amazing panoramic views from the top of Mount Teide, at 3,718 metres the highest peak in Spain.

There are plenty of flight options but scheduled leisure airline Monarch fly from Birmingham, East Midlands, Leeds, Gatwick, Luton and Manchester with fares, including taxes, from £45.99 one way (£91.98 return, lead fares winter '14). Visit monarch.co.uk

GRAN CANARIA It may be less fashionable than Tenerife but Gran Canaria is still an outstanding yearround destination in its own right.

Like Tenerife, it comes into its own at this time of the year – it boasts average temperatures of around 24˚C year-round as well as a variety of excellent courses handily located within easy reach of each other. No wonder, then, that it claimed the IAGTO’s top European Destination title in 2013.

Premier venue is the five -star Sheraton Salobre Golf Resort & Spa which opened in 2000 and is the only 36-hole golf complex in the Canaries. It’s the home of the contrasting South and North courses – the dramatic former has been cleverly designed to offer golfers magnificent sea and mountain views while the latter is desert style and winds around the unique volcanic rock environment.

Son Gual is Majorca's leading track.

Gran Canaria's Salobre boasts 36 holes.

The capital Palma, with its stunning La Seu cathedral, is a great city to visit or you can board the Palma to Soller train which heads north through the mountains and numerous tunnels. It’s regarded as one of the world’s great railway trips.

You’re spoilt for choice with flights, but TG travelled with scheduled leisure airline Monarch (monarch.co.uk) who fly from Birmingham, East Midlands, Gatwick, Luton, Leeds-Bradford and Manchester. Fares, including taxes, start from £56.99 one way and £83.98 return.

GREAT dEAls It’s a short drive away from the coastal courses of Maspalomas, a former European Tour venue, and breathtaking Meloneras, a Ron Kirkby design which opened in 2006 along with Anfi Tauro – an immaculate, highly-challenging layout which has hosted the Spanish PGA Championship.

Another must play is the historic and quirky Mackenzie Ross layout of Bandama – it’s the home of Spain’s oldest club and is spectacularly plotted next to an extinct volcano. You can also experience the novelty of playing night-time golf on the fun floodlit 18-hole par-3 Oasis course at El Cortijo.

Off the course, there are beaches galore with Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas the most popular. In the scorching summer, you can cool down at Aqualand, a Maspalomas water park. Or, visit the Crocodile park in Agüimes or the Dunes of Maspalomas – they’ll blow you away and it won’t cost you a single euro!

In terms of flights, Gran Canaria is easily accessed from airports across the UK including all four major London airports, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow-Prestwick and Dublin.

Once you've sourced your flight, you'll need some airport parking: you would be wise to check out www.looking4parking.com (or call 08081 639 183), the airport parking price comparison website that covers all major airports in the UK with prices starting at £30.

MAJORCA The pride of the Balearics is a true golfing paradise island with over 100,000 golfers visiting every year. The ball was set in motion

by Son Vida – now the star attraction at the stunning Arabella Resort – opened by Prince Rainier in the mid-1960s.

Now over 20 courses are dotted around the hugely-popular holiday island.

Several are conveniently located close to the capital of Palma and nearby resorts of Magalluf and Palma Nova, including classy Son Gual – undoubtedly the jewel in the crown and arguably one of continental Europe’s finest. One breathtaking hole follows another and it’s always in tip-top condition.

Other highlights include Alcanada, a wonderfully challenging Robert Trent Jones Jnr track overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s Majorca’s Turnberry – not only does it provide stunning coastal views from several holes, it also happens to be overlooked by a lighthouse on neighbouring Alcanada island.

Another star is Pula, venue of the European Tour’s Mallorcan Open. It’s been around since 1995 but in 2006 underwent a major redesign led by Jose Maria Olazabal. The striking championship layout is framed by the natural parks of Son Servera and the beautiful Bay of Calla Millor.

The island has an average temperate of 21˚C, over 300 days of sunshine a year and less than four days rain per month.

n Book your Arabella Golf Mallorca golf holiday with arrival between Nov 16-26 at Castillo Hotel Son Vida from €230 for a classic window room (double occupancy).

Book min. five nights and half-board will be included with free buggy – enjoy unlimited golf for €52 extra per day per person. To book call 0034 971 606136 or e-mail reservas.mallorca@starwoodhotels.com (ref. HB and buggy promotion). n Seven nights’ B&B at Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort, Corallium Spa & Casino (double standard room) and four rounds (at Meloneras) for two people, costs from €539pp – representing a 15 per cent discount. Valid May-Jun. To book visit www. lopesanhotels.com n Seven nights’ B&B at Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Corallium Thalasso (in a double standard room) and four rounds (at Meloneras) for two, costs from €599pp – representing a 15 per cent discount. Valid May-June. To book visit lopesanhotels.com n Three nights’ B&B at Sheraton Salobre Golf Resort & Spa, Gran Canaria, and two rounds (North & South courses), costs from £415pp. To book visit golfbreaks.com/salobre n Three nights’ B&B at the Lindner Golf & Wellness Resort, Portals Nous, Majorca, in October, including two green fees (Alcanada and Son Gual), costs from €471.80pp, based on two sharing a double room. To book call 00 34 971 775 491 or e-mail info@ mallorcateetime.com

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Destination Bulgaria

What a difference a decade can make Europe’s Pebble Beach is leading a rapid rise in Bulgaria’s stock WO R D S C H R I S B E R T R A M P I C T U R E S k E v I n M U R R AY, G E T T Y I M AG E S

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t the turn of the Millennium, word started to reach an increasing number of British skiers that Bulgaria was an excellent option for a high-quality, lower-cost holiday. You got many of the same attractions as the chic French and Swiss resorts, just at half the price.

