Destination Golf - September 2014

YOUR GLOBAL GOLF GUIDE ISSUE 22 • SEPTEMBER 2014

TRAVEL

NORWEGIAN WOODS

GOLFING AROUND OSLO, NORWAY

IN THIS ISSUE: CASA CANCUN Casa Magna Resort, Mexico

GORGEOUS GRENADINE Tamarind Beach Resort, Grenadine Island

THE BELLE OF THE BALL Arabella Hotel & Spa, South Africa

PICTURE PERFECT BARBADOS • ARIZONA

DG China DPS

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DESTINATION GOLF OPENS IN MALAYSIA & INDONESIA Destination Golf Media Ltd destinationgolf@live.com www.destinationgolf.travel PUBLISHER Dermot Synnott

August was a very busy month for Destination Golf. We’ve formed some exciting new business partnerships with Tour Operators under our Global Affiliates Programme, and confirmed our eleventh Official Global Representative.

We are delighted to welcome Declan Crowe to our team, who will look after our business affairs in Malaysia & Indonesia. Born in Ireland, Declan now lives in Singapore with his wife and baby boy. A keen golfer, Declan learnt his golf in Dublin but is now a regular to the tropical fairways of Indonesian golf courses.

EDITOR Karl Doyle

After graduating with an honours degree from Dublin City University in Electronic Engineering, Declan went on to work in Holland, Northern Europe, USA and China. He is now based in Singapore, which provides excellent access to the fairways of Malaysia and Indonesia.

CONTRIBUTORS Andrew Marshall Paul Marshall Aidan Bradley

Located close to Puerto Vallarta Airport, which is well serviced with direct flights from U.S., our first resort feature takes us to the “must visit” resort of Casa Magna in Mexico. This tropical beach resort is well facilitated, while golfers will enjoy easy access to the stunning nearby course of Puerto Vallarta.

DIRECTOR Vincent Synnott FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Darren Maguire CREDIT CONTROLLER Mallory Courell OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Helen Duggan INTERNATIONAL OFFICES/REPS • Albert Ferrer (Spain) • Ronald Montesano (USA) • Peter Barnes (UK) • Gene Oberto (Sweden) • Gianni Attanasio (Italy) • David Cooney (China) • Maarten Hageman (Netherlands) • Benjamin Oosterveer (Tunisia & Morocco) • Kevin Markham (Ireland) • Declan Crowe (Malaysia & Indonesia)

Front Cover: Atlungstad GC, Norway.

(Credit: Simon B Jensen)

Keeping on the tropical theme, our second resort feature takes us to the Grenadine Islands. Here we will take a look at Tamarind Beach Club in the heart of the Caribbean. An idyllic venue, this lively hotel is situated on a stunning long white sandy beach with its own jetty for boat excursions and water sports. Perfect for a real action packed golfing break.

We then head to Arabella Hotel & Spa in South Africa to examine one of South Africa’s most celebrated golf resorts. With its incredible setting in the foothills of the Kogelberg mountain range and its championship golf course, it doesn’t take us long to hear its roar on a global golf stage.

Enjoy!

Karl Doyle

EDITOR editor@destinationgolf.ie Dermot Synnott

Andrew Marshall

Paul Marshall

Editorial Director

Golf Travel Writer

Golf Travel Photographer

Aidan Bradley

Ronald Montesano

Golf Course Photographer

Golf Travel Writer

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Contents Contentsand andreference referenceguide guide Picture Perfect

AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography

EAGLE CREST- RIDGE COURSE

BRASADA RANCH GOLF CLUB GREEN MONKEY, Powell Butte, SANDY LANEOregon, USA Barbados, West Indies www.brasada.com www.sandylane.com Page Page4-5 10

GREEN MONKEY, Redmond, Oregon, USA SANDY LANE Barbados, West Indies www.eagle-crest.com www.sandylane.com Page 6-7 Page 12

