Autumn 2025 Ultratravel

TEE TIME:

NOVEL HORIZONS: MUST-PLAY NEWBIES GOLF’S GLITTERING GATHERINGS

NELLY KORDA: BEHIND THE SWING GAME-CHANGING GEAR

PLUS:

TIME LAID BARE

COUTURE CRUISING

DRIVING THE FUTURE AND... GHA CONTINUES TO GROW

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THE JOY OF DISCOVERY

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THE JOY OF DISCOVERY

IN THIS ISSUE

13 • Editor’s Letter

Exploring fairways, yes, but golf is as much about forging lasting bonds. By Farhad Heydari

17 • A World of Firsts

On Global Hotel Alliance’s growing portfolio, from reborn icons to rising stars. By Julie Alpine

22 • The Shortlist

Curated pleasures to ease you into – and all the way through – autumn. By Ultratravel editors

29 • High Style, High Seas Couture cruising is raising its game, much to the delight of modern adventurers. By Gary Buchanan

41 • Golfing World

The annual Ultratravel compendium dedicated to the great game

42 • Fairway Frontiers

The brand-new – and reimagined – courses redefining golf as we know it. By Tom Mackin

47 • Game Changers

Must-have irons, apparel and kit to bring out your inner pro. By Nick Bayly

AUTUMN 2025

34 • Inside Out

The skeletonised watches changing the face of haute horology. By Chris Hall

72 • Eastern Promise China’s Omoda 9 SHS takes aim at its electric rivals. By Adam Hay-Nicholls

67 • Five Minutes With... LPGA star Nelly Korda talks life, sport, family and style. By Farhad Heydari

COVER PHOTO: TEETH OF THE DOG GOLF COURSE, CASA DE CAMPO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Farhad Heydari

Farhad@ultratravel.com

@MrFarhadHeydari

SENIOR EDITOR

Julie Alpine

CHAIRMAN

Nick Perry

Nick@ultratravel.com @MrNickPerry

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Andrew Cowan

CONTRIBUTORS

Nick Bayly, Gary Buchanan, Chris Hall, Adam Hay-Nicholls, Tom Mackin

@Ultratravel ultratravel.com

© 2025 Published by PGP Media Limited on behalf of UHC Cayman Holdings Limited, Northside House, Mount Pleasant, Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN4 9EE, England, UK. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork submitted. The information contained in this publication is correct at the time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or UHC Cayman Holdings Limited. Ultratravel is a registered trademark.

Par for the Course

There’s a well-worn saying in golf: the game is best played not just across 18 holes, but across borders. It’s true – golfers, myself included, have an almost insatiable “itch to travel”; to test their swings not only at home clubs or on familiar fairways but on courses that stretch across the globe.

The allure is obvious. Golf has always been so much more than a sport: it is an invitation to explore diverse landscapes and cultures, to bond with friends, family and associates on distant greens, and to create experiences and memories that linger long after the final putt has dropped.

It is with that wanderlust in mind that we bring you our annual golf edition of – an issue that celebrates the

game in its most expansive form: consider it your passport to discovery. As you’ll see on the pages that follow, it is packed with pieces to inspire, from the latest layouts shaping the sport’s landscape to the newest equipment innovations currently causing a stir, and much more besides.

Of course, has never been about a single passion. In this issue, we also invite you to discover a host of other pursuits – from stand-out new voyages on the high seas to the artistry of the skeletonised timepieces redefining haute horology. Our hope is that these will inspire you to pack not only your clubs, but also your curiosity – for in travel, as in golf, the journey is the greatest reward.

“Golf has always been more than a sport: it is an invitation to explore diverse landscapes and cultures, to bond with friends, family and associates, and to create memories that linger long after the final putt has dropped”

Farhad Heydari EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ultratravel

LA DOLCE VITA

Farhad Heydari in action for Team USA at the Monte-Carlo U.S. Celebrity Golf Cup in Scotland (see page 24)

Sincerely Yours

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A WORLD OF FIRSTS

From reborn icons in Bucharest, Budapest and beyond to Florence’s next great opening, GHA is adding new layers of luxury to its alwaystempting portfolio, writes Julie Alpine

The many delights of the Romanian capital (think grand fin-de-siècle boulevards, a lively café culture and cutting-edge galleries, not to mention a thriving culinary scene) are now ready to be discovered by GHA members thanks to the debut of the Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard Bucharest

A Belle Époque landmark first opened in 1873, the building was the city’s first to feature electric lights and a lift, and its guestbook is peppered with royalty, dignitaries and creative luminaries. After meticulous restoration, it reopens with just 30 sumptuous suites – palatial yet residential in feel, each flooded with light and layered with bespoke furnishings and contemporary artworks. Guests can dine at Sass’ Restaurant & Lounge, sip negronis at the Heritage Bar (inspired by Bucharest’s golden age), and retreat to the cosseting spa, where Himalayan-salt saunas and 111SKIN treatments promise indulgent renewal. Tailored cultural experiences, meanwhile, range from artist-led encounters to heli-bear spotting in the nearby Carpathians.

Further south, where Sicily’s sun-drenched shores meet centuries of Arab-Norman grandeur, the new NH Collection Palermo Palazzo Sitano opens as the perfect base from which to explore the eponymous city’s heady mix of history and culture. This Baroque palace on the elegant Via Vittorio Emanuele blends aristocratic charm with 21st-century comforts, from frescoed ceilings in select Junior Suites and cast-iron balconies overlooking the old town to a sauna and steam bath tucked discreetly on the ground floor. The hotel’s glass-roofed restaurant and courtyard bar channel a timeless Italian elegance, while the menus celebrate Sicily’s multicultural culinary soul through the use of top-notch local ingredients and with a generous dash of global flair.

Over in Asia, a major milestone as Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotel Brand for three consecutive years has unveiled its latest outpost with Capella at Galaxy Macau Conceived by Paris-based Moinard Bétaille, the state-ofthe-art property channels a tropical jungle aesthetic across 17 floors, complete with an immersive digital art wall in the lobby. Behind its gilded façade lie 95 light-filled suites and penthouses, many with private terraces, infinity pools or winter gardens. It’s an opening that confirms Capella’s skill at weaving local spirit with unbridled luxury. The group has also announced that another French design house, this time Liaigre, will collaborate with it on a future project in Florence: a once-in-a-generation project set within the city’s Unesco-listed historic heart. The Capella Florence promises Liaigre’s understated, sensual refinement across 89 rooms and suites, plus 10 branded residences. Those checking into the hotel can look forward to a Clubhouse spa

DESTINATIONS DEFINED

Previous page and left: Pan Pacific Perth, the Singapore-based group’s largest Australian property, has a fresh new look

Middle left: NH Collection Palermo Palazzo Sitano oozes style, with its rooftop restaurant spotlighting Sicily’s famed cuisine

Bottom left: Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard Bucharest – the city’s first all-suite luxury stay – is now open for business

Below: Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest has thrown off the dust sheets to reveal 350 reimagined living spaces of distinction

with hydro pool, rooftop dining with views over terracotta rooftops, and even an indoor amphitheatre, designed to pay tribute to Florence’s legacy as a cradle of creativity when it opens with five restaurants and bars, from a basement speakeasy to a sky-high terrace, in 2027.

In the meantime, GHA members can discover the charms of two much-loved alliance properties which have emerged from multimillion-euro makeovers. Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest has unveiled 350 newly reimagined rooms and suites. Among the highlights are the Japandiinspired Art Collection Suite, with its rounded furnishings and calming tones, and the Herend Suite, showcasing porcelain from Hungary’s famed artisans. Add to this the hotel’s 1,500-strong art collection and Michelin-recognised dining at Nobu, and the result is Budapest’s most stylish address. And down under, Pan Pacific Perth, the group’s largest property in Australia, has been thoroughly refreshed. Its design now draws inspiration from Western Australia’s dramatic landscapes, using sustainable materials from recycled denim to repurposed plastics. Beyond the 488 rooms, highlights include a soaring lobby, a new Pacific Club Lounge and Perth’s largest convention floor – ensuring the city’s west coast hub status is well and truly sealed.

THE PERIPATETIC GOURMET

Global Hotel Alliance has welcomed The Wolseley Hospitality Group into the GHA DISCOVERY programme

– its first restaurant partner. Members can now earn and redeem D$ at nine of London’s most beloved dining institutions, including The Wolseley, Brasserie Zédel and Soutine. Reflecting GHA’s “live local” philosophy, the move extends member rewards beyond hotels to everyday lifestyle experiences.

As Chris Hartley, CEO of GHA, puts it: “This partnership brings more value and recognition to our members in ways that extend beyond travel – reinforcing our commitment to lifestyle-driven discovery.”

For more information or to join the programme for free, visit ghadiscovery.com or download the GHA DISCOVERY mobile app.