Now Bulgaria is a serious player on the ski scene and a real threat to Chamonix, Val d’Isere et al. And the same scenario is threatening to repeat itself in golf; look out Algarve, Majorca, et al.

A decade ago, it simply wasn’t an option in the mind of the travelling British golfer. There

was more chance of a visit to Iceland to play golf than Bulgaria (incidentally, Iceland has quite a nice collection of raw-terrain courses).

The story is very different now, with the Cape Kaliakra area putting Bulgaria firmly on the golfing map. It is the new Millennium’s mini version of Belek.

For evidence, look to the 2012 IAGTO awards. These gongs are handed out by experts, people who travel widely and assess strongly. Bulgaria was voted the ‘Undiscovered Destination of the Year’ at the prestigious awards that year.

Bulgaria’s interest in golf is a sign of their

full integration into the European Union and away from the communist era that ended in 1989. Bulgarians, indeed, are noted for their friendliness, especially in comparison with other East European countries.

Helping it prosper is the value it offers.

Bulgaria is arguably Europe’s best-value travel destination. The currency is the lev (BGN) and one Bulgarian lev is equal to 45p.

So your money goes a long, long way! It means beach resorts such as Golden Sands and the ski resorts of Borovets and Bansko, are busy, and Cape Kaliakra’s golf is rapidly following suit.

Gary Player believes his Thracian Cliffs layout can be as good as Pebble Beach.

Destination Bulgaria

Located 500km east from Sofia in the north east of the country and sitting right on the coast, Cape Kaliakra is a beautiful spot, overlooking the Black Sea with views across the magnificent bay to Cape Galata. Now it is also home to three splendid courses: Lighthouse (opened September 2008), BlackSeaRama (opened in May 2008) and the star of the show – Thracian Cliffs.

Thracian Cliffs is the name which has really caught the attention, helped of course by its hosting of the World Matchplay in early summer last year.

Gary Player designed the course and is pleased with his work, suggesting it can be as good as Pebble Beach. Brave words, but certainly plenty of judges have been impressed already, with Thracian Cliffs entering prestigious Continental Europe Top 100 lists immediately.

It is laid out over 164 hectares of spectacular clifftop terrain with the course stretching 4.5km along the coast. Inevitably, 48

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‘THRACIAN CLIFFS HAS ALREADY ENTERED MANY PRESTIGIOUS TOP 100 CONTINENTAL EUROPE RANKINGS’ such a dramatic landscape makes for some ‘interesting’ holes but the occasional baffling test is more than surpassed by the breathtaking nature of the overall experience.

Off the course, Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort has 151 deluxe, spacious and convenient suites in two peaceful villages, which are separated by a beautiful lake and offer views of the sea.

It is the most impressive course in the area, but is certainly not alone. You could play and stay at Thracian while also venturing to nearby BlackSeaRama and the Lighthouse for a very well-rounded week’s golf.

BlackSearama follows Bulgaria’s clifftop theme.

Key info As aforementioned, inland there are cold, damp winters with snow in the higher elevations. But even these areas then enjoy hot and humid summers. The coast is typically Mediterranean; mild autumns, cool winters, mild springs and warm, breezy summers.

Bulgarian cuisine ranges from salads to stews. Famous for its yoghurt and white brine (feta) cheese, a breakfast speciality is ‘banitsa’, a delicious (and carb heavy) dough stuffed with strong cheese, spinach, rice and meat. Counteract the carbs with the many salads, which vary from region to region, while soups and broths are extremely popular – bean soups in the Rhodope Mountain region and fish soups in the Black Sea and the Danube areas. Meatballs, grilled meat, sausages and stews made in clay pots are also delicious. Wine production has a long history in Bulgaria while there are some robust local beers such as Zagorka, Ariana, Pirinsko and Shumensko.

There are four international airports in the country: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and Bourgas.

The last two are served by an increasing number of cheap flights from these shores through the likes of WizzAir. easyJet and BA go to Sofia and from there it is a short connection to Varna and a 50-minute drive to Thracian Cliffs.

Bulgaria deals

expect incredible views from ian Woosnam’s lighthouse.

BlackSeaRama, which won the ‘International Courses’ category of the 2009 Development of the Year Awards, also offers incredible sea views from fairways perched high on the cliffs – a common theme.

Being close to the sea, the wind is predictably often a significant factor, making holes such as the superb closing four even more challenging. It’s another charismatic Player creation.

The Lighthouse, designed by Ian Woosnam, is built on the top of towering cliffs and offers those same exhilarating views.

Finally, the former Masters champion is also the man behind Pirin Golf & CC, set in the beautiful Bansko-Razlog valley, in the heart of the Pirin Mountain range of southwest Bulgaria. Another emerging inland attraction is Peter Harradine’s Pravets GC, an impressive parkland layout supported by a smart on-site hotel. It surrounds the eponymous lake town, and is handily located 40mins from Sofia.

n Seven nights’ B&B stay at Lighthouse Hotel Cape Kaliakra during Oct & Nov (twin room) and five rounds (three at Lighthouse, one at BlackSeaRama, one at Thracian Cliffs) plus airport and course transfers, trolley and range balls and free buggy at Thracian Cliffs.

