Great Golf Magazine Issue 2

No.2. 2011/12 Great Golf Magazine

Magazine No.2. 2011/12

Scottsdale/Arizona

Desert dreams...

Aphrodite Hills - Fit for a Goddess • St Andrews - Golf on hallowed ground Bovey Castle - Where eagles fly • Czech Republic - Bohemian Rapsody Cote d’Opale - The French connection • Malaysia - It´s a Jungle out there

www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk

Official Government fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 12.5 (22.6), Extra Urban 27.1 (10.4), Combined 19.0 (14.9). CO2 emissions: 355 g/km.

TRUE POWER SHOULD BE SHARED THE NEW ASTON MARTIN RAPIDE EXPERIENCE THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL FOUR DOOR SPORTS CAR

For more information or to book your test drive, please visit www.astonmartin.com

The ďŹ rst Links golf course in the Middle East region, the ďŹ rst opportunity to experience the unique traditions of the game. Yas Links presents the kind of challenges the world over dream about.

Yas Links Abu Dhabi, one of the top 100 golf courses in the world, truly is a breathtaking masterpiece.

See why our golf course is on everyone’s travel list

Plan your next excursion to one of the most challenging golf courses in the UAE. Inspire yourself on the region’s first true links course designed by Kyle Philips. Enjoy views of the Arabian Gulf on every hole and test your skill on the undulating terrain.

Add Yas Links to your ‘must play’ list!

For information, general enquiries and bookings please contact +971 2 810 7777 or email info@yaslinks.com Yas Links is an Aldar Golf Course.

6

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

Magazine

Great Golf

No.2. 2011/12

Scottsdale/Arizona

Desert dreams...

Aphrodite Hills - Fit for a Goddess • St Andrews - Golf on hallowed ground Bovey Castle - Where eagles fly • Czech Republic - Bohemian Rapsody Cote d’Opale - The French connection • Malaysia - It s a Jungle out there

Magazine Cover: Troon North - Scottsdale Photo: Nils Bjornes www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk

Contents Scottsdale - Desert dreams

14

Czech Republic - Bohemian Rapsody Majorca - A diamond in the rough

24

34

Fairmont St Andrews - Golf on hallowed ground Malaysia - It’s a jungle out there

50

The shoemaker who became PING

58

Cote d’Opale - The French connection Bovey Castle - Where eagles fly

64

72

Aphrodite Hills - Fit for a Goddess

82

Onyria Palmares - A new course for the future Great Products

42

90

98

The Manor House - To the Manor born!

102

Great Spa - Far from the madding crowd

110

Ridgeview Wine Estate - A Royal Toast for English wine Golf in the City of Gold

118

126 7

Great Golf

Magazine

Photo: Arnt Jensvoll

The Club Guide

8

UK

FRANCE

Turnberry Resort 131 Kingsbarns Golf Links 132 The Duke’s St Andrews 133 The Gleneagles Hotel 134 Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses 136 Trevose Golf & Country Club 137 Saunton Golf Club 138 Royal North Devon Golf Club 139 Burnham & Berrow Golf Club 140 St Enodoc Golf Club 142 Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club 143 East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa 144 Bovey Castle 145 The Manor House Golf Club 146 Wensum Valley Hotel Golf and Country Club 147

Cote d’Opale 150

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

PORTUGAL Quinta do Peru 152 Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa 153

SPAIN Club de Golf Alcanada 156 Murcia Golf Properties 158 Sherry Golf Jerez 160 Golf El Puerto 161

Only a Pre-Owned Bentley has passed the most exacting technical inspection by technicians trained by Bentley. Only a Bentley dealer can offer you this reassurance and fully validate its service history. And only a Bentley dealer will check it against our own original build speciďŹ cation records to ensure authenticity. Only then can it carry a comprehensive and exclusive 12-month Unlimited Mileage Warranty with 12 months’ Bentley Roadside Assistance.

Quite simply, a Bentley cannot just become Pre-Owned; it has to earn it.

For more information visit preowned.bentleymotors.com/gg

GOLF TRAVEL YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE...

WELCOME to the second issue of Great Golf Magazine, your Golf Travel & Lifestyle Publication.

Issue one has been a fantastic success and has filled an obvious need for a real golf travel magazine.

You will find copies of this autumn issue in many more top establishments as we begin to spread our wings. You may also start finding copies overseas including Spain, France, the USA and Dubai.

In this edition, we continue our journey to exciting places around the world, and will take you to locations, both near and far. With each new issue, you will have at your fingertips, a unique and detailed source of information and inspiration when planning your travels.

With all the trips that our journalists have undertaken for issue two, we have expanded our knowledge of how the wonderful game of golf is viewed around the world. We have covered countries where golf is a game that is still finding its feet, to places where it is ingrained in the very soil.

When you travel to play golf, as well as wanting information about the courses available, you will also want to know where to stay, what to see and do, and what and where to eat. Our aim is to provide you with this information in a manner that is both 10

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

interesting and informative.

For this issue, we have travelled to Scottsdale Arizona, a true Mecca for any golfer, and have a one on one interview with John Solheim who now is leading Ping, the American golf club manufacturer, on and into the future.

The golf courses of the Czech Republic have come under our scrutiny along with accommodation and places of interest. We have visited Cyprus, Mallorca and the Côte d’ Opale in France. Then on to such distant shores as Malaysia where we provide some interesting information to make sure that the local monkey’s do not run off with your possessions while playing a round!

Back in the UK, we visit the lofty heights of Fairmont St Andrews, The Manor House and Bovey Castle, not forgetting a trip to a vineyard that is supplying wine to heads of state.

We would like to thank all the people and organisations who have helped us to bring you this issue including the Tourist Boards and Golf Courses, not forgetting our wonderful proof reader and technical expert Martyn Watkins.

We hope that you will enjoy this latest edition of Great Golf and look forward to bringing you more articles and stories in issue three and on.

Happy Golfing wherever you go.

The Team

Great GolfMagazine 30 Eridge Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HR United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1892 544 872 www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR

Mike Kaas-Stock mike@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EDITOR

Nils Bjornes nils@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR

Camilla Kaas-Stock camilla@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk ART DIRECTOR

Ketil Plassgaard ketil@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANT

Martyn Watkins MARKETING MANAGER

Frazer Campbell frazer@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

Tony Smart Frazer Campbell Published by IPB Publishing Ltd 30 Eridge Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HR, UK Company No 6484115 Printed by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent of Great Golf Magazine UK

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

The Boulders - 7th tee, South Course 14

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

Desert

. . . s m a e dr orld, w e h t ourses around c f l o g d n a s u o h t y There are more than thirt ble a k r a m e there’s the good, the bad and the ugly. Some of the most r and stunning you’ll find in Scottsdale Arizona.

By Nils Bjornes, (text & photo) pictures also by Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, The Westin Kierland, Troon North and The Boulders

15

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course at Fairmont Scottsdale Priincess

M

uch could be said about long-haul flights these days but ”comfortable” is not a word that comes to mind.

That is to say if you’re not traveling first or business class. On this particular flight to Phoenix, Arizona, not only were we packed together like sardines in a tin and the fact that the air condition didn’t work properly didn’t exactly help.

But the long uncomforta b l e j o u r n e y w a s quickly forgotten when I arrived at the hotel in Scottsdale where I was going to spend the next couple of days.

Great resort Fa i r m o n t S c o t t s d a l e Princess is a wonderful resort located on 450 acres in North Scottsdale, and despite being in the heart of the Sonoran desert, there are plenty of local shopping centers, restaurants and attractions just a golf shot away. But there is no need to leave the resort, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has everything. With 650 luxurious rooms and suites, restaurants, bars, five swimming pools, an award winning spa, and not least two excellent 18-hole golf courses, there are plenty of things to do, so boredom should not be a problem here.

It’s already evening, but still around 35 degrees and surprisingly humid when I step out of the car. I’m greeted by helpful porters 16

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

who take care of the luggage while a valet parks the car. Someone brings me an ice-cold bottle of water, and I’m quickly checked into the hotel. My room is large and luxurious, and comfortably cool after the heat outside

Culinary delight I was advised to try the food at Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak restaurant with its friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and found a place at the bar. Coming to America “the home of the hamburger” and sitting in a restaurant with an award winning chef - who has this as his specialty - the choice is easy. And what a burger I got. Served with a variety of French fries and dips, from spicy to mildly sweet, it made something we in Europe look upon as nothing but fast food into an exquisite culinary experience.

Immaculate The two golf courses at the Fairmont Princess are as immaculate as is the rest of this beautiful resort. The TPC Champion’s Course, formerly the Desert Course, was completely rebuilt in 2007 under the direction of golf course architect Randy Hackenkemper.

Fairmont Scottsdale Priincess

The course meanders over natural ravines and picturesque foothills, with five par-3’s and a diverse array of par-4’s, ranging from the 480 yard 5th hole with a split fairway, to the 15th with a sharp dogleg to the left which if you should decide to be brave and go directly for the green, makes it about 310 yards from the back tee.

We however, are going to the Stadium Course, Arizona’s only PGA Tour facility and venue for the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the largest attended golf event in the world with an estimated 500 000 spectators each year. This par-71 7.216 yard course was designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf and even though it’s a challenging course, it’s enjoyable for all levels of golfers - professional and amateur alike.

Hole in one During the tournament the 16th hole becomes a Coliseum-like arena with fully enclosed stadium seating and the most

enthusiastic fans in the world of golf. They will scream and throw their cups in the air for great shots, and relentlessly heckle poor shots. It was here on the 16th that Tiger Woods made a hole in one during the Phoenix Open in 1997, and on the 17th Andrew Magee became the only person in the PGA Tour history to hit a hole in one on a par-4 hole. Another historic moment came in 1999 when Tiger Woods got 12 fans to help move aside a 400 pound boulder to make his shot. Since then the rule is that you can still move loose impediments obstructing your shot, but just with the help of your caddy.

On most holes on this course the desert comes into play, especially on hole 13, a par-5 with a “desert island” at about 211 yards and water to the right, dividing the fairway in two. This is the longest hole on the course at 595 yards from the back tee. If you’re confident with your first shot you’ll want it somewhere between the water and the desert island in the middle. The green is protected by a huge bunker on the left and a smaller one on the 17

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA right, so lots of fun to look forward to on this one. But now it’s time for me to head back to the hotel because I have an appointment at the Spa.

Pain in the neck In recent years golfers of all levels have become more aware of the importance of physical training and stretching to avoid injuries, and among all the choices at The Willow Stream Spa you will find the special Golf Performance Treatment, which I am going to try.

The Spa is inspired by and modeled after a hidden oasis deep in the Grand Canyon called Havasupai, and its design is drawn from nature’s essential elements – earth, air, fire, water and wood.

The treatment lasts for 90 minutes and is a combination of massage, stretching and acupressure, aimed at improving balance and swing rotation for distance and accuracy. I hadn’t noticed how sore and tense my neck and shoulder muscles had become, probably due to the many hours spent in front of the computer, so the treatment felt wonderful. Unfortunately I didn’t have time to check out the waterfalls, where you can sit and let cascading water sooth away stresses and strain.

I end the day with dinner and good company at La Hacienda where we are served tasty Mexican tapas, while the restaurant’s beautiful Tequila Goddess lets us sample some of the more than 240 varieties of tequila on offer. Needless to say I slept well that night.

Into the wild Before 6 am the next morning I’m already on my way north towards Flagstaff on Interstate 17 to take part in an excursion into

18

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

the desert with Desert Wolf Tours. Rendezvous is at the Roadrunner Saloon, an authentic western bar that has been used in several Hollywood films.

Desert Wolf Tours has a fleet of so-called Tomcars, originally developed for use by the Israeli Defence Forces Special Operations units, and still in use today in places like Afghanistan. These terrain vehicles are in a class of their own, and on this trip they certainly will have to prove their worth. If you’re over 18 you’ll do the driving yourself, and so as the sun slowly rises over the Sonoran desert we head out into the wilderness.

This is definitely a trip to be remembered. Incredible bumpy, as we drive literally over sticks and stones, through a terrain hardly accessible on foot. Admittedly, we don’t see many animals, as most desert creatures are nocturnal, but we do see a flock of vultures sitting with their wings spread out as if to catch the first rays of the morning sun.

Our guide, Brendon Buckles a native of Colorado, has an incredible amount of knowledge about everything that lives and grows in this wild and fascinating landscape. Not least about the protected Saguaro cactus that is so characteristic of this area and the only place in the world where it grows in the wild. These fascinating cacti can live to several hundred years of age. We also visit the ancient ruins of Native American settlements and the remains of sporadic mining for copper.

If you don’t mind a bit of shake, rattle and roll – this trip is well worth taking.

Kierland Golf Club at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

The Westin Kierland My next port of call is The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa located just a few miles from Fairmont in what is called the ”new” Scottsdale and like the latter, this is a resort of great dimensions.

The Westin was not originally on my ”wish list” for this trip, but I’m so glad I got the chance to experience this fabulous resort. A slightly more conventional hotel building with its 10 floors, but when it comes to service and comfort this establishment definitely knows how to deliver.

The one thing that makes Westin Kierland stand out is that it

is very family orientated, with a wide range of facilities and activities for both kids and adults, and the fact that they have a whole shopping district with bars and restaurants just around the corner adds to the experience. I enjoyed a very pleasant meal at a lively Chinese bistro called P.F. Chang’s.

For the youngsters, Westin Kierland has a range of activities to choose between, from treasure hunt and ball games to ”lawn chess” and RC Car Race Tracks all to be found at the ”OK Coral”, and of course child-friendly swimming pools with slides and canals for paddle boating.

19

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

Troon North - 18th at the Pinnacle Course se onument cour Troon North - M Troon North - Pinnacle Course

The Segway There are also the three 9-hole golf courses that can be combined in different ways to provide a varied and enjoyable round of golf. The courses; Acacia, Ironwood and Mesquite, named after indigenous plants that grow here, have well-groomed fairways, more than 300 bunkers and plenty of water hazards, and of course the ever present desert.

Westin Kierland was also the first golf resort in the U.S. to offer golfers the option of using Segways to maneuver around the course. These two-wheeled devices use gyroscopes and microprocessors to keep balance, and they have been specially designed by Kierland Golf to carry golf bags and other equipment needed for the round. The Segways are more gentle on the fairways than the traditional golf buggies.

Then there is the Scottish Golf Experience complete with authentic Scottish kilt rentals for those golfers who would like to try golf the ”Scottish way,” and to complete the picture there is a bagpiper who ”calls in” the golfers after a great game of golf.

A jewel in the desert Troon North is truly a masterpiece of a golf course, and it is with anticipation that I take off from East Dynamite Boulevard far out in the desert and finally pull up in front of the clubhouse. Just the thought that anyone could imagine to build golf courses here in the wilderness seems to me almost incomprehensible. The two courses, Monument and Pinnacle, flows through the scorched landscape like emerald green rivers, surrounded by sandstone 20

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

cliffs and a multitude of shrubs and plants, and with giant Saguaro cacti as guards to remind us that we are intruders in this otherwise pristine desert landscape. It’s like a painting, dramatic, beautiful and filled with contrast.

As a photographer, I had high hopes of finding a motive that could be a cover for our magazine here at Troon North, and my guide around the course Mike Friend, Director of Golf Events is doing his best to comply with my wishes. I am a little bit disappointed by the fact that large parts of the course are surrounded by huge private villas, although built in a style that fits into the terrain, it detracts somewhat from the feeling of being out in the desert.

Many of the holes may seem a little intimidating for the novice golfer with a lot of desert between the tee and the fairway, but the desert is deceptive and the distances aren’t as daunting as first perceived.

Beautifully kept As you might expect, it is desert and bunkers that dominate among the hazards on these two courses, but there are also water hazards, as on hole 14, the Spanish Dagger and hole 18, St Andrews on the Monument Course, as well as on the 16th, Post Card on the Pinnacle. Both courses are varied and entertaining with plenty of challenges, but what strikes me most is how well maintained they are, even after a long hot summer. For me the terms manicured and well planned seems to be a perfect

The Boulders

description, not just when it comes to fairways and greens, but also the way the natural environment comes into its own.

When we get to hole 2 on the Pinnacle course, I finally get the image I was hoping for. Satisfied, I bid farewell to these two magnificent courses, who truly deserve to be ranked among the best courses in America, and head back to the hotel to pack up and go to my final destination.

The Boulders I thought I had used up most of the superlatives when describing

Troon North, but that was before I came to The Boulders. Driving through the gates of this Waldorf Astoria Resort, you have a feeling of being in a giant Hollywood movie set, and as the road winds itself towards The Lodge, I can actually understand guests who think they are surrounded by giant props. This is truly an amazing resort, a place that fills you with awe, and you can’t help thinking how anybody could have envisioned to build this remarkable resort in such an otherwise inhospitable place.

I’m staying in my own luxurious casita (Spanish for ‘little house’) next to the 7th hole on the south course, where I can sit 21

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

The Boulders

on the patio watching the sun set and the course get taken over by rabbits, coyotes and gamble quail - a little chicken-like bird that actually comes all the way up to where I’m sitting and enjoying a cold beer after a rather hot and hectic day.

Spotted Donkey The sunset is spectacular and I decide to walk along the fairways to El Pedregal, where there are lots of small boutiques, galleries and restaurants which are also part of The Boulders. I find a table on the terrace at the Spotted Donkey Cantina and enjoy a fabulous Mexican meal while darkness descends on the desert around us. Afterwards I take a refreshing dip in the pool behind The Lodge, which at this time is virtually empty.

It feels heavenly after spending much of the day in almost 40 degree heat, to float on my back whilst looking up at a sky carpeted with more stars than I have ever seen, and with the 12-million year old granite boulders stacked as if placed by giants, discreetly illuminated as a backdrop. Did I say heavenly?

I guess I did.

22

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

Secluded fairways Tiger Woods might have had 12 fans helping him move the little boulder on the Stadium Course at the Fairmont, but he would certainly have needed a lot more help to move any of the boulders on these courses. Because here you’re talking tons – not pounds.

Something that strikes me is how wonderfully incorporated the fairways are into the landscape, and how secluded they feel, without any disturbance from other players on nearby fairways.

And as my casita is situated right next to the tee on the 7th hole on the South Course, I can not help but notice the relaxed tone of the passing golfers. It seems they’re laughing and enjoying themselves more than I have experienced on courses in Europe.

And when it comes down to it, isn’t that exactly what golf is supposed to be; an enjoyable game in beautiful surroundings with good friends.

What more can I say about these spectacular golf courses?

Well, keep your eye on the ball, something that can prove hard in this distractingly beautiful landscape.

Up – up and away My last day in Scottsdale begins at 5.45 am as I’m being picked up at The Boulders to go on a balloon flight over the desert. Not my favorite time to start the day, but this is an experience I would not want to miss. The launch site is on the other side of the valley where a total of 7 hot-air balloons will take off with passengers this morning.

As the enormous balloon lifts from the ground, there are 13 of us in the basket. For a while, everyone is quiet and perhaps a bit tense as we gather height and move towards the first cliff top which seems to us to be looming dangerously close. Just the roar

from the burner breaks the silence. Then we are clear and as the sun rises and sets color to the desert below us, we float around at 5000 feet, with only the air currents and our eminent pilot to steer us for the next couple of hours.

It’s a wonderfully peaceful way to fly. No wind can be felt, no engine noise heard, and the views are spellbinding. When we finally land, the ground crew who were following us via radio are already in place, and the journey ends as tradition requires - with champagne and breakfast.

What better way to end the trip to this stunning part of Arizona and a desert I’ve come to love – I miss it already.

GOOD TO KNOW

Only British Airways has nonstop flights to Phoenix Sky Harbor. www.britishairways.com I had a car from Enterprise Car Rental, renting a Sat Nav is recommended www.enterprise.com Resorts & Golf Clubs Fairmont Scottsdale Princess www.scottsdaleprincess.com The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa www.kierlandresort.com Troon North Golf Club www.troonnorthgolf.com The Boulders Resort www.theboulders.com Trips & Tours Desert Wolf Tours www.desertwolftours.com Hot Air Expeditions Inc. www.hotairexpeditions.com

23

CZECH REPUBLIC

Bohemian Rapsody Goethe once said about Prague “It’s the prettiest gem in the crown of the world..." and it certainly is a magnificent city. Brimming with cultural and architectural treasures, and with several splendid golf courses within easy reach, now there are more reasons than ever to bring your golf clubs along for a city-break with a “schwung” ...

By Mike Kaas-Stock, photo by Nils Bjornes, also Albatross Golf, Golf Park Plzen, Konopiste and Golf Resort Karlstejn

24

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

I

t was an early flight from Gatwick to the Czech Republic for myself and our editor. I find getting up at 4 am does not agree with me. Travelling through the night is no problem but waking up after so few hours sleep is just the worst torture.

The Czech Republic is reached in just one and a half hours from the UK; I have spent more time just trying to get out of London! As the rest of Europe is one hour ahead, we touch down at around 9 am in a hot and muggy Prague. It’s been raining hard here for days and now the sun is out creating the sensation of being in a steam bath, just what you need after only a few hours sleep. Well, no rest for us, we pick up the hire car and it’s straight on to our first golf course, Prague City Golf Club.

Prague City Golf Prague City Golf is surprisingly easy to find, being off the ring road but as the name suggest still within the city. The clubhouse, a renovated building from the Victorian era is plush and has the feeling of luxury. I quickly change and prepare to do battle.

The rain has left the ground saturated, particularly here at City Golf Prague, which is on a plain located between hills. Because of the soaked fairways, the buggies are not available and I end up hurrying to the 1st tee which is a good 5 minutes walk. The

fairways are very wide, no chance of losing a ball on this course unless I do something spectacularly stupid, especially on the first hole which is a par-4 and straight as a road.

Electrifying As I walk down the fairway I realise just how saturated the course really is. Big puddles of water are now hazards to be avoided. A buzzing noise causes me to look up and I realise that the course is criss-crossed with electricity pylons and cables. A thought immediately pops into my head; electricity and water really are a bad combination. I instantly have a vision of a cable falling to the ground and myself and several other golfers being turned into something dark and very crispy, best to keep going and not look up.

As I progress around the course, I cannot but help noticing that many of the holes are very much the same, wide fairways and large raised greens. As I move on the electricity cables above me continue to buzz!

I finish the 18th and head for the 19th which I assume will be the clubhouse, but no, there really is a 19th, it must be played!