TABLE TALK Above: pit stops at London’s The Wolseley will now earn members DISCOVERY Dollars

Below: Brasserie Zédel’s menu is French but the

THE SHORT

What’s hot, what to buy and what to know, as compiled by Ultratravel editors

WEARABLE SOUND, REIMAGINED

Bang & Olufsen unveils the Beo Grace earbuds – sculptural aluminium design fused with acoustic innovation. Inspired by fine jewellery, they deliver adaptive noise cancellation, B&O’s Spatial Audio and unrivalled clarity, redefining wearable sound as luxury. bang-olufsen.com

PARIS, ILLUSTRATED

The City of Light unfurls through Marin Montagut’s whimsical eye, with 475 secret shops, ateliers, cafés and landmarks revealed in the French designer’s new illustrated guide, Forever Paris – A Guide to the Timeless Soul of the City

Discover Paris’ enduring artistry distilled into a love letter to timeless style. rizzoliusa.com

EFFORTLESS ESCAPE

LOVE BRAND & Co. introduces the Men’s Coconut Linen Long Sleeve Hoodie, which blends island-inspired ease with sustainable craftsmanship. Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly elegant, it’s the perfect travel companion, whether the destination is beach or city. lovebrand.com

IN THE BAG

ERES

The Voyageur Basket Bag from the renowned French luxury maison elevates “l’heure de l’apéro” style whatever the season. eresparis.com

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

The Calfskin Leisure Backpack epitomises the elegance – and functionality – the luxe Italian brand is famed for. brunellocucinelli.com

HERITAGE IN A GLASS

Marking its place in whisky history, Laphroaig introduces the Rope Edition 39-Year-Old, part of The Wall Collection. Matured in oloroso sherry and Pedro Ximénez casks, this limited-edition single malt marries smoky depth with maritime salinity, making it a true collector’s treasure. laphroaig.com

CONNOLLY

The Taupe Medium Sea Bag by the bijoux British accessories specialist exudes quiet luxury. A go-anywhere fix for the season. connollyengland.com

DUNHILL

The Whisky Century Burnished Leather Holdall bears all the finer details fans have come to expect from the iconic British label. dunhill.com

A MAJOR IN THE MOUNTAINS

The 2025 Amundi Evian Championship combined world-class competition with alpine beauty and French art de vivre for fans and players alike

ESTABLISHED IN 1994 and framed by the mist-kissed foothills of the French Alps, the Amundi Evian Championship has long stood as the LPGA Tour’s most exacting European major — and the only one to be contested on continental soil. This year’s edition, played beneath cornflower-blue skies, was no exception.

Among the field were luminaries including PXG ambassador Céline Boutier (below) and world number one Nelly Korda (see page 67 for an exclusive Q&A), each chasing glory along the shimmering shores of Lake Geneva, but also newbies such as Stanford alum Aline Krauter. Rising to the occasion, Australia’s Grace Kim captured

“Glory chased along Lake Geneva’s shimmering shores”

her first major in a thrilling playoff against Thailand’s Atthaya Thitikul, while English amateur Lottie Woad dazzled with a finalround 64 to tie for third, a glimpse of her luminous future.

Yet Evian’s allure extends far beyond the leaderboard. Tournament hosts Jacques Bungert and Franck Riboud infused the week with their hallmark blend of French art de vivre and international sporting prestige. The Rolex Pro-Am paired celebrities, patrons and champions across the immaculate fairways and the substantial green complexes of the course, while the gala sparkled with haute cuisine, couture, conversation and a stunning

fireworks display that lit up the night sky. Bigger and better in every way, the 2025 edition once again reaffirmed Evian’s standing as one of golf’s most distinctive majors: a stage where sporting excellence, timeless hospitality and alpine beauty meet and exceed expectations across the board – not only for the fans, but also for participants. amundi.evianchampionship.com

DRIVING FORCE

Previous page: sights and sounds of the event; Céline Boutier plays out of a greenside bunker. This page: Nelly Korda with her eye on the ball; the pretournament ProAm gala; both play and setting impressed on every level

THE GENEROSITY OF GOLF

Fairways meet philanthropy in the game’s most exclusive transatlantic contest. Photos by: Dave Burlison

NOW IN ITS SIXTH EDITION, the 2025 Monte-Carlo U.S. Celebrity Golf Cup once again showcased how competition and camaraderie can thrive side by side. This time, it was held amid the splendour of Scotland’s lochs and glens under the patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and the watchful eye of event organiser Susan Feaster.

Notable figures from sport, gastronomy and media alongside an eclectic roster of American and European celebrities lent their talents to the manicured fairways: culinary luminary Thomas Keller, baseball legend Roger Clemens, former NFL kicker Jay Feely, actor Oliver Phelps, musicians Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, as well as Ultratravel’s own Editor-in-Chief Farhad Heydari, were among those teeing off in this exclusive, invitation-only tournament pitting Team USA against Team Europe in a spirited three-day contest at the end of which Team USA emerged victorious.

While birdies and bogeys told part of the story, the true victory was philanthropic: proceeds from the black-tie auction supported the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, Golf 4 The Disabled, and the Ryder Cup European Development Trust. With its blend of charity, conviviality and chivalry, the event saw bonds between friends renewed and new relationships between kindred spirits forged – a real testament to golf’s rare ability to unite purpose with panache. mcgolfcup.com

PAR EXCELLENCE

Above, from top: Farhad Heydari lines up a putt; the marquee group, from left, Team Europe captains Pablo Roemmers and Oliver Phelps and Team USA captains Thomas Keller and Jerry Kelly; Irish star Brian McFadden in action

STYLE IN FULL SWING

Celebrating grace, glamour and goodwill, both on and off the green. Going... going... gone!

TEAM SPIRIT

Above, clockwise from top left: Debbie Clemens, Roger Clemens and Farhad Heydari; Oliver Phelps; Thomas Keller and Susan Feaster, the latter who is the President of the Monte-Carlo U.S. Celebrity Golf Cup; Jay Feely in action; Team Europe and Team USA in force

WINNING COMPANY

Clockwise from above left:

H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco delivers a pre-recorded message to attendees; Jay Feely, Roger Clemens and Farhad Heydari; Susan Feaster and Katherina Anders; Susan Feaster and Farhad Heydari, auctioneer for the evening

TROPHY MOMENTS

Above, from left: Thomas Keller and guest and Farhad Heydari

Right: the much-coveted Ryder Cup Trophy

Endless Elegance

Luxurious

space awaits

those

who voyage with Regent Seven Seas Cruises®

As golden summer days give way to autumn’s rich blaze, the call of distant shores grows impossible to ignore, and discerning travellers find themselves seeking voyages where space is abundant, time unhurried, and every detail whispers of thoughtful care. And – as those who embark on a journey with Regent Seven Seas Cruises® will quickly discover – the truest indulgence is not simply where you travel, but how. When you sail with The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet®, lavish personal space is both promise and philosophy: every beautifully appointed suite is a sanctuary, every magical moment is uncrowded, and every new horizon, yours to savour. For more than 30 years, Regent has been refining the art of all-inclusive journeys across the globe, sailing to 550 destinations worldwide. With ships welcoming no more than 822 guests aboard, it’s little wonder that The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience® promises a getaway where

there are no compromises, no crowds and no jostling for space – simply the sense of being exactly where you should be.

YOUR SANCTUARY AT SEA

As the day drifts from poolside swims to sunset drinks, imagine slipping away to your own serene retreat. Regent’s all-suite, all-balcony accommodations rival those of the most refined international hotels, with king-size beds, marble-clad bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes and ocean views that are yours alone. Attentive suite attendants remember your preferred beverages for the mini bar, while Penthouse Suites and above offer the quiet assurance of a personal butler – a discreet custodian of Regent’s celebrated Heartfelt Hospitality™.

ROOM TO DINE, ROOM TO DREAM

When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice, with speciality restaurants ranging from Parisian-style bistros to Pan-Asian haute cuisine. One evening might call for champagne and oysters; the next, for sharing plates beneath glittering chandeliers. The luxury lies in the variety, echoing the sense of abundance found across the ship, from expansive pool decks with plentiful loungers to sumptuous theatres.

Whether you’re sailing the glittering waters of the Greek Islands, the dramatic fjords of Norway or the enchanting coastlines of Japan, Regent’s glittering fleet is designed as much for the journey as the port, with the balance between privacy and conviviality, solitude and social time seamlessly achieved, night and day.

Picture sipping cocktails on your private balcony under starry skies, or strolling through a lounge where fellow guests gather not in crowds, but in easy company

This autumn, voyage with Regent Seven Seas Cruises and discover what ultra-luxury travel feels like when space itself becomes the ultimate indulgence.

TO ORDER A BROCHURE CALL +44 (0)23 8082 1375

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EFFORTLESS INDULGENCE

Superlative dining awaits across a diverse array of onboard options

– a legacy of luxurious space that will be carried forward in unmistakable style when Seven Seas Prestige™ launches in December 2026. Boasting an elevated design, the vessel will herald a new era of elegance at sea.