Valid for fourballs. Costs £519pp. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Seven nights’ B&B stay at Lighthouse Hotel Cape Kaliakra during March-Apr (twin room) and five rounds (three at Lighthouse, one at BlackSeaRama, one at Thracian Cliffs) plus airport and course transfers, trolley and range balls and free buggy at Thracian Cliffs.

Valid for fourballs. Costs £509pp. To book call Golf Escapes on 01342 811777. n Five nights’ B&B at Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach resort in a studio apartment (based on two sharing), two rounds at Thracian Cliffs (including buggy) and airport transfers. Valid Nov 3-30. Costs from £319pp. To book call Simply Golf Travel on 01143 193541. n Three nights’ B&B at Thracian Cliffs, unlimited golf, shared buggy, return airport transfers and complimentary use of the driving range and Thracian Spa and fitness area, welcome drink & fruit platter on arrival.

Costs from £329pp during Oct & Nov. To book call 00359 570 92222, e-mail reservations@thraciancliffs.com or visit www. thraciancliffs.com

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Destination Turkey

The Belek revolution Twenty years in, the ‘Turkish Riviera’ just keeps getting more popular WORDS CHRIS BERTRAM PICTURES GETTY IMAGES

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e are rapidly approaching a significant anniversary in the world of golf. It was on November 18, 1994 that the first course in Belek opened.

When the first shots were struck at National Golf Club – designed by Ryder Cup player-turned-feted-TV-analyst David Feherty – no-one would surely have predicted that a month short of its 20th birthday the Antalya region would now be home to the most vibrant, fastest-growing golf destination in Continental Europe.

That, though, is the incredible reality.

Turkey is not just now the biggest challenger to Spain and Portugal in terms of attracting the travelling British golfer, it is a clear and visible danger. Any golfer not considering Belek as an option for their next trip is genuinely not seeing the full picture.

So why is it so popular? Why was it named Europe’s Golf Destination of the Year in 2008 in the credible IAGTO Awards? Why has a little coastal village become an international golfing sensation in just two short decades?

Well, the first thing to say is that it is not just about the golf. Belek has two intrinsic

advantages over most of its competitors.

Firstly, Turkey is not in the euro. Good news (in hindsight) for the country of course, but also good for us. Our pounds go further... much further. So it’s like the good old days when just a few Drachmas, Pesetos or Francs seemed to buy us an inordinate amount of food and drink. The Turkish lira still does. You get one lira to every 30p.

Secondly, its location in the south-east corner of Europe gives it superb weather for much of the year. You can head there for nine months of the year with confidence. And

really, there is never a month where you will shiver – the worst-case scenario is a bit of rain, but a wash-out week is highly unlikely.

Its final non-golf advantage is in its accommodation, and specifically the cost of it – which is where the real impact of the currency scenario comes in. The hotels are all modern, stylish and well equipped – in fact, they are actually verging on OTT! There are simply no hotels in Belek which have seen better days. Despite this luxury, the value they offer – and especially on the customary allinclusive basis – is absolutely staggering.

So you set off from Britain knowing what you are spending, because you’ve already spent it. Whether you book with a tour operator or directly with the resorts, you’ll have paid up front and, unless you need to invest in a new sleeve of balls, you will struggle to find a way to spend any money while you’re there.

Everything is thought of, right down to transfers that whisk you from your hotel base

to different courses that sit along the stretch of beach. Which brings us to another big bonus of Belek – it is the ultimate low-hassle break. In addition to the all-inclusive nature of it, you are never in a transfer bus for more than a few minutes. Even the furthest course – Lykia, which sits on its own – is a mere 30 minutes’ drive away. Most are within 10 minutes. Many are walkable from each other.

It’s a bit like Southport, St Andrews or Sandwich; course after course stacked up in a row along the coast. The only difference is that between the courses are majestic, glistening hotels fronted by gorgeous sandy beaches and the blue waters of the Med. Before we have a look at a few of the courses, it’s worth making the point that Belek is not just a holiday for golfers. It is a holiday for everyone. There are lots and lots of golfers in every hotel but they are outnumbered by ordinary holidaymakers from all corners of Europe. This fact demonstrates the rounded nature of a holiday

Above: Carya is a tremendous heathland course.

Main image: Lykia offers something totally different.

here – there is so much more to do than play golf. So it makes it ideal for couples where one is not a golfer, or for families where only one or two of the party plays the game.

But make no mistake, it is also absolutely perfect for groups of absolutely committed golfers! If you love cramming 36 holes in a day and then getting stuck into an enormous buffet and a few beers, Belek truly is the place for you…

The Monty is a fully-fledged Tour venue.

Despite its embryonic nature, the resort of Belek has very quickly become a bit of a mystery: Where exactly are the best courses?

And how do they differ? We know getting a sound answer to this question is not that easy in a world of spin and flannel. We think we can help though, and thought it might be useful to break down what is on offer into bite-sized packages. So, in the following paragraphs, we hope we give you an idea of what to expect at the 10 leading resorts in Belek (not forgetting the original, the aforementioned National GC).