This par-3 turns out to be my best hole and I complete my round content with my birdie finish. Time for one of those excellent Czech beers on the terrace!

25

CZECH REPUBLIC

Le Palais We leave City Golf Prague and head for our hotel, Le Palais, which is located in the city-centre. The hotel is a five star establishment, part of the Vienna International Group, and a listed building as are most in the heart of Prague. Originally built in 1897, it was the grand private residence for a rich businessman.

In 2002 it was converted into a luxury hotel with 72 bedrooms and suites as well as spa and health club.

The hotel has been beautifully restored along with frescoes that were originally painted by the famous Czech painter Ludĕk Marold. The suites are elegant, some boasting grand fireplaces that are lit for the guests in the winter.

Below ground you’ll find the Spa centre and the Health Club.

With spa treatments starting at €53 and on up to €326, there really is something here for everyone.

That evening we are joined by Jan Makarius from ABANTE Golf Tours. ABANTE arranges golf trips to the Czech Republic and Jan has been kind enough to book some of the Golf clubs for 26

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

us. He’s also our guide for the night and we set off to discover the old city of Prague.

Prague by Night.

Jan is a native of Prague and we find ourselves being driven through backstreets to the heart of the old capital. First stop is Wenceslas Square, not so much a square as an avenue. This has been the focal point for demonstrations and celebrations throughout the city’s history.

I always find old cities to really show their beauty at night and Prague is no exception. The historical monuments and buildings are lit up and the city is buzzing. Gone are the days when the streets seemed to be filled with noisy Brits over for a stag weekend, now the streets hum with many languages and the cafes, bars and restaurants are brimming with people.

Prague was established in 1348 by King Charles IV and he put his name to many landmarks and buildings here, Charles Bridge being one of the most obvious. At one time, this was the only

bridge over the Vltava River that divides the city and was an important connection between the castle and the old town. The castle lit up at night is truly something to behold, and the view of the city below is well worth the long walk up. From here we can see Charles Bridge which even at 10 pm is alive with people.

Albatross Golf Club Albatross Golf Club is situated about fifteen minutes outside the city of Prague. This is a very new course and a lot of money has been spent by the owner to fulfil his dream of making it the best in the Czech Republic. It’s situated in rolling landscape and surrounded by forests and farmland.

I am instantly aware of the attention to detail at the clubhouse; everything is modern and well thought out. The locker rooms are luxurious and equipped with towels for the golfers return. There is a competition taking place and so as not to cause complications, I decide to play the back nine, well ahead of any competing golfers.

Again I am met by wide sweeping fairways as I tee off at the 10th hole. This is a reasonably straight forward Par-5 with a slight dogleg right. Its 510 metres from the white tee to the green, my editor is already grumbling about the lack of buggies (again due to the rain) but I am personally looking forward to the walk. As long as you favour the left on your tee off, the only real obstacle to be aware of here is a hidden bunker 64 metres shy of the green which could trap the unwary.

As we work our way around the course, I am aware of the care that is put into maintenance and upkeep. It’s clear that the club really is set on creating the perfect environment for all levels of golfer. Obviously it will be a while before the 10,000 trees that have been planted grow to size and add some maturity, still, this is already a great course.

Playing safe My favourite holes were the 15th and 16th. The 15th is a Par-4 with a dogleg left. If you are brave, you can tiger line over the 27

CZECH REPUBLIC

rough and land past the bunkers in the middle of the fairway. I play safe and aim straight along the fairway in front of me and I’m rewarded with a ball well placed about 20 metres short of the bunkers. From here the top of the flag is in view although I have no idea what is between me and the green as the ground rises to a small hillock and I can see nothing past it. Ah well, he who dares!

I watch my ball disappear somewhere close to the green not knowing if there is a pond or bunkers lurking on the other side.

When I get to the top of the hillock, I see that there are bunkers protecting the green but I have managed to avoid them and my ball is waiting patiently for me just short of the green. I end the 15th with a bogey but happy with the fact that I avoided the bunkers, more through luck than anything else but it’s nice to live dangerously.

The 16th is a Par-3 with a lake to your left and following the fairway which curves around it. Easy I tell myself, I’ll go over the edge of the lake and land the ball in the middle of the green. I tee off and watch as my ball falls short and disappears into the water.

28

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

Not deterred, I decide to try again and am rewarded by my ball sailing over the lake and landing perfectly on the green. If only I could do that every time!

Konopiste We leave Albatross and head directly for Konopiste Golf Course, roughly 20 minutes from the city and half an hour from Albatross.

There are two 18-hole courses, D’este and Radecky and I choose to play the first. A buggy is available so our editor is a happy man, especially when he sees that it’s straight up the hill to the green.

This is going to be hard work. I arrive at the first green for this par-4 slightly out of breath but still able to enjoy the view. The second hole is more to my liking, another par-4 and still slightly uphill, but across a dip and following the line of a beautiful pine forest. There is definitely an alpine feel to Konopiste and you really get the sensation of being surrounded by nature.

Both the 6th and 7th holes are across the same lake. From the 6th it’s directly in front of the tee, from the 7th it lies forbiddingly

in front of the green. I remember the words of David Carter the golf pro at Albatross, “aim for where you don’t want the ball to go and you should be OK”, like the words of some golf master Yoda! My fears are realised as my ball disappears below the surface, never to be seen again.

Embarrassing moment The 9th hole is downhill towards the clubhouse and running parallel to the first. The green is on an island surrounded by a moat, and I start to mentally check exactly how many balls I have with me. Success! I manage to land my ball roughly ten metres from the water, and now a shot with a nine iron should take me to the green. In my determination not to land in the water, I overshoot and land on the road on the other side of the island. Luckily there’s no-one to either be hit or see my embarrassing moment.

This is a nice course and one that I am glad to have played.

For the less athletic players, I would recommend a buggy as you will put those leg muscles to the test. We head back to the hotel

for a good night’s rest in preparation for more golf tomorrow.

Golf Resort Karlstejn The next day after a hearty breakfast, we check out and head off to Karlstejn Golf Resort with its famous castle. The journey takes us South West of Prague and into rolling farmland and peaceful villages. After about 35 minutes we reach the village of Karlstejn and the castle reveals itself. It really is a stunning sight, and as with Charles Bridge in Prague, it was built by Charles IV and completed in 1365. We find out that the golf course is located on the other side of the valley which is confusing as in all the photographs; the castle is in the background. But when we arrive at the club, the castle is directly opposite on the next hill across the valley and is plainly in view.

This is a beautiful 27 hole course and the setting is perfect, being situated on top of a hill with views in all directions. The castle makes an impressive backdrop and is in sight for most of the front nine.

I cannot wait to get on the course and quickly change and 29

CZECH REPUBLIC

head for the first tee. This is a par-4 with a slight dog leg left. Even here on the side of a hill there are problems with water due to the torrential rain that has hit the country in the past week. The first hole is quickly overcome and we move on to the second which turns out to be quite a surprise. From the tee you are literally aiming for the fairway far below and down a steep incline. From there it’s a shot to a ridge that sets you up for your third, down again and onto a green which is on an island. I am pleased with my bogey and move on to the third, a lovely par-3 onto a raised green and surrounded by trees. One thing I quickly realise is that if I run out of balls, it should be easy to find a few more by digging around in the bushes, because this is a tough course.

Gathering of the storm As the saying goes “what goes down must come up (or vice versa), and sure enough after some more impressive holes, from the 8th we start to head up towards the clubhouse. The sun is shining and I seem to be doing rather well.

We take a buggy for the back nine which are located on the other side of the hill. Even though the castle is not in view here, the scenery is fantastic with far reaching views out over the Czech countryside.

This is a lovely course, the only shame is that there is very limited accommodation even though it’s called a resort. Karlstejn 30

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

is no more than 30 kilometres from Prague and so can be visited as a day trip, but the surroundings make it a perfect location at which you would want to stay.

Pilsen - Golf & Beer You cannot come to the Czech Republic and not visit one of the famous breweries, and what brewery could be more famous than Pilsner Urquell which is still exclusively brewed in the town of Pilsen, or Plzen in Czech. Pilsner Urquell was the first "Pilsen" type beer in the world and the town has given its name to a whole style of similarly brewed beers. Add to this the fact that there is a great golf course at Plzen, and you have an irresistible combination.

We arrive at 10 o’clock in the morning for our tour of the famous brewery, probably not the best time for tasting beer but still not an opportunity to be missed. The brewery covers a large area and is still the only location in the world where Pilsner Urquell is brewed.

We are given the tour of the modern facilities and then on to the old site complete with a film explaining how the famous beer is made. This is followed by a guided tour of the very extensive tunnels where beer still is kept cool, and we are invited to try some straight from the barrel. To drink the famous beer in the tunnels under the brewery is a great experience and I am only saddened

by the fact that I am the designated driver and so can only have a small taste, not so for our editor who has delegated all driving to me for this trip. How could I have fallen for that...

back decided to go into contortions, and so my ball landed safely on the green.

Golf Park Plzen

As I worked my way around, with a stifled yelp on every shot and the ball going in every direction except forwards, I knew that it would be a long and painful round. But we were on a fantastic course and we had a buggy in which to retire, so, on we went despite other golfers having to dive for cover in fear of being knocked unconscious by my wayward and pain induced shots.

The 4th hole was a lovely par-3 with a river running to the right. Even in my discomfort, it was hard not to notice the beauty of this course with the first five holes running either near a river or next to a lake.

The 7th is a real eye opener, you walk through a gap between trees uphill to the tee, and find that the green is high up on top of a steep bank. Misjudge your shot and you will either be back at the bottom, half way up and requiring climbing equipment, or over the green and into the woods on the other side. To my relief I land the ball on the green, a simple putt finishes the job.

We leave the Pilsner Urquell brewery clutching our free bottles of beer and head off to Golf Park Plzen where we are met by Tereza Bla탑kov-, the Marketing manager. She shows us to our rooms and arranges my tee time booking. The resort which is a renovated and extended farm, has 16 double rooms and 2 suites in two separate buildings, and if all the rooms are as good as ours; this is an excellent place to stay. Within half an hour of arriving, I am out on the first tee and ready to go.

Now in hindsight I can look back at this moment and realise just how important it is to stretch before taking that first shot. As I took that opening swing, something in my back decided that it had had enough. Even in my crippled state, I was determined to get around the course as I already knew that this one had to be played. The first hole was a par-4, downhill, and over a stream onto the fairway. Luckily the ball was already in flight when my

Wayward balls

31

CZECH REPUBLIC

Diving for balls The 11th hole is a par-3 onto an island, not one of your little puddles of water in front of the green, but possibly 60 plus metres of lake with a fair few metres from the tee to the water as well. I had been informed by Tereza that local gypsies dive for lost balls here in the summer to sell back to golfers. This must be pretty profitable, I think to myself as my ball duly sinks to the bottom.

We arrived back at the club house and even though I had suffered, I felt that here was a course worth any pain. I made a note to have a walk around it that evening when all the golfers had gone. The surrounding nature, variation of the holes and the quality of the course made this a great day. All that was to be done now was to retire to the excellent clubhouse, order a Pilsner Urquell and some delicious Czech goulash, and take some time to let all the impressions of the last few days sink in.

32

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

As we leave Prague the next morning heading back to the UK, I’m left with the memories of some wonderful golf courses, and despite the fact that I didn’t play my best, I’m happy in the knowledge that one day I’ll be back to have another shot at it.

GOOD TO KNOW

FLIGHTS: British Airways, Easy Jet, Wizzair and KLM fly from London to Prague, KLM and Bmibaby fly from Manchester and Bmibaby from Birmingham. We flew with Easy Jet from Gatwick. www.easyjet.com CAR RENTAL: Car rental is easily accessible and all the rental companies are at the airport. We had a brand new and very comfortable Skoda Octavia from Hertz. www.hertz.com HOTEL: We stayed at Le Palais, a 5 star hotel in a quiet residential area in Prague. www.palaishotel.cz

AR tour PRAGUE, s. r. o.

Ke SkalkĂĄm 22/3249,106 00 Praha 10, Czech Republic Tel.: + 420 234 099 111, Fax: + 420 234 099 101 Email: travel@artour.cz

www.artour.cz

Far Away Fairways . . .

Play the most challenging courses throughout the Czech Republic or simply enjoy a leisurely game with friends in scenic settings. Recount those green moments over a drink in one of our specially selected hotels, maybe relax in the comfort of our luxury Spa region resorts or perhaps sample Prague’s vibrant nightlife.

Choose from our special Green Way Package Deals or simply tell our Tour Advisors your own preference.

. . . We speak fluent Golf

Quality Tourism Services since 1990

diamond

A in the rough It might not top the list of your favorite golfing destinations, but this Balearic island is steadily becoming a major player on the golfers map.

With twenty four golf courses, all within an hour’s reach, there’s certainly no lack of choices. We’re of course talking about Majorca.

By Nils Bjornes, pictures also Club de Golf Alcanada and Golf Son Gual

Dolf Son Gual

34

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

35

MAJORCA

Club de Golf Alcanada

M

y first visit to Majorca was over four decades ago. The year was 1968 and Franco was still in power, while Europe and the US were overcome by student protests and demonstrations against an escalating Vietnam War. It was also the year Martin Luther King Jr and Robert Kennedy were assassinated and the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia. The world was in turmoil, but Majorca seemed untouched by the troubles. It was still a sleepy Mediterranean island more or less unaffected by mass tourism.

Coming from Norway I was struck by how cheap everything was. A Pound would pay for an evening out with food and drinks a plenty. Majorca had gotten its first golf course, Son Vida just four years earlier, but I was there for the sun and the sea, and golf was very far from my mind. This was also the case for the locals who were much more interested in the fact that Spain had won 36

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

the Eurovision Song Contest with a song fetchingly called “La-la-la…”.

But that was then and this is now. Today there are twenty four golf courses on this small island, which is aiming to become the Golf Island to rival other popular golf destinations on the mainland.

We arrived on a rather grey and chilly day in early March, and drove straight from the airport to Hotel Hipocampo Palace on the beautiful east coast where we were spending the first night.

After an excellent buffet dinner and a good night’s sleep it was an early start as we were heading north to Club de Golf Alcanada.

Alcanada Club de Golf Alcanada, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr and Jr was opened in 2003, and is a beautiful course located on the north

coast of the island with views of the Bay of Alcudia from nearly every hole.

Alcanada is the result of Hans Peter Porsche’s dream of owning a golf course, and the Porsche heir has not spared any expenses.

Situated on a gently sloping hillside facing the sea, this is a golf course that is extremely well kept and designed in a way that maintains the natural beauty of the landscape. Surrounded by pine trees and ancient olive trees, many of them preserved almost like sculptures along the fairways, the course has elements of ”a links course”, with some parts being reminiscent of of a forest or parkland course providing a varied and challenging game.

We are greeted by the Director, Kristoff Both, who joins us for an early lunch of Tapas in the clubhouse, a renovated Centuries old Mallorcan mansion with stunning views over the bay below. Unfortunately we can’t sit out on the beautiful

terrace, because even Majorca isn’t warm enough for that, at least not that day.

This is a golf course to suit everyone regardless of ability, as long as you’re not too ambitious and use your head as it offers plenty of challenges.

Watch the ravine Already on the first hole, a par-5 at 450 meters you’re put to the test. Here you’re faced with a huge ravine with trees and a stream running through which is enough to scare most golfers. I got to know this obstacle rather well as I spent quite some time looking for the ball. The ball were nowhere to be seen but I did see fish swimming around in the stream and thought to myself they must be pretty fed up being bombarded by golf balls.

The second hole is no joke either. This is a par-4 at 387 meters 37

MAJORCA

with a slight dogleg to the left where you tee off over a small forest to reach the fairway, so here you really have to keep your wits about you.

The 8th hole is probably the biggest challenge for most players. With a length of 398 meters from the men´s tee this par4 is also the most difficult hole on the course. The fairway leads uphill and is quite narrow. It´s very easy to end in the rough or in even more serious trouble on both the left and the right, so in order to avoid a frustrating experience the best advice is to play the hole as a par-5 right from the beginning.

There’s quite a lot of uphill on this course so unless you’re looking to give your thigh muscles a serious workout, my advice is to take a buggy.

38

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

Opulence and luxury Late in the afternoon we set acourse south towards Palma and Castillo Hotel Son Vida, where we were due to spend the next couple of days. It is no exaggeration to say that this is a fantastic hotel. Set on a hill top with views towards the capital in the distance and with opulence and luxury down to every detail this hotel really deserves its five stars.

The hotel in its present form was opened in 1961 but the original country estate dates back to the 13th Century.With 164 rooms and suites, a large variety of restaurants and bars, several swimming pools, indoor as well as outdoors and a huge terrace overlooking the city and the bay beyond, it’s almost tempting to let golf be golf and just enjoy the luxury. But of

Dolf Son Gual

course I’m here to write about golf.

Therefore, it was a bit of a shock when I opened the curtains the next morning and found that the heavens had opened with heavy rain and strong winds that made the palm trees bend and sway.

Son Gual I don’t know how others feel about it, but for me golf is a game to be enjoyed in beautiful surroundings on sunny days with good friends, and certainly not in horizontal rain. It was therefore not a difficult choice to drop the golf that day, although a shame as Son Gual, which was on the programme, is a magnificent golf course and many claim it to be one of the best in Europe.

Designed by Thomas Himmel and opened in October 2007,

this course is extremely well planned, incredibly challenging but at the same time a course that allows even less experienced players to enjoy the game from the forward tees.

Monster hole With over a thousand old olive trees framing the fairways the course flows in two long loops. The front nine runs along the borders of the property while the back nine are in the infield with plenty of bunkers and lakes as obstacles. Four of the holes are worth noting, the 7th, the 14th, 15th and 18th of which hole 15 is described as a monster-hole with a huge bunker that has a tendency to swallow the ball. On the whole, this is a course that definitely requires a good dose of courage, but also skill and 39

MAJORCA

Castillo Hotel Son Vida

forward planning because it isn’t always the one that aims directly for the flag that wins.

During the day I meet several golfers who have braved the weather and return pretty soaked but proud of having completed the round in spite the terrible conditions. It gives me a small pang of guilt, but hey, tomorrow is another day.

Son Muntaner And as if ordered the next morning the sun is shining as we head off to our final destination, Arabella Golf Son Muntaner. This is a golf course well suited for the average handicap players. The course, which was designed by Kurt Rossknecht and opened in 2000, is played each season by more than 30,000 golfers and offers a spectacular combination of challenging and scenic holes.

Son Muntaner is a typical parkland course surrounded by pine trees, but also with some remarkable and special olive trees like the thousand year old ”Sa Capitana” which you’ll find by the tee of the 15th hole.

My only objection would be that some of the fairways are fairly close together so with a slightly unlucky shot, you might be in danger of hitting unaware players on the way out. But it is certainly a course that can be recommended, not too demanding and therefore enjoyable also for the less experienced, and the clubhouse offers all modern amenities.

Food Did I forget to say something about the food?

Well, when it comes to culinary experiences Palma has plenty to offer. Many of the newer

40

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

restaurants are very modern, with minimalist decor and trendy cuisine. Personally, I have a fondness for tapas, which I think is a very social and jolly way to enjoy a meal, but also the traditional Majorcan cuisine with lots of good seafood is high on my list.

Because when you’re in Spain, why would you want anything else?

As one of the oldest and still most popular holiday destinations for thousands of Europeans every year, Majorca is now in the process of establishing itself as a major golf destination.

Personally I hope to Monarch offers year-round flights to come back soon and get Majorca from Gatwick and Manchester, another chance to play at during summer season also from Son Gual.

Birmingham and London Luton.

GOOD TO KNOW www.monarch.co.uk Hotel Hipocampo Palace www.hipotels.com Club de Golf Alcanada www.golf-alcanada.com Golf Son Gual www.son-gual.com Son Muntaner www.sonmuntanergolf.com

St ANDREWS - SCOTLAND

Fairmont St Andrews - Golf Resort Hotel 42

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

Golf on hallowed ground

It’s the Mecca of golf, steeped in history and a place most golfers dream of going. The name St. Andrews in itself is enough to evoke feelings of awe.

Frazer Campbell made the pilgrimage...

43

St ANDREWS - SCOTLAND

The famous 17th hole on the Kittocks course

44

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

O

n the east coast of Scotland about an hours drive from Edinburgh lies the historic town of St Andrews, to many better known as “the home of golf ”. As a golfer and a Scotsman now living in “exile” in Southern England, it is almost impossible to describe how it feels to be able to walk alongside the fairways and greens of the Old Course. On this “course of all courses” so many of golf ’s legends have competed for the prestigious Claret Jug. It was here Nick Faldo set a British Open record in 1990 by carding a miraculous 18 under par, and where a young Tiger Woods amazingly finished eight strokes ahead of the field during the 2000 Open.

Standing on the bridge over the Swilken on the 18th hole I feel very privileged to be here, but behind me, bordering the course, runs a busy street with hotels and small shops where people are going about their daily lives. For them, The Old Course with its familiar Club House is nothing out of the ordinary. For me, on the other hand, this is hallowed ground, and it would have been wonderful to play here. However, I’m quite honoured to be invited here to play the Torrance and the Kittocks, two of the newer editions among the 11 courses this small coastal town of just over 16000 inhabitants can boast of.

Fairmont Set in 520 acres just three miles outside the town you’ll find Fairmont St Andrews - Golf Resort Hotel overlooking the Bay and with views towards the historic town itself. The resort’s two courses are both stunning, but at the same time very different. The Torrance, named after its creator and former Ryder Cup Captain Sam Torrance, has a series of holes to rival any this famous town has to offer. This 7230 yards par-72 not only hosts the Scottish Senior Open but is itself an Open qualifying venue.

As I love Links courses the Torrance suited and pleased me enormously and especially the back nine. Holes 13, 15, and 16, were exceptional and have the beautiful advantage of the ancient city of St Andrews as their "backdrop" with uninterrupted views of the Bay on the right as an added bonus. My favourite was hole 16 in particular, which is an amazing par-4 sitting 150 feet high on the cliffs, and your approach shot to the green is a wee bit scary as all you can see ahead of you is the flag and the sea behind the green!!

Dramatic holes I enjoyed this course enormously, but of the two courses, the Kittocks was my personal favourite. As it meanders above and around the coastline, I came across some of the most dramatic holes I have ever played. I could easily and happily describe them all to you, but as a teaser I offer you the following two beautiful and challenging holes.