GILDED SKIES

Discover the many delights of Dubai with Emirates – for a journey that shines as bright as the destinations ahead

For discerning travellers intent on chasing the sun this winter, Dubai beckons. A canvas of shimmering towers and glittering beaches set against a desert that stretches towards the horizon like liquid gold, the city is more than just a stopover. Rather, it’s an opportunity for rejuvenation and adventure in equal measure, and – home to a dazzling constellation of Michelin-starred restaurants – it makes for an unforgettable culinary odyssey, too. And when it comes to getting there in comfort and style, Emirates is the natural choice – an airline renowned for making the journey as effortless as the destinations themselves.

On the airline’s newly retrofitted Airbus A380 – where Business Class guests enjoy access to the onboard lounge – indulgence comes as standard. Picture seats that embrace and support, a curated compendium of classic and brand-new entertainment, and sky-high dining of distinction – your dishes paired, should you desire, with a glass of chilled Moët & Chandon. Attentive service and thoughtful flourishes ensure you’ll arrive at your sun-warmed sojourn feeling well-rested and raring to go.

Perhaps, beyond Dubai, the plan is to drift along turquoise lagoons in the Maldives, or to bask on the palm-fringed beaches of the Seychelles. Cambodia might be calling, where the serene temples and waterways of Siem Reap invite exploration. Or it may be the lush scenery and vibrant urban treasures of Vietnam that you crave most when autumn leaves start to fall. Whatever the dream escape, Emirates’ expanded network – taking in a roll call of dream destinations – makes crafting an exceptional itinerary simple, with every last detail taken care of for you.

For those seeking renewal, repose and sun-kissed shores, winter need never be dull. And, for those flying with Emirates, the journey will be as easy as that long-anticipated first cocktail, dip in the infinity pool or fiery sunset on arrival. emirates.com

UP, UP AND AWAY

Whether looking out from the Aura Skypool, on the 50th floor of Dubai’s Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, or from a hot-air-balloon in Vietnam, flying with Emirates makes for an effortless escape from start to finish

HIGH STYLE, HIGH SEAS

A new generation of ocean sophisticates is reshaping the voyage experience, blending couture design, gastronomy and exploration for today’s discerning traveller, reports Gary Buchanan

MAKING A SPLASH

New from Oceania Cruises (oceaniacruises.com), the 1,200-guest Allura is a culinary tour de force. Revelling in a palette of ivory, gold and silver, the ship’s Grand Dining Room pays homage to the Belle Époque, while five alternative onboard options include the line’s newest signature restaurant, Jacques, for French brasserie-style cuisine, and Aquamar Kitchen, which prepares a canon of healthy signature dishes. Accommodations balance metropolitan flair with residential overtones. Oceanview Staterooms come with French or private balconies, designed in soothing neutral shades punctuated by pops of sienna. Radiating an ambiance of civilised chic, Oceania Suites are situated on the top two decks, boasting sweeping views. Vista Suites, swathed in subtle tones accented by marble, granite and rich, weathered oak, are more akin to sprawling seaside villas, while, spanning the vessel’s beam, three sumptuous Owner’s Suites, styled exclusively in Ralph Lauren Home, shimmer with allure.

Equally assured of critical acclaim, Celebrity Xcel is Celebrity Cruises’ (celebritycruises.com) latest smoking-hot behemoth to attest that maritime architectural zeal knows no bounds. Embracing an affinity with the ocean, the Magic Carpet is a lounge-configured platform, cantilevered from the side of the ship that’s raised and lowered 13 decks from water’s edge to the rooftop garden and Sunset Bar throughout the day. Underscoring the luxury credentials of this 3,260-guest trailblazer is The Retreat, for suite guests. This highly popular resort-within-a-resort concept has breathtaking accommodations, including duplex Edge Villas with outdoor plunge pools, and spacious Iconic Suites. There’s also a two-deck-high private sun deck, the

SHIPSHAPE

Right, from top: experience Egypt in style aboard the Nile Seray; sleek design awaits guests on the new Luminara; EXPLORA II, a bird’s-eye view; Oceania’s 1,200-guest Allura

ANCHORS AWAY!

Previous page: Luminara, the newest superyacht in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, sails the storied waters of Alaska. Accommodation comprises 226 suites – all with private terraces

QUEEN OF THE NILE

The Nile Seray, an A&K Sanctuary, will have hot tubs on deck, and some suites have private spa pools

ANDREW URWIN

MARITIME MATTERS

POLE POSITION

Docked

GRAND VOYAGE

Below: the record-breaking Orient Express Corinthian promises art, film and regatta glamour in the Med

sophisticated Retreat Lounge, and great choice when it comes to dining. From November, this trendsetter sails from Fort Lauderdale on seven-night Caribbean itineraries. Also bristling with élan is Luminara – the latest addition to the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (ritzcarlton.com) Decorated in soft, earthy browns, its 10 decks populated by a maximum of just 452 guests, the yacht boasts seven bars, a wine vault, humidor, the Art Bar café, three pools and a spa. The Marina, with a terrace and floating platform at the stern, allows for kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling, while the Observation Terrace is ideal for stargazing. Among the five restaurants, Seta su Luminara, created in collaboration with award-winning chef Fabio Trabocchi, offers an eight-course tasting menu and Italian à la carte cuisine. Also enhancing the epicurean offering, Beach House, by Michael Mina, showcases a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean menu. This beacon of modern elegance is already turning heads across the Med.

Explora Journeys (explorajourneys.com) is tempting wayfinders, too: the 926-guest EXPLORA III’s maiden season next summer will take in scenic journeys through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America’s Eastern Seaboard, before heading to the Caribbean.

Another ode to European verve is the world’s largest sail yacht, Orient Express Sailing Yachts’ (orient-express.com) Orient Express Corinthian. The inaugural Mediterranean season will offer itineraries coinciding with events including the Monaco Yacht Show, Venice’s Biennale and Film Festival and Les Voiles Regatta in St Tropez. The

in the heart of Monaco Explora II will enjoy prime views of the 2026 Grand Prix drama

110-guest yacht features restaurants helmed by multiMichelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. There will also be an art deco-inspired speakeasy, cabaret lounge, cinema, pools, spa and watersports marina.

Four Seasons Yachts (fourseasonsyachts.com) has become part of the pivot for prestigious hotel brands to manifest on the world’s oceans. Residential in style, the 190-guest Four Seasons I casts off early next year. It will offer customised land experiences designed to allow guests to explore destinations through an inspirational lens.

Also on course to establish a peerless benchmark of floating luxury is Regent Seven Seas Cruises (rssc.com). The 822-guest Seven Seas Prestige embodies the line’s vision for lavish ocean travel. The sassy design is taken all the way to the record-breaking Skyview Regent Suite – which is the largest ultra-luxury cruise suite in history.

On a smaller scale, Windstar Cruises (windstarcruises.com) will introduce two new ships within 12 months: Star Seeker and Star Explorer will each have five tempting dining options, a full-service spa and a fresh take on the line’s iconic watersports platform. The 224-guest ships are pleasingly unfussy and will come with the personalised service the company has become known for.

The natural wonderland theme continues with next February’s launch of an even more bijou vessel from

“East Africa’s first superyacht sets off for the Seychelles next year”

Aqua Expeditions (aquaexpeditions.com). East Africa’s first superyacht, the 30-guest Aqua Lares will calibrate the compass towards the island mosaic of the Seychelles, including La Digue and Aldabra atolls, as well as Zanzibar in Tanzania. With a svelte exterior, this much-anticipated vessel will offer true luxury on a par with that found on the other crafts in this seminal fleet.

Another quixotic experience is soon to grace the ribbon of liquid history that is the Nile. From Abercrombie & Kent (abercrombiekent.com) comes the all-suite Nile Seray, an A&K Sanctuary, which will bring contemporary elegance to the timeless waterway when it glides into service next year. World-class chefs will helm two restaurants, and guests – just 64 in total – can watch the passing diorama

FULL STEAM AHEAD

Top right: fancy a dip? The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara has just the spot

Above: Aqua Expeditions’ 30-guest Aqua Lares will sail to the Seychelles and Tanzania

Left: chart a new course on one of Ecoventura’s three expedition yachts

Right: join the party on new Celebrity Xcel, an all-bellsand-whistles floating pleasure palace like no other

from comfortable canopied daybeds on the top deck, where there’s a swimming pool, an outdoor bar and lounge. They can also visit the enigmatic temples of Luxor, Karnak and Aswan, which stand like sentinels beside the river that has become synonymous with Egypt’s storied past.