Lykia Links A top 50-ranked course in Europe, its name is a little misleading because although it is set right next to the sea, and very much looks like a links – with sleepered bunkers, wispy rough and sand hills – it is not the kind of place you will be bumping and running. That said, it is well worth driving half an hour east to play Lykia (near the village of Denizkent) to sample its stellar holes and expansive views.

Highlights include the 4th and the 5th – played directly towards the Med and then

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Sueno has lots of water on the 18th.

parallel to it – while on the back nine a fabulous three-hole stretch plotted right next to the shore begins on the 14th.

antaLya (suLtan & pasha) Two courses here, with the PGA Sultan at Antalya the first to lure Tiger Woods to Belek, for the Turkish Airlines World Golf Final in 2012. A championship course of over 7,000 yards, it is lined by mature trees and with lots of sand and water around, you are advised to step onto the yellow tees…

‘Carya is a jewel of a heathland designed by open legend peter thomson’ In absolutely incredible nick despite the traffic it receives, it was designed by Senior Tour player David Jones in association with European Golf Design. Antalya’s Pasha is a bit more fun than its sister course, with short par 4s at the 3rd and the 4th real highlights.

Carya A jewel of a heathland designed by Open legend Peter Thomson. It is rated as one of the top 100 in Continental Europe with good reason – this is a classy inland course with a distinct flavour. If you enjoy the Surrey and Berkshire courses, you’ll love it here. Not quite in Sunningdale’s class but think of a West Hill and you’ve got the idea. Carya is also now available by night; the first floodlit

Destination Turkey course in Europe with the floodlights very discreetly hidden among the tall pines.

David Jones’ Kaya Eagles layout.

Gloria (old, new & verde) The Old, the New and the Verde courses make Gloria the most comprehensive resort in Belek – it is very difficult to get bored if you are based here! One of the area's original courses having opened in 1997, Michel Gayon routed the Old between narrow tree-lined fairways and returned eight years later to do something similar among the pines for the New. The nine-hole Verde often has the large lake in play. A wholly impressive complex.

Cornelia There are 27 holes here, called the Sempronia, Gaius and the Tiberius. They combine to create three different courses – the King’s, Queen’s and Prince. The Gaius and the Tiberius loops form the Prince and are the pick – but only just. Sir Nick Faldo oversaw the creation of all three, on sandy terrain and among mature pines.

MontGoMerie Maxx Turkey’s first host of a European Tour event, it was here that Victor Dubuisson saw off Tiger and co last November. Set in over 100

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Destination Turkey The Sultan course at Antalya.

hectares of mixed pine and eucalyptus forest, ‘Monty’ was assisted by Gary Johnston of European Golf Design in weaving the layout around eight lakes and lots of waste areas.

SuenO (PineS & DuneS) The Pines course at this 36-hole complex is tree-lined, has 11 water hazards and over 70 bunkers. It was designed in 2007 by Bob Hunt of PGA Design Consulting and is a serious test at 7,000 yards. The Dunes is much shorter but a common theme is the spectacular water-dominated finishing holes.

Kaya eagleS Another Belek course by David Jones, who worked on the duo at Antalya. Kaya Eagles opened in 2007 and Jones’ work was influenced by the smallish site that makes it less onerous in terms of hitting.

TaT inTernaTiOnal Not sure what the name is trying to achieve but don’t let that put you off the course – it’s a 27-hole effort by the famed Hawtree architects. On the Kadriye end of the area, it has been maturing since 1997.

rObinSOn It was the late Dave Thomas who worked on

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‘GettinG there has been belek’s only drawback – but that seems to be improvinG fast’ this low-profile course and he did a nice job of threading it through an existing pine forest and around Belek's Acisu River.

• Getting there has traditionally been Belek’s only drawback – but seems to be improving fast. A lack of direct flights to Antalya meant you had to go via Turkish Airlines (who are superb) to Istanbul then on to Antalya. From there it is 40 minutes to Belek. Now, many more direct flights are being added, from even smaller airports such as Leeds. If this proliferation of direct flights continues, Belek will become an even bigger juggernaut.

Make the most of your holiday • A key attraction is its climate. TG was there in May and it was around 24°C every day – perfect for golf in our book. Incredibly, the locals told us it was cold for the time of year!

This year-round destination will rarely need a sweater and an umbrella will only be wedged in your bag intermittently, even in the winter.

• It’s highly likely you will go to Belek and barely leave your hotel complex – that’s how comprehensive they are. But if you want a change of scenery Belek and neighbouring village Kadriye have lots of vibrant bars and restaurants for a lively night out. The markets during the day are also full of hustling and bargaining. Further afield, Antalya offers a city experience in an ancient setting.

The Faldo course at Cornelia.