Hole 7 is a 430 yard downhill par-4, with the constant and dramatic rolling waves of the North Sea on your left, and a stream to your right, offering no danger but just adding to the beauty of the hole as it lays out in front of you. Two - three bunkers a few hundred yards away in the distance are strategically placed just to complete the perfect golf picture. They were described as looking like “cup cakes” by one rather important lady visitor from the USA, and the name has stuck ever since.

Play it simple Next the famous 17th which according to Jason, the Director of Golf whom I had the pleasure of playing with, is one of the most photographed holes in the area. Fairmont even uses it on their web site. This par-4, 502 yards does look somewhat daunting, which with its Stroke Index at 2, says it all. However, you do not need to feel intimidated, you simply play down the left hand side

45

St ANDREWS - SCOTLAND of the fairway with your tee shot, and providing the drive is of a fairly decent length, then a good iron of your choice and capability onto or near the green means you can admire the gully from the bridge instead of being in it.

I have been told and concur that both these courses have been designed extremely carefully to appeal to both professionals and amateurs alike. Both Torrance & Kittocks have collected a host of accolades in their young 10 year history, both here in the UK and abroad.

The motto of the Fairmont St Andrews states "One Hundred Thousand Welcomes", and from the moment you arrive being greeted extremely warmly by the kilted doorman and his colleagues, until you leave, the statement is absolutely true.

World-class Fairmont Hotels & Resorts are located in world-class locations around the globe, and when you have the opportunity to sample the delights of their resort venue in the unique setting of St Andrews Scotland, I for one wasn’t going to turn it down.

This five star venue is luxurious from top to bottom, with 209

spacious rooms and suites beautifully laid out to ensure utter relaxation and pampering of the highest level. The two top notch restaurants have distinctively different cuisines; Esperanto offers a taste of the Mediterranean, whilst The Squire serves the finest of Scottish cooking. There is also The Clubhouse, The Atrium and Kittocks Den with various menu choices such as golfers fare, afternoon tea, or informal bar grub.

A unique treatment is available from the Pure Lochside company at the Fairmont clubhouse. This pre-golf warm up to help improve your golf swing was developed in conjunction with a golf bio-mechanic specialist. Muscle soothing anti-inflammatory blends are expertly massaged into the body concentrating on the muscle groups used in the swing, with the idea to lengthen it and improve posture. For me, all I can say is it was absolutely wonderful to experience this, 60 minutes prior to teeing off.

Naturally a Health Club with pool and Jacuzzi, treatment rooms and gym can also be found at the hotel. Business requirements are equally catered for with 15 conference rooms to choose from, and it’s the perfect venue for weddings and gala dinners for up to 650 people.

Fairmont's two top notch restaurants, Esperanto and The Squire, have distinctively different cuisines

46

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

Kingsbarns 17th hole

Kingsbarns From the moment you arrive at Kingsbarns, you know you are somewhere special. The Scottish flag of St. Andrew is flying tall and proud in front of a Clubhouse so distinguished in its design and looks. Although there is no accommodation and no members at Kingsbarns, they treat every visitor like a VIP, starting in the pro shop, to the bar staff, caddies, management – in short everyone.

In the late 18th century local Merchants and Lairds formed the Kingsbarns Golfing Society. Unfortunately in 1850 the tenant farmer of the time ploughed up the land, as was his right, due to farmland being more valuable than land set aside for golf.

In 1922 Lady Erskine and a local chap with the lovely name of Willie Auchterlonie laid out a nine-hole course on the links in and around Kingsbarns Bay, only for the life of it to be thwarted yet again some years later, as in 1939 it was mined as a national defence measure during the second world war. The course you see today, has been designed by Kyle Phillips and was opened in 2000.

Fast course George the Starter is a man who, like a customs officer at immigration, "has the knack to spot peoples strengths and weaknesses". My advice is to befriend George, especially on the first Tee, and you will benefit from his invaluable advice, as he can tell if you are a single handicapper or in the teens. Alan Purdie the Head Professional, who kindly played with us for several holes, has been with the club since its opening day. Alan explained that

the sand on the links make conditions ideal for the "fescue turf" that grows here, and in turn makes Kingsbarnes fast running.

This course does not allow individual holes to be described in the normal way, as all 18 holes are a complete panorama of land and sea, of undulating fairways, with six of the holes actually running alongside the North Sea at sea level. Every hole on this course demands some strategy play, and with this in mind the only hole I will describe is the15th.

Skill and courage This par-3, Stroke Index 6, is only 151 yards Regular, and 185 yards Medal. The North Sea only a few yards away on your right hand side, but between you and the flag is a sea-splashed beach that demands your best skill and courage to carry you to the green.The Kingsbarns lists high among the 100 best golf courses in the world, and after having had the opportunity to play it, I can clearly understand why.

Apart from golf, there are plenty of other activities in the area, such as fishing, falconry, wind sailing at West Sands, the 3 mile beach famous from the film Chariots of Fire, sailing and horse riding. If you are a connoisseur of fine whisky, then you might fancy a visit to one of the many distilleries in the vicinity, or perhaps you’re in the mood for a ‘wee bit of history’ there are plenty of castles to explore, among them Glamis Castle the ancestral home of the Queen Mother. You can also easily make a day trip to Edinburgh to visit the world famous castle, and Princess Street for shopping with a difference.

47

St ANDREWS - SCOTLAND

GOOD TO KNOW Kingsbarns new Clubhouse

Golf has been played in St. Andrews for hundreds of years, and today the love for the sport brings people here from all over the world. Obviously if you want to play on this hallowed turf, then booking well in advance is an absolute necessity. The hotels can do this for you when you make your reservation.

Anyone with a passion for golf would agree that St. Andrews is a pretty special place. For me it has been an absolute joy to have played these magnificent courses, and an experience I will never forget. Now, I can actually say, “I was there.”

History Golf has been played at St. Andrews since at least the 15th century. According to old documents from 1552, the townspeople were granted permission to play golf on the links by Archbishop John Hamilton. But already a hundred years earlier, in 1457, golf had become so popular that the game was banned by King James II of Scotland who felt it was distracting young men from archery practice. This ban was repeated by succeeding monarchs until James IV threw in the towel and in 1502 became a golfer himself.

The famous Old Course, which dates back to medieval times, staged its first Open Championship in 1873. Among the famous winners are Jack Nicklaus (1970 and 1978), who has been quoted saying: “If a golfer is going to be remembered, he must win at St. Andrews”.

The University of St. Andrews, was founded in 1413 and is the third oldest in the UK after Oxford and Cambridge. It was of course here Prince William met his future wife Kate Middleton.

Text by Frazer Campbell Pictures: Fairmont, Kevin Murray. Kingsbarns, Iain Lowe 48

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

Transportation to Fairmont from London and elsewhere could not be easier. BMI Airlines offer a daily service from London Heathrow with several flights a day, and at only one hour flying time, they are extremely efficient, plus having their own first class lounge at the airport. From Edinburgh airport to the Fairmont by road is a lovely countryside drive through Fife of only 60 minutes, and the Transport manager can organise this. A helipad is on site for guests, or Private & Charter aircraft can land at Leuchars Airforce base (seven miles away) by prior arrangement with sizes up to Boeing 737's. www.fairmont.com/standrews www.kingsbarns.com

Annonsetest_Layout 1 26.10.11 21.12 Side 2

The Extrem

e 19th

South Africa

Helicopter ride to the extreme 19 th tee box ...

Tailor making golfing holidays to South Africa for 15 years

see website

for full story

12 night Garden Route & Cape Town

2 week South Africa & Mauritius Twin-centre

3 nights Knysna, 2 nights George,

5 nights South Africa at Fancourt Resort

2 nights Arabella &

incl 3 rounds of golf.

5 nights Capetown

9 nights in Mauritius at ALL INCLUSIVE

5 rounds golf

Heritage Awali with unlimited golf.

Flights from Heathrow

Flights from Heathrow

Hire car

Airport transfers

from ÂŁ2,395

pp

from ÂŁ2,995

pp

Contact the specialists

Tel: 028 9023 2112 enquiries@chakatravel.com

w w w. G o l f H o l i d a y s i n S o u t h A f r i c a . c o m

MALAYSIA

50

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

Magical Malaysia

It’s a jungle out there...

They say to know Malaysia is to love Malaysia. With modern vibrant cities, misty tropical rain forests, spectacular mountain ranges and white sandy beaches, this is a country full of diversity and sharp contrasts. It is also home to some of the most exotic golf courses in the world. By Tony Smart, Pictures: Borneo Highlands Resort, Saujana Resort and Clearwater Sanctuary

51

MALAYSIA

Saujana Palm Course - 2nd hole

L

anding at Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is a great way to start any trip to this south East Asian country. It's one of the most modern airports in the world, extremely clean and the journey from plane through customs and baggage pick-up is one of the smoothest I've encountered anywhere. And it's also pretty close to Malaysia's number one golf course, the Cobra course at Saujana Golf & Country Club.

In case you weren't aware, Malaysia is a golfer's paradise with over 200 great courses and is becoming increasingly popular with UK golfers. There are golf courses in cities, in the jungle, in the middle of palm oil plantations, around disused tin mines, halfway up mountains, or on tropical islands with holes running right beside the South China Sea.

52

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

Many of these courses are designed by famous course architects like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones Jr and Ronald Fream. Most of them are open to the public and relatively inexpensive to play.

And there is no better place to play in Malaysia than at Saujana which has two courses, the Palm and the Bunga Raya, with the Palm proving so tough that it rapidly acquired the nickname 'Cobra'. Both courses sweep through the surrounding jungle with the cries of parrots, cockatoos, and various other tropical birds echoing across the fairways.

Cheeky monkeys Occasionally you'll catch sight of one of these vibrantly coloured birds flying from tree to tree but the wildlife you're far more likely

Picture courtesy of Tourism Malaysia

to see are the monkeys which wander the fairways of Saujana with impunity, completely unafraid of golfers. The locals tell tall tales of how the monkeys communicate with each other using the mobile phones they've stolen from unattended golf buggies and I had my own experience of this whilst playing the par-5 18th on the Cobra course.

My tee shot was in the middle of the fairway, something of a rarity for me, about 30 yards from the cart track. As I stood over my second shot I caught sight of a monkey heading for my buggy.

I walked back towards it and the monkey moved away, but as I prepared for the shot the monkey returned to my buggy to see what it could steal. Eventually I realized the only thing to do was to collect my valuables so I could take my shot in peace, leaving a couple of bananas in the buggy to appease the marauding mammal.

Aside from the dangers of larcenous monkeys both courses at Saujana are a treat to play with strategically placed bunkers, multiple water hazards and super slick greens providing ample challenge for even the best of golfers. It's not surprising that the Cobra has hosted the Malaysian Open on the European Tour numerous times and winners include three-time Major champion Vijay Singh in 2001 who beat another three-time Major winner, Padraig Harrington, in a play-off.

A taste of luxury Whilst playing these magnificent courses, I stayed at the Club at The Saujana, a luxurious boutique hotel next to the much larger but equally luxurious The Saujana Hotel. Both are just a couple of minutes shuttle ride from the golf and are surrounded by 160 acres of lush tropical gardens and tranquil ponds.

53

MALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur Skyline

My room was wonderful, tastefully decorated in a contemporary Asian style with a dark Burmese teak floor contrasting against the rest of the paler, understated furnishings.

It had everything you'd expect of a luxury hotel - large plasma screen TV, high speed wireless internet, a huge and very comfortable bed, and a lavish Hotel The Saujana bathroom complete with sunken bath.

Food options were vast with restaurants offering Italian, Chinese, Malay and Japanese cuisine, as well as the Suria Cafe and the Golfer's Terrace were you can get simple Western and local dishes. I particularly enjoyed Nasi Lemak, which consists of rice steamed in coconut milk served with fried anchovies, peanuts, sliced cucumber, hard boiled eggs and a spicy chilli paste known as sambal. Another delicious Malay dish I'd highly recommend is Beef Rendang, a kind of beef stew slowly cooked in coconut milk and spices such as ginger, turmeric leaf, lemon grass and chillies.

Lunch at the top Kuala Lumpur is by far Malaysia's biggest city and, whilst staying at Saujana, I took a one day sightseeing trip. This included lunch at the revolving restaurant at the top of the KL Tower which 54

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

provides panoramic views of the city; a walk around the colonial section where many old courts and government buildings are still in use today, a trip on the rapid transit rail system which makes the London Underground look positively ancient and is one of the cleanest I've ever seen; ending with an evening spent in Bangsar, the nightlife centre of KL where young Malays strut their stuff in an area filled with expat bars, funky pubs, night clubs and elegant cafes.

When my stay in KL was over I headed north to Malaysia's second city Ipoh and the Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort, which is just a 10 minutes drive outside/away. Clearwater Sanctuary was built on the site of an old, ugly open-cast tin mine which is now part of a beautiful 700-acre nature reserve. It is truly the most serene place I've ever been to with the peace and quiet only disturbed by the sounds of the local wildlife and the occasional cry of 'Fore' from the golf course.

Simple and luxurious The Resort is very simple, consisting of 32 luxurious waterfront chalets overlooking one of the nature reserve's seven lakes, a golf clubhouse which contains the only restaurant, the Lakeside Terrace (serving delicious local and Western food), a Cybercafe (seems like you can't escape technology anywhere today), the large

Clearwater -

18th hole

Tropical Lagoon outdoor swimming pool, outdoor and indoor tennis courts, a Kids’ centre, a stateof-the-art gym, and badminton courts. Archery, bird watching, canoeing, cycling, nature walks, table tennis and volleyball are also available.

Parts of the Hollywood movie 'Anna and the King' (a remake of the famous 'King and I') were shot here and you can still see some of the old sets. And if you stay in one of the two super deluxe chalets you'll be sleeping in a bed once slept in by either Jodie Foster or Chow Yun Fat whilst making the movie.

Watching the “birdies” Then there's the golf. The main golf course is a truly picturesque layout that wanders past deep, lily-strewn lakes and down fairways lined with hundreds of magnificent old rain trees and palm trees.

The greens and tees are superb though my abiding memory of playing golf at Clearwater are the vivid blue Kingfishers that are

n al Lagoo ter Tropic a rw a le C

always flying at high speed around the course and, with assorted Herons, Bulbuls, Sandpipers, Sunbirds and a host of other tropical birds making Clearwater their home, you're always accompanied by a wide variety of birdsong on and of the course. And, in addition to Clearwater's championship 18, there is the Wetlands nine, a magnificent par-3 course with holes ranging from 135210 yards in length that I recommend you play while staying at this beautiful resort.

From Clearwater I then returned to KL and boarded a plane to fly 500 miles across the South China Sea to Kuching, the capital of the eastern Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Malaysia is split in two, with western Malaysia sharing a border with Thailand, and eastern Malaysia making up roughly one-third of the island of Borneo.

Into the jungle After landing at Kuching I was driven 40 miles to Hornbill Golf 55

MALAYSIA & Jungle Club, the only ‘Golf & Jungle Club’ in the world. It is part of the Borneo Highlands Resort which cost almost £100 million to build. This cost included turning 18 miles of dirt track into a proper highway, where the last five miles going virtually straight up the mountain, because Hornbill is located at over 3,000 feet above sea level in the Penrissen mountain range in the heart of the world’s oldest and second largest rainforest.

The motto of Borneo Highlands is 'Back to Nature, Back to Basics' and this is a totally accurate description of this amazing resort. As with Clearwater, accommodations are limited to just 30 rooms and suites in the clubhouse which I can only describe as spartan luxury. No plasma screen TVs or WiFi here, just the magnificent views across the rainforest and mountains, and basic but first class furnishings. And of course the limited number of rooms means a limited number of guests which just adds to the wonderful peace and tranquillity.

The return to nature is continued in the resort's only restaurant, the Anais Rais Café, which serves healthy cuisine featuring vegetables, fruits and herbs grown in the resort’s very own organic farm. Indeed guests can even visit the farm and choose their own ingredients for their next meal with the help of the warm and friendly staff, 65% of whom are from local villages.

Get a buggy The golf course itself is amazing, its holes rising and falling steeply amidst the mountain rain forest (a buggy is a necessity here) and offering spectacularly panoramic views from many holes across the jungles of Sarawak. It's also stunningly beautiful, with lakes, ornamental ponds and river ravines featured on many holes.

Other hazards include a multitude of bunkers and a host of boulders that were, on the orders of the owner, left where they were found, strewn around the course as natural hazards.

Again, as at Clearwater, birdsong is everywhere, especially that of the long beaked Hornbill after which the golf club is named.

And birdsong along with the many other noises of jungle life is all you'll ever hear at Borneo Highlands, as it's completely divorced from the endless techno noise of the 21st century.

Tourism Mala ysia

Picture courte sy of

56

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

sia of Tourism Malay Picture courtesy

Deep sleep After my first round at Hornbill I ventured into the resort's Jungle Spa and promptly had the best massage ever, from a blind local masseur using home made massage oil brewed of herbs, coconut, pepper and ginger. When he was finished I floated back to my room and drifted straight into one of the deepest, most refreshing sleeps I've ever had.

Upon awakening, after an extraordinarily Hornbill Golf & Jungle Club - 18th hole healthy breakfast of local fruits, cereals and nuts, I Sarawak Cultu played the course again then went to the ral Village Kalimantan View Point to drink in the breathtaking view across the Indonesian state of Kalimantan which borders Borneo Highlands. It's an incredible panorama from an incredible resort which also offers its guests, in addition to the golf and spa, mountain biking, a gym, library and reading lounge, rain forest walks, bird watching, jungle trekking, mountain climbing and, if you must have it, internet access.

Sadly, after my stay at Borneo Highlands, it was time to leave Malaysia and it's wonderful golf resorts. But I can't wait to go back and try some more Malaysian golfing magic. It's a great destination with a wonderful climate for golf and one I highly recommend. Why not go and see for yourself?

GOOD TO KNOW

Picture courtes y of

Tourism Malay sia

Malaysian Airlines (020 7341 2000, www.uk.malaysiaairlines.com) fly twice daily from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

Getting Around Malaysia has excellent domestic air links and a well developed public transport system of buses, taxis and trains. It's easy to hire cars from any of the main companies and Malaysia has a very good road system.

When To Go The temperature is basically static year-round.

Daily averages range from 21-32°C. Temperatures in the hill resorts get a little cooler, averaging 21°C during the day, 10°C at night. The rainy season is from November-March.

Currency The currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MR) and the current exchange rate is £1 = 4.88MR. Essentials Lots of sunscreen and mosquito repellent, and an international plug adaptor.

Resorts Saujana - www.saujana.com.my www.thesaujanahotel.com Clearwater Sanctuary www.cwsgolf.com.my Hornbill Golf & Jungle Club/Borneo Highlands Resort www.borneohighlands.com.my Contact Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia House, 57 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DU. Tel: 020 7930 7932, website: www.tourism.gov.my

57

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW

John Solheim looks up at the picture of his father, Karsten Solheim,who started the PING fairytale

58

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

The

shoemaker who became

PING

Many successful companies whose products are world-renowned brands today, started in the kitchen or the garage of creative and determined people. This is also how the story of PING starts, a story that reads like a fairy tale, and as such, of course begins with: “Once upon a time ...

By Nils Bjornes (text & photo)

59

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW

T

he time was 1953 and Norwegian born Karsten Solheim, have seen me before I built my own putter”. “Well if you can the founder of PING, was living in Ithaca, New York, make it roll the ball too, you’ll sell a million!” said the pro. Little where he worked for General Electric. A couple of did he know that this was a hugely underestimated figure.”

So Karsten Solheim set to work. He put the weight on the colleagues invited him to play golf with them, not knowing that heel and toe of the putter and also made sure it could be used by he’d never played before.

“Let’s put it this way, he hadn’t got to the first green when they both right- and left handed players.

“He placed the weight down below on the putter head, were teeing off at the second hole,” say his son John who’s been running the company since 1995 when we meet at PING’s causing the ball to over spin. It was pretty ugly looking but very headquarter in Phoenix. “ It seemed to be a much more difficult functional,” says John. He brings out one of the first putters, holds game than he had thought,” The story of Ping is perhaps not unique, but what started on this golf course in Ithaca nearly 60 years ago, would become a milestone in the history of golf. While most golf club manufacturers of that time, and especially putters, were most concerned with how they looked, Solheim was more interested in how they worked.

He applied scientific principles to golf club design, transferring much of the weight of the club head from the middle to the ends, a principle which later would become industry standards. But now we are running ahead of ourselves in this story.

Karsten Solheim was born in Bergen on the Norwegian west coast in 1911. The family emigrated to the United States a couple of years later and settled in Seattle, Washington, like so many other Norwegian immigrant “These are putters given to Tour winners around the world who use a families. His father was a PING putter during their game, one is given to the player the other goes shoemaker, and for several years in the vault,” during the depression, young Karsten was forced to abandon his engineering studies at the University of Washington to work in it up and hits it with a pin. A distinct and loud sound fills the his father’s shoe shop. room.

When war broke out in 1939 Karsten got a chance to resume “And that’s why he called it Ping,” he says with a smile. his studies, this time via University of California extension When General Electric built a plant in Phoenix to courses, and after finishing joined the defense industry. First he manufacture computers, Karsten didn’t want to move as he loved worked for Ryan Aeronautical in San Diego and later with California so much, but finally he gave in and took his family to General Electric in upstate New York, which brings us back to his Phoenix in 1961. Again he sat up shop in his garage. “I was 13 first, somewhat humiliating encounter with the game of golf. when I started working with my dad, and my job on these first “Well, the embarrassment he might have felt that day on the putters was to bore holes for the shafts, and my brother Alan was golf course with his colleagues, turned into determination”, putting the grips on. It was a lot of work and it actually took a continues John Solheim. “We moved to Syracuse and he became couple of days to make one club,” remembers John. part of General Electric’s first portable television team. He “You were just a young boy, did you like working for your father? continued to play golf but realized that the weight distribution “I had applied for a job at a supermarket, as all my friends did, on the putter head wasn’t optimal, so he started experimenting”. but then dad started paying me two and a half dollar for each Working out of his garage, Karsten took the weight out of the putter, and also, if I needed help I hired my friends, so a whole middle of the putter head and shifted it to the ends and found bunch of us worked in our garage. One of the guys is still working that his putting improved immensely. At that time nobody for us today. seemed to have thought about this.

“What about your brothers?”