ON THE HORIZON

The luxury boutique cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club (seadream.com) will offer a series of rare cruises from Palm Beach, Florida. April 2026 sees the start of a short season of “Bountiful Bahamas” voyages, with Instagram-gold anchorages set to include Emerald Bay, Gordon’s Beach, Andros Island, San Salvador, Staniel Cay and Taino Beach. On board the 112-guest SeaDream II, the debt to pleasure is augmented by a palpable determination that guests are placed at the centre of a well-crafted narrative in which quality and exclusivity reign supreme.

Or how about exploring the otherworldly archipelago of the Galápagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador in the Eastern Pacific Ocean? Each conveying just 20 guests, Ecoventura’s (ecoventura.com) trio of expedition yachts – Theory, Evolve and Origin – are the only vessels in this

volcanic sanctuary of biodiversity that are members of Relais & Château. Luxurious voyaging indeed.

A similarly sequestered nature preserve is the Amazon basin, one of the greatest remaining wilderness areas on the planet. It’s now possible to explore the vast Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in northern Peru in consummate style aboard Abercrombie & Kent’s (abercrombiekent.com) riverboat Pure Amazon, an A&K Sanctuary. The 22-guest craft was designed by Studio Ibsen, and with a staff-to-guest ratio of one-to-one, a highly personalised experience is guaranteed.

The white continent is now easier to reach, thanks to Silversea Expeditions’ (silversea.com) innovative Antarctica Bridge programme of specially chartered flights from Puerto Williams in Chile to King George Island on the Antarctic peninsula. To facilitate a seamless journey to the seventh continent, a 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams will open during the 2025/26 polar season.

“The Cormorant at 55 South” will feature two distinct perspectives: serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel.

Taking pride of place next June at the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix will be Explora Journeys’ (explorajourneys.com)

EXPLORA II, docked in the heart of Port Hercule, close to the F1 Paddock. This strategic location, just 150m from the racetrack, across the natural harbour from the Tunnel exit and Nouvelle Chicane, ensures a prime vantage point for this hallowed spectacle of speed. Adrenaline junkies, petrolheads and pit babes never had it so good.

“ExploraII will dock just 150m from the Monaco Grand Prix”

RAREFIED ROUTES

Want to elevate your wanderlust? Captain’s Choice delivers

Sometimes it’s about the journey; sometimes the destination. With Captain’s Choice, it’s decidedly both. For travellers seeking exclusivity, personalisation and consummate style, air cruises offer an unmatched way to explore the world. In this rarefied airspace, a cohort of cosseted voyagers sees the world in a way few ever will. Meticulous, destination-rooted authenticity is utmost in the planning, which is done by highly experienced teams. For these are more than dialled-up global odysseys – they’re a luxurious adventure that immerses partakers in the richness of our world.

The 2026 World of Captain’s Choice prospectus of sublime journeys includes The Pioneering Spirit of the Kangaroo Route, from Sydney to London via Singapore. This 14-day nostalgic iteration of the legendary Qantas flight path touches down in Sri Lanka, Egypt and Italy. A private dinner with views of the Pyramids and after-hours access to the Vatican Museums are just two highlights of this jet stream of exclusivity.

The 18-day Latin America & Atlantic Islands by Private Jet is a seamless airborne hopscotch to intriguing Madeira and the Azores, Cuba’s vibrant capital Havana and Chile’s surreal Atacama Desert. The rapture continues with a three-night exploration deep in the Amazon rainforest. A stay in the cultural melting pot that is Brazil’s oldest city, Salvador, concludes this quest that abounds with pulse-calibrating verve. captains-choice.com

THE WORLD, YOUR OYSTER Top: touch down in sunny Sri Lanka Middle: explore Chile’s Atacama Desert Below: enjoy a tailor-made tour of Italy’s spectacular Amalfi Coast

INSIDE OUT

Minimalism meets mastery as horologists strip back the dial to reveal watchmaking at its most architectural. Chris Hall reports on the latest class of haute timepieces where craftsmanship has been laid bare

Is less more? It seems a misleading aphorism, at least when it comes to the question of so-called “skeletonised” watches. The term, often used interchangeably with “openworked”, refers somewhat gothically to watches that lack a dial in the traditional sense, and while that might strictly speaking mean fewer components, it results in a much more emphatic display of decoration. A truly skeletonised watch does more than whip the dial off – it sees the maker redesign every connective bridge and plate of the movement to their structural minimum, hence the “bare bones” connotation. Historically, watchmakers would “finish”, i.e. polish, bevel and otherwise embellish every part of a watch’s movement, whether these would be visible to the wearer or not, and skeletonisation was a chance to really showcase their talents. It was vanishingly rare throughout most of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, requiring a huge amount of skilled manual labour, but it enjoyed a resurgence along traditional lines

in the 1980s and 1990s, as watchmakers sought to set their wares apart from mass-produced quartz models, and then blossomed in the 21st century, with manufacturing technology allowing the distinctive skeletal appearance to be built from the ground up, rather than through hand-modification of an existing movement. Today the democratisation of machine-led watchmaking has turned skeletonisation into a mainstream aesthetic: Switzerland’s high-end brands pride themselves on retaining a degree of hand-finishing, but others embrace a neo-industrial style only made possible by modern materials and techniques. In both camps, of chief importance is the flaunting of horological prowess, and, as such, skeletonised watches enjoy a high status within brands’ collections and in the minds of their clientele alike.

Some horologists have made it a central pillar of their whole identity, including Richard Mille (richardmille.com), which makes very few watches with a dial of any kind, having embraced the avant-garde style of skeletonisation earlier

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Far left: Bovet’s headturning Virtuoso XI is a mechanical tour de force

Left: the Tonda PF Skeleton by Parmigiani Fleurier reveals all

This page: H. Moser’s bold – and bare – Pioneer Cylindrical Tourbillon Skeleton Spiced Aqua

“Skeletonisation as a signifier of sportiness can be a standout feature on a dive watch”

than most. Its latest creation, an update of its RM 35-03 Rafael Nadal line in pastel blue, juxtaposes a Miami-grade colour scheme across the case, strap, crown and pusher with the sombre, sharp lines of the calibre within. Machined from grade 5 titanium, the movement is designed to maximise strength and lightness while also evoking the brand’s high-adrenaline personality. Indeed, the calibre boasts a unique facility, with wearers able to deactivate the automatic winding rotor if their lifestyle is sufficiently energetic, and reactivate it when it needs a burst of juice.

Skeletonisation as a signifier of sportiness – while totally at odds with its historical origins – is so widespread an idea that it can be deployed as a standout feature on a dive watch, where legibility of dial design is a hallmark of the genre, without apparent irony. From Ulysse Nardin (ulysse-nardin.com), the Diver AIR does exactly that to great effect, combining a barely-there appearance with a smart carbon fibre and titanium case to create what it claims is the lightest dive watch in the world, at just 52g. Sporty associations are also key for Norqain (norqain.com) which released its latest collaborative edition with tennis star Stan Wawrinka, the Wild ONE Skeleton, this summer, in what can only be described as tennis-ball yellow, contrasted against the matte black and grey of the movement – evidence of Richard Mille’s influence stretching into the more affordable end of the market. A focus on lurid colour combinations has been something of a minitrend for 2025: Ulysse Nardin’s diver would also turn heads for its orange strap, but only if nobody nearby was wearing the H. Moser & Cie. (h-moser.com) Pioneer Cylindrical Tourbillon Skeleton Spiced Aqua, which combines a grenadine-rich orange lacquer dial with luminous cyan hands and hour markers and a baby blue rubber strap. The deliberately out-there colour scheme almost threatens to overshadow H. Moser’s elaborately skeletonised tourbillon movement, with its flamboyantly curved bridges and three-dimensional beating heart – a variation on the tourbillon attempted by very few manufacturers.

While no one would call the above watches under-decorated, their approach to skeletonisation is primarily in the use of negative space for visual impact, rather than inviting the eye to peer at the hand-polished flank of a golden bridge. That’s what you get from the likes of Bovet (bovet.com), whose Virtuoso XI Skeleton, released earlier this year in red gold, is hand-engraved from top to bottom. It’s a decidedly baroque catalogue of traditional finishes, matched with heat-blued screws, openworked wheels and florid, flowing patterns. By the arrangement of the bridges – the components that hold each wheel in the gear train in place – a watchmaker can achieve a signature style of skeletonisation. Just compare Bovet’s approach with that of Bulgari (bulgari.com), whose Octo Finissimo Skeleton model – updated for 2025 in black-coated titanium – employs an intricate pattern of radial spokes from the centre of the dial, or that of Parmigiani Fleurier (parmigiani.com), whose stylised curves seem to trace out an abstract pattern as much as follow the necessary lines dictated by the pieces they’re holding in place. With its brushed texture and slate green colour treatment, it resembles an aerial view of an ornamental garden. The limited edition of 50 pieces has been a smash hit with collectors, updating the 1970s-inspired case of the Tonda PF with a contemporary “dial”.