BELEK dEaLs n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Cornelia Deluxe Resort and four rounds (three at Cornelia, one at Carya) for £445pp (double room) between Nov 21-Feb 20. Includes golf shuttles and airport transfers, free driving range token & welcome drink. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Sirene Belek Hotel (double room) and three rounds (two Pasha, one Sultan course) for £410pp between Nov 24-Feb 15. Includes golf shuttles and airport transfers. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ half-board at Sueno Golf Hotel and three rounds (Pines & Dunes) for £335pp between Dec 13-Feb 10. Includes golf

shuttles and airport transfers. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Maxx Royal Belek Golf Spa Hotel (double room) and two rounds (Montgomerie) for £510pp between Jan 10-25. Includes golf shuttles and airport transfers. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Titanic Deluxe Resort (double room) and three rounds (National) for £549pp between Nov 18-Dec 23. Includes golf shuttles and airport transfers. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ half-board at Gloria Golf Resort and three rounds (New & Old) for £369pp between Jan 4-Feb 13. Includes golf

shuttles and airport transfers. To book call Bilyana Golf Holidays on 01625 800110. n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Cornelia Deluxe and three rounds (all Faldo) including return airport transfers, golf transfers, free Antalya city tour for €469pp (double/twin room) between Nov 21-Feb 20. To book Belek Golf Breaks on 07024 030089 or www. belekgolfbreaks.com. n Seven nights’ all-inclusive at Riu Kaya Belek and four rounds (Kaya Eagles) including return airport transfers, golf transfers, one free Antalya city tour for €585pp (double/twin room) between Apr 1-30. To book call Belek Golf Breaks on 07024 030089 or www.belekgolfbreaks.com Bonus point: One free in groups of eight.

‘more direct flights will mean belek will become an even bigger juggernaut’

The New is part of the amazing Gloria resort.

Destination France

The pride of Europe No country on the continent can match France’s quality and quantity WORDS CHRIS BERTRAM PICTURES GETTY IMAGES

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n a world where it is not what you are but the image you project that seems to matter and where shouting the loudest seems frequently to work effectively, one pleasing antithesis to all this showmanship is France’s attitude to its own golf courses.

Try to explain this: when France is blessed with more outstanding courses in mainland Europe than any other country, why is it so blase about its riches?

In various top 100 lists of the finest continental tracks, France can often have as many as 17 entries. That’s nearly a fifth of all the best courses within the entire vast landscape of Europe.

Only Spain can compete with that kind of firepower. But what Spain cannot answer, is the quality of France’s top venues: it’s all

Seignosse is a tough but brilliant woodland course in the south west.

opinion of course, but many good judges believe France has six of the top 20 in Europe.

Two of those – Morfontaine and Les Bordes – are only playable with a member, but the rest are up for grabs, so long as you do a bit of planning in advance.

We are going to split the country into three key areas: the North, Paris and the South West. And while these are definitely the best regions, they are by no means France’s only pockets of golf – you can travel to absolutely anywhere in France and find a course nearby.

Indeed, France has over 500 of them and so beneath the superstar ‘top 100’ names are plenty of courses of almost equal quality; the likes of Omaha Beach, Chateau de Vigiers, Domaine et Golf de Vaugouard, Evian, Crecy and Saint Endreol – the list goes on. What's

more, in France, you can get a lot more than just golf – you can combine your golf with sport (rugby, football and tennis in Paris), wine (the south west), food (everywhere), sightseeing (Paris and beyond) and cafe culture (from Calais to Biarritz).

The NorTh The road to the Pas de Calais courses really ought to be well-worn by British golfers.

Using the EuroTunnel (we are big fans of this method of crossing the Channel as it is efficient and you have your clubs, balls and all your general golfing apparatus with you), you can be on the 1st tee of the closest course, Wimereux, within 30 minutes of your tyres touching French tarmac.

After playing that cool little linksy course

‘the road to the pas de calais courses really ought to be well-worn by british golfers’ Scenic Dolce Chantilly near Paris.

you can head further south to Hardelot, and probably base yourself there for a long weekend. Of the two courses in Hardelot, Les Pins is the better – and its recent redesign has seen it elevated to among the finest in France. The other course, Les Dunes, is significantly undulating but still very good.

Further south, Le Touquet awaits, with two 18-hole courses as well as a short course too.

La Mer is the pick, a terrific old Harry Colt track laid out on seaside terrain. It too is being refurbished at the moment, but its sister course La Foret is no slouch and a long

weekend can be very comfortably spent playing in Le Touquet on its own.

Belle Dune is another 20 minutes’ drive south and is, like Hardelot’s courses, laid out among pine-lined sand hills.

Finally, on your way in or out of France, play the conveniently-located St Omer parkland, a regular European Tour venue.

Paris In four years’ time, Golf National will be at the forefront of everyone’s mind as it will be the 2018 venue for the Ryder Cup. Unlike many in the Paris area, it is very much a course for the people and receives thousands of visitors every year.

Le Golf National has only been open for a couple of decades but has held the French Open on numerous occasions.

It is built on unremarkable land and is testament to the skill of the shapers and designers. Numerous water hazards make it a thrilling test.

Elsewhere, Chantilly is a vintage woodland to the north of the city, set out among rolling terrain and lined with enormous mature deciduous trees while Harry Colt’s Saint Germain is a fabulous, quirky test in the west with some really cool green complexes.

One of our favourites is a classic heathland-woodland hybrid at Fontainebleau, to the south east.

Accessibility is a key feature in Paris and here’s a great tip: head there in August and you will have your pick of tee times, because the Parisians head south on their holidays to the Cote d’Azure and leave their time sheets empty!

If these courses are a bit pricey, fear not. There are loads of alternatives, starting with the aforementioned Crecy complex (with two Arnold Palmer designs) next to Disneyland. North of the city there is John Jacobs’ Apremont, Jack Nicklaus’ Paris International and Ron Fream’s Isle de Adam while to the west lies tree-lined La Vaucouleurs and Prieure.