EAGLE COURSE OLD CREST-THE COURSE,RESORT SANDY LANE Barbados, Oregon, West Indies Redmond, USA www.sandylane.com www.eagle-crest.com Page 14 Page 8-9

PUMPKIN RIDGE GOLF CLUB OLD COURSE, SANDY LANE North Plains, Oregon, Barbados, West Indies USA www.sandylane.com www.pumpkinridge.com Page 16 Page 10-11

RUNNING Y RANCH GOLF COURSE THE COUNTRY CLUB, SANDY LANE Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA Barbados, West Indies www.runningy.com www.sandylane.com Page 18 Page 12-13

THE GOLF CLUB THERESERVE COUNTRY CLUB, SANDY LANE Aloha, Oregon, USA Barbados, West Indies www.reservegolf.com www.sandylane.com Page Page14-15 20

ABU DHABIVALLEY CLUBHOUSE DOVE RANCH GOLF CLUB Abu Dhabi, UAE Cave Creek, Arizona, USA www.adgolfclub.com www.dovevalleyranch.com Page Page 16-1722

FIRESTONE CLUBHOUSE FIREROCK COUNTRY CLUB Fountain Hills, Arizona, USA Akron, Ohio , USA www.firerockcc.com www.clubcorp.com Page 24 Page 18-19

PARADISE VALLEY GAILLARDIA CLUBHOUSE COUNTRY CLUB Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA Paradise Valley, Arizona, USA www.gaillardia.com www.paradisevalleycc.com Page 26 20-21 Page

PALM CLUBHOUSE THE VALLEY LEGACY GOLF RESORT Phoenix, Arizona, USAUSA Ponte Vedra, Florida, www.golflegacyresort.com www.palmvalleygolf.com Page 28 Page 22-23

PORT ROYALGOLF CLUBHOUSE VISTAL CLUB Phoenix, Arizona, Hilton Head, SouthUSA Carolina, USA www.vistalgolfclub.com www.portroyalgolfclub.com Page 30 Page 24-25

THE VINTAGE CLUBHOUSE WHIRLWIND GOLF CLUB Chandler, Arizona, USA USA Indian Wells, California, www.whirlwindgolf.com www.thevintageclub.com Page 32

GOLFING THE WILD ATLANTIC NORWEGIAN WOODS Andrew Marshall visits Oslo in WAY, IRELAND

CASA MAGNA RESORT, CHATEAU D’AUGERVILLE MEXICO France www.marriott.com Page 44-49 www.chateau-augerville.com

Page 26-27

Features Features Norway.& Paul Marshall visit the Andrew Page 34-43 North West coast of Ireland Page 28-33 TAMARIND BEACH RESORT, INTERCONTENTINAL SANYA GRENADINES www.canouan.com/tamarind China50-55 Page

www.intercontinental.com Page 42-47 6

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Page 36-41 ARABELLA HOTEL & SPA, SOUTH AFRICA STOKE PARK www.africanpridehotels.com England Page 56-61

www.stokepark.com Page 48-53

Ultimate Golf Escape - Daily accommodation with daily breakfast for 2 persons - One round trip transfer to Sanya Phoenix International Airport and Sanya Railway Station - Welcome beverage - RMB400 Food and Beverage credit per stay - Transfer between the resort and golf club - An 18 hole round per stay for two persons in Sun Valley Sanya Golf Resort - One time 60 minutes Mandara Spa selected treatment per stay for two persons - Terms and conditions apply * Validity: 07 Apr 2014 to 31 Oct 2014. (not applicable for booking from 30 Sep to 06 Oct 2014) * The promotion items are not changeable and refundable. Unused portion cannot be exchanged for cash nor retain * The above offer requires a minimum 2 nights consecutive stay in Sheraton Sanya Resort * Sheraton Sanya Resort reserves the right for the final interpretation of all terms and conditions

From ÂĽ

1,940

Š2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Sheraton and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. For full terms and conditions, visit sheraton.com/sanya

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COMPETITION: WIN A FOURBALL AT THE NEWLY REVAMPED QUINTA DO LAGO’S NORTH COURSE Destination Golf has partnered up with Quinta do Lago, to offer readers the chance to win a Fourball on its newly revamped North Course.