Rafael Nadal – the work of a watchmaker that has championed skeletisonation from the get-go

Above: from Vacheron Constantin, the new Overseas Grand Complication Openface is the first in the collection to feature a minute repeater

Top right: boasting an openworked dial, Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo Skeleton is just 5.9mm thick

BRUTAL BEAUTY

“The art form represents a fertile groove for watchmakers bringing new life to ‘sportsluxe’ icons”

Despite skeletonisation feeling innately suited to ultra-classical timepieces, such as the Bovet Virtuoso, and the subversion of that ideal by Richard Mille et al, the art form represents a particularly fertile groove for watchmakers looking to bring new life to this very specific sub-genre of “sports-luxe” icons. These designs, characterised by fancy bracelets that flow seamlessly into the case itself, have enjoyed enormous popularity in recent years, but their skeletonised references are at the very crest of the wave. Both Audemars Piguet (audemarspiguet.com) and Vacheron Constantin (vacheron-constantin.com) marked anniversaries (150 and 270 years, respectively) with openworked versions of their Seventies-style heroes, the Royal Oak and the Overseas. Both are perpetual calendar watches, the Overseas also combining a tourbillon at six o’clock, and both employ a rich blue for the calendar subdials, wherein the smallest possible amount of opaque dial is retained for legibility. There’s something special about revealing the workings of a perpetual calendar as opposed to, say, a chronograph, because the machinery behind the complication traditionally sits immediately beneath the dial, and is hidden even if you have a sapphire caseback. These both open up the medley of star wheels, asymmetrical cams and needle-thin levers necessary to keep track of the date through leap years until the year 2100. While not as committed to transparency as others, the removal of the dial grants a window into the ingenuity and painstaking craft that has been their staple for centuries, which is exactly what the best skeletonised watches have always done.

Left: splash out on the world’s lightest mechanical dive watch, Ulysse Nardin’s Diver [AIR]

Created in partnership with tennis champion Stan Wawrinka, the lightweight Wild ONE Stan the Man is limited to just 85 pieces

NOTHING TO HIDE

Above: Audemars Piguet’s latest Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar pays tribute to a classic pocket watch

PXG’s most popular putter model, the Bat Attack, is now available with our patented Zero Torque Balance Technology! The revolutionary new PXG Bat Attack ZT Putter minimizes face rotation, keeping your putter square and on-target so you can putt with maximum precision. That means lower scores and more fun on every round.

GOLFING

Ultratravel’s passport to the premier places, players, pursuits and paraphernalia shaping the sport today

GLORY DAYS

The 18th hole of Baltusrol Golf Club’s Upper Course, New Jersey, US – a closing stage as storied as it is spectacular

FAIRWAY FRONTIERS

From the wild Scottish Highlands to the mountains of Georgia, bold routings, restored classics and long - awaited debuts are demanding golfers’ attention, with the latest wave of course designs reshaping the world’s most coveted scorecards. Tom Mackin investigates

Three is an excellent number in golf. It could signify a par, a birdie, or better yet, an elusive eagle. Plus, good things come in threes, as the saying goes. So, here are a trio of three courses around the world to consider for a future tee time.

IN PLAY

Rave reviews have been coming from the Scottish Highlands from those fortunate few who enjoyed preview play at the Tom Doak-designed Old Petty at Cabot Highlands (cabothighlands.com). With a grand opening scheduled for next May, Old Petty will mark another impressive feather in the cap of The Cabot Collection portfolio of courses. Located just east of Inverness, the layout starts and ends adjacent to the existing Castle Stuart course that opened in 2009, but Doak’s work takes a different journey. Case in point? Having the first and 18th fairways criss-cross each other (with safety protocols in place). The par-3 third hole passes quite close to Castle Stuart itself – a beacon of sorts visible from numerous points on the links – and the local estuary comes into play on a few holes. All in all, the new layout will make for a full 36-hole day in the Highlands.

A second David McLay Kidd-designed course, called “Scarecrow”, has opened at Gamble Sands (gamblesands.com) almost right in the middle of Washington State. Built over land with more elevation changes than his original course there, Scarecrow dazzles with sumptuous views of the Columbia River and nearby fruit orchards, with multiple infinity-edge greens. The course – a two-and-a-half-hour drive west from Spokane and four hours east from Seattle – overflows with panoramic views, testing shots, and an unending landscape

“The landscape is almost too big to digest in one round”

almost too big to digest in one round. The resort also added 40 more rooms this year, all overlooking the new course. Georgia is best known for being home to Augusta National, but its course roster extends far beyond the famed Masters venue. The latest addition is The Keep at McLemore (themclemore.com), which is tucked away in the north-west corner of the state, just south of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Bill Bergin and Rees Jones transformed a rocky site atop Lookout Mountain to create what’s been described as a “mountaintop headlands course.” Your equilibrium may be tested on the cliffside holes overlooking McLemore Cove, but the views are spectacular. With its sibling, the Highlands Course (also by Bergin and Jones and opened in 2019)), The Keep serves up a formidable one-two punch.

ON COURSE

The Dream Golf portfolio , led by the Keiser family of Bandon Dunes fame, continues to expand, with new courses coming in Colorado and Texas. Rodeo Dunes (rodeodunes.com), located 80km north-east of downtown Denver, will debut the first of two layouts with limited play in 2026. Tee times for 2027 go on sale next spring. Two familiar faces are behind the routing: Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. They have previously worked together on Dream Golf courses at Bandon Dunes and Sand Valley, and are applying their enviable skills to rolling, sandy property. Their long-time associate Jimmy Craig is designing the second course at Rodeo Dunes.

At Wild Spring Dunes (wildspringdunes.com), located a two-hour south-east of Dallas, Texas, a Tom Doak design will open for 18-hole preview play in May next year, with the full opening planned for October 2026. Not one usually given JEFF MARSH

to hyperbole, Doak’s description of the site he’s working on at the resort has certainly raised eyebrows among golf architecture aficionados. “It’s unlike any property I’ve worked on in the last 10 years,” Doak told golf.com. “The changes in the topography and transitions are what really get me excited here. I certainly get some Pinehurst, even Pine Valley, vibes.” His effort will be followed by a neighbouring Bill Coore/Ben Crenshaw-designed layout.

It took 23 years to get the required planning permission to build Ireland’s newest golf course, Curracloe Links (curracloelinks.com) in County Wexford, a two-hour drive south of Dublin. That herculean effort will finally come to fruition in 2026. American architects Dana Fry and Jason Straka were tasked with transforming an inland site of fields (but with plenty of sand underneath) into a memorable routing that encircles the 50-room Ravenport Resort. The elevated site, where wide fairways will factor in the wind, offers mesmerising views of the nearby Irish Sea.

HIGH STAKES

Far left: David McLay Kidd’s new Scarecrow layout challenges with elevation changes and infinity-edge greens

Left: Tom Doak’s new Old Petty layout at Cabot Highlands offers a 36-hole Scottish experience a stone’s throw from Castle Stuart

Above: The Keep at McLemore challenges with cliffside holes and rewards with sweeping views over McLemore Cove

next March will see the

RESTORED TO GLORY

Gil Hanse completed a rare architectural doubleheader with a thorough restoration of the Upper Course at Baltusrol Golf Club ( baltusrol.org) in New Jersey. The work follows a similar project he completed in 2021 on the club’s more widely known Lower Course. Both were originally designed by A.W. Tillinghast, and Hanse enjoyed bringing major elements of the former’s style back. “It was always, honestly, a little bit more exciting working with the Upper because you felt like you were a lot closer to Tillinghast in regards of what we were doing there, and it wasn’t as big a change,” he said. “I 100% believe that golf course could host any championship that it wanted to from an architectural and playability standpoint.”

At the north-west edge of the country, Ireland native Paul McGinley is in the midst of an extensive renovation project of Donegal Golf Course (donegalgolfclub.ie), set on the Murvagh Peninsula just southwest of Donegal Town. The work has and will include the expansion and redesign of greens, with numerous ones being moved to new locations, plus other alterations. “My master plan calls for evolution, not

“Gil Hanse has brought major elements of A.W. Tillinghast’s style back”

TOP DOG

Right:

grand reopening of seaside beauty Teeth of the Dog in the Dominican Republic

JERSEY SHORES Left: the Lower Course at Baltusrol Golf Club, New Jersey, with Gil Hanse’s more recent restoration of the Upper Course preserving its championship-ready drama

a revolution,” McGinley has said. “The core principle is this links needs to be more playable, allowing for all standards of player. At the same time, it should be seamlessly prepared for major events.”

Teeth of the Dog, (casdadecampo.com.do) – Pete Dye’s seaside masterpiece at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic, debuted in 1971. This past year, the acclaimed layout has been updated and enhanced thoroughly. Yet all of the strategy Dye deftly incorporated was preserved, ensuring both the challenge and fun the course is known for will remain strong. A grand reopening is planned for next March. What did this course mean to Dye? It was so dear to him that, upon his death in 2020, some of his ashes were placed in a pot bunker near the eighth green.