The souTh WesT We love this area as a whole, and the golf is tremendous. It is top 100 quality but at medium-ranked prices. There are six tremendous courses to choose from, all of which are close to each other – and happily in the most famous wineproducing area of the world…

Let’s start at Golf du Medoc on the northern outskirts of Bordeaux. It has two stunning 18-hole heathland courses and a really nice four-star hotel.

It's so good here that Ryder Cup legend Bernard Gallacher goes there with his pals once a year for a few days of classic Surrey-style golf and, one imagines, several glasses of red wine...

Further south towards Biarritz, first you come to Moliets, a Robert Trent Jones

St Omer in the north of France.

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Destination France

Hardelot les Dunes is a rollercoaster ride!

design that is mostly a woodland course but has a magnificent stretch right on the beach.

There's sand everywhere!

Next you can hop on at Seignosse, a tough but awesome woodland course between pines and around water. Take plenty of ammunition and also lots of patience…

Hossegor is a solid, traditional parkland with a terrific 'mini Lytham' style clubhouse and a warm welcome while linksy Chiberta is part of a lively holiday complex so is ideal for the younger groups of golfers. All of these venues offer outstanding value for money and the Biarritz Golf Pass allows you to play a few of them as well as some of the lower-profile courses in the area such as Biarritz Le Phare and really make a saving.

Finally, on the opposite coast, for the wellheeled Terre Blanche has two courses and a hotel that is out of this world. You can combine a round at Terre Blanche's courses with visits to Saint Endreol, Barbaroux and Royal Mougins – in fact, all four are top-class play-and-stay possibilities.

Make the most of your holiday • France benefits from the kind of weather we think we should get. Cold winters, yes, but then a lovely mild, dry spring and hot summers. You can head to France between May and September and expect nice weather.

• If you head to the South West, make sure you take in a wine tour. Lots of the golf hotels will happily arrange one for you – Chateau des Vigiers even has its own label!

• Drive to the north through the EuroTunnel – and Paris is only two hours’ drive from Calais.

But otherwise there are loads of flights with low-cost carriers to all parts of the country.

GreaT deals n Fairway @ Medoc package includes two nights’ B&B (full English) at Golf du Medoc

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‘seignosse is a tough but awesome woodland between pines and water. take ammunition!’

Resort, two green fees per person (Les Vignes, Les Chateaux) & access to the spa starting from £312pp (based on two sharing).

Valid for 2015. To book call 0033 556 703131, e-mail contact@hotelgolfdumedoc.com n Golf & Wine @ Medoc package includes three nights’ B&B (full buffet) at Golf du Medoc Resort, three green fees per person (Les Vignes, Les Chateaux), free access to the spa & one wine tasting starting from £469pp (based on two sharing). Valid for 2015. To book call 00 33 556 703131, e-mail contact@hotelgolfdumedoc.com n Three nights’ B&B (two sharing) at Hotel Villa Les Bains, three green fees per person on Blue Green Courses (Houlgate, Caen) & one free buggy for TG readers, costs from €566 for two people. Valid Jan 1-Dec 31, 2015. To book call 0033 141 186552, e-mail rdumant@bluegreen.com (quote BZHBG5). n Three nights’ B&B (two sharing) at Hotel Best Western Vannes Centre, three green fees per person on Blue Green Golf Courses (Baden, Saint Laurent, Rhuys Kerver) & one free buggy for TG readers, costs from €495.

Valid Jan 1-Dec 31, 2015. To book call 0033 141 186552, e-mail rdumant@bluegreen.com (quote BZHBG5). n Northern France Golf Pass – costs €250pp and entitles you to play six rounds at nine of the region’s top clubs including Le Touquet, Hardelot, Belle Dune and St Omer (within 15day period). To book call 0033 321 103460 or visit www.golfencotedopale.com

Terre Blanche's Chateau – a masterpiece.

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Advertising feature

French excellence at Saint Endreol Use this refined golf resort as your base for a south-east France trip et between Provence and the Côte d’Azur coast in stunning, sun-soaked scenery, Les Domaines de Saint Endréol spans 370 acres of unspoiled landscape. Just 45 minutes from Nice airport, Saint Endréol has it all, from golf and spa treatments to long walks and the perfect spots to lounge in the sun.

S

Around the resort...

St Endréol combines the benefit of a golf resort with the privacy and sophistication of the French Riviera.

Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery, vineyards and classic Provencal hilltop villages, where restaurants serve traditional food and wine. In summer excellent beach restaurants are to be found along the sandy coast from Les Issambres to St Maxime. World-class shopping is available at St Tropez, Nice or Cannes – a 40-minute drive or short train ride from Les Arcs.

Accommodation options Whether it is for a night, a week or more, Saint Endréol will make your stay an enjoyable one with 50 bright, contemporary rooms each with tiny kitchenette and a balcony.

Or stay for a week or more in a villa with its own private pool – or in a townhouse or apartment.

The golf attractions Opened in 1992 and designed by Michel Gayon, the course sits in a seductive and varied landscape.

With splendid views over the river Endre and on the red rock of the Rocher de Roquebrune, the course stands in a grandiose, sun-drenched natural setting. Each hole has its own distinct personality, but perhaps the most spectacular is the 13th, with its fantastic drop onto a waterside green! You can also take on-site lessons with a professional.

A private villa with a pool can be yours...

Enjoy lunch and dinner on the airy terrace.