Away from the fairways, the resort’s extensive leisure facilities guarantee there is plenty to keep everyone occupied with events, tennis, cycling and watersports just some of the activities available.

The eyes of the European golf industry are set to be on Quinta do Lago in October when it unveils its eagerly-awaited totally revamped North Course – predicted to become one of the new stars of European golf.

Quinta do Lago’s stunning location by the beach offers the perfect place to relax and unwind while the resort’s wide array of restaurants, both formal and informal, take advantage of the fresh Mediterranean produce that the region has become famous for.

Redesigned by renowned American architect Beau Welling in close collaboration with European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, the new layout has been built to the highest specifications with a €9.6m investment programme and is in line to become the new number one course at the prestigious family resort.

Question: Who were Paul McGinleys three wild card choices for the European Ryder Cup Team 2014?

Since its inception, Quinta do Lago has been at the forefront of European golf with three 18-hole championship courses – Quinta do Lago North and South courses and Laranjal – matched by outstanding practice facilities at the Paul McGinley Academy and the new TaylorMade Fitting Center.

For further information on Quinta do Lago and its facilities visit www.quintadolago.com

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To enter, simply email your answer to destinationgolf@live.com before the deadline of Monday 29th September 2014.

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Green Monkey, Sandy Lan Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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Green Monkey, Sandy Lan Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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Old Course, Sandy Lane Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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Old Course, Sandy Lane Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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The Country Club, Sandy L Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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The Country Club, Sandy L Barbados, West Indies • www.sandylane.com

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Dove Valley Ranch Golf Clu

Cave Creek, Arizona, USA • www.dovevalleyranch.c

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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Firerock Country Club

Fountain Hills, Arizona, USA • www.firerockcc.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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Para

Paradise

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adise Valley Country Club

e Valley, Arizona, USA • www.paradisevalleycc.com AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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The Legacy Golf Resort

Phoenix, Arizona, USA • www.golflegacyresort.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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Vistal Golf Club

Phoenix, Arizona, USA • www.vistalgolfclub.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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Whirlwind Golf Club

Chandler, Arizona, USA • www.whirlwindgolf.com

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AIDANBRADLEY AIDANBRADLEY Golf Course Photography Golf Course Photography

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“Norwegian Wood”

Oslo city centre

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Golfing brothers Andrew & Paul Marshall visit Scandinavia’s oldest capital for a four-day sight-seeing golf break...

EL E AV UR TR AT FE

When it comes to golf travel, there’s a growing trend towards golf trips to capital cities and enjoying the off-course attractions and activities on offer before or after a round. And as an added bonus, many of a country’s best courses are situated within close proximity of the capital. For those golfers looking for a golf break away from the tried and tested haunts, then the relatively new and undiscovered golf destination of Norway, and in particular its capital Oslo, is well worth considering.

“Norway has around 175 golf courses and around 35 are within an hour’s drive of Oslo,” says Tom Gundersen, Head of Communication of the Norwegian Golf Federation. “An average green fee is about 50 euros (400 Norwegian Krone) but most courses have different prices depending on when you play. A couple of tips; pack your handicap card if you have one and be sure to book tee times in advance by sending an email or calling the club.”

Adding to the appeal of a Norwegian golf trip is beautiful Oslo itself which was founded in 1049 by Harald Hardråda, making it the oldest Scandinavian capital. With its many historical and cultural sites, world-class museums and galleries, a cosmopolitan ambiance, cuttingedge city style plus affordable flights from Europe, it’s an excellent destination for a mini golf break, particularly during the warmer, longer days of early May to late September.