I 1956 Solheim and his family, wife and four children, were “When we moved to Phoenix Alan stayed on in California, transferred to GE’s research center in Palo Alto, California where but when we started making irons, he came to work with us, and he became part of the team who was developing Bank of America’s so did my oldest brother, Karsten Louis, who had worked for IBM first computers. for 12 years. My dad liked to work on new ideas so I was heading “One day whilst practicing on the putting green at his local the production.”

Golf Club the head pro came up to him and commented on what “So didn’t you have any other career plans? a good putter he was,” John continues. “My dad said: “You should “In High School I was thinking about becoming an architect,

60

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

61

GREAT GOLF INTERVIEW

While most golf club manufacturers of that time- and especially putters - were most concerned with how they looked, Solheim was more interested in how they worked but at the same time I was going to school I was building putters on campus, and when we needed to ad another shift, I ended up running both and had to leave school”.

“Did any of you think it would become such an enormous successful business at the time?”

“No, and my dad especially didn’t like to project the future.

He thought if you looked after today, tomorrow would take care of itself.”

Even after having registered his own company, Karsten Manufacturing Cooperation in 1959, a business that was completely self funded, Karsten Solheim continued to work for General Electric for many years. ”The only money my father ever borrowed was 1500 dollars to buy a mill because having the moulds made for the clubs elsewhere was very expensive. Actually the bank told him at the time they would never lend him money again. My grandfather had told him not to quit his day job, so that’s partly why he stayed with GE for all this years and he didn’t leave until my mother said we were actually earning enough from the business.”

The PING putters was an enormous success, but for a period during the 60s they were outlawed.

“The reason for this was that we had a bend on the base of the grip. We had just come out with the Anser putter and were doing pretty good by then, but when they came up with the ruling our business almost went to zero. However, the following year, after making changes, we were actually doing ten times better. But 62

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

I think it was a shame because those clubs would have made golf a lot easier.”

On our tour around the campus, as John calls the factory site, we meet engineers and co workers, and I’m also shown the Gold Putter Vault with more than 2600 gold-plated putters.

“These are putters given to Tour winners around the world who use a PING putter during their game, one is given to the player the other goes in the vault,” explains John.

“So over the next few years – what would you like to improve and what would be a perfect golf club?

“Maybe a titanium putter,” says John. “We always want to bring out a club that’s better than the one we made before, it might be a gram here and a gram there or a slight change of the angle. My father always felt that his best club would be the next one, and that’s exactly how I feel too.”

Karsten Solheim passed away in 2000 at the age of 88, but his legacy will carry on for generations to come.

PING man is our ”robot” who we use in a variety of tests as part of our research and development. ”He” was first developed in the 1970s by Karsten Solheim and now in his 5th generation. He is built completely in-house by our technicians.

He tests club head designs, shafts, balls etc. Every shot he takes is with a brand new ball. He never hits the same ball more than once. Every shot hit is captured and analyzed so our engineers can compare new models to previous models to ensure weimprove the performance.

0SZI +SPJ 0SZI 7YR 0SZI 0E 1ERKE 'PYF %X 0E 1ERKE 'PYF 7TEMR [I´ZI KSX KSPJ XVMTW SJJ XS E XII MJ ]SY´PP TEVHSR XLI TYR It’s not surprising that we’ve been a world-renowned golďŹ ng destination for almost 40 years. Our 3 championship courses, each with its own distinct character, are all within the resort – that means maximum golf and minimum hassle. Add to that a lively and tempting choice of 19th holes and fabulous restaurants, not forgetting our wonderfully warm, Murcian micro-climate and much, much more. It’s easy to see what golfers love about La Manga Club.

:MWMX [[[ PEQERKEGPYF GSQ SV GEPP

0E 1ERKE 'PYF 8LI 6IKMSR SJ 1YVGME 3J½ GMEP 'ERHMHEXI 7SPLIMQ 'YT

HIEP

X E I V K

0SZI E KSPJ FVIEO# V SR ]SY KEGPYF GSQ :MWMX PE

QER

CÔTE D’ OPALE

The French connection

It’s just a short ferry or train ride away. The Opal Coast, or Cote d’Opale with its white sandy beaches, quaint villages and charming countryside, and you should have plenty of reasons to make a quick getaway across the Channel.

Add to this some excellent French cuisine and beautiful golf courses, and what else can we say but “C’est magnifique!”

By Mike Kaas Stock, pictures courtesy of Golf d’Hardelot, Golf de Wimereux and Gold de St Omer.

64

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

65

CÔTE D’ OPALE

Bunkers and trees, bunkers and trees. This becomes a mantra that keeps going around in my head. Despite my time playing in the sand, I’m quite enjoying myself.

I

t’s a bizarre fact that in terms of distance, the Côte d’Opale is closer to our offices here in Kent than many of the UK golf locations that we have covered in this issue. There just happens to be a bit of a sea to contend with. But without the sea, there would be no Côte d’Opale or Opal Coast as we would say here in Blighty. It really brings home the fact that there is another world of possibilities right on our doorstep.

I set off early in the morning for Dover to catch the 08.10am P&O ferry to Calais. I have golf clubs in the back of the car along with a few spare clothes and camera. The roads are clear and it’s starting to get light. I’m booked in to play Hardelot Les Pins at 1pm so as long as I don’t miss the ferry, it should be a stress free day.

My contacts at Côte d’ Opale have spoilt me and booked me in for priority boarding with access to the Club Lounge. So within no time at all, I am safely parked aboard the ship and sitting enjoying complimentary drinks (non alcoholic I might add) and

66

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

chocolates in the P&O Club lounge. The journey takes roughly 90 minutes, not too long, but long enough to enjoy the comforts on offer. I am quickly off the ferry and heading towards the first golf course.

Hardelot.

I had a vision of finding myself in the centre of Calais and lost once I left the ferry, but this was not the case. The route out from the terminal takes you directly onto the major roads and the whole of mainland Europe becomes a possibility. It’s a simple 30-40 minute drive south, and you find yourself in the well known natural tourist resort of Hardelot, with its beautiful coastline and lush pine forests. This area offers many pursuits for those looking for adventure, including walking, riding, sailing and of course, golf.

There are two 18 hole courses here, Les Pins and Les Dunes and I am booked in to play Les Pins. This is a par 73 course and

I can see the club house in the distance so I’d better make it good.

What a way to end my round, I’m on the green in two and complete my round in a rather satisfactory manner.

was designed by Tom Simpson back in 1931. In the past it has hosted many high profile tournaments.

I have a recurring problem with water hazards, as it seems my ball is attracted to them in a way that can only be described as magical. Well, here is a course with the bare minimum of water hazards so I should be fine. Have I mentioned the other bane of my golf game? Trees! And oh, there are so many of them. Could this possibly be due to the fact that we are in a pine forest? Well, I have plenty of balls, and I can always nip back to the club house after the ninth hole. Got to watch out for the many sand dunes too.

What a nice start, to gently ease into a round with a straightforward par-5. Avoid going into the trees and the bunker 250 odd metres up the fairway and all is well. This is a lovely course for amateur and expert alike. The surroundings of pine forest and rolling hills are picturesque and the course itself is well maintained.

The fifth is a sneaky par-3, and one that I’ll try to play carefully. There are bunkers surrounding the green to the front and sides. It’s tempting to just go for it. “You can do it” a voice says inside my head, “one shot and you’re on the green”. I listen to the voice and rise to the challenge and am subsequently rewarded by having to use three more shots to extricate myself from the right hand bunker. After I manage to dig myself out it takes two more shots to finish. Time to move on I think.

Bunkers and trees, bunkers and trees. This becomes a mantra that keeps going around in my head. Despite my time playing in the sand, I’m quite enjoying myself. It’s a beautiful course and the sun has come out. I play rather well on the 9th, a par-4 that doglegs left. I manage to avoid the bunkers that guard the fairway and finish the hole with a bogy.

No stopping now I’m on a roll, I still have a supply of golf balls (only two missing in action). By the time I reach the 17th, I’m 67

CÔTE D’ OPALE

The surroundings are breathtaking and there is the ever present sensation and smell of the sea.

quite exhausted. But this par-3 soon perks me up. It’s a tee shot down a narrow fairway between trees to the green, and one that I manage, even though the voice in my head is now telling me to play safe! On to the 18th, and from the tee on this par-4, it’s a bit of a blind shot into the valley. I can see the club house in the distance so I’d better make it good. What a way to end my round, I’m on the green in two and complete my round in a rather satisfactory manner.

Boulogne-Sur-Mer Later I check into the Hotel du Park in Hardelot which is pleasant enough and situated only a few minutes drive from either of the Golf Courses to be found here. In the evening I drive into Boulogne for a bite to eat and a look around. As I head into town following the coast al road, I can reassuringly see the coast of England in the distance.

68

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

Boulogne has always been popular with the British, and as I walk around the old walled centre of this bustling town, I can see why. Within these old walls can be found quaint narrow streets lined with cafes, shops and restaurants. The square in the centre is an excellent place to view the Cathedral where, in the crypt you can still see the stone cannon balls employed by Henry VIII when he besieged and briefly captured the town from his base in Calais.

It’s worth knowing that Boulogne is France’s biggest fishing port so you can expect some excellent fresh seafood dishes should you decide to eat. Afterwards, a walk around the top of the very substantial wall that surrounds the old town will give you marvellous views of the old port and surrounding area.

Wimereux After a restful night at the Hotel du Park Hardelot, I head for Wimereux which is situated a little to the north of Boulogne. This

You find yourself playing across the spectacular Aa valley for quite a few of the holes so unless you want a workout, take a buggy.

golf course is located next to a stunning coastline with wide sandy beaches and views up the coast to the town of Ambleteuse, with its prominent old fort in the harbour. It’s a windy day in September so I resist the urge to go for a swim but spend a good half an hour walking along the shore. I make a mental note to return here for a beach trip next year with the family.

Wimereux is a wonderful Par 72 links course, and full of many challenges. The first hole is a par-5 up hill. You have to take the cross wind into serious consideration on a day like today. I have always liked the sensation of wind and can forgive it if it turns what in my opinion are excellent shots, into major ball hunts in the ruff.

I find the front 9 to be so full of character, from the par-3 on the second, which is a quirky little number onto a green nestled in a sheltered dip in the land, then on to the fourth which is an excellent uphill par-4. The surroundings are

breathtaking and there is the ever present sensation and smell of the sea.

St Omer.

I leave Wimereux and head straight on to Saint Omer. Two golf courses in one day! I really hope they have a spare buggy for me; otherwise I will be dragging myself around the back nine. I enter the plush club house where I’m met by Thierry Leborgne, the sales manager. We arrange to chat after my round of golf and so off I go to the locker rooms to prepare.

Saint Omer, home of the Saint Omer Open is a par 73 course that is spread over wonderful countryside. You find yourself playing across the spectacular Aa valley for quite a few of the holes so unless you want a workout, take a buggy. Having grown up in the West of England, I do like a landscape with a bit of contour, that feeling of not quite knowing what is over the brow of the hill 69

CÔTE D’ OPALE

The Opal Coast is just a short ferry or train ride away or around the corner, and this is how it feels here.

The second hole, which is a par-3, is proof of this. It’s a shot down into the valley below, and quite a drop at that! To emphasise the point, I have to mention that it was on this hole that I lost a ball in a tree. It just dropped into the offending woody perennial below me and lodged itself somewhere in the branches. I could not reach my ball but found another one on a lower branch which I decided to play on with. Obviously this was not the first time this tree had created problems for us golfers.

This really is my kind of course, as I already mentioned, I like hills, and to be honest, if I had not played Wimereux already, I would have quite enjoyed walking this one. The rolling landscape provides a wonderful backdrop and most definitely a little more flavour to the game.

The sixth hole is a nice par-4 that doglegs right. As long as you land on the fairway, there are not too many hazards to overcome unless you are brave enough to try a shortcut over the bunkers and rough to the right. With a score index of 15, it’s quite a relief from the more challenging holes.

The eighteenth hole is a great par-5 into that valley again, and up the other side. For me, to carry that far is beyond my means, so it’s a shot into the valley followed by another to get me back up. I am on the green in four and end my round respectably.

I meet up with Thierry for a cup of coffee and a chat in the restaurant. Thierry is very passionate about the golf resort and talks about all the work it takes to maintain the high standard of the course. After our coffee he takes me to view the hotel.

Situated in a prominent position overlooking the golf course, the hotel is modern and stylish with 54 rooms that overlook either golf course or the forest on the opposite side. The whole place has a smell and sense of newness, even though it has been open for three years. I am rather disappointed that I’m not staying overnight as it really does seem to be perfect. Unfortunately for me, it’s the evening ferry back to England.

The journey back is surprisingly quick; thanks to a super fast

70

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

toll road that leads me directly to the ferry terminal. Within no time at all, I am back in the P&O club lounge, complimentary glass of champagne in hand and already seeing the lights of Dover appear on the horizon.

GOOD TO KNOW

P&O have 23 crossings daily from Dover to Calais. Prices can be as little as £25 each way and takes roughly 90 minutes. For a little more, you can upgrade to the Club Lounge and travel in Style If you are travelling from the North; there are night-time crossings from Hull to Zeebrugge in Belgium, which is only a 30 minute drive from the French border..

Information and bookings be found at: www.poferries.com Contact details: customer.services@poferries.com Reservation Number (UK): 08716 642 642 (10p/min)

If you’re calling from the outside of the UK, please dial +44 1304 863000 and select option 1.

There are a total of nine golf courses that are part of the Côte d’ Opale.

Visit www.uk.golfencotedopale.com for more information, location and bookings for both golf courses and hotels.

Contact details: contact@golfencotedopale.com Tel +33 (0)3 21 10 34 60

MORE OF A

JOURNEY

MORE OF AN EXPERIENCE We’ve invested €180million in our stunning new state-ofthe-art ship, the Spirit of Britain and we’re certain it’ll make your Channel crossing more fun than ever.

The biggest and best ship on the route, this stylish vessel is packed with more choice and luxury, making sure your journey is a real pleasure. There’s a great selection of onboard restaurants, floor to ceiling windows and glorious new outdoor decks plus an onboard shop full of bargains.

Most importantly, we’re still offering competitive, value-formoney travel that’s hard to beat.

POferries.com

Expect more

dover calais t hull zeebrugge / rotterdam t cairnryan / troon larne t MJWFSQPPM dublin

BOVEY CASTLE - ENGLAND

Deep in the hills of Dartmoor National Park lies Bovey Castle,

a remarkable hotel where you are treated like royalty yet in a most welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. No stuffiness here, so just put your feet up and let the kids run wild. And then there is golf – of course.

By Mike Kaas Stock, pictures by Jeremy Rata

72

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

Where eagles dare...

73

BOVEY CASTLE - ENGLAND

L

et’s face it, most of us would like at least one holiday with the family where we don’t feel guilty as we sneak off to the golf course and leave them to fend for themselves. Your wife’s stern look and the pleas from the children: “Daddy, don’t go!

This is something that I did not experience as I headed out of our hotel room and off to play golf at Bovey Castle. Not because 74

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

I’m a heartless beast, no, the feeling of peace is due to the fact that Bovey Castle is a place that has something for everyone. While I am off thrashing my way around the golf course, the kids are busy taking part in some of the many activities arranged for children here by the Bovey Rangers team, and my wife is off for some spa treatment (read more on page110).

Lead astray We arrive here on a wet afternoon, and the first bit of advice that I want to offer, is don’t trust your sat nav! Dartmoor seems to be a Bermuda Triangle. So when your sat nav proudly states that you have arrived at your destination, and you look out at the sheep grazing in the empty field where you’re parked, don’t say I didn’t warn you.

After ditching the rather suspect navigation device and finding some very helpful locals to give us directions, we were soon back on the right track. Within a few minutes, we turned into the long, stately drive that leads to Bovey Castle, and the sun came out to greet us.

As with everywhere this summer, the rain has been the only constant part of the weather, and golfers appear from the shelter 75

BOVEY CASTLE - ENGLAND

The course was designed in 1926 by J F Abercromby, one of the finest British golf course designers of the century

76

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

The hotel exudes a feeling of grandeur, but in a very relaxed way. of trees and bushes as we head towards the hotel, blinking in the bright sunlight like creatures awakening from a long and dark hibernation. We pull up at the main entrance and are immediately welcomed by courteous staff in what seems to be early 1900s uniforms, offering to take bags and park the car.

Relaxed grandeur The main hall is very grand with doors leading off into stately rooms with high ceilings and large fireplaces. The hotel exudes a feeling of grandeur, but in a very relaxed way. There are children heading outside to play now that the sun is shining and I can see that our two are already showing signs that they could go feral here, only turning up for food, sleep and the occasional ice-cream.

We are given a tour of the castle by Craig Loveday who is a member of the resort desk team, and also leader of Bovey Rangers which organises and runs children’s activities at the hotel. He informs us that the 400 acres of land, deep in the Dartmoor National Park, was purchased in 1880 by William Henry Smith, (he of WH Smith fame), who later became Viscount Hambleden.

War and peace Bovey Castle, which was originally called the Manor House, was built by his son Fredrick in 1907. The property became a convalescent home during the First World War and then a military hospital when war broke out again in 1939. From 1946 to 1983 it was again owned by the Great Western Railway, as before the war, and re-opened as a hotel. It then changed owners again in 1991 when considerable expansion took place and the golf course

became a top priority. The Manor House became Bovey Castle in 2003 and has continued to expand with the addition of 22 lodges, spa and a swimming pool. The 18-hole championship course was designed in 1926 by the legendary JF Abercromby and was easily accessible due to the arrival of The Great Western Railway.

We check into our opulent room, with wonderful views over the golf course and on to the moors beyond. I change and prepare for my round of golf while the kids raid the mini bar for juice and any other treats that they can discover.

Tee off I meet up with Richard Lewis, the Golf Professional at the clubhouse for a quick chat. An Essex man originally, I ask him how he ended up at Bovey. “The Golf manager here, who I had previously worked for in Essex, phoned me up and offered me the job. I thought OK, I can try Devon for a couple of years, and here I am 26 years later”!

By the time I prepare to tee off, the clouds have all but vanished and dare I say, it looks as if I am going to have a warm and sunny afternoon of golf.

The first hole is a par-4 down into a valley. The green is off to the left with a river protecting it. My aversion to water forces me to aim to the right and my ball narrowly escapes disappearing into the rough on the side of the hill. From there I manage a shot to the near side of the river, best play safe I think! I traverse the river and land my ball on the green. “Good start” I tell myself. Play safe and no heroics, knowing full well that it’s impossible for me to keep to my own advice.

77

BOVEY CASTLE - ENGLAND

We check into our opulent room, with wonderful views over the golf course and on to the moors beyond

78

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

The children leave the owl experience after not only having had a good time, but also having gained an insight into these wonderful birds Beware of the buggy The third is a par-3, down a narrow green that is hemmed in by a hill to the left and trees and river to the right. The green is on a peninsular with the river snaking around in front. One of the ground staff has parked a buggy to the left of the green, about half way down, and I am nervous that either someone will appear as soon as I take my shot, or that I will hit the buggy. “Don’t be silly” I tell myself. Out of all the space in front of me, what would be the chances of hitting the buggy! My shot flies off low to the ground as I top the ball and smacks into the back of the buggy with a thud! Perhaps I should consider placing hazards exactly in front of the holes as I always manage to hit them! I’m relieved to find that (a) Nobody was there to see my awful shot, and (b). There was no damage to the buggy. I move on as quickly as possible.

The first eight holes, including the legendary 7th, follow the meandering river which comes into play on all of them at some point. After the 9th, a lovely par-3, you find yourself climbing up out of the valley. The 16th and 17th holes I find particularly pleasing, the former going uphill with bunkers and rocks in play and a fairway that tilts from left to right. The latter heads back down the hill again with a blind shot over the brow of the hill.

You have to wait for the bell to be rung before you tee off unless you want to risk hospitalising any players in front.

That evening we choose to eat at the relaxed and family friendly Castle Bistro, rather than the more formal Edwardian Grill where diners perhaps don’t take so kindly to semi-wild children. The food is excellent and the Bistro staff courteous and attentive. Afterwards we find some comfortable chairs in front of one of the many open fires, while the children go off and attempt to teach the hotel parrot some new words.

The next morning we head down for breakfast in the very grand Edwardian room where you can choose hot food from the menu or a selection from the buffet. The kids order pancakes and talk excitedly about The Owl Experience, booked for later that morning. The atmosphere is relaxed and I have to say that it is one of the most pleasant breakfasts that I have had in a hotel for a long time.

The eagle has landed On our way to the room to prepare for the day’s events, we are surprised to find a man standing in the hall with a fully grown American eagle on his arm. A steadily expanding group of intrigued guests are standing around, some taking pictures, but all keeping a safe distance. The man with the eagle explains some facts about the bird and states that this particular one is not his favourite as she has quite a temper.

Wild kids

They come in all sizes

I finish my round and return to the Hotel to find my wife resting on the veranda. As I suspected, the kids have now gone wild and are somewhere on the grounds building a campsite, or constructing traps to ensnare any lost golfers.

The kids are eager to see the owls and so we head off. When we arrive, we notice that a large metal box has been placed in a corner of the room and strange screeches and scraping noises seemed to emanate from inside.

79

BOVEY CASTLE - ENGLAND

Natalie Bettesworth, who is our owl expert, starts by taking out a small Southern White Faced Owl which originates from Africa. The children take it in turns to stand at various points in the room wearing a heavy glove. The owl then flies to each child and lands on their arm, coming in low over the other children.

After a few minutes Natalie puts the owl back in the cage and produces a slightly larger species. This continues until she brings out what is probably the largest owl I have ever seen, a Siberian Eagle Owl, which quite honestly could give the American eagle a run for its money. This owl stares around at the gathered children who in turn stare back with awe. Obviously being too heavy for the children, an adult is brought forward to hold this magnificent creature. The children leave the owl experience after not only having had a good time, but also having gained an insight into these wonderful birds and with a great story to tell their friends.

We were sad to leave Bovey castle and could easily have stayed for 80

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

much longer. This is a place where whatever you are looking for, be it a quiet weekend or a holiday with the family, you’ll find it here.

GOOD TO KNOW

Bovey Ranger activities for the younger guests include archery, raft building falconry centre visit, rock climbing, abseiling and Dartmoor Treetop adventure.

GETTING THERE; The M4 from London, the M6 from the North West and the M1/M42 from the North East all link up with the M5, which will bring you south to Devon and the West country. If you are using Satellite Navigation please enter Bovey Castle Golf Course.