There are not many courses on Sardinia, but Pevero Golf Club (peverogolfclub.com) on the island’s north-east tip is a stand-out option. A recent bunker renovation project has left the layout looking and playing better than ever. You may be too enthralled by the sea views from many holes to notice that work, but this Robert Trent Jones Sr. design from 1972 has withstood the test of time.

SARDINIAN STUNNER

PeveroGolfClub’srenovatedClubHouse refreshesthisSardinianclassic,butit’sthe sweepingcoastlinevistasthattrulystealthe showonJones’enduring1972design

CELTIC GREENS

Below: Paul McGinley’s renovation of Donegal Golf Course enhances playability while preserving the rugged charm of this Irish links

GAME CHANGERS

With technology at the fore and style in the details, these essentials are redefining what it means to play at the top of your game. Nick Bayly picks the innovations set to make the biggest impact on – and off – the course

TITLEIST GT HYBRIDS

The GT Hybrids bring a powerful blend of stability, customisation and precision to your bag. Drawing on tech from the GT fairways and drivers, three models — the GT1, GT2 and GT3 — are tailored for different playing styles. GT1 offers high launch with forward/back weight adjustability; GT2 boasts the highest MOI and a sleeker, turf-friendly sole; while GT3 brings iron-like workability in a compact frame. Each includes an adjustable weighting system (11g and 5g), with expanded tuning – even heel/toe options – to help dial in your preferred flight and shot shape. titleist.com

TITLEIST T250 UTILITY IRONS

Designed to be an easier hitting long-iron option off the tee, the T250 U, which is offered in 18°, 20° and 22° lofts, features a highstrength, hollow-body steel construction, providing a clean look while concealing high-performance technology under the hood. Split tungsten weighting improves ball speed and raises launch on off-centre and low-face strikes to promote consistent distance and increase forgiveness. Variable bounce sole design, meanwhile, enables it to be played off the deck and from light rough. titleist.com

CALLAWAY ELYTE MINI DRIVER

Significantly more forgiving and easier to launch than a fairway wood, mini drivers are all the range on tour and are an excellent alternative when precision off the tee is paramount. Offered in 13.5° and 11.5° lofts, Callaway’s version features neutral, fade and draw settings to help dial in your preferred shot shape, and a lightweight carbon crown combines with an AI-designed face that enables faster swing and ball speeds across a wide section of the hitting area. callawaygolf.com

OFF THE TEE

COBRA DS ADAPT LS DRIVER

Offered in four models to suit different swing speeds and preferred trajectories, DS Adapt drivers redefine adjustability by offering 33 loft-and-lie settings – double that of most competitors – with a SmartPad design that keeps the face square regardless of the configuration. The LS model, which stands for “Low Spin”, is the most aerodynamic in the range, delivering fast ball speed, medium launch and lower spin via adaptive internal weighting and H.O.T. Face technology, which delivers bombs even on off-centre strikes. cobragolf.com

TAYLORMADE QI35 DRIVER

Designed to offer more stability than previous TaylorMade drivers, the Qi35 is the result of the company’s R&D team having worked hard to lower the centre of gravity projection, which results in more of the clubface offering higher launch and lower spin for longer drives. The new chromium carbon fibre crown further adds to its performance and shelf appeal. taylormadegolf.com

PING IDI DRIVING IRONS

Targeting better players looking for versatility and trajectory control from the top of their bag, iDi driving irons are ideal for using off the tee on tight par 4s, keeping the ball low in the wind, and for holding the green on those tricky long par 3s. Offered in three models – 2 (17°), 3 (20°) and 4 (23°) –the 2 is a traditional driving iron, delivering low launch and spin; the 3 offers mid launch and mid spin and is designed as a driving iron or long-iron replacement, while the 4 is a straight swap for a standard 4-iron, but launches the ball with more spin, making it easier to hold greens. ping.com

TAYLORMADE P790 IRONS

The P790 continues to get better with each new iteration, with the latest version featuring a stronger forged face for faster ball speeds and SpeedFoam Air for soft, explosive feel. A 24% larger sweet spot over its predecessor works in combination with a club-specific centre of gravity to create ideal launch and spin for each iron. Despite all this built-in tech, the thin topline and narrow sole will still have good ball strikers salivating. taylormadegolf.com

ON THE FAIRWAY

COBRA BAFFLER COMBO IRONS

Celebrating 50 years since it launched the first set of Baffler clubs, Cobra has introduced its famous rail sole technology into a new combo set of irons that will appeal to players looking for effortless forgiveness, consistency and easy launch from every distance. The set flows from traditional hybrids to hybrid/irons, to hollow irons, to cavity back irons and cavity back wedges, and features a progressive rail system – with more pronounced rails in the hybrids and long irons that transition to shallow rails in the short irons and no rails in the wedges – to optimise turf interaction and contact for each club. cobragolf.com

MIZUNO JPX 925 FORGED IRONS

Striking the perfect balance of distance, precision and playability, the latest generation of Mizuno’s JPX range fuses cutting-edge speed with the brand’s legendary feel. A multi-thickness face delivers consistent ball speed and forgiveness across the face, with the long irons (4-7) made from Chromoly – a steel alloy with a high strength-to-weight ratio – for explosive distance, while the short irons (8-GW) are forged from carbon steel to provide buttery precision. A triple-cut sole with a bevelled leading edge ensures clean contact from any lie. They are available in satin chrome or a glare-free forged black finish. mizunoeurope.com

SPICE OF LIFE

The pinnacle of Caribbean luxury. This breathtaking beachfront residence offers uninterrupted sea and Piton views, featuring nine luxurious bedrooms, world-class amenities, and the unparalleled service of Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Enjoy the expertise of a private chef and daily dining experiences tailored to you.

www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar-beach sb.reservations@viceroy.com

CALLAWAY OPUS SP WEDGES

Promising to put some added zip into your short game, the “SP” in the Opus Wedges stands for “Spin Pocket”, which is a hollow cavity behind the lower part of the face which progressively raises the centre of gravity above the ball for each specific loft. The technology lowers launch and increases spin – the performance combo that all good wedge players are looking for. Already in the bags of Xander Schauffele and Jon Rahm, the Opus SPs also feature aggressive groove edges for even more bite around the greens and are offered in a brushed chrome or a classy black finish, with nine lofts (48°-64°), and five different grinds to suit all playing conditions and swing types. callawaygolf.com

AROUND THE GREEN

CLEVELAND CBX FULL-FACE WEDGES

Designed for mid-to-high handicappers who like the precision of a player’s wedge but don’t always manage to find the centre of the clubface with their most lofted clubs, the CBX wedges – which are offered in six lofts between 50° and 60° – feature a cavity back design to provide a balanced blend of control, spin and playability. A wider sole improves turf interaction, while milled Rotex grooves cover almost the entire clubface to ensure maximum stopping power, no matter which part of the face strikes the ball. clevelandgolf.com

ON THE SHORT STUFF

PING SCOTTSDALE CRAZ-E PUTTER

Ping’s Scottsdale range of putters became instant classics when first launched in 2016, with the collection’s 14 designs finding their way into many a golfer’s bag. The 2025 models boast a new lightweight insert made from Pebax elastomer, a material used in the soles of athletic shoes that boosts stability on off-centre hits and provides super-responsive feedback. A new SuperStroke tapered grip further enhances feel. The Craze-E model remains one of the most popular Scottsdale designs, with its resemblance to a helmet-wearing motorcyclist gripping the handlebars proving a winner in terms of both looks and performance. ping.com

“THE CRAZ-E REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR SCOTTSDALE GOLF DESIGNS, WITH ITS RESEMBLANCE TO A

ZERO SOME GAME

Tipped as golf’s next big thing, zero torque putters promise to transform the way we approach the game — but how do they actually work, and what advantages do they offer everyday golfers? We investigate the latest obsession on the pro tours and look at some of the best options for your bag

Over recent years, few innovations have captivated the golf equipment market quite like the zero torque putter. Their presence on the pro tours continues to grow with every passing tournament, with the game’s top players gravitating toward the technology for one simple reason: it delivers results.

At its core, the premise of a zero torque putter is to ensure that the face remains square to the path of your stroke, eliminating the subtle twisting that plagues many traditional putter designs. By positioning the shaft axis directly through the putter’s centre of gravity, zero torque putters create an unmatched stability, allowing the face to return square at impact. For golfers who are prone to getting a little nervy when it comes to those testing 10-footers – and, frankly who doesn’t? – this can be transformative.