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Miklagard Golf (Credit: S.Jensen)

Nobel Peace Center (Credit: Visit Oslo/H.M.Larsen)

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16th green at Miklagard GC

The Opera

From previous page DAY 1 It’s a sunny morning in early August and we get our four-day Oslo golf break underway by driving to Miklagard Golf, only 10 minutes from Gardermoen International Airport. From the welcoming clubhouse (constructed of dense beams of dark timber and featuring a grassed roof in traditional Viking style), to the superb practice facilities, well-stocked pro shop and lovely views from the terrace, it’s easy to see why this is one of Norway’s premier courses.

“Our intention with Miklagard was to create the first Championship course in Norway, capable of hosting tournaments. So we drafted in Robert Trent Jones Jnr. to design it, which all came about, believe it or not, because Tore Harald Mjøen, who wanted to build the country’s first championship course, rescued Trent Jones from drowning while on vacation in Hawaii in 1997,” says General Manager Tore Waagø, as we enjoy some coffee before our round. “It’s a big, brash course that we can lengthen to over 7,000 metres, so it’s good for European Tour events like the Norwegian Challenge that begins tomorrow. “ Whereas most courses in Norway are forest layouts, Miklagard bucks the trend. Its open parkland-style design is laid out on hilly terrain within a lovely farming landscape where lush green fairways contrast with waving grasses, burnished yellow by the northern summer sun. Miklagard’s Viking theme continues with each hole named after Norse monarchs and deities, and the course derives its name from the moniker given by the Vikings to presentday Istanbul, where Europe and Asia meet.

Paul and I are lucky enough to tee-off in the pro-am, the day before the main Norwegian Challenge event, and we can only raise our putters in admiration, as we watch tour pros such as Johan Edfors, Richard McEvoy and eventual winner Benjamin Hebert (with a total of -15), play from the back tees and handle the elevation changes, water hazards and fast, multi-tiered greens with aplomb. Where we are happy to achieve a green in regulation, the pros regularly hit their shots to precise areas to give themselves the best chance of holing putts.

After our opening round at Miklagard, we check in for two nights at the Thon Hotel Opera conveniently located in the heart of Oslo next to the central train station. The hotel offers great views of Oslo Fjord and the magnificent new Opera House (be sure to include a walk up onto the roof), and is the perfect base for shopping, restaurants, bars and sight seeing.

Some of best attractions include the Royal Palace, Akershus Slott (a medieval castle dating from 1300AD), Nobel Peace Centre, Norsk Museum of Cultural History, Munch Museum and the National Gallery, home to more of Edvard Munch’s best-known works, including The Scream.

If you have time, take the short ferry trip from Radhusbrygge Quay to the Bygdøy Peninsula and visit the Polar Ship Fram Museum and the magnificent Viking Ship Museum whose exhibits include the 24-metre long Gokstad, the world’s finest example of a longship. To sample local cuisine (such as wild salmon, reindeer, mus sels, Arctic char, Lofoten lamb or Akerselva trout) head to the Grand Café or Englebert Café (Norway’s oldest restaurant), both places oozing with ambiance, history and tradition.

a House (Credit: VisitOslo/R.Costa)

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The par-4 14th at Oslo GC (Credit: Oslo GC)

Oslo GC tool set

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Ski simulator, museum, and cafe

Snapping

From previous page DAY 2 “Welcome to Oslo Golf Club,” says Head Professional Stephen Newey, as we enter the pro-shop at Norway’s oldest course, beautifully situated around the alpine waters of Lake Bogstad, only 8 km north-west of the city centre. Stephen is an Englishman from Sheffield who has worked at the club for longer than he can remember. He’s a bit of a character and before we tee off, he entertains us with some of his stories, especially the time he had his photo taken with Seve Ballesteros which he proudly shows us.