CONTACT DETAILS; www.boveycastle.com enquiries@boveycastle.com Tel +44 (0)1647 445000 Fax +44 (0)1647 445020

Foto: Salten Golfklubb / www.nordnorge.com

those mountains, the beach, the fjord, it was so beautiful. so it took forever just to start teeing off. around midnight, we asked the man in the clubhouse about closing time. he laughed and said “sometimes in august”. then we put our sunglasses back on and carried on playing

- IT’S A DIFFERENT STORY www.northernnorway.com

CYPRUS

Aphrodite Hills

Fit for a Goddess

82

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

With more than 2 million sun-seeking tourists each year, of which 50% comes from the UK, Cyprus has earned a reputation as a bit of a party place. But away from the madding crowd there is a different Cyprus, one of great natural beauty, sleepy villages, historical sites, and not least – some excellent golf courses.

By Mike Kaas Stock, Pictures by Camilla Kaas Stock, Lanitis Development and Elea Estate

83

CYPRUS

C

yprus is an Island that exists in two spheres. On the one hand you find yourself within the EU, but geographically you are much closer to the Middle East. To the north is Turkey, to the east is Syria and to the south is Lebanon.

This gives you the familiarity of an EU state but the climate of the Middle East, not bad really. Add to this the fact that Cyprus was once part of the Great British Empire and thus has many British traits and English as a second language, and you have a location that ticks many boxes.

Spectacular project It was on a dark but warm night that I flew into Larnaca with wife and two kids in tow. We’ve come to visit Aphrodite Hills, a golf project of monumental proportions. Located to the South West of the Island and not far from the town of Paphos, it is set within 578 acres of spectacular Cyprus Scenery; this is a project that has cost an estimated €150 Million.

After spending what was left of the night at a small hotel near the airport, the drive from Larnaca the next morning was relatively easy. Not as easy as landing at Paphos International, which is only 20 minutes from the golf course, but still pretty straight forward.

The sun is shining and flowers are blooming in the central reservation along the motorway, what a pleasant relief after a rainy week in the UK. 84

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

Five star resort The entrance to Aphrodite Hills is located off the main Larnaca to Paphos motorway and down an off-ramp that leads to the old Limassol to Pafos road. The guard at the front gate turns out to be from Scotland and I jokingly ask him if he misses the weather back home, to which he replies with a shudder, “No”.

As we drive up the road that leads into the resort and the five star InterContinental Resort Hotel where we are to stay, the development starts to reveal itself. Built by Lanitis Development Group, this is the first integrated golf, leisure and real estate development in Cyprus.

Built on two plateaus and split down the middle by a ravine, this site is reported to overlook the exact spot where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, is said to have emerged from the sea.

If she appeared now, she would have to get past security at the gate first(!).

Champagne and chocolate With an eighteen hole golf course designed by Cabell Robinson, three hole academy course, driving range, tennis academy, five star 290 bedroom hotel, spa and a residential area complete with village square, shops and restaurants and including detached houses and apartments, this is quite simply a staggering project.

We check into the opulent hotel where we are greeted by

genuinely helpful staff and are taken up to our room overlooking the 9th hole and with views out to sea. There is a bottle of Champagne on ice for us adults; the kids find chocolates and a TV in their room so the view of the 9th hole is totally lost on them.

Early next day after a buffet breakfast I meet up with Andrew Darker the Golf Operations Manager. The children have a choice of the resort’s organised kids entertainment or the hotel pool they opt for the pool.

Hot and steamy As Andrew and I grab a buggy to tour the course, the first thing I want to know is how he ended up here in Cyprus? “I was working at a golf course in Abu Dhabi for three years before this, then I was offered a job here, much cooler”, he says with a smile that probably has something to do with the fact that I am already sweating, (I knew I should have worn shorts!)

“This is a par 71 course from the championship tee and 70 from the regular tee”, explains Andrew. “I have played golf all over the world but I really love this course, every hole is framed like a picture with stunning views.” I can see what he means; the greens and fairways show themselves within a backdrop of golden sun dried grass.

The course is dotted with Carob and Olive trees and the

fairways wide with large greens. Off into the rough, the grass has turned a golden brown from the hot Mediterranean sun. Being on a plateau and near the sea, there is a constant breeze to take the edge off the heat. The course is well laid out and can be as tricky or straightforward as you want depending on your skill.

The Best Holes We quickly head for the first hole, a par-4 which has an 18th century smelting furnace smack bang in the middle of the fairway.

It’s actually a protected site and certainly adds a new and interesting obstacle to overcome. Favouring the right side seems to be the order of play here, unless you want to take a shot from the inside of an historical monument!

The third hole, which is a bit unusual, is a par-5 from the back tee where you have to shoot across a ravine, or a tough uphill par4, for mere mortals. It’s a 200 metre shot across this gaping hole, and one that can bring immense joy or utter despair depending on whether your ball flies true and clear to reach safety, or whether it disappears forever into the hungry mouth of this ball eating monster. I’m happy that today I am not playing as the thought of failure here in front of the golf pro would be too much to bear! I suppose I could always have taken the easy option and play the par-4, but there is always that desire to prove your mettle.

85

CYPRUS

Unusual obstacles

In the line of fire

Luckily, the ball travelled at a speed well below anything that could be termed dangerous and bounced between my legs and disappeared into the rough. Always good to see someone else other than myself with the coordination of a blind man in a hurricane.

The man mumbled an apology and I Ieft him to search for his ball.

We finally arrive at the 18th, a par-5, and a beautiful lake reveals itself guarding the green on the right side. For those brave enough, a shot across the lake is an option. For me personally, I would favour the left and play safe. Besides, what’s the hurry!

After our tour, I am invited to dine at the club which serves an excellent buffet, plenty to feed the starving athlete on his return from feats of prowess (not that I had attempted any feats). My guide left me to eat with the wife and children while he went off to see to the needs of his golfers. With my fun over, it was my time to relax by the pool and enjoy all there was on offer at Aphrodite Hills.

I had taken a stroll down to the ninth the day before to get a few pictures of golfers teeing off. I placed myself to the right of the tee and about 30 yards away. The first of my soon-to-be subjects arrived and duly prepared to take his shot. The gentleman in question swung his golf club back with all the fury of a man attempting to kill a poisonous snake that was about to bite, upon striking the ball, it proceeded to head off to the right and towards me.

While I’m having a well deserved rest and spending some quality time with the kids, my wife decides to make her escape and go explore the spa.

The Retreat Spa at Aphrodite Hills is located on an elevated part of the resort with spectacular views from the outdoor pool

You literally descend to the seventh, a spectacular par-3 located down in the ravine and not to be taken lightly if the wind comes into play. Again, if you have the nerve, a shot across is an option, if you feel brave!

So, you’ve crossed the ravine and driven down into its depths to sink your ball into the seventh hole, now you emerge on the other side and head up to the eighth hole which is a par-4, the glistening Mediterranean Sea comes into view, a sight to lift the hearts of many a golfer.

What is obvious is that the architect has tried to integrate the various historical monuments into the course, for here is an ancient olive press in the middle of the fairway, again not your usual obstacle. Keep to the right unless you want your ball to disappear off the edge of the plateau.

86

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

The Retreat Spa

Eléa Golf Club

over the Mediterranean Sea. This Greco-Roman inspired sand stone building has been designed with just one thing in mind; to create a tranquil sanctuary for pampering the mind, body and soul. And as such, it was named European Spa of the Year in 2008.

Coming from the sweltering heat outside, it’s a relief to step into the spa’s cool interior. Here the lights are dim and everywhere candles throw a soft glow on the golden sand stone walls. Walking through the archways you get a feeling of stepping back in time to the Roman baths.

The Retreat Spa offers a wide range of treatments, from full body massages to facials. And whether you are looking for a one day treatment or a full week’s indulgence, a wide variety of packages are available at The Retreat.

My wife, for one, certainly enjoyed her “time out”, although if she had a choice, I think she would have gone for the full week.

Eléa Golf Club This is the newest of the island’s five courses, and is located closer to Paphos. It took me about ten minutes to drive there from the hotel at Aphrodite Hills.

Designed by Nick Faldo and having only opened its doors in October 2010, this par 71, 6,900 yard course has views out to sea and behind to the Troodos Mountains. The only blot on this otherwise beautiful golf course is the closeness to an

unattractive electricity power plant to the east.

With this new edition, golfers now have the ability to stay at the Intercontinental at Aphrodite Hills and reach both Elea and Secret Valley Golf Clubs within minutes, what more could you ask for!

Challenging holes Although not as dramatic as Aphrodite Hills, this is nevertheless a well laid out course with plenty to keep the best of golfers on their toes. It is in fact building a reputation as a real challenge and particular note should be taken of the fourth and seventeenth holes, named Orchard and Bobby Jones respectively, each of which will give you a run for your money. Watch out for the Green on the fourth which slopes up at the front and falls away over the back quarter. The seventeenth has a severely sloping fairway that will lead many a golfer into trouble (guilty as charged).

The eighteenth is no pushover either with bunkers to the right about half way down and further to the left towards the green.

How you feel on completing the course will ultimately depend on your level of concentration and how seriously you take your game. For me, a nice glass of cold beer in the clubhouse is called for.

87

CYPRUS

Aphrodite 7th hole

Paphos Paphos lies just twenty minutes drive to the west of Aphrodite Hills. With its population of about 50Â 000, it is a bustling tourist magnet. Although my wife and I would have preferred to sit on the terrace watching the sunset with a chilled glass of wine, the children were getting a bit restless and so we headed into town to take a stroll along the harbour.

The waterfront was bursting with tourists from all corners of the world, and we could pick out at least half a dozen different languages being spoken around us. The restaurants were filled to capacity and along the seafront an endless row of colourful stalls were selling all the usual souvenirs from handicrafts to toys and edibles.

We walked around for a while along the seafront with the children racing about and pleading with us to buy various items from the stalls, but in the end we

88

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

persuaded them to sit down and have a bite to eat, with a promise of an ice-cream if they behaved, and that seemed to be the magic word.

Paphos is obviously a popular holiday destination and has plenty to offer, not least are the sites of historical interest such as the House of Dionysus with its famous mosaic. But for us it felt a bit too touristy, and we thought it was a shame the views from the harbour was obstructed by all the stalls.

With children fed, we could finally head back to Aphrodite Hills and our wonderful hotel room.

With the kids in bed, we could at long last enjoy a drink on the terrace under a starlit sky.

GOnoOwDeasiTerOthanKevNerOtoWget here,

st It’s arch have low co Easy jet and Mon served by British also flights and it is rways and Aegean Ai Airways, Cyprus s.

Airline hills.com www.aphrodite om .c te ta es ea el www.

Annonsetest_Layout 1 26.10.11 21.09 Side 1

exotic golf holidays Mauritius

Madeira 5* Meliã Madeira Mare 7 nights bb with 4 rounds golf (excl. flights) from only £535 pp

Tenerife Hotel Las Madrigueras 7 nights bb with 4 rounds golf (excl. flights) from only £795 pp

Tu r k e y 5* Belle Mare Plage 2 weeks from £1,595 incl. 12 nights halfboard accom. flights & transfers “best golf resort in the world!”

5* LykiaWorld & LinksGolf 7 nights all-Inclusive with unlimited golf (excl. flights) from only £495 pp

includes unlimited golf on 2 championship courses

Tournament Mauritius Chaka Open 7 nights at Heritage Awali 3 competition rounds Unlimited free greenfees throughout 20 April - 28 April 2012 from £1,700 per person All Inclusive Extend by 5 nights for only £300 pp All Inclusive

South Africa Tailor made holidays by the South African golf specialists Visit our dedicated website

www.Golf Holidays in South Africa.com

Speak to the specialist Stuart has played played 7 courses in Mauritius

Tel: 028 9023 2112 enquiries@chakatravel.com

Malaysia | Thailand | Seychelles | Dubai | Morocco | South Africa | Mauritius | Madeira |Turkey | Tenerife | Vietnam

www.chakatravel.com

PORTUGAL

Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort

A new course for the future

90

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

Despite the fact that Portugal is in economic turmoil, the family run company Group Onyria and its chairman, Jose Carlos Pinto Coelho, take lead from their seafaring heroes of past, and set a brave new course for the future. By Frazer Campbell, Pictures Onyria Palmares Golf Resort and Cascade Resort 91

PORTUGAL

92

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

T

here are already more than thirty golf courses in the Algarve, but with golfers flocking to its sun-kissed shores, there seems to be an appetite for more. And that is exactly what this company is banking on with the opening of their new course just west of Faro airport, where the intentions are to attract the richest of the rich. We were invited to the Grand Opening last June.

Unique course The word unique is often "overused" but on this occasion the word is perfect. The 27 hole Onyria Palamares golf course consists of three loops of nine holes, with names like The Alvor, Lagos and Praia, all of which have the common denominator of enjoying superb panoramic views across the Bay of Lagos. It must be said that the course architect, Mr Robert Trent Jones II, has used his immense skill and imagination in combining the natural ambiances of the intimate valleys, dramatic height changes and sand dunes to make this a unique and privileged course.

The Alvor The Alvor being predominantly parkland and on the elevated areas of the site takes players through passages with large woods of beautiful trees. As elevation is the strong feature, most of the holes stretch out in front of you on slopes and valleys of great natural beauty with the backdrop of the sea never far away.

Lagos Lagos combines parkland and dunes, and the high trees of pine and almond give way to the only two lakes on the course, hole 12 par-3, and hole 15 par-4. This course takes you to the clubhouse, which sits atop the highest part of the whole complex, and with unrestricted views over the Praira course below, the Bay of Lagos in front and the skyline of the town itself only 5 kms to the West.

Praira – a designers dream My personal favourite was the Praira, as it is laid out on the lowlands presenting a traditional links experience, utilising all the natural elements, but with some restoration of the coastal dunes. I am told that all golf designers dream of having the privilege to create "a shore dunes land" like this, and there are four holes along the shore line set between the beach and the single track railway line that runs through the middle. This is not an obstacle, but it’s very charming to see the old train trundling along slowly twice a day.

Following nature When Mr. Trent Jones was asked where does one start on a project like this, he modestly explained, "We studied the site in fine detail 93

PORTUGAL

...and all situated on the cliff tops above the impressive landscape of Ponta de Piedade, with its natural caves, grottoes and sea arches just on the edge of the historical city of Lagos.

94

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

to ensure the course would have only the slightest impact, and as Mother Nature is the best architect, we just followed her lead."

Having played quite a few modern courses I wonder if they are more challenging than the ones designed years ago?.

“The challenge is still basically ‘the player vs the course’, says Trent Jones. Modern courses aren’t really any more or less challenging for the weekend club member today, than for his predecessor. But technology in club and ball design has enabled high handicap players to achieve distances that single handicap players 50 years ago needed 2 shots at.”

New Hotel The hotel area of the complex is due to open in 2013 and will contain 172 rooms all with a sea view. Meeting rooms, spa and swimming pools as the norm and 16 Beach Villas with hotel services will also be available.

We stayed at the Cascade Wellness Resort which can only be described as absolutely stunning. Unusually for the Algarve, Cascade's design is predominately Moorish featuring the gently flowing lines and curves of the outside pools, gardens and bars, and all situated on the cliff tops above the impressive landscape of Ponta de Piedade, with its natural caves, grottoes and sea arches just on the edge of the historical city of Lagos.

Individual style The Cascade resort has been created very much with local history in mind, and gives respect to the heritage of discovery and exploration long ago of Henry the Navigator. The warm natural colours of the surrounding area, tones of pale terracotta, ochre and pale yellow was the palette chosen to blend perfectly with the terrain. The 86 rooms and suites are styled in individual traditions of the continents of Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America the choice is yours.

As one would expect with a five star location, stylish restaurants, shops, fully equipped gym, gourmet food and an up market bar are all awaiting your pleasure.

Our last evening was spent at the most charming four star

hotel Tivoli Lagos. Situated in the heart of this lovely city, it has the charm and character of a small village.

Amost friendly and welcoming bar with large comfortable seating lounge to watch the world go by.

A shuttle bus to the Duna beach area is always on hand.

95

PORTUGAL

GOOD TO KNOW

Monarch Airlines fly out of Gatwick, and are the dominating carrier with many flights to Faro, and have very good facilities for Premium customers at each airport.

Green fees 18 hole rate High Season Months - € 95,00 Low Season Months - € 70,00 Golf Cart - € 45,00 Rental Clubs (Callaway) - € 40,00 Pull Trolley - € 6,00 Range Balls (55balls) - € 6,00 Private Lessons (1 hour) - € 50,00 www.onyriapalmares.com

First course in Algarve Our last day, we had 18 holes of golf at the Le Meridien Penina Golf & Resort, which is only 20 minutes from Lagos, and 45 minutes from Faro International airport. With 188 rooms, all overlooking the pool, the gardens, or the three courses and the stunning backdrop of Monchique mountains. This splendid venue also offers three restaurants and three bars and of course all the other facilities one would expect from a five star establishment.

The most famous of the three courses, which also was the very first in the Algarve, is the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course. Designed by the great man himself, the course is mostly plain and surrounded by mature and lush trees and bushes. It is characterised by an unusual grouping of par-5's with four of the five arranged together in pairs at the beginning and end of the back nine, producing a par of 38 as opposed to 35 for the front nine.

No maps Sitting on the plane back to the UK that evening, I’m thinking about how much I enjoyed having the opportunity to play these new courses and the chance to meet Robert Trent Jones Jr. It’s a brave undertaking by the Onyria

96

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

Group, but it will definitely be a spectacular golf resort when finished. We can only hope that it will be plain sailing through today’s economically troubled waters. As said by one of the company officials, “We are building a new luxury model for the post-crisis world there are no maps.”

GREAT PRODUCTS NEW TEE-TIME APP TO REVOLUTIONISE IBERIAN GOLF BOOKINGS A new tee-time ‘App’ is set to provide golfers with the perfect opportunity to book golf in Portugal and Spain while on the move.

The new application has been launched by Algarve-based Just Tee Times and is available as a free download on all iPhone a nd A nd roid operati ng platforms.

Currently featuring 49 courses within the Algarve and Lisbon (Portugal) and 44 courses in the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Costa De La Luz (Spain), users can benefit from a simple f ou rs tep book i ng process available 24 hours per day with no booking fees or credit-card charges.

Just Tee Times expects usage to come from golfers pre-booking green fees before travel but also, as GPS navigation allows users to search near current location, it will prove an invaluable addition for general holidaymakers or business visitors seeking a local ‘fix’.

Added features include course reviews, video content, images and location maps, enabling users to quickly decide their preferred venues.

Payment is made securely via the phone by credit card, with vouchers being stored on the phone for proof of purchase and to display on checking-in at the course reception. www.justteetimes.com/mobile

FULL SWING GOLF SIMULATOR With ultra-high resolution graphics and the most realistic ball-flight tracking available in a golf simulator today, Full Swing offers the ultimate indoor golf experience, whether you wish to improve your game or simply play one of 65 stunning, realistically recreated golf courses, including many which will be instantly recognisable after hosting some of golf’s major tournaments … and indeed Major tournaments.

Ian Poulter, Donald Trump and Ricky Gervais all own one and it can be operated using the least amount of floor space of any simulator on the market. The flexible installation options mean it needn’t have a big impact on your home and it can even be converted to run as a home cinema system so the whole family will love it.

For more information call 01483 549012, email: sales@indoorgolf.co.uk or visit: www.indoorgolf.co.uk.

THE GOKART IS THE LATEST... must-have golfing gadget. The powered trolley will help keep you in peak condition and boasts an award-winning British design, a lightweight, compact frame and a 230W motor. The new Automatic feature ensures the GoKart matches a golfer’s speed just by briefly holding the handle.

The GoKart costs £244, with a £40 supplement for Automatic option. www.gokart.co.uk

98

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

GREAT PRODUCTS SIMULATOR OFFERS INCREASED REVENUE FOR WINTER MONTHS Golf’s must-have product for 2011, The Foresight Sports’ GC2 ball-flight monitor It’s ideal for the serious golfer who wants access to launch angle and spin rates, but is also adaptable enough to be used as a simulator when in tandem with a PC. Perfect for the golfer looking for a game at home when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Or it can be used as a full-on simulator in clubs or bars.

For the average golfer or golf club, the cost and space requirement of a fullsize simulator are prohibitive. But the GC2 can be upgraded in stages to prov ide a s tu n n i ng s i mu lator experience. Whether with a simple net and LCD set-up, or as a full-size, bespoke, immersive indoor golf experience, this unique, modular approach ensures cost is no longer a barrier to providing indoor coaching, practice, social and competitive golf all year round.

The GC2’s unique design offers unprecedented accuracy and takes just 40 seconds to set up with a simple plug-and-play operation.

The Foresight Sports GC2 starts at just £4,995 + vat for the basic unit.

Foresight Sport’s simulators cost from as little as £15 + vat per day, fully installed. www.foresightsports.co.uk

TWILIGHT TRACER & TWILIGHT SUPERNOVA Sun Products USA has created two products that have all the characteristics of a professional ball in regards to feel, accuracy, distance and conforms to official size and weight. Now players will be able to enjoy golf hours past sun down with the patented light up golf ball.

Twilight Tracer is a regulation golf ball with an inner core that contains proprietary circuitry, a lithium battery and two red LED lights that are programmed to flash at a rate of 7.2 flashes per second for duration of 5 – 6 minutes Twilight Supernova is a regulation golf ball that contains a bright LED that illuminates upon each impact for 8 minutes and retains a continuous glow afterwards.

The balls are motion activated by either striking the ball with your club or dropping the ball from approximately 12 cm. You can follow the ball from the moment it leaves the club face to its final destination. The r ema i n i ng layer s a r e made f rom conventional materials and the final cover is made from Surlyn, which has been used by the golf industry for decades. www.twilightsupernova.com info@twilightsupernova.com

100

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

Improve your swing plane with Plaser

The most precise golf swing plane training aid available today Plaser is a simple and really effective training aid that helps to improve the accuracy and power of your golf swing. It’s a fact that getting the right swing plane is critical if you want to hit the ball straighter and further. That’s why Plaser is becoming the

You get everything you need in the pack: The unique patented Plaser 5 iron, with a club head cover, the Plaser swing plane track, battery charger and a comprehensive instructional DVD, featuring PGA professional Jon Farmer.

choice of professionals and club golfers alike.

Using laser technology, Plaser helps to train your body and mind to improve your swing. It’s simple and really effective.Visit our website www.plaser.co.uk now to see the unique Plaser in action and hear what the Pro’s have to say about it.