Most serious golfers know that a putter’s head shape, hosel style, weighting and loft all influence performance. Traditional mallet putters typically favour a straight-back, straight-through stroke, while classic blades reward those with more face rotation. A zero torque putter, however, is designed to accommodate

TAYLORMADE SPIDER ZT

TaylorMade’s first Zero Torque Spider has been constructed with a 100% milled multi-material design — stainless steel face, aluminium back – and it stays true to the Spider philosophy. True Path alignment and the trusty Pure Roll insert ensure both confidence over the ball and a buttery roll. taylormadegolf.com

any stroke type, as, no matter what your natural stroke, the putter resists twisting and encourages a square face, particularly on those shorter putts where major championships and Saturday roll-ups alike are won and lost.

Zero torque technology also minimises the need for mechanical overthinking. The putter does not fight your stroke but rather works with it, allowing you to focus less on the technical aspects of putting and more on confidence and feel. Of course, the putter doesn’t swing itself, and there is still plenty of scope for player disruption, but it’s as close as technology has come to keeping golfers on the path to holing more putts – if not to finding spiritual enlightenment.

The only minor drawback – apart from the punchy price tag – is that zero torque putters have a slightly unorthodox look at address, with the shaft entering the centre of the head certainly taking some getting used to, even to the point of it being a little off-putting for those wedded to heel-shafted designs. But if you can see past that minor inconvenience, you could have a new best friend in the bag.

PXG BAT ATTACK ZT

PXG doubles down on zero torque with the Bat Attack Z T, a fanged mallet with serious pedigree. The unique S-hosel positions the shaft axis above the putter’s centre of gravity, creating a toe-up balance that resists twisting for straighter strokes.pxg.com

TORQUE OF THE TOWN

A line-up built for precision, where innovation meets impact

BETTINARDI ANTIDOTE SB1

Classic blade looks meet modern stability in the Antidote SB1, which is precision-milled and finished in “Diamond Blast” and “Sapphire Blue”. It features Bettinardi’s proven F.I.T. Face tech for a soft but responsive feel, making it the ideal choice for golfers who want help without sacrificing traditional blade-style looks. bettinardi.com

BREAKTHROUGH GOLF TECHNOLOGY PARADOX

From the pioneers of graphite putter shafts comes a first zero torque model. The Paradox adds “Swing Balance Technology”, which aligns the putter’s inertia with your stroke so the face stays square. With high-toe weighting and low-heel steel weights, this flatstick is built to stay on track. breakthroughgolftech.com

ODYSSEY AI-1 SQUARE 2 SQUARE MAX 1

Odyssey pushes its Square 2 Square line further with the MAX 1, the most stable S2S model yet, which boasts a monster Moment of Inertia – the head’s resistance to twisting – of over 6,000. The Ai-ONE insert blends an aluminium backer with the legendary White Hot urethane face, keeping ball speeds consistent wherever you strike it. callawaygolf.com

EVNROLL ZERO Z5S

Evnroll flips the script by reversing the plumber’s neck hosel, moving the face in front of the neck. It may look unconventional, but it feels familiar at address. Add in their SweetFace technology, and you get silky feel plus unmatched distance control. evnroll.com

L.A.B. GOLF OZ.1I

SINK ANCHOR ACE

Milled in West Sussex from British stainless steel, the Sink Anchor ACE is as beautiful as it is clever. At first glance, it looks like a classic milled putter, but the smart shaft entry into the topline gives away its zero torque pedigree. Clean, elegant, and seriously effective. sinkgolf.co.uk

Co-designed with Adam Scott, the OZ.1i takes the half-moon head shape and elevates it with balance and stability. An aluminium body paired with a stainless steel insert delivers a firmer strike and quicker ball speeds. Where L.A.B. really shines is with customisation — from head weight to grip, alignment, shaft, and lie angle, you can make it truly yours. labgolf.com

A Constellation of Discovery

Nestled amidst the serene hills of the Algarve’s Barrocal region, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve offers a luxurious retreat that harmoniously blends with nature. This newly unveiled five-star resort presents an authentic Portuguese experience, far removed from the bustling coastal crowds, bringing new life to the region’s inland charm.

Recently inaugurated in the picturesque village of Tôr, near Loulé, the resort stands out for its fusion of contemporary elegance with the character of a traditional Algarvean hilltop village.

Home to 76 rooms and suites, as well as 65 branded residences, the hotel offers a distinctive accommodation experience, enhanced by refined culinary offerings that celebrate the region’s ingredients and heritage.

At the heart of the resort’s central square is Solalua, the culinary crown jewel, where the menu pays homage to the land and sea through a modern interpretation of southern Portuguese flavours. Just next door, Café Central offers a relaxed setting for light bites, fresh pastries and artisanal snacks — the perfect invitation for both guests and passersby to unwind in comfort.

Open to the public, the THE SPA by Viceroy at Ombria Algaver is a 2,000m² sanctuary of wellness, designed to foster reconnection — with oneself, with others, and with the surrounding nature. Featuring holistic treatments, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and panoramic treatment rooms, the spa offers a deeply restorative experience in tune with the calm of the landscape.

For golf enthusiasts, the 18-hole course winds gently through the natural terrain, blending seamlessly with the surroundings while delivering both challenge and breathtaking scenery.

Discover a new luxury destination in the Algarve where countryside tranquility meets refined sophistication and world-class service.

VICEROY AT OMBRIA ALGARVE

A new jewel in Portugal’s golfing crown

Portugal has long been a popular destination for golfers chasing sunshine and world-class fairways, but the newly opened Viceroy at Ombria Algarve offers an entirely fresh experience.

Just a 30-minute drive from Faro, yet a world away from the bustle of the Algarve coast, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve offers a hillside haven that blends five-star luxury with the timeless charm of a Portuguese village.

At its heart lies an 18-hole championship course that carves it way through a valley floor and up its sides, creating a layout that is as stunning to look at as it is thrilling to play. Routed through olive groves, cork trees and a winding river, this par-71 masterpiece balances challenge and beauty, with holes requiring accurate driving and approach play, while numerous raised tees serve as spectacular launch pads to the fairways and greens below. Presented in immaculate year-round condition, it’s a course that rewards repeated play, with each round revealing more of its complex challenge.

The resort itself is equally captivating. Its 141 luxury rooms, suites and residences echo those of a traditional Algarve village, with whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs and interiors of stone, ceramics and warm woods. Whether you opt for a deluxe room with terrace, a poolside residence, or a suite with Jacuzzi,

every detail encourages longer stays and relaxed living. Dining at Viceroy at Ombria Algarve celebrates the region’s rich gastronomy. From freshly baked pastries at Café Central to classic Portuguese dishes at the all-day Ombria Kitchen; from classic clubhouse fare at Casa & Fora, to the inventive tasting menus at the fine dining Solalua restaurant, each of the resort’s six venues honours the Algarve’s produce and culinary traditions to perfection.

With an expansive spa and wellness sanctuary, four swimming pools, a kids’ club and a wealth of activities – from horseback rides to pottery classes and olive oil tastings – non-golfers and families are well catered for, while the Algarve’s golden beaches are just a half-hour drive away.

BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES

Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, Tel: +351 289 078 300 Email: voa.sales@viceroy.com Web: viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/ombria-algarve

OGIO RENEGADE

The ultra-rugged Renegade features an impact-resistant base for protection against in-transit drops and bumps, while oversized off-road wheels help it glide effortlessly over airport terminal floors and club car parks. Adjustable straps double as an add-abag feature, while the compact foldable design allows for easy storage. It comes in five colourways, including the eyecatching “Tropical/Spruce” (pictured) and the “Forest Green” camo. ogio.com

CLUB GLOVE PRO TRAVELLER

Benefiting from a recent upgrade, which includes a stronger ballistic nylon cover material and 25% more padding in the clubhead area, the Pro Traveller can cope with all sizes of golf bag and features a stiff metal support arm for added protection, and a built-in combination lock will keep your prized bats safe and secure. clubglove.com

FIRST-CLASS PROTECTION

road yet crafted with polish and flair, these clever travel covers will keep

MACGREGOR VIP DELUXE

Offered in blue, black and this eye-catching camo pattern, the VIP Deluxe is a snip, coming in at less than £50, and provides all the bells and whistles needed to safely transport your precious clubs. With additional padding around the clubhead area, heavy duty internal straps and a tough nylon construction, it is designed to withstand the rigours of airport baggage transfers. Inline skate wheels make it easy to manoeuvre, while a large pocket with two compartments offers extra storage for all your golfing essentials. macgregor-golf.com

SUN MOUNTAIN CLUBGLIDER

Constructed from heavy-duty nylon with two-way zips, the ClubGlider will garner envious stares from fellow golf travellers as it purrs across terminal floor, Its flip-out leg mechanism features two 360° pivoting wheels. Foam padding and internal straps protect your clubs, while sturdy grab handles make it easy to lift into the car or off the luggage carousel. brandfusion.co.uk

LINKS & LABELS

Forget standard issue — collaborations are bringing edge and exclusivity to the game, one limited drop at a time, with pieces destined to become collector’s items as much as sporting essentials