“The first golf shots at Oslo Golf Club were hit one autumn day in 1924 and except for the 2nd World War period, when people grew potatoes and other vegetables on the course, golf has been played here ever since,” says Niels Vik, the General Manager. “After many years of wear and tear the golf course was worn down, and between 2007-2009, it was totally revamped

by American designer Steve Forrest, including the construction of greens, tees, fairways and state-of-the-art drainage systems according to USGA specifications.”

The result is a championship quality par-71 design of 6340 metres, that along with Miklagard, vies for Norway’s top golf spot. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable test featuring many elevation changes with water coming into play on several holes, particularly the signature stretch from thirteen to sixteen close to the lake. The course is a regular venue for the Norwegian Masters, a Ladies European Tour event, and plans are currently in place to launch a bid to host the biennial Solheim Cup in 2019, which can only be helped by the club’s most famous member - LPGA tour player Suzann Pettersen.

After lunch on our return journey to Oslo, we visit one of Norway’s top tourist attractions. The Holmenkollen National Arena is a skiing and biathlon venue that host World Cup Nordic skiing events every winter.

The centrepiece is the impressive Holmenkollbaken ski jump and from the viewing deck you can enjoy 360 degree panoramic views of the city, fjord and hinterland. Underneath the ski jump is the world’s oldest ski museum (with 4,000 years of skiing history on display) and a ski simulator with a totally unique and realistic feel.

In the evening we meet Stine L.Borgersen, General Manager of Akevittruten (The Norwegian Aquavit Trail), that offers tailor-made excursions to old distilleries to learn the secrets behind the making of Norway’s national dram – Aquavit. On a tour at the Arcus distillery on the outskirts of Oslo, we learn that Aquavit was originally used as a medicine and the spirit was said to cure all diseases and be an elixir or life.

the Holmenkollen ski jump arena

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The par-4, 17th hole at Atlungstad GC (Credit: S.Jensen)

The par-3 6th at Atlungstad GC

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Staur Gürd (Staur Farm) by the shores of Lake Mjøsa

Aquavit ta

From previous page DAY 3 The following morning it doesn’t take us long to leave Oslo behind and enter the countryside, where Norwegian homes with their distinctive mustard, red and summer green facades contrast vividly against the ubiquitous conifer and birch woodlands, farmland and rocky outcrops. We head north along the shores of Lake Mjøsa (Norway’s largest lake) to play Atlungstad Golf Club, situated a few kilometres south of Hamar town.

Atlungstad is a lovely mix of forest style holes on the front nine and parkland style holes on the back nine with Lake Mjøsa always in view. There are several memorable holes but a special mention must go to the closing trio near the lake shore. The picturesque par-3 16th is guarded by a lone, twisted fir tree in front of the lake side green and the signature 17th is a classic par-4 that requires a risk or reward tee shot across a corner of the lake to reach the fairway. On the par-5 18th, local knowledge suggests using the Atlungstad Brenneri (Norway’s only historical aquavit distillery where guided tours are available), just beyond the clubhouse as a marker for your second shot, to leave a short iron third over water to the flag.

After a cold refreshing beer at Atlungstad’s 19th hole, we drive to our home for the night at nearby Staur Gård, an historic farmstead/guest house situated within a gently rolling arable landscape of wheat fields and mature trees by the banks of Lake Mjøsa. A poplar-lined pathway leads through the geometric designed garden with seats for contemplation, and down to the lake where you can take a swim. Staur Gård has one of the most tranquil atmospheres imaginable, and the only sounds to be heard are buzzing insects and the calls of swifts and swallows on the wing.

In the late afternoon we drive back to Hamar and board the beautiful DS Skibladner for a boat trip across Lake Mjøsa. Skibladner has been carrying passengers across the lake since 1856 and is today the world’s oldest paddle steamer still providing this type of service. An impeccably dressed head waiter greets us and shows us to the vessel’s unique interior with its plush mahogany, brass ceiling lights and gilded mirrors, reminiscent of a bygone age when gentlemen arrived in top hats and ladies came dressed in layers of skirts.

