2_0_DiscoverGermany_May2014_Issue14:Scan Magazine 1
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Discover Germany | Culture & Lifestyle | Golfpark Schloss Wilkendorf
The best of both worlds near Berlin - where pros and beginners alike are challenged Named after the adjoining Wilkendorf castle, the Golfpark Schloss Wilkendorf offers two exciting 18-hole courses in a striking setting just 35 minutes drive from Berlin. TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: GOLFPARK SCHLOSS WILKENDORF
While the regional territory of Brandenburg has a tendency to be rather flat, Golfpark Schloss Wilkendorf is nestled in an undulating area, making it a unique and attractive destination for lovers of sport and nature. Designed by Scottish golf icon Sandy Lyle, MBE, the championship course leaves the discerning golfer no room for desire. With a length of 7,100 yards and wide fairways it is perfect for long-hitters, although deep bunkers add quite a challenge along the way. In 2010, the Sandy Lyle championship course was voted in the top 6 German golf courses and it is ranked within the top 100 of Europe’s courses. But it is not only professional golfers who are attracted to Golfpark Schloss Wilkendorf; Scotsman Ross McMurray designed the Westside public golf course, which is open to the public on
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weekdays and no handicap is required for admission. It is the only public course of this kind in the greater Berlin area and ideal for those who have just started to develop a passion for golf. Head Pro Tino Bringmann puts it in a nutshell: “The Sandy Lyle course is designed to meet the highest demands and it is quite a challenge, even for advanced golfers. The Westside course is not easy, but due to its wider and more levelled fairways, is perfectly suited for beginners.“ Both courses are kept in shape by Scottish head greenkeeper Gordon Smith and, given the many Scotsmen involved, the club restaurant is named Zum wilden Schotten. A delicious menu offers great food throughout the week and on weekends. 2014 is an exciting year for Golfpark Schloss Wilkendorf as it is now a member of the
Main image, left: Westside public golf course Above: Club restaurant Zum wilden Schotten
Leading Golf Courses Germany association, which safeguards high quality golf and value standards. More good news for 2014 includes the extension of the premises into a Golf & Spa Resort. Several holiday cottages are already under construction and a Hotel Garni with a spa area as well as a mini-golf adventure park will follow shortly. “With this new development, we are attracting international guests as well as regional and national holiday visitors alike. This is a very exciting project for us,” club manager Jaroslav Belsky enthuses. www.golfpark-schloss-wilkendorf.com Bottom: Sandy Lyle championship course