Gourmet paradise Serving lunches and dinners in the dining room or out on the terrace – where you lap up panoramic course views – the restaurant enchants guests with refined seasonal cuisine in a gorgeous setting.

Well-being The 2,000sq2 spa includes a Turkish bath, saunas, a counter-current pool, hot tub and seven treatment cabins using luxurious, personalised treatments for men and women. n Details: Route de Bagnols en Forêt, 83920 La Motte en Provence, France. Visit st-endreol.com, email reservation@st-endreol.com or call 00 33 4 94 51 89 80.

A course of 18 very different challenges.

NOW VOTE fOr yOur faVOuriTEs

Take part in our 2015 Travel Awards... and win a trip to Majorca t's that time of the year again... when you get to have your say about your favourite courses, golf hotels, golf resorts and destinations – by voting for them in the Today’s Golfer Travel Awards.

Once again our much-travelled readership will decide which venues come out on top and be celebrating in the ‘Oscars’ of the golf travel world. Last year you voted in your

i

Vote in the TG Travel Awards and you could find yourself playing at Son Gual on Majorca.

thousands across the 21 categories with Spain’s Murcia region toppling Portugal’s mighty Algarve in the coveted ‘Best Value Golf Destination (Continental Europe)’ category.

But who will pull it off this time? Will it be Turkey’s brilliant Belek region, runners-up last time, or will fast-emerging Bulgaria finish on top of the pile? The choice is entirely yours – and if you take the time to vote you could win

a terrific golf break for two in Majorca (see the panel opposite for more details).

Last year’s winners are listed opposite and it will be interesting to see whether Spain’s legendary La Manga Club can make it four straight wins in the country’s Best Hotel/ Resort category. All the winners will be revealed in our March issue available on January 22 and online at todaysgolfer.co.uk

Travel awards SOME NOMINEES FOR YOU TO CONSIDER ENglaND NORTh Best Course Royal Birkdale Royal Lytham & St Annes Ganton Moortown Formby Alwoodley Royal Liverpool Your choice Best hotel/Resort Carden Park Rockliffe Hall The Mere Close House Rudding Park Slaley Hall Your choice SOUTh Best Course Sunningdale (Old) Wentworth (West) The Grove Woburn G&CC Royal St George’s London Club Prince’s Walton Heath (Old) Your choice Best hotel/Resort Stoke Park The Grove Marriott Hanbury Manor Foxhills The Oxfordshire The Lodge At Prince’s Heythrop Park Your choice WEST Best Course Saunton (East) St Mellion St Enodoc Trevose Burnham & Berrow Your choice Best hotel/Resort Carlyon Bay Manor House At Castle Combe Bovey Castle Bowood G&CC Trevose G&CC Manor House & Astbury Hotels, Devon St Mellion International Resort Your choice

EaST & MIDlaNDS Best Course Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin) Hunstanton The Belfry (Brabazon) Notts GC (Hollinwell) Sherwood Forest Forest Pines Royal West Norfolk Your choice Best hotel/Resort The Belfry Marriott Forest Of Arden Forest Pines Heacham Manor Greetham Valley Thorpeness Hotel & GC Your choice SCOTlaND Best Course Turnberry (Ailsa) Gleneagles (King’s) Old Course St Andrews Castle Stuart Kingsbarns Muirfield North Berwick (West Links) Carnoustie Trump International Royal Dornoch Royal Aberdeen Prestwick Machrihanish Dunes Your choice Best hotel/Resort Turnberry Gleneagles Old Course Hotel, St Andrews Rusacks Hotel, St Andrews Cameron House At Loch Lomond The Roxburghe Machrihanish Dunes Your choice WalES Best Course Royal Porthcawl Celtic Manor Twenty Ten Wales National Conwy Royal St David’s Aberdovey Nefyn & District Your choice Best hotel/Resort Celtic Manor

The Vale Marriott St Pierre Bryn Meadows Your choice IRElaND Best Course Ballybunion Old Course European Club Waterville Lahinch K Club (Palmer) Carne Golf Links Royal County Down Royal Portrush (Dunluce Course) Doonbeg Old Head of Kinsale Your choice Best hotel/Resort K Club Carton House Portmarnock Hotel Links Lough Erne Doonbeg Druids Glen Resort Adare Manor Galgorm Castle Your choice SpaIN Best Course Valderrama La Manga (South) San Roque PGA Catalunya La Reserva Sotogrande Son Gual (Majorca) Finca Cortesin Your Choice Best hotel/Resort La Manga Club Abama Resort (Tenerife) Barcelo Montecastillo La Cala NH Almenara La Quinta Melia Golf Vichy Catalan Finca Cortesin Kempinski Hotel Bahia Your choice pORTUgal Best Course Monte Rei Oitavos Dunes Praia D’El Rey Penha Longa Onyria Palmares San Lorenzo Penina