Back at Staur Gård, we enjoy a gorgeous evening meal starting with smoked trout with rocket salad and horseradish sauce, a main course of tender beef loin (from the farm), baked onions and asparagus with potato cake, and for dessert it’s a deliciously soft chocolate pudding with ice cream and strawberries made from a time-honoured recipe by a local lady called Marit.

To round off our meal we head outside to the veranda to enjoy some Aquavit and chat about the day’s events.

asting at Atlungstad Brenneri distillery

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Aboard the DS Skibladner on Lake Mjøsa.

Losby Golf & Country Club

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Barrels inside the Arcus distillery

From previous page DAY 4 On our last day we journey back south to Losby Golf & Country Club (Losby Gods) situated in gorgeous wooded countryside about 20 km from Oslo and 44 km from Gardermoen International Airport. Dedicated mainly to the timber trade, Losby Gods’ history as a large estate originates in the mid-19th century, when the present manor house was built and the estate earned a reputation for its generous hospitality, attracting royalty and landed gentry for hunts and parties. Maintaining the estate’s hospitality tradition, today Losby Gods is one of the country’s premier golf resorts and proud member of ‘The Historic Hotels of Norway.’

Losby’s star attraction is the Østmork 18-hole championship course designed by reputed Swedish golf architect Peter Nordwall. The challenging layout is routed around both sides of the meandering Losbyelven River which runs through the valley and comes into play on several holes especially on the back nine. A few of our favourites include the par-4 4th, where the second shot is played though a rocky ravine to a large amphitheatre green surrounded on all sides by steep forested slopes, and the tenth is a terrific long par-3 played from an elevated tee with water protecting the green.

More water comes into play on the par-4 12th and 15th holes which both require strategic tee shots to fairways surrounded on both sides by water with second shots over more water to the greens. A true recognition of Losby’s quality is the fact it hosted the 2007 SAS Masters, an event on the European LPGA tour won by Suzann Pettersen. Losby also features the fun, pay-and-play 9-hole Vestmork course with par-3 and par-4 holes, a 72-bay floodlit range, golf academy, an excellent pro shop, two putting greens, a short game area and golf simulators. All in all it’s a worthy addition to any Oslo golf break. Have fun and take plenty of balls...

FACT FILE: Where To Stay Thon Hotel Opera: www.thonhotels.com/hotels/ countrys/norway/oslo/thon-hotel-opera/ Staur Gård: www.staur.no Losby Golf & Country Club (Losby Gods): www.losbygods.no Where To Play Miklagard Golf: www.miklagardgolf.no Oslo Golfklubb: www.oslogk.no Atlungstad Golf: www.atlungstadgolf.com Losby Golfklubb: www.losby.no

Aquavit The Norwegian Aquavit Trail (Akevittruten): www.akevittruten.no Atlungstad Brenneri: www.atlungstadbrenneri.no Arcus: www.arcus.no/en/Group/Visit-our-distillery/ Boat Trips DS Skibladner for a boat trip across Lake Mjøsa. Sailing across are from late June to mid-August Check the website for details. www.skibladner.no Oslo Pass The Oslo Pass offers offers free admission to more than 30 museums and attractions in addition to free public transport (bus,train,metro and ferryboat) and free parking in municipal car parks. Cards are valid for 24, 48 and 72-hour periods and can be purchased at Tourist Information Offices and most hotels.

Further Information: www.visitoslo.com

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Cancun Casa

Casa Magna Resort • Mexico

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Casa Magna Resort • Mexico

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Cancun Casa Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, the CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa proudly holds a spot as one of the World’s 100 Best Hotels according to Conde Nast Traveler.

This 4 Diamond luxury Puerto Vallarta resort features newly decorated guestrooms featuring Mexican-inspired colours and décor patterns with luxurious bedding, contemporary bathrooms, and exquisite updates to the banquet facilities and business meeting rooms. Enjoy the views from your private balcony or terrace at the CasaMagna Puerto Vallarta Resort - Marriott’s renowned Revive bedding is in all 404 guest rooms and 29 luxury suites, to ensure you get your rest during your Puerto Vallarta vacation.