BUY ONLINE AT WWW.PLASER.CO.UK

Plaser is manufactured and distributed by Laserline Golf Ltd. Telephone: 07864 230149 © Copyright Laserline Golf Ltd 2011

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB

102

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

To the Manor born!

Somerset Maugham once said; “If you want to eat well in England, you should have breakfast three times a day”. Then of course he hadn’t had dinner at the Manor House in Wiltshire.

By Mike Kaas-Stock, photo Camilla Kaas-Stock and the Manor House

103

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB

104

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

I

t was a bright and sunny autumn day when my wife and I arrived at the Manor House. We drove down leafy lanes and into the quaint village of Castle Combe, which has to be one of the most beautiful in England. On a sunny day like this, the sandstone houses seem to soak up the sunlight and radiate a warm glow. Remove the cars and you get an idea as to how it may have been a hundred or more years ago. In fact there have been no new houses built in Castle Combe for hundreds of years, as it was decided that the valley was full and any new development should take place at Upper Castle Combe on top of the hill.

We turned into the drive that leads up to the Manor House Hotel, and what a wonderful sight to behold! The estate, all 26 acres, stretches out and around this grand building, with stately trees lining the drive. A small river cuts through the grounds and we have to cross a picturesque little bridge on the approach to the majestic looking building.

only be called the quintessential English Manor; with a myriad of chimneys, mullioned windows and creeper covered walls.

Internally, the Manor House has more surprises in store. An 18th Century frieze found in the Shakespeare Room commemorates the Shakespearian character; Falstaff, who is believed to have been based on Sir John Fastolf who was lord of the Manor at that time. In the hall are some beautifully carved panels bearing the date of 1664. The hotel is luxurious and intimate with a total of 48 rooms split between the Hotel and Mews Cottages, all individually designed with exposed beams, grand four poster beds and roll top baths, as well as state of the art facilities. One of the cottages, the Archway Cottage ,was once the gatehouse to the Manor and retains the original sitting room with huge fireplace and stone spiral staircase.

Quintessential Manor

We are here on a culinary expedition, not to eat at the Michelin Starred Bybrook Restaurant at the hotel, but to sample the delights of the Club House food. But first we need to build an appetite!

Well, it would be improper to eat in the club house without first playing a round, and this is something that Daniel Tuck, the Golf

Steeped in history, the building originally dates back to the 14th Century, although there was a castle built on the same site way back in the 12th Century. The Manor House was extended and added to by the Jacobeans in the 17th century to create what can

Spectacular golf

105

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB Operations manager is only too happy to arrange.

Nestling in 365 acres of stunning Cotswold parkland, this 18hole, par 72 course is one of the most spectacular in the South of England We head for the first hole, an excellent par-4. From the very tee off, you need your wits about you, it’s a shot over what could best be described as ramparts and your ball will need to carry if you are not to start your round in a ditch. The 2nd hole is a truly wonderful par-3 down into the Bybrook valley. Watch out for the Bybrook River in front of the green and also the bunkers to both the front and far right side. It’s a narrow shot so make sure your ball flies straight.

Watch the river After playing our way through some wonderful holes, we arrive at the 8th. The tee is on the hill and again you are aiming back down into the valley below. If you attempt a shot close to the green on this par-4, watch out for the ever present Bybrook River on the left hand side.

On to the back nine and you will find yourself playing in from the opposite side of the valley. The 12th turned out to be my favourite of the whole course. A par-5 that seems to have everything. The hole doglegs across the valley, also crossing the river, a lake to the left and bunkers guarding the Green to the right.

The 17th hole is a surprise and will bring a smile to any golfers face. This one drops down 120 feet from the tee to two different and varied greens. The right being protected by the river, and the left by bunkers and again the river to the back. We decided to stay a while and watch the various golfers take on this formidable hole, some with great success, and others with disastrous results.

A nine iron seemed to be the best choice and several golfers were rewarded by landing safely on the green.

The picturesque 18th takes us back to the Club House where we now can reward our rumbling stomachs.

A feast at the Clubhouse We are warmly welcomed by Justyna Payne, the Food & Beverage Supervisor, and make our way to the sumptuous lounge area to order drinks and we collapse into comfortable chairs. Groups of golfers are relaxing and mulling over the events of the day and I am sure that the 17th hole is among the topics of conversation.

We have used a buggy to get around the course today which I think was a good call, considering that we have traversed the Bybrook valley on several occasions, but I still feel that I deserve my pint of beer.

The menu at the Club House is not extensive, but simple and unpretentious with a focus on English traditional dishes. The selection of starters on offer include Devilled Kidneys and Welsh rarebit, my wife eventually settled for Prawn Avocado Cocktail while I chose the soup of the day. For main course she chose the pan roasted chicken, creamed potatoes with white wine and mushroom sauce. After my feats of endurance on the golf course, I went for the Lion’s share pan-fried Stokes Farm rump steak with chips, grilled mushrooms and tomatoes.

Other choices on the menu included Bangers & Mash, Duo of Water Rose Faggots, Cauliflower Bake with Somerset Cheddar and Bybrook Bubble & Squeak, all in all, a perfect fare for the hungry golfer.

Traditional fare After finishing our drinks, Justyna guided us to the dining room where we seated ourselves in preparation of the feast to come.

Unfortunately for me, I was the designated driver for our journey 106

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

107

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB

Bybrook Restaurant

home, but no concerns for my wife who ordered a glass of white The main courses are just as inviting, with among others, slow wine. Surely I deserved a drink and rest after playing so well? cooked loin of English Rose veal with braised red cabbage, My starter arrived, and turned out to be a very tasty home jerusalem artichoke, veal sweetbreads and Madeira jus, or pan made Tomato Soup with freshly baked bread roll while my wife fried fillet of cornish John dory with crushed peas, sauté potato, tucked into her Prawn Avocado. Well, I suppose white wine does langoustine and langoustine emulsion. go better with Avocado than Tomato Soup, but all the same.

Desserts include baked apple terrine with apple doughnut and The main course followed soon after, and I date ice cream, or warm Valrhona chocolate was not disappointed with my choice of Steak, fondant with rum ice cream and chestnut puree.

BY CAR it truly was a Lion’s share. Mouth watering Steak Had we stayed over for even one night, then The Manor House is only a few with chunky chips. My wife’s Chicken looked we would have sampled the wonderful food to miles from junction 17 or 18 on the equally as good and I have to say that a part of be had here in the Bybrook restaurant, but alas M4 and approximately 90 miles me hoped that she would find it all too much home beckoned and now we have yet another from London. and let me help her out to finish that off as well. reason to return to this enchanting Hotel and Located in the charming village of After the main course, we both felt quite Golf Club.

Castle Combe, on entering the full, but could not resist the tempting desserts village, drive through and at the hump bridge; turn right into on offer. I went for the Sticky Toffee Pudding The Manor House drive. and my wife chose the Old English Sherry Trifle.

BY RAIL I have to say that I usually avoid desserts so as The nearby town of to watch my waif-like figure, but I really felt that Chippenham is on the main line all the energy that I had used up earlier needed from Paddington to Bristol to be replaced. We were not disappointed with Temple Meads. For travel enquiries, contact National Rail our choices, and sitting there with distended enquiries on 0845 7484950. stomachs and feeling much like snakes that have www.manorhouse.co.uk just eaten for the next month, we moved on to enquiries@manorhouse.co.uk coffee.

General Booking and Enquiries

GOOD TO KNOW

The Bybrook Restaurant

Tel: +44 (0) 1249 782206 Fax: +44 (0) 1249 782159

The Club is a perfect place to eat after a round of golf, but if you’re looking for fine dining, there can be no better the excellent Michelin starred restaurant to be found at the Manor House Hotel, and indeed another equally good reason to visit this wonderful hotel & golf club.

The kitchen at the Bybrook Restaurant is run by Head Chef Richard Davies who has also worked at Gordon Ramsey’s restaurant in Chelsea and The Vineyard at Stockcross. The reputation of both the Bybrook Restaurant and its head chef are well known to lovers of food far and wide. Starters as mouthwateringly tempting as torchon of duck liver with fig and port reduction and gingerbread, or winter truffle risotto with chicken, oyster beignet and parsley puree are to be expected here.

108

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

The Clubhouse

Great Spa

Been in the rough?

Time to relax...

109

GREAT SPA

110

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

Far from the madding crowd Tucked away from the bustle of modern life, the Spa at Bovey Castle is a sanctuary echoing the tranquility of the surrounding forests and the River Dart – a place to relax and restore...

By Camilla Kaas-Stock, pictures by Jeremy Rata

111

GREAT SPA

“You have to offer your body something good in order to make your soul feel at ease in it.” Winston Churchill

112

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

W

hen it comes to spa, I have to admit I’m a bit of a novice. The first picture that springs to mind is more reminiscent of Turkish baths, but with some incense and candles thrown in for good measure. But of course there is much more to it than that, something that is reflected in its rising popularity. And today, with our hectic and stressful lifestyles, we need more than ever to find ways to wind down and recharge our batteries.

I’ve come to enjoy a couple of days with my family at the beautiful Bovey Castle, a place taken straight out of a period drama. Set in 400 acres of the dramatically beautiful Dartmoor National Park, it is a perfect place to get away from it all, perhaps enjoy a game of golf, or simply relax in front of a crackling fire with a good book, which to me right now sounds wonderfully therapeutic.

Relaxed atmosphere Stepping through the grand entrance, a long hallway runs the length of the building, sweeping stairs lead up, and through the open doors I see huge stately rooms with vaulted ceilings, and large windows which create beautiful frames for the bewitching landscape outside.

Here, in this warm relaxed atmosphere, with attentive staff at your callit feels good to sit back and simply be. Just the thought of two days without cooking or picking up an ever increasing tide of toys feels heavenly. And tomorrow morning I’m going to spend a blissful hour being pampered in Bovey Castle’s luxurious spa.

Old traditions The term spa originates from the Belgian town of that name, dating back to Roman times when the town was called Aquae Spadanae. Through the ages it has come to mean “health-bringing water treatment”, whether it be bathing in hot springs or drinking mineral rich water from natural springs.

Today there are many different directions within spa treatments, inspired by old traditions from different cultures. But as a whole it can be summarized as holistic therapy where harmony, balance, beauty and well being are the most important ingredients.

Christy Turlington Bovey Castle with its luxurious spa is the UK flagship for Sundãri. Originally created by yoga enthusiast and supermodel Christy Turlington, Sundãri is quickly becoming one of the spa world’s most prestigious brands, and is already product of choice at some of the world’s leading resorts.

Sundãri, which means “a beautiful woman” in Sanskrit, is a distinctive collection of anti-aging skin care products combining modern science with the purest ingredients and rarest essences distilled from nature. The Sundãri offers an extensive range of

treatments and after studying the list I narrowed it down to three choices – the Sundãri facial, Abhyanga massage or Body Envelopments.

Three choices According to the description the Sundãri Facial promises to rejuvenate and reawaken the skin using naturally active ingredients such as Lemon, Sandalwood and Lavender, and is finished off with the signature Marmassage.

The Abhyanga Massage is described as a relaxing therapy perfect for all in need of stress relief. It uses warm oils to help stimulate “prana” – the life force which drives our body’s vital energy.

The Body Envelopments begins with an application of warm oil to the whole body, followed by a full body exfoliation, and an application of a unique body mask. This treatment is said to leave you feeling rejuvenated, refreshed and renewed.

All the treatments sound wonderful, but looking at my face in the mirror that morning I thought that the Sundãri Facial with its promise “to rejuvenate and reawaken the skin,” was exactly what I needed.

Etheric oils While my husband takes the kids swimming in Bovey Castle’s indoor swimming pool, I head up the stairs to the Spa. Stepping through the doors into the sumptuous reception area I’m greeted by Maria McLaughlin and led in to one of the five treatment rooms. The room is filled with candles and soothing music permeates from hidden speakers.

Maria brings three of what I presume to be etheric oils for me to smell so that I can choose the one I prefer. This is then applied to my treatment, which lasts for fifty minutes. Both the facial and the massage feels heavenly, and my skin is left sparkling clean and glowing.

Relaxed and recharged I really would have liked a bit more time to sit down in the Spa Relaxation room so that I could hold on to this peaceful moment for a little longer. But alas, I am meeting my husband and children for lunch, so I creep quickly through the halls in the hope of not being spotted by anyone before I get a chance to reapply my makeup.

Leaving Bovey Castle later that day, both my husband and I feel more relaxed and recharged, and from the happy chatting in the back seat it is obvious that this break had done the kids a lot of good too. For me, I now have a better understanding of why spa treatments have become so popular, and as Winston Churchill once said, “You have to offer your body something good in order to make your soul feel at ease in it.”

113

ADVERTORIAL

114

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

F

Caribbean’s premier golf resort

or the avid golfer, there is no better experience than teeingoff on the Caribbean shores of the Dominican Republic, and with award-winning resort accommodations, pristine beaches and 45 holes of golf, PUNTACANA Resort & Club is the Caribbean’s premier golf and beach destination.

PUNTACANA Resort & Club was just named Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators in the ‘Rest of World’ category. Over 2,000 golf resorts from around the world were considered for this award and were judged based on customer satisfaction, quality of golf course and accommodation, value for money, and accessibility to tee times.

P.B. Dye’s existing championship La Cana Golf Course offers challenges against beauty while Tom Fazio’s Corales Golf Course features a spectacular setting, Club House, six ocean-front holes, and the infamous El Codo del Diablo (The Devil’s Elbow), the final three holes. A second P.B. Dye designed course, the Hacienda Golf Course, is set to open in early 2012.

Resort accommodations are available at the luxury boutique hotel Tortuga Bay, designed by Oscar de la Renta, and The Puntacana Hotel, a deluxe hotel that includes beach casitas perfect for family or groups of friends.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Tortuga Bay is the first hotel in the Dominican Republic and one of only four in the Caribbean to ever receive The AAA Five Diamond Award,

which it received in 2011 in recognition of its highest level of excellence in every facet of operation.

While the hotels sit at different price points, they provide guests with the same world-class resort experience offering miles of private beach, lush tropical gardens, access to the PUNTACANA Ecological Reserve and Foundation, and eight restaurants.

Guests also enjoy the world-renowned Six Senses Spa and Wellness Center. The center rejuvenates mind and body at the hands of a gifted international team who apply patented holistic techniques and unique Six Sphere Philosophy. For the more adventurous, the resort offers a vast collection of land and water sports including SCUBA, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding and more.

The resort owns and operates the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), the leading destination for travel in the Dominican Republic, which services direct flights from major international cities such as London, New York, Paris, Moscow, and Sao Paolo.

Karen Gomez Marketing Manager PUNTACANA Resort & Club www.grupopuntacana.com.do kgomez@puntacana.com Office 809.959.2714 115

Great Wine

A good round is worth celebrating

117

RIDGEVIEW WINE ESTATE

A Royal Toast for English Wine

118

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

What could be more decadent than sipping champagne and eating strawberries, or perhaps some Norwegian smoked salmon? Well, any excuse is good enough if you ask me, but if you think the best bubbly needs to be French, think again, because English sparkling wine is now officially the best in the world.

By Nils Bjornes, Photo Nils Bjornes and Ridgeview Wine Estate

119

RIDGEVIEW WINE ESTATE

I

n the gently rolling landscape behind the Sussex Downs just an hours drive south of London you’ll find Ridgeview Wine Estate. This family run business, established a mere decade ago and dedicated solely to the production of sparkling wine, has already managed to achieve international recognition and won several first prizes, including the prestigious trophy for the Best Sparkling Wine in the World at the Decanter World Wine Awards in September 2010, the first time this prize has been won by someone outside the Champagne region. Add to this the fact that founder Mike Roberts recently received an MBE for his services to the British Wine Industry, and that Ridgeview’s Fitzrovia Sparkling Rosé 2004 was served at Buckingham Palace during the state dinner honouring the visit of President Barack Obama last spring, and you should need no more convincing.

Same climate.

So what's the secret? We talk to General Manager Tamara Roberts.

“First of all, we are just 88 miles north of the Champagne region with almost identical geology and climate. Also the fact that our summers are less hot gives us an advantage because the grapes can ripen slower and hang longer, and the cool nights add acidity which is a key element in making sparkling wine.”

This year Ridgeview will be producing 270 000 bottles of sparkling wine, of which 170 – 180 000 bottles comes from their own vines, the rest from contract growers. This represents a significant increase compared to the year before, but still they can’t keep up with demand, a testament to their rising popularity. “We 120

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

don’t want to expand too fast or take on commitments we will struggle to fulfil, because for us quality comes first,” says Tamara.

Before the French.

All the five varieties of sparkling wine under the Ridgeview brand are named after areas of London, such as Bloomsbury, Grosvenor and Knightsbridge.

“When we were thinking about what names to give our wines, we came across the story of Christopher Merret, an English man who in the mid 1600s described not only how to make sparkling wine, but also how this “gay, brisk and sparkling wine” was being enjoyed in London years before the French started their production. So in recognition of Mr. Merret all our wines are called Cuvèe Merret, as well as having names associated with areas of his home town,” says Tamara.

In 1993 Mike Roberts and his wife Christine sold their hugely successful computer software company, which they had build from being four people working out of the kitchen to become a company employing 450 people turning over £70 million.

“After selling the business my parents felt it was time for a change, and wanted to find something that was nice for the whole family to be involved in,” Tamara continues.

Why something as risky as the wine business, you might ask.

“We sometimes wonder about that ourselves, and obviously so did others. When my father approached the banks for funding they laughed at him, so my parents put up the capital themselves, and here we are. And nobody is laughing now,” she says with a smile.

Classic grapes.

First it was back to school for Mike Roberts. He enrolled in Plumton College, the only place to study viticulture and oenology, in England. Then it was off to France, were he sought advice from growers in Champagne. (Something they might be regretting today) He decided on the three classic grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

“My father realized that the soil and the climate in this part of Sussex is very much similar to that of the Champagne-region, just across the Channel. He really believed it would be possible to make the same high quality sparkling wine here, and he passionately wanted to follow the age long tradition and procedures of the Champenois houses.”

Complicated process.

Producing high quality sparkling wine is not for the faint hearted, it takes passion and dedication, and not least huge capital investment. Besides acquiring the necessary land, wine stocks, building facilities and buying all the equipment needed, it is also very labour intensive. Because making sparkling wine is a lot more complicated than making still wine, and it takes at least three years before the first bottles hit the shelves.

There are three methods that may be used to make sparkling wine. These methods are: the Transfer Method, Charmat Bulk process and Methode Champenoise. The Methode Champenoise, which is used in the Champagne region as well as at Ridgeview, is the most labor-intensive and costly of these methods. After harvesting and pressing the juice is left to ferment in either

stainless steel containers, as at Ridgeview, or in oak barrels. When this first fermentation is complete, the base wine from the different types of grapes are blended and a mixture of yeast and sugar is added. The wine is then bottled with small plastic cups inserted in the bottle neck to collect the sediment.

High pressure.

The sugar and yeast produces alcohol and carbon dioxide, raising the pressure in the bottle to 90 pounds per square inch, which is why these bottles have thicker glass than ordinary wine bottles.

When the second fermentation is complete, the wine bottles are slowly turned upside down over a period of several days which allows the sediment to collect in the top of the neck. This is then inserted into a freezing liquid and the sediment plug removed. A small dosage of wine mixed with sugar and sometimes brandy is added, and the bottles are corked and secured with a wire hood.

But long before you get this far in the process there are plenty of things that can go wrong, because growing grapes in this climate has its risks. A touch of night frost can spell disaster for tender wines, so many a sleepless night early in the growing season, the family and their co-workers are on standby in case the temperature drops below freezing. If that happens they will have to light hundreds of huge bucket sized “candles” along the rows of vines to raise the temperature. You might say this is truly a labor of love.

A family affair.

Mike and Christine’s passion and enthusiasm for winemaking is also shared by their children, Simon and Tamara, who now both 121

RIDGEVIEW WINE ESTATE work in the family business, as co-Winemaker and General – that is to say if they’ve even heard of it. But overseas markets Manager respectively. Even their spouses - Simon’s wife Mardi and are certainly starting to get a taste for the English bubbly.

Tamara’s husband Simon Larder, have joined the company.

“I worked for a while as a Chartered Ten countries.

Accountant, but this is so “All of the publicity we have had over the much more enjoyable and last couple of years has definitely made a the people are nicer,” says difference. Today we are exporting wine to Tamara with a laugh.

10 countries worldwide including Japan, “Although there has Holland, certain areas of the US and the been a lot of scepticism Scandinavian countries. We’re also towards English wine in starting to get into Hong Kong, but we general, I think that winning need much more publicity about English all these awards is starting to wine both here at home and abroad, to change people’s perception of make people realize that we are making the English wine industry,” a world class product in this country,” she continues. says Tamara Roberts.

This perception is very er. keting Manag much reflected in many Sales and Mar – s rt be Ro di ager. Mar countries view of English wine anager. s – General M s – Winery Man on Robert ara Robert From left: Sim Operations Manager. Tam – er rd La on m Si

Grosvenor Chardonnay Delicate pale gold colour, subtle bouquet with a suggestion of honey and brioche.

To be enjoyed and savored on its own, or with light canapés and shellfish

122

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

Knightsbridge Fitzrovia

Cavendish Dominated by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Lovely golden straw colour, fresh with hints of red fruits.

Wonderful with white meats, seafood and canapés.

Bloomsbury Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Light gold colour, citrus fruit aromas and hints of melon and honey.

Great with shellfish, salmon and smoked trout.

Chardonnay – Pinot Noir – Pinot Meunier.

A gorgeous salmon colour, fresh taste with a hint of raspberry and redcurrant.

Lovely served with smoked salmon dishes or fresh strawberries.

Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Deep golden colour, expressive red fruit aromas – fresh and rich.

Wonderful with Thai food, roast pork or perhaps foie gras.

ADVERTORIAL

124

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

Investment opportunity in St Lucia

T

he Worlds first Gary Player Hotel, Riverside Villas and Golf course in St Lucia is due to open in 2014. Plans include 20 Gary Player branded villas that will be interspersed on hillsides throughout the golf course.

An amazing location with stunning views, stylish and sophisticated interiors, along with individuality, personal service, traditional Caribbean hospitality and superb cuisine, this development will surpass all expectations.