Vilamoura Old Course Quinta do Lago (South) Royal Obidos Your choice Best hotel/Resort Vila Sol Le Meridien Penina Dona Filipa & San Lorenzo Penha Longa Dom Pedro Vilamoura Evolutee Hotel, Royal Obidos Hotel Quinta da Marinha Conrad Algarve @ Quinta do Lago Praia D’El Rey Vale do Lobo The Oitavos Your choice FRaNCE Best Course Le Golf National (Albatross) Hardelot (Pins) Le Touquet (Mer) Dinard Seignosse St Nom-La Breteche Terre Blanche (Chateau) Your choice Best hotel/Resort Le Manoir Terre Blanche Spa Golf Resort Golf Barriere Du Deauville St Malo Hotel G&CC Hotel Du Golf St Omer Golf Du Medoc (Chateau) Evian Resort St Endreol Your choice BEST ValUE gOlF (Continental Europe) Bulgaria Majorca Gran Canaria The Algarve, Portugal Eastern Algarve Costa Del Sol, Spain Murcia, Spain Costa Brava, Spain Lisbon Coast, Portugal Turkey Northern France Czech Republic Holland Your choice

laST YEaR’S WINNERS n Best Value Destination (Continental Europe) – Murcia, Spain. n Spain Best Course – Valderrama; Best Hotel/Resort – La Manga Club. n portugal Best Course – Vilamoura Old; Best Hotel/Resort – Vale do Lobo. n France Best Course – Le Touquet (Mer); Best Hotel/Resort – St Malo Hotel, Golf & CC. n North Of England Best Course – Royal Birkdale; Best Hotel/Resort – De Vere Carden Park. n South Of England Best Course – Sunningdale Old; Best Hotel/Resort – The Grove. n West Of England Best Course – St Mellion (Nicklaus); Best Hotel/ Resort – Trevose G&CC. n East & Midlands Best Course – The Belfry (Brabazon); Best Hotel/ Resort – The Belfry. n Scotland Best Course – St Andrews Old; Best Hotel/Resort – Gleneagles. n Wales Best Course – Celtic Manor (Twenty Ten); Best Hotel/ Resort – Celtic Manor. n Ireland Best Course – K Club (Pal); Best Hotel/Resort – K Club. hOW TO VOTE… Simply visit www. todaysgolfer.co.uk/ tgtravelawards and make your selections. Note you can only pick one course and one hotel/resort per destination category. Closing date for entries is November 30, 2014.

WhaT YOU CaN WIN Win a two-night B&B break for two, in Majorca, staying at the four-star Lindner Golf & Wellness Resort, Portals Nous – close to the luxury yacht harbour of Puerto Portals – with green fees at the island’s top two courses, Alcanada and Son Gual.

Dates upon request and subject to availability.

Todaysgolfer .co.uk TG Tr avel Guide 201 5

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PRIZE DRAW

FIVE-STAR SPANISH BREAK FOR TWO

Two nights on the Costa del Sol and golf at Finca Cortesin

T

he stunning Kempinski Hotel Bahía, situated in the picturesque town of Estepona, near Marbella, is one of the most iconic hotels on the Costa del Sol. Surrounded by lush subtropical gardens, and with breathtaking views of the sea from its prime beachside location, the five-star hotel is the perfect location from which to explore one of Spain’s most famous regions.

We’re giving one lucky reader and a guest the chance to experience the hotel and some world-class golfing action with two nights’ accommodation and two rounds of golf on the stunning Finca Cortesin course.

The hotel has 128 spacious rooms and 17 luxury suites, all of which have terraces and balconies with views of the garden or sea. The hotel’s lounges and restaurants feature an abundance of natural light, with La Veranda Bar and Terrace providing unparalleled view of the gardens.

The winner will stay at the Kempinski Hotel Bahía.

There’s also a variety of matchless Mediterranean cuisine on offer in the hotel’s four restaurants and two bars – with many of the dishes featuring freshly-collected produce from the hotel’s private organic garden.

The recently renovated Kempinski Spa is modern and elegant, offering a wide range of treatments with the spa including steam room, Finnish sauna and ice fountain.

The Kempinski Hotel Bahia is the perfect base for golfers, with preferential green fees in place at more than 20 of the region’s courses via the concierge. They include the worldfamous Valderrama, host of the Ryder Cup 1997, and Finca Cortesin, Cabell B Robinson’s sensational layout which has staged the prestigious World Match Play Championship.

Finca’s large, severely undulating and lightning fast greens are unforgettable.

Another Sotogrande star is La Reserva, another stunning Robinson creation which has matured rapidly since its 2003 opening. n For more details visit www.kempinski.com/ en/marbella/hotel-bahia/welcome/

HOW TO ENTER Log on to www.todaysgolfer.co.uk/win, click on the Kempinskil Bahía option and enter your email address. Entries close at midnight on October 29. Full terms online.

ENTER NOW AT www.todaysgolfer.co.uk/win

Challenge accepted.

This year, the world’s best amateurs come to light in Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup Amateur Series at 50 qualifying events taking place in 35 diferent countries.

MUMBAI • DOHA • DUBAI • HONG KONG • KARACHI • KUALA LUMPUR • MADRID • HELSINKI • AMSTERDAM • BEIJING LONDON • BARCELONA • MUNICH • TOKYO • CAPE TOWN • GENEVA • SEOUL • SINGAPORE • VIENNA • MOSCOW • COPENHAGEN STOCKHOLM • COLOGNE • HAMBURG • CHICAGO • LISBON • MILAN • FRANKFURT • EDINBURGH • ROME • SHANGHAI • LJUBLJANA STUTTGART • LOS ANGELES • OSLO • BRUSSELS • BERLIN • BUENOS AIRES • JAKARTA • SAO PAULO • LYON • PARIS ATHENS • DUBLIN • NEW YORK • JOHANNESBURG • NICE • DELHI • DHAKA • ISTANBUL

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