Relax and rejuvenate at the award winning, State of the art Ohtli Spa, the most spacious and luxurious full service resort spa in Puerto Vallarta.

Golfers will enjoy easy access to the finest Puerto Vallarta golf courses. The resort’s sandy beach offers lounge chairs, umbrellas, sunshine and the perfect setting for a memorable destination wedding. A kid’s club located onsite offers activities for kids ages 4-12, the Marriott CasaMagna creates the ideal Puerto Vallarta vacation.

Dine at the four, world class Puerto Vallarta restaurants at the luxury Puerto Vallarta resort, including a Mexican restaurant, Japanese style restaurant, an American themed Sports Bar and beach side restaurant offering al fresco dining, there really is something for everyone.

The resort is located close to Puerto Vallarta Airport, which offers over 180 weekly direct flights from the U.S. for your Mexico vacation.

Surely a “must” visit resort that should be on everybody’s wish list.

Facebook.com/casamagnacancun

@casamagnacancun For more information see

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Gorgeous Grenadin

Tamarind Beach Resort • Grena

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Tamarind Beach Resort • Grenadines

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Gorgeous Grenadine Tamarind Beach is a lively hotel situated on the tropical Grenadine Island in the heart of the Caribbean. An idyllic venue, the hotel is situated on a stunning long white sandy beach with its own jetty for boat excursions and water sports.

Forty beachfront vacation hideaways include eight suites, which are set in tropical gardens right on the water’s edge with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Rooms are of Brazilian walnut wooden panelling, with balconies overlooking the Caribbean Sea. For dining options, there are two restaurants and two bars. A delightful open terrace surrounded by tropical gardens right on the water’s edge offering an array of international cuisine, including Italian pastas, fresh local fish and delicious pizzas from the wood burning oven.

Located nearby is the Jim Fazio designed, 18 hole golf course – The Grenadines Estate Golf Club, which offers spectacular, panoramic views from every hole overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Canouan is accessible through four major getaways; Barbados, Grenada, Martinque and Mainland St Vincent

Facebook/Tamarind-beach-hotel

@tamarindbeach For more information see

www.canouan.com/tamarind

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The Belle of the Ba

Arabella Hotel & Spa • South Af

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Arabella Hotel & Spa • South Africa

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The Belle of the Ball ARABELLA HOTEL & SPA is a five-star retreat that offers a wealth of elegance and service. The Arabella Golf Course in Kleinmond has been named once again as one of South Africa’s Top 5 courses and number 1 in the Western Cape.

Built by the highly acclaimed South Africa golf course architect Peter Matkovich in 1999, Arabella Golf Course offers one of the finest golf experiences in South Africa, which is an ideal place for a golf holiday.

The 18-hole Par-72 championship layout will take you on a journey through breath taking scenery, surrounded by the magnificent Kogelberg mountain range and Bot River Lagoon. The pristine kikuyu fairways, challenging bunkers and water hazards; and will then test your skill on immaculate dominant-bent greens. All of which receive frequent high praise from golf professionals and amateurs alike.

Facilities are Arabella are extensive, including top of the range academy which is managed by resident Pro Alison Sheard, a 9 times times SA Open Champion and Ladies British Open Champion.

Everything about the Arabella Hotel & Spa Golf Estate embodies the classic elegance o fold world style, mixed with the modern design trends that have transformed this golf estate location into an aesthetic wonder.

Arabella offers facilities for all ages, whether it is the adrenaline pumping quad bikes, a relaxing horseback ride down the banks of the Bot River, Kayaking down the golf estate river or enjoying the incredible wine tasting tours through the vineyards nearby – there a fewer greater experiences that at the African Pride’s, Arabella Hotel & Spa.

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15th November 2014

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