The Golf Course The golf course will play through a lush valley and the river that meanders through the site will be enhanced to add to both the aesthetic beauty and strategy. Playability and environmental sensitivity are the cornerstones of Gary Player’s golf course design.

that sweeps majestically down to one of the most beautiful beaches in St Lucia. Facilities include a Liverpool Soccer Academy, Pat Cash Tennis Academy, Performing Arts Academy and internationally renowned restaurants and bars, as well as a luxury spa and beach club.

Investment Opportunity Owners of Gary Player Residential Hillside Villas, Hotel Suites and Hotel hillside Villas will have access to the extensive leisure facilities at The Marquis Estate and will automatically become members of the Gary Player Signature Golf Course and Golf Club for the first year.

The Hotel The 5 star hotel will comprise luxurious rooms and suites enjoying inspiring views of the Gary Player Signature Golf Course and ocean. Luxurious dark wood, silks, leathers and soft natural lighting will create richly sensual interiors.

• Fully furnished freehold properties • Properties are suitable for SIPP investment (excluding Gary Player Residential Hillside Villas) • 100% finance* is available.

• A 70% developer loan will be available on completion.

• 30 days free use per year (excludes SIPP investors) • Two year 10% rental guarantee followed by 50% net room rate share

The Marquis Estate The Marquis Estate is situated amongst some of the Caribbean’s most attractive landscape on the stunning northeast coast of St Lucia and occupies a breathtaking 500 acre site in a tropical valley

Contact GoBMV for more details: Tel: 0845 189 8009 email: info@gobmv.co.uk www.gobmv.co.uk 125

DUBAI CLUBS

Golf in the City of Gold

126

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

One thing of which you can be sure, when Dubai build golf courses, they follow the same train of thought that they put into everything else, bigger and better.

Now there is even more reason to visit.

With a flight time of just over 6 hours from the UK, this is a location that will suit both long and short breaks. We have put together a selection of four of the best courses as a taster in preparation for a major Dubai article that will be featured in the spring 2012 issue.

127

DUBAI CLUBS

DUBAI CREEK & YACHT CLUB Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is located on Dubai’s waterfront and overlooks the Dubai Creek and Marina. This is also the home to one of the Emirate’s finest hotels. The 225 room 5 star Park Hyatt Dubai has a prime location along the banks of Dubai Creek and is surrounded by the verdant grounds of the Golf Course.

The course opened in January 1993 to world acclaim and since then it has been host to numerous tournaments and events, including the Dubai Desert Classic on two occasions. The course

record of 63 is held by Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke.

Well-groomed fairways lined with date palms and coconut trees, attractive water hazards and shrubbery lend a tropical air to the Club’s 18-hole, par 71 championship course.

The majestic Clubhouse - its design mirroring the sails of the traditional Arab dhow - has been one of the most photographed landmarks in Dubai. www.dubaigolf.com

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB Emirates Golf Club, host of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic and Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, was the first all grass championship golf course in the Middle East when it opened in 1988. Consisting of 36 holes of world-class golf, the club sports two of the city’s finest must-play courses, the Majlis and the Faldo Course, which is also the only 18 hole course in the region to offer night golf. Both courses combine the natural rolling desert terrain for a serious golfing test, while the signature club-

128

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

house, remains the most eye-catching in the region. The Majlis Course has been presented with numerous accolades over its 22 year history, the most recent of which is its 2010 ranking

by Golf World magazine as one of the ‘Top 100 Golf Courses in the World’ and its award for ‘Best Course Middle East’ in the Asian Golf Monthly Awards 2010. www.dubaigolf.com

THE ADDRESS The Address Montgomerie Dubai boasts a 7,396-yard championship golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie and in association with Desmond Muirhead.

Opened in October 2002, the spectacular links-style course, managed by Troon Golf is consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the Middle East. The clubhouse which is managed by the five-star premium hotel brand The Address Hotels Resorts, features 21 five-star hotel rooms, three international restaurants including the award winning restaurant Nineteen, a fitness

centre and a Spa. Comprehensive practice facilities include a 24 acre long-game practice area, multiple short game practice areas, an indoor swing room featuring the latest in computerized video swing analysis technology and a 9-hole par-3 floodlit Academy course.

The Address Montgomerie Dubai was awarded ‘Middle East’s Leading Golf Course’ World Travel Awards in 2011. www.theaddress.com

ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB Arabian Ranches Golf Club opened in February, 2004 and was built as a true 18 holes, par 72 desert-style grass course. It was designed by Ian Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design.

A challenge for golfers of all abilities, miss the immaculate grass of the fairways and greens and you enter the ‘sandy waste’, which makes the most of the natural terrain with its indigenous shrubs and bushes.

The Clubhouse hosts a fully stocked Pro Shop, with all the latest Golf Apparel and Hardware, a Grand Lobby, and the Baker-Finch Room complimented by a Terrace and the Birkdale Bar. The Clubhouse also boasts the Ranches Restaurant and Bar with the Terrace, hosting panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes. www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com 129

Great Golf Guide

A selection of outstanding courses - at home and abroad...

130

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

Scotland

Turnberry Resort

O

VERVIEW: Turnberry, an icon of Scottish hospitality and home of four Open Championships, has been treasured for more than a hundred years. Turnberry Resort is part of Starwood’s acclaimed Luxury Collection portfolio following a multimillion pound restoration in 2009.

LOCATION: West coast of Scotland. Approximately 55 miles (one hour) from Glasgow Airport, 25 miles (30 minutes) from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and 100 miles from Edinburgh Airport.

ROOMS: A total of 150 rooms, including four Specialty Suites and four eight-bedroom lodges. Eight newly renovated Lands of Turnberry self-catering apartments are also located in the heart of the resort.

GOLF: Turnberry offers some of the best golf facilities in the world, with 45 holes of magnificent golf, the world’s first links golf academy and a sociable Clubhouse.

The 18-hole Ailsa championship course – venue for The Open Championship in 1977, 1986, 1994 and 2009 and consistently ranked as the UK and Ireland’s top golf course.

The 18-hole Kintyre championship course – a final qualifying course for The Open Championship in 2004.

The 9-hole Arran course – used as a teaching course by

Turnberry’s Colin Montgomerie Links Golf Academy.

Scotland’s first and only TaylorMade Performance Lab. THE SPA AT TURNBERRY: Featuring an inviting 20-metre indoor pool, eleven individual treatment rooms, fitness studio, heat experiences and pool-side Jacuzzi and offering a range of treatments by ESPA including reflexology and hot stone massage.

CUISINE: Turnberry has six restaurants, bars and lounges – the signature restaurant 1906, Duel in the Sun bar, The Ailsa Bar & Lounge, James Miller and The Grand Tea Lounge. In the heart of the Turnberry kitchens is the ultimate dining experience, The Turnberry Chefs Table. Turnberry also boasts the Tappie Toorie restaurant, which is situated in the Clubhouse.

OUTDOOR PURSUITS: Rifle target shooting, clay target shooting, 4x4 off-road driving, trout fishing, archery, quad biking, falconry, horse riding, all-terrain carting, mountain biking and children’s activities.

CONTACT Turnberry, A Luxury Collection Resort Maidens Road Ayrshire KA26 9LT (0)1655 331 991 www.luxurycollection.com/turnberry turnberry@luxurycollection.com

131

Scotland

Kingsbarns Golf Links

L

ocated just seven miles south-east of St Andrews Kingsbarns is a must-play seaside links course which regularly features in top 100 golf course rankings in the world. Designed by Kyle Phillips, the golf course opened in 2000 and is set in an amphitheatre along the coast line, so nearly every hole boasts spectacular views of the sea. At 7,181 yards from the championship tees, Kingsbarns is a formidable enough test to be included in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship rota each autumn alongside the Old Course, St. Andrews and Carnoustie Golf Links.

Kingsbarns prides itself on excellent customer service and great accessibility of tee times. As Kingsbarns does not operate a membership programme, visiting golfers are each treated like members for the day, with staff on hand to ensure that they each enjoy the golfing experience which the team at Kingsbarns are so proud of.

Kingsbarns Golf Links offers an unforgettable golfing experience, which is proving increasingly popular with the corporate market. Companies are using it as a venue for both large

132

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

and small groups when they really want to make a favourable impression with clients or show their appreciation to valued members of staff.

Our proximity to St Andrews and a wide range of accommodation providers makes us a no hassle venue to book.

With two five star hotels, The Old Course Hotel Golf Resort and Spa and The Fairmont, St Andrews on our doorstep along with a choice of 4 and 3 star hotels, there are accommodation offerings for every budget.

There is an extensive range of flight options from London to Edinburgh (1hr 20 minutes from St Andrews) and CityJet fly from London City to Dundee (20 minutes from St Andrews) offering a no charge for your clubs option.

CONTACT Kingsbarns Golf Links Kingsbarns, St. Andrews, Scotland +44 (0)1334 460861 E-mail: info@kingsbarns.com www.kingsbarns.com

Scotland

The Duke´s St Andrews

T

he Duke’s is the only heathland course in St Andrews daring to be different amongst the famous list of links courses, including of course the Old Course, in the Home of Golf. The Duke’s rolling terrain and elevated position above St Andrews provides spectacular panoramas of the surrounding countryside, The Grampians, the West Sands and the “Auld Grey Toon”.

Moreover the sheltered inland location of the course offers a welcome respite from the blustery, sometimes brutal linksexperience elsewhere in the location.

Owned like the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa by the Kohler Co., The Duke’s was originally designed by five-time Open Champion Peter Thomson and was officially opened by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York, in 1995. However American Tim Liddy, a protégé of distinguished golf course designer Pete Dye, remodeled The Duke’s in June 2006 transforming it into a majestic layout reminiscent of the true heathland courses of the 1920s.

It now boasts five completely new holes and the addition of 118 natural, rough-edged bunkers. The championship course now measures 7512 yards and is a Par 71 that offers a set of five tees on each hole, making it a challenge for golfers of every standard.

The Duke’s Clubhouse offers five-star service and a warm Scottish welcome in relaxed surroundings. Amenities include The Duke’s Bar & Grill, a traditional wood-panelled bar and restaurant with a terrace overlooking the course for al fresco dining on warm days, The Captains’ Room for private dining or meetings, a well stocked Pro Shop and equipment hire.

It also boasts comprehensive practice facilities that include a large practice range, extensive putting green, two practice par3 holes and a chipping/bunker area. The Duke’s was recently voted the ‘Best Club in the UK’ by the Golf Club of the Year Awards and in 2008 & 2010, Golf World magazine included The Duke’s course in its Top 100 Courses in the UK. Today the course is very much on many players “must-play” list.

CONTACT The Duke’s St Andrews Craigtoun, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 8NS Contact: Alan McColm, Golf Coordinator T: 01334 470214 Green Fee Summer £115/Winter £55 www.playthedukes.co.uk alan.mccolm@oldcoursehotel.co.uk

133

Scotland

The Gleneagles Hotel

S

et in its own magnificent 850-acre estate, The Gleneagles® Hotel 5 Red Star resort is only one hour’s drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh and is a byword for style, elegance and comfort.

Gleneagles offers 3 championship golf courses set in the heart of the stunning Perthshire countryside. The King’s and the Queen’s are both top Scottish Championship courses, whilst The PGA Centenary has been chosen to host the 2014 Ryder Cup Matches.

The golf courses were the inspiration of two of the world's most famous golfers, James Braid, five times winner of the Open Championship who designed the King's and Queen's, and Jack Nicklaus, Golfer of the 20th Century, who created the PGA Centenary Course.

As well as playing great courses at Gleneagles golfers can also brush up their skills at The PGA National Golf Academy that offers tuition for all abilities, beginner to scratch player, and a 320yard double ended driving range. For those who want to practice what they have learnt but are not quite ready to take on an 18hole championship course, they can make the progression to the testing but fun 9-hole par 3 PGA National Academy Course.

134

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

Once golf is over you can retire to the newly refurbished Dormy Clubhouse facilities, and rue the lipped putts and toast the holed chips while enjoying food and drink of a quality that no-one can argue with, all while looking out over the 18th greens of the King’s and Queen’s courses.

As well as golf, there are a host of outdoor activities including riding, fishing, off road driving, falconry, shooting, archery and gun dog lessons.

To relax further there’s an award-winning destination spa by ESPA with all the latest therapeutic treatments, as well as a range of bars and restaurants, including the Two Michelin starred Andrew Fairlie. Gleneagles is a sanctuary from the modern world, offering the best of Scotland every day of the year.

CONTACT The Gleneagles Hotel Auchterarder, Perthshire, PH3 1NF Tel +44 (0) 1764 662231 www.gleneagles.com resort.sales@gleneagles.com

PE

RS

ET

35

PE

RW

EE

Golfing Abroad?

Why fly with them, when you can hire them!

Our convenient airport locations save time and money for the travelling golfer.

Paul McGinley - Company Ambassador

Go to www.clubstohire.com and hire a set from `35 per set per week. We have the latest Taylor Made, Callaway, Wilson and MD clubs available at our shops located at airports in

FARO, MALAGA, MURCIA, ALICANTE, DUBLIN, EDINBURGH, BELEK (TURKEY)

Hire Rates (per week): MD Seve Callaway X20/X22 Taylor Made R9 Taylor Made R11 Wilson Di11 Shoes Shot Saver Lobwedge

Log onto www.clubstohire.com and book your chosen set

`35 `45 `45 `55 `45 `15 `20 `5

K

Scotland

Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses

M

urrayshall Hotel is the home to both the Murrayshall and the Lynedoch Golf Courses, two prestigious but very different eighteen hole courses, providing a hugely enjoyable challenge for all golfers.

The Murrayshall course meanders through tree lined fairways, undulated parkland and has several natural burns which have been used to protect the large greens. The introduction of the white sand bunkers which are a feature of the Murrayshall course lie in waiting for errant shots. In creating Lynedoch the course designer made great use of the existing Scots pine woodland, utilising the wild flower meadows and carved a real wee gem of a course.

Both courses are a real contrast to one another Murrayshall the wider, longer course requires length and accuracy from the tee shot, this will allow golfers the opportunity to approach greens from the correct angle, widening the view of the pin. Lynedoch however is shorter but no less a challenge, tighter fairways, bracken filled gullies and tall Scots Pine trees narrow the golfer’s view of fairways and greens.

With two different golf courses, both set out to a fabulous standard of play, the courses have attracted national and

136

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

international events over the years. Currently the home to the Paul Lawrie Scottish Schools Championship Murrayshall and Lynedoch have also hosted PGA events along with SGU National Finals and most recently was the Inaugural Scottish venue for the Sky Sports Trilby Tour.

Murrayshall also gives our resident golfers the chance to visit the famous courses of St Andrews, Kingsbarns, Carnoustie and Gleneagles, which are all within short driving distance of the hotel.

With so much on offer to keen golfers of all levels, it’s no surprise that Murrayshall House Hotel has become renowned as a provider of top quality golfing breaks and golf days out in the historic home of golf.

CONTACT Murrayshall House Hotel & Golf Courses Scone, Perth, Scotland, PH2 7PH +44 (0)1738 551171 sales@murrayshall.co.uk www.murrayshall.co.uk

England

Trevose Golf & Country Club

S

heltered by the majestic Trevose Head, the experience of playing the Championship Course at Trevose Golf & Country Club is enhanced by the spectacular views of the North Atlantic Ocean, wide sandy beaches and dramatic North Cornish coastline. A true test of links golf, the course was designed by Harry Colt in 1925 and will test all aspects of your game. As with all of Colt’s designs, the course is in two loops of nine holes with the front nine holes hugging the sand dunes and coastline and back nine forming inland links, although the sea can be seen from every single hole.

Like all great links courses the difficulty lies in the wind – so beware when the wind blows! No two days are ever the same, and those who are prepared to be more creative with their shot making will be well rewarded. The greens are quick all year round and due to the temperate micro climate the area enjoys, the course condition is excellent 365 days a year. Come rain or shine, wind or calm, Trevose will test every shot in your armoury and every club in your bag!

As one of the top championship links golf courses in the British Isles, Trevose hosted the 2008 Brabazon Trophy (English Men’s Amateur Stroke Play Championship) and The McGregor Trophy in 2012 and it regularly plays home to touring

professionals and top amateurs alike. Indeed Paul Way, exEuropean Tour and Ryder Cup player, has said of Trevose, “I have played lots of Harry Colt courses and Trevose is up there with his best. The setting is fantastic and you need every shot on this course.”

With a range of 3 to 5 star on-site (self catering) accommodation, as well as first-class dining, three tennis courts, a beauty/therapy salon, swimming pool, children’s play area, seven nearby beaches and three courses to choose from, Trevose offers the ideal golf destination with a relaxed holiday atmosphere.

Trevose, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5.

CONTACT Trevose Golf & Country Club, Constantine Bay, Padstow, Cornwall PL28 8JB Contact: Nick Gammon T: 01841 520208 Green Fee £65 Summer/Winter £40 www.trevose-gc.co.uk ngammon@trevose-gc.co.uk 137

England

Saunton Golf Club

T

wo of links golf’s most precious gems are set in the remote shadows of the towering sand dunes of Braunton Burrows at Saunton Golf Club in North Devon, less than half a mile from the Atlantic Ocean. When the club was inaugurated in 1897 its clubhouse doubled up as the local post office, yet now its two championship courses, East and West, are considered among the greatest links in the world.

The basis for the present East Course was laid out under the direction of the renowned course architect W. Herbert Fowler in the 1920’s. A completely natural layout set amid the spectacular sand hills, the East Course provides a peaceful environment with only the sound of the sea for company as well as a great test of golf for players of all standards.

The West course is also an exceptional challenge in its own right and it was here in 1997 that a 17-year-old Sergio Garcia won the British Boys Championship, just two years before making his Ryder Cup debut. Indeed over the years Saunton has played host to many major national and international championships during its 113- year history.

138

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

The East Course will host the South West Amateur Championships and West of England Championships in 2011 whilst the West course will be used in 2012 by the English Golf Union for the Mid Amateur Championships, Logan Trophy.

England’s most successful modern day golfer, Nick Faldo, has been one of Saunton’s many fans since playing here as a boy. The multiple major winner once said of Saunton’s East Course, "I've no doubt if the East Course were located on the coast of Lancashire or Kent it would have hosted an Open Championship by now."

Saunton, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5 and A361.

CONTACT Saunton Golf Club, Nr Braunton, North Devon EX33 1LG Contact: Peter McMullen T: 01271 812436 Green fee £74 weekdays/£79 weekends www.sauntongolf.co.uk gm4@sauntongolf.co.uk

England

Royal North Devon Golf Club

A

golfing pilgrimage to Royal North Devon is a must for anyone interested in the history of golf. Dating back to 1864, Royal North Devon, or Westward Ho! as it is also known, is England’s oldest links course and is often described as windswept, wild and interesting. The layout has hardly changed over nearly 150 years and to play it is like taking a step back in time and seeing how golf was played over a hundred years ago in Victorian England.

The golf course is carved out of the natural terrain that gently undulates alongside the North Atlantic coastline and is set on common land on which to this day livestock still graze. Despite its age, the course has stood the test of time and is still a great test for any standard of golfer. While JH Taylor may have served as Burnham & Berrow’s first pro, it was here at Royal North Devon that the golfer started his career as a caddie and later finished it as club president.

With such history and heritage, it is no surprise that the

clubhouse houses a veritable treasure trove of golf memorabilia, honors boards and club trophies, second only to the collection found in the Royal & Ancient club house of St Andrews. As far removed as possible from many of the modern, manicured and manufactured courses of today, Royal North Devon is deemed a great championship links that combines pure raw exhilaration with the experience of playing a fast running links in a stiff breeze that still tests the very best in the game. Royal North Devon, a member of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network, is easily accessible via the M5 and A361.

CONTACT Royal North Devon Golf Club, Golf Links Road, Westward Ho! Bideford EX39 1HD Contact: Mark Evans T: 01237 473817 Green Fee Friday & Saturday £55/Sunday to Thursday £48 www.royalnorthdevongolfclub.co.uk info@royalnorthdevongolfclub.co.uk 139

England

Burnham & Berrow Golf Club

S

omerset’s Burnham & Berrow Golf Club is a fine example of a classic English links course that offers a superb challenge to golfers of all abilities. Founded in 1890, the championship layout is particularly noted for its distinct sand hills that form stubborn, natural obstacles along with the buckthorn and even a marsh mid-way through a round that golfers are advised to avoid.

As with all links golf the challenging factor is the wind and its unpredictability, which means that the course can play differently almost every day. The prevailing south westerly winds that whip in from the dramatic backdrop of the North Atlantic Coast and along the Bristol Channel ensure that golfers are treated to a links challenge that is not for the faint hearted. The greens are renowned as true and quick and the temperate coastal location means that the course is guaranteed to be in good condition all year round. Excellent drainage due to the sandy subsoil ensures that the course is rarely, if ever, closed.

The nature of the course demands that you use almost every club in the bag, ensuring that the experience is both memorable and challenging.The course has evolved over the decades but

140

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

today’s layout is largely the work of Harry Colt. The club’s first professional was the legendary JH Taylor, five times an Open champion, who played an important part in development of the playing side of the club and once described the course as “one of the most sporting courses conceivable”.

Burnham & Berrow has hosted a string of prestigious amateur tournaments from as early as 1906 when it staged the Ladies British Open Amateur Championship. More recently it has been proud to be chosen as the venue for the 2006 English Amateur Championship and the 2009 Tillman Trophy. In 2011 it will be the host venue for The Brabazon Trophy as well as the British Boys Championship. Conveniently located just off the M5 in Burnham-on-Sea, Burnham & Berrow is part of the England’s Atlantic Links golf network.

CONTACT Burnham & Berrow Golf Club, St Christopher’s Way, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset TA8 2PE Michael Blight T: 01278 785760 Green fee £70 www.burnhamandberrowgolfclub.co.uk secretary.bbgc@btconnect.com

England

St Enodoc Golf Club

C

ornwall’s St Enodoc, designed by celebrated golf course architect James Braid, is a sparkling jewel of links golf in South West England that once trodden, is never forgotten.

Founded in 1890, it boasts a magnificent setting amongst the rolling sand dunes and exposed cliff tops that overlook the Camel Estuary and the dramatic coastline of the North Atlantic ocean giving it some of the greatest sea and estuary views of any course in the world. Indeed St Enodoc prides itself on its stunning panoramas over the water that can be seen from every single hole.