TRAVISMATHEW X GUINNESS

Callaway-owned lifestyle apparel brand

TravisMathew has joined forces with Guinness, purveyors of the ‘black stuff’, to create a limitededition golf shoe that features Guinness branding on the heel and a co-branded tongue, while the insole artwork and the colour of the outsole all provide subtle nods to the world’s most popular stout. Each of the 1,759 pairs that have been made – representing the year of Guinness’ founding – comes with a matching Odyssey putter headcover and is housed in a custom designed box. Drink it up. travismathew.com

FOOTJOY X HARRIS TWEED

FootJoy has been working with Harris Tweed for the past five years, resulting in a succession of limited-edition versions of its Premiere Series golf shoes. This year’s drop, which coincided with the staging of The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, comprises Field and Packard models featuring intricately woven plaid patterns on the saddle and heel, which give them a uniquely stylish look. Each pair comes with a custom shoe bag made from the same tweed used for the shoes. Tartan up! footjoy.com

ECCO X FORE ALL

Danish footwear brand ECCO Golf has hooked up with Fore All, a female-founded women’s golf apparel outfit based in Utah, USA to introduce a chic, two-shoe drop that is sure to turn heads at the ladies’ Tuesday roll-up. The limitededition capsule collection leads with the Fore All Street 720, a mid-cut high-top featuring Fore All’s signature green-and-white checker print on the leather upper. Embroidered logos and a playful “Golfing Optional” stitching - Fore All’s tagline – is a reminder that these shoes are made for action on and off the course. Joining the 720 is the Fore All Biom C4 Hybrid, a sneaker-style model with leather uppers and a GoreTex waterproof membrane that boasts a stretchy sock-like construction for all-day comfort. It comes in a combination of pink, green and white. ecco.com

J.LINDEBERG X KANGOL

In a rare meeting of minds between two edgy apparel brands, J.Lindeberg’s collab with Kangol sees the Swedish fashion house merging streetwear with sports fashion to create a limited-edition range of hoodies (£140), t-shirts (£70), trousers (£130), skorts (£130), football jerseys (£120) and bucket hats (£65) that can be worn on and off the links. With separate ranges for men and women, the collection’s bold graphic features co-branded prints, with Kangol’s iconic kangaroo logo holding a golf club. A highlight of the collection is the New York City Golf Kit, which comprises a waterproof jacket with zip-off sleeves, a golf club harness (a shoulder strap designed to carry up to six clubs), and – of course – a bucket hat. Samuel L. Jackson would approve. jlindeberg.com

“IN A RARE MEETING OF MINDS BETWEEN TWO EDGY APPAREL BRANDS, J.LINDEBERG’S COLLAB WITH KANGOL SEES STREETWEAR MERGE WITH SPORTS FASHION”

DRAKE X CALLAWAY X VESSEL

Five-time Grammy award-winning Canadian singer Drake’s limitededition golf capsule collection features a collab with Callaway and premium golf bag brand Vessel. The 38-year-old rapper’s debut golf range, which is being sold through his own lifestyle brand, October’s Very Own, includes a Callaway Chrome Tour golf ball set housed in a matte blackand-gold monogram box, an Odyssey Ai-ONE #7 mallet putter, custom Callaway Opus wedges, a logo-printed towel and glove, and a Vessel stand bag featuring OVO’s signature owl logo. If You’re Reading This It’s (probably) Too Late to snap up this swag.

A heaven on earth has been realised at Heritage Resorts & Golf in Mauritius, where two championship courses and a world-class resort combine to create the ultimate golfer’s playground

TEE OFF IN PARADISE

There are golf getaways, and then there are journeys that transcend the sport – where every fairway is framed by natural beauty, every shot lingers longer in the memory, and every round feels like an invitation to stay just a little longer. Heritage Resorts & Golf – which enjoys a prime location in Bel Ombre, on the rugged south-west coast of Mauritius – is one such place. More than a destination, it is an experience: a world-class golfing haven where luxury, culture and nature are harmoniously intertwined.

DIVERSE CHAMPIONSHIP CHALLENGES

Heritage offers not one, but two world-class golf courses to test your game – the recently opened La Réserve Golf Links and established Le Château.

Opened less than two years ago, La Réserve is the Indian Ocean’s only contemporary links course. Co-designed by 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen and architect Peter Matkovich, the 6,570m layout – which will host the DP World Tour’s Mauritius Open for the second time in December 2025 – carves through dunes, native grasses and bold contours, sweeping dramatically from former sugarcane fields down to the architect-designed clubhouse. Coastal winds ensure a true links test, while infinity greens and panoramic views create a stage where every shot is memorable.

Balancing La Réserve’s drama is Le Château, a lush 6,120m parkland course set around a 19th-century château. Voted the Indian Ocean’s Best Golf Course, it blends wide fairways, pristine greens, and century-old trees with clear lakes and rushing streams. Forgiving yet still championship-calibre, it has hosted multiple Mauritius Opens and remains a favourite for players seeking both beauty and playability.

The two courses are served by separate and unique clubhouses. At Le Château, postround hospitality combines the atmosphere of a classic French brasserie with that of a modern sports club; while at La Réserve, a stylish, single-storey building blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, offering dramatic views of the course and the ocean below, while serving up a mouthwatering selection of fresh, locally sourced dishes to be enjoyed at any time of the day.

ELEVATE YOUR GAME

Even the best players have room for improvement, and at Heritage Golf Club you can refine your game under the guidance of a team of world-class coaches. The Golfzon Leadbetter Academy offers expert coaching for beginners to elite players, and with a new three-tiered range, TPI fitting studio and the latest swing-analysis tools, a range of tailored instruction packages can take your game to new levels.

LIFE BEYOND THE FAIRWAYS

Heritage Resorts offers much more than golf. Dining is a highlight, with 14 restaurants serving everything from Mauritian delicacies to haute cuisine. Then, there is the 2,500-hectare Bel Ombre estate, where guests can unwind at the luxury spa or enjoy water sports, hiking and cultural excursions. Families are generously catered for, with the dedicated Kids’ Club ensuring younger guests are entertained.

A PLAYGROUND FOR ALL

Heritage Resorts & Golf is more than a golf destination – it’s a complete island escape. Championship courses, luxury hospitality and diverse experiences create a retreat for golfers, families and couples alike. Whether chasing a golf challenge, enjoying a tropical holiday or seeking pure relaxation, Heritage Resorts & Golf is where you’ll find it.

Discover more at heritageresorts.mu

MAURITIUS IN PLAY

Above: La Réserve Golf Links is the Indian Ocean’s only contemporary links course, carved between the Savanne mountain range and Mauritius’ southwestern shores. Opposite, from left: Heritage Le Telfair’s adult-only wing; the beachfront Infinity Bar; the tropical Le Château Golf Course

CALLAWAY CHROME SOFT TRIPLE TRACK

Triple Track technology, which is available on both the standard and X Chrome Soft balls, sees a trio of blue/red/ blue stripes around the ball, which Callaway says is an adaptation of the same visual aid pilots use to line up jets to land on aircraft carriers. The spacing and thickness are all crucial in how the brain processes alignment clues. On its own, the tracks show you how purely you strike the ball, but when paired with an Odyssey putter, the same pattern on the top of the clubhead creates a continuous alignment aid from ball to putter, helping to square the clubface and better visualise the entire stroke path. callawaygolf.com

PERFECTLY ALIGNED

Part training aid, part performance enhancer, alignment-marked golf balls are changing the putting game — helping every level of player see, believe and, ultimately, sink more putts

WILSON DUO SOFT TRK360

Claiming to be the world’s softest golf ball –with a compression of just 37 – the Duo Soft TRK360 is the entry level of alignment balls, with its two-piece construction designed for straight-line distance and an ultra-soft feel that might not be everyone’s cup of tea around the greens. The alignment design features two red and black stripes either side of a Duo Soft logo that circles the entire ball. Designed to help golfers precisely aim at their target, these double as a training aid, promoting end-over-end roll for well-struck putts, while miss-hits will provide a distinct “wobble” as the ball moves forward. wilson.com

TITLEIST AVX AIM

Sitting just below the Pro V1 in Titleist’s ball hierarchy, the AVX is a low-spinning, low-flying model designed for faster-swinging players that produces soft feel and excellent greenside control. AIM (Alignment Integrated Marking) introduces three parallel lines – a green line flanked by two black lines – that cover the full circumference of the ball to improve putting alignment by up to 35%, according to Titleist’s own studies, and also helps when lining up to the target off the tee.

AIM technology is also offered in the higher-launching Tour Soft ball, which is priced at £34 for 12. titleist.com

TAYLORMADE TOUR RESPONSE STRIPE

Featuring a printed ink band that wraps around the centre of the ball, TaylorMade’s Stripe technology enables players to aim putts more accurately, more consistently, while also providing instant feedback on the quality of the roll. The latest range comes with alignment stripes in bright neon shades of orange, pink, yellow, blue