St Enodoc’s Church Course is so called because of the 11th century Norman Church that was uncovered from amongst the sand dunes in Victorian times in the middle of the course at the bottom of the winding 10th hole. This is where the Poet Laureate John Betjeman lies following a lifelong love of Cornwall and the golf course. The undulating track that trails the natural contours of the landscape has no two holes the same and is world renowned for its towering Himalaya bunker - reputedly the tallest bunker in Europe - that entirely blocks golfers’ view of the 6th green from all but a slither of fairway.

142

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

Testament to the quality of the course St Enodoc, one of the most charming championship links courses in England, has played host to top amateur events including the English Ladies Amateur Championship in 1993 & 2002 and the English Counties Championship in 1989 & 2005. Over the years, the charm of St Enodoc and its history has lured a host of legendary Open Champions to its fairways including James Braid of course, Henry Cotton, Jim Barnes and Tom Watson which has added to the prestige of this exceptional course. The club offers excellent practice facilities complete with driving range, two putting greens and two PGA coaching professionals and recently invested heavily in a new short game practice area, a new target green on the range and a new covered bay facility.

CONTACT St Enodoc Golf Club, Rock, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 6LD Contact: Tuck Clagett T: 01208 863216 Green Fee £67 www.st-enodoc.co.uk tuck.clagett@st-enodoc.co.uk

England

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club

S

et within 186 acres of beautifully-maintained parkland, with its own secret gardens, carp-filled lake, walled garden and woodland trails; the impressive Ashdown Park Hotel is tucked away, as if intended to be a secret, at the heart of the Ashdown Forest in East Sussex.

The landscaped Sussex countryside makes it the ideal setting for a leisurely round of golf. There is a Par 3, 18 hole golf course, driving range, putting green and indoor nets, and if you are wanting to improve your game, we can also arrange for tuition from an experienced coach.

As well as the golf course, the Country Club offers an impressive range of facilities for both invigorating and relaxing pursuits as well as informal refreshments in the Fairway Lounge.

The gym is well-equipped and personal training is available. In addition there is an aerobics studio, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, table tennis and snooker as well as outdoor pursuits including jogging trails (an experience not to be missed during the bluebell season), tennis courts and croquet.

The Revitalise Spa, located within the Country Club, offers a wide range of bespoke signature treatments combining different styles and techniques from around the world, producing a

completely unique spa experience.

Membership starts from ÂŁ86.00 per month which includes full use of the Country Club facilities as well as preferential rates on spa treatments, food & drink and accommodation in the hotel.

When you break from your round of golf or take time out from the facilities in the Country Club, head to the Fairway lounge and enjoy lunch or dinner. The Fairway is a Brassiere-style restaurant located in the Country Club which overlooks beautiful views across the golf course. It is the perfect place to enjoy light lunches throughout the week and a less formal meal on Friday & Saturday evenings. The menu offers a wide variety of meals from delicious club bites to mouth-watering main courses and sweet treats.

CONTACT Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club Wych Cross, Nr Forest Row East Sussex RH18 5JR T +44 (0)1342 824988. Fax: +44 (0)1342 826206 www.ashdownpark.com

143

England

East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa

S

et in 1100 acres of quintessentially English countryside, yet only 40 minutes from Gatwick Airport and close enough to several major transport routes to make travelling a breeze, we can’t think of anywhere more conducive to a relaxing, awe-inspiring golf break than right here in this glorious setting.

Boasting two world class 18 hole Championship Golf Courses as well as 104 bedroom hotel, a fully equipped health club, 20 metre pool and a nine treatment room spa, East Sussex National has it all.

From the moment you tee off, to the first drink back at the clubhouse, we’re confident it’s an experience you will want to repeat time and again. We welcome everyone who wishes to spend time on our spectacular courses; we just want to give those who enjoy the game a chance to live the experience. Today, it represents the nearest you can get to perfection in the design and condition of the golf courses. Our meticulous attention to detail and clubhouse facilities among the finest in Europe, make the game even more enjoyable.

144

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

Superior courses, unrivalled appeal Both our championship courses were designed by Robert E Cupp, one of Jack Nicklaus’s course architects, with major championship golf in mind. It’s no wonder that the club staged two European Opens and played host to some of the world’s leading players including Nick Faldo, Ernie Els, Vijah Singh, Colin Montgomerie, Jose Maria Olazabal, Nick Price and Ian Woosnam.

Golf Academy The East Sussex National Golf Academy boasts some of the finest practise facilities in Europe: a 13 acre driving range, with open grass tee and covered bays, greenside and fairway bunkers, pitching and chipping areas, three putting greens and a championship three hole academy course featuring a par 3, par 4 and par 5 holes.

CONTACT

East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa Little Horsted, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 5ES 01825 880088 www.eastsussexnational.co.uk

England

Bovey Castle B

ovey Castle is an internationally-renowned five-star resort, with special breaks for golfers available throughout the year. The rich heritage of Bovey Castle’s former life has been lovingly-complemented throughout and reflects the hotel’s ambience and luxurious hospitality.

Set within its own private estate in Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is 40 minutes from Exeter by car and just over two hours by train from London Paddington to the nearest train station – Exeter St.Davids. The hotel’s Land Rover transfer service can be arranged from any location in the UK. The Old Course at Bovey Castle is a challenging and beautiful 18-hole championship course, designed in 1926 by JF Abercromby, one of the finest British golf course designers of the Golden Era. The course has gained its reputation as one of the most enjoyable places to play golf due to its glorious setting and varied challenge.

Designed to rival its sister courses at Gleneagles and Turnberry, this course has been described as an experience of golf never to be forgotten, presenting the pure challenge of golf to

professional and amateur alike.

At just 6303 yards, golfers should not consider the Old Course a simple task as Bovey Castle puts a precedence on accuracy, with many tee and approach shots crossing a variety of hazards.

With the River Bovey coming into play on the first eight holes, clear thinking and strategic positional play is vital to score well around this course.

The course’s par three 3rd, surrounded by water on three sides, is matched only by the most famous hole at Bovey Castle – the par four 7th, once described by Sir Henry Cotton as “one of the most challenging par 4’s on an CONTACT DE TAIL S inland golf course.”

Bovey Castle The clubhouse is well-equipped Dartmoor National Park with changing rooms, golf shop, Devon restaurant and bar area with TQ13 8RE outdoor seating overlooking the Golf professional course Richard Lewis 01647 445009 www.boveycastle.com/golf 145

England

The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club

O

ne of the finest resorts in the south west, The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club is situated in 365 acres of beautiful park and woodland. Its silently secluded setting alongside the Cotswold village of Castle Combe places it within easy reach of the world famous Bath and only 90 minutes from Paddington station.

Designed by the renowned BBC commentator Peter Alliss and his designing partner Clive Clarke, the championship course combines hand cut tees and greens with mature oak trees and the meandering Bybrook River to create one of the most spectacular courses in the UK. Home to one of the top 10 par 3’s of the world, the undulating landscape has attracted many professionals over the years.

Justin Rose chose to play the course on the morning before his wedding describing it as “a wonderfully scenic golf course that complements the outstanding Manor House Hotel”. Luke Donald described it as “a truly stunning course” going on to say that “he would definitely be coming back” With PGA trained pro’s on hand and comprehensive USGA practice facilities including a driving range playing off natural turf, a chipping and bunker area and an immaculate putting green to get a little practice in you are sure to be well prepared before tackling the greens.

The immaculate standards of the course are complimented 146

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

by the welcoming faces and attention to detail in the recently refurbished club house. From the sun soaked terrace you can look out across the enchanting lake and 18th green or you can take a seat in one of the sumptuous lounges where a new “Great British Menu” serves traditional dishes recreated with produce from local suppliers.

Nestled in the Bybrook Valley the 14th century Manor House Hotel boasts a Michelin star restaurant and 48 rooms and suites all individually designed so no two are the same, whether you opt for the main house or the Mews Cottages, there is something for everyone.

If you find time to spare between playing the championship golf course, enjoying Michelin star fine dining or strolling in the grounds then try your hand at fishing, laser-clay shooting, archery or even go-karting at the local race circuit.

CONTACT The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club Castle Combe, Nr Bath, Wiltshire SN14 7HR Tel +44 (0) 1249 784809 www.manorhouse.co.uk enquiries@manorhouse.co.uk

England

Wensum Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club

W

ensum Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club, offers the complete package for your perfect Golf Break! Set in the heart of the beautiful Norfolk Countryside, offering guest’s use of our two, 18 Hole Golf Courses the ‘Wensum’ & ‘Valley’, and a 9 Hole course at nearby venue, ‘Matishall’.

The courses are playable all year round thanks to free draining soil and the location in one of the driest counties in the UK. Our Wensum course is the only golf course in Norfolk to host the PGA Euro Pro Tour and requires length off the tee and accuracy.

The par 72, Valley Course demands accuracy and skill on the undulating greens.

Your Golf Break includes an en-suite bedroom, full English breakfast, and delicious 3 course evening meal, with as much golf as you desire. During your stay you can enjoy full use of our Swimming Pool, Spa Pool, Sauna, and extensively equipped Gymnasium.

Or why not fish on the 2 mile stretch of river, and our lakes at

Billingford, boasting a diversity of fresh water fish! The valley also offers enjoyable country walks and breathtaking views.

Our well stocked bars are manned by our friendly team, offering a wide variety of beverages at ‘Pub’ prices! You can relax in our lounge area & play our full sized snooker tables. The Hotel is only 5 miles from the centre of Norwich City, which boasts a bustling night life, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained!

Norfolk offers an extensive range of activities, with its unique coastlines, historic market towns and beautiful rural countryside.

You are sure to feel relaxed with the slow pace of life and friendly locals.

Our Golf Breaks start from just £75 per person, per night, so do not hesitate call our friendly reservations team and they will be happy to help.

CONTACT

Wensum Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club Beech Avenue, Taverham, Norwich, NR8 6HP 01603 261012 enqs@wensumvalleyhotel.co.uk www.wensumvalleyhotel.co.uk

147

There’s

more

to us than meets the eye!

Karlštejn Golf Resort

Czech golf experience is a unique combination of the sport, natural beauty and historical sites. There are 87 top-quality golf courses in the country, of which the oldest ones are over 100 years old. Among others, Prague Golf Masters (Ladies European Tour) and Czech Open (GR Albatross Europan PGA Tour) are held in the Czech Republic. | www.czechtourism.com

France

Côte d ´Opale

S

ituated in Northern France, just across the Channel, the Côte d’Opale brings together all the charms of the region, including a choice of eleven 18-hole courses.

Set within an exceptional environment, this golfer’s paradise offers a diversity of golf courses from natural links to pine forests, each accessible to all levels of players.

In order to maintain their excellent quality, considerable investments have been made at many of these golf clubs and each offer top-class facilities including comfortable club houses, restaurants and function rooms. Côte d’Opale is the heart of French Golf.

Golf en Côte d’Opale comprises of the following clubs: Dunkerque – 27 holes Wimereux – 18 holes Hardelot – 36 holes Le Touquet – 45 holes Saint-Omer – 27 holes Abbeville – 18 holes Nampont-Saint-Martin – 36 Holes Belle-Dune – 18 holes Arras : 27 holes

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.golfencotedopale.com contact@golfencotedopale.com Golf en Côte d'Opale. Route de la Trésorerie. 62126 Wimille Tél: + 33 3 21 10 34 60.

150

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

Portugal

Quinta do Peru

W

ith the ArrĂĄbida mountains as its backdrop, the Quinta do Peru golf course offers amateurs a pleasant game, whilst also presenting a challenge for professionals. It was voted amongst the top 10 courses in Portugal in the biennial poll organised by the European Golf magazine. With its many trees and wild flowers, the course provides a varied start, for the first three holes consist of a par 5, a 386-metre par 4 and a 186-metre par 3. Amongst the first nine holes, attention is drawn to the short eighth hole, with a lake in front of its green.

The next nine holes are even more difficult. Number 12 is a par 4 which, although not very long, has a lake running beside the fairway and down to the green. Then comes what is probably the most difficult test on the course: hole 16, a 200-metre par 3, where one needs to play over a lake to reach the green.

Due to the quality of the course Quinta do Peru has hosted several events from the European Challenge Tour.

152

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

The friendly family atmosphere makes this club one of the most highly regarded in Portuguese golf, its diversified course offering excellent views over the surrounding countryside.

Quinta do Peru Golf Course is located in a privileged and accessible area, 30 minutes south of Lisbon.

CONTACT Quinta do PerĂş Golf & Country Club Alameda da Serra, 2 2975-666 Quinta do Conde Portugal +351 212 134 320 e-mail: pedro@golfquintadoperu.com

Portugal

Hilton Vilamoura

As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa

V

ilamoura commands pride of place on Portugal’s sun – drenched Algarve coast. With three miles of magnificent sandy beaches, one of southern Europe’s largest marina, five spectacular golf courses and a 200- hectare nature park, the complex is both glamorous and beautiful. In the heart of it all, amidst the fairways, the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa enjoys a supremely tranquil setting with one of Portugal’s largest Spas onsite.

The Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa represents the perfect European hotel destination for discerning travellers seeking lush, open fairways, fine food and year-round sun.

Renowned as Portugal’s golfing capital, Vilamoura is the perfect destination for sun, sea and a fine selection of top-class

golf courses, which regularly host prestigious international events.

Located in the heart of the Algarve Coast - within 20km of the airport at Faro - the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa features a unique Golf Simulator Centre, and has two top-class courses on its doorstep. Check out the immaculate greens, rolling parklands and stunning sea views of Pinhal, or play the celebrated Vilamoura Old Course, with its lush pines and tough narrow fairways.

CONTACT Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa Rua da Torre d'Agua, Lote 4.11.1B 8125-615 Vilamoura, Algarve - Portugal.

Telephone: +351 289 304000 Email: sales.vilamoura@hilton.com Website: www.hiltonvilamouraresort.com

153

La Residence Des Cascades Golf, Spa & Thalasso Resort Located within the year- round resort destination of Soma Bay on Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera, La Residence des Cascades has been created to serve the dedicated golfers as well as provide unparallel thalasso-therapy and wellness facilities in the region also is positioned on the highest point of the Soma Bay peninsula and panoramic sea views.

La Residence des Cascades has 210 comfortable and graciously appointed guest rooms plus 39 luxurious suites, all with views of the sea and the Cascades Championship Golf Course, The Cascades championship golf course is designed by Gary Player, one of the " Big Three" ( along with Jack Nicklaus & Arnold Palmer ).The 18 hole Par 72 golf course has lush green fairways that contrast dramatically with the rugged desert and clear blue waters of the surrounding sea. Adjacent is a 9 hole Par 3 Golf Academy Course. There are also extensive practice facilities, including a driving range and several putting and pitching greens. Individual and group tuition by PGA golf professionals is also available Les Thermes Marins des Cascades (TMC) is a holistic spa and thalasso center offering a full range of treatments from its extensive facilities at Soma Bay. A member of The Leading Spas of the World®, TMC combines three essential elements from nature: sea water rich in mineral salts, the purity of climate & marine algae with its active natural ingredients.

Les Thermes Marins des Cascades is an integral part of La Résidence des Cascades, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and is easily accessible from all of its guest rooms but operates as a stand-alone unit servicing the entire Soma Bay community. It is operated in cooperation with Les Thermes Marins de Saint-Malo of France and is one of the largest and best equipped spas and thalasso centers in the world.

LF

U CL

E B D GO

O

Majorca

A

A

L CA AD N

Club de Golf Alcanada

C

lub de Golf Alcanada on the Mediterranean Island of Mallorca opened for play in October 2003. It is considered to be one of the top courses in Spain according to a variety of golf guides and has been voted for the last 3 years as the most prefered golf course in Europe by the readers of “Golf Journal”.

Peter Porsche, member of the famous car dynasty, made one of his lifelong dreams come true – to build and own a golf course. His eye for perfection and high quality can be seen in every corner of the complex. As an avid golfer himself it was important that his golf course would be a natural asset to the local enviornment. The world renouned golf course designer, Robert Trent Jones Junior, is responsible for the layout of this course in the Bay of Alcudia.

A three hundred year old Mallorcan Mansion houses pro shop, lockers and club restaurant. The picturesque island of Alcanada with its lighthouse, which lends its name to the course, is the dominant feature from most points of the course. In

156

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

summer, with the restaurant also open evenings, Alcanada is probably one of the best spots to enjoy a dinner on the island of Mallorca.

At Alcanada, with its gently rolling fairways, well placed greenside bunkers and tricky fast greens, challenge each player.

To fine tune play, Alcanada offfers a practice area incorporating spacious pitching area, roofed driving range and two practice putting greens. The multi language golf school under the supervision of PGA teacher Peter Dost offers a variety of courses and classes and is able to create personal and personalized lessons (www.dostgolf.com) to suit both beginners and experienced players.

CONTACT Club de Golf Alcanada www.golf-alcanada.com info@golf-alcanada.com Tel: 0034-971-54 95 60. Fax: 0034-971 -89 75 78

Spain - Murcia

Murcia Golf Properties

M

GP is the leading resale estate agent specialising in selling property on the Polaris World golf resorts in Murcia, Spain.

MGP has the largest selection of re-sales, developer offers and bank repossessions of any agent including two bedroom apartments from 72,000€ and villas from 118,600€. MGP offers properties with up to 100% funding and is also the only specialist agency to have a dedicated sales office on the Polaris World resorts.

The company operates free inspection visits,during which

158

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

clients stay in luxury villas on the resorts. MGP has helped hundreds of clients buy and sell property on the golf resorts of Murcia. Contact us today for more information.

CONTACT www.MurciaGolfProperties.co.uk Spanish office – 0034 968 328 207 UK office – 0044 (0)1273 302236

Spain - Cadiz

Sherry Golf Jerez

D

esigned by Stirling & Martin from Global Golf Company, Sherry Golf appears like an accessible course for amateurs and challenging for professionals. Proof of this are the many important tournaments we have had the honour to host, like the Spanish Open Amateur Championship, two years in a row, and the Seniors International Championship. We are also the official venue of the 2nd Stage of the PGA Qualifying School.

The layout is characterized as being one of the most pleasant walkthroughs in Spain: - 18 holes Championship course: 6572 meters, Par 72 - Pitch & Putt course: 911 meters, Par 3 Sherry Golf is within the new concepts of American golf course design: fun but safe in the game with undulations and well placed hazards, without making it too hilly, in order to ensure a pleasant walkthrough. Wide fairways and ample greens, puts Sherry Golf into the category of a luxury course.

The Clubhouse counts more than 2,800 sq metres designed under the Sherry flair, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere just like the city of Jerez. Its facilities caters to every single aspect of the sport as well as tournaments, including pro-shop, club storage

160

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

room, locker rooms, restaurant, terrace grill, cafeteria, spike bar, lounges, golf academy, and much more.

The exceptional geographic location of Jerez and its surroundings make this area the perfect destination for the visitor.

3,200 hours of sun light per year, gives this area of the coast its name, Costa de la Luz (Coast of light).

Sherry Golf is located only 5 minutes from the international airport of Jerez, 50 minutes from Seville airport and 1 hour from Malaga International, thanks to the new motorway from Jerez to Los Barrios.

CONTACT Sherry Golf Jerez, 11407 Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz Telephone +34 956 088 330 Fax +34 956 088 331 Email info@sherrygolf.com www.sherrygolf.com

Spain - Cadiz

Golf El Puerto

G

olf El Puerto is a charming and challenging golf course, located in Puerto de Santa María, a tourist resort and a focal point for gastronomy and leisure in the Bay of Cadiz at the Costa de la Luz. The course, designed by professional Manuel Piñero, was created as an attractive 18-hole course (Par 72), ideal for players of all levels – and well-placed to host professional events.

The magnificently designed layout and configuration, featuring undulating fairways, provides an interesting and entertaining element to a round of golf.

The course also has the advantage of being free of blind holes, and having a proliferation of native trees and a huge topographic plate of water (33.000 square metre) where lakes and streams have been created in the depressions and inclinations. At all times players are surrounded by peace and quiet, amongst many characteristic species of Atlantic flora, wrapped in a silence that is only broken by the small brooks and the numerous water birds that live on the lakes.

Golf El Puerto, with its 6300 metres length, is appealing to expert and amateur golfers alike. The biggest attraction of this course is its varied layout, with degrees of difficulties that make it ideal for players of all levels.

The practice course, including greens, bunkers, putting & chipping greens, completes a playing area with some difficult stretches, yet feasible for all players. With holes protected by the singular route between the numerous lakes and small woods, and with no blind shots - in short, a course with a personality of its own, and whose layout is a pleasant challenge for all true golf enthusiasts.

CONTACT DE TAIL S: Golf El Puerto Carretera de Sanlúcar 11500 El Puerto de Santa María (Cádiz) Tel. (0034) 956 876 541 Fax (0034) 956 854 866 Email: info@golfelpuerto.com 161

THE NEXT ISSUE

Great Golf

Magazine

... and thethe journey continues ... and journey continues

In the spring 2012 issue of Great Golf Magazine, we shall take you to Dubai to visit some truly wonderful Golf Courses. Staying on an Arab theme, we will also be travelling on to Morocco. Greece is in our sights as well, and you can be sure that we will be covering some far flung destinations as well as more close to home, including the legendary Turnberry.

Remember that if you like the magazine, you can pre-order a copy to make sure that you do not miss out. Just go to www.greatgolfmagazine.co.uk where you will find an online form. For any wishing to advertise in upcoming issues, please contact; frazer@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk mike@greatgolfmagazine.co.uk or call +44 (0)1892 544 872

See you in the New Year!

162

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

Golf in Thee G Gulfstream lfstream str treeaam m y £79 £7 from only With fewer hours in n the th day, a round nd at Turnberry is treasured u red d all a th the e more, e, particularly rly when a round d is available from only £79. Golf o f iin n the e Gulfstream a round eam includes inc nd of o golf on The Kintyre or The Ailsa, h host osst of the 2009 9 Open, Op as well as a bacon roll and coffee upon arrival and d a three t hree course lunch at Tappie Toorie.

The e Ailsa - £99, The Kintyre - £79 Rates are fo for selected tee times, valid from Monday thru Thursday between October b tober 2011 and March 2012 visit turnberryresort.co.uk/golf-breaks turnberryreso sort ort.co.uk/golf-breaks or call 0844 811 3209

Turnberry Resort | Turnberry Ayrshire, Ayrsh KA26 9LT, LT, United Kingdom t 0844 811 3209 | f +44 1655 331 001 | turnberry.co.uk rry.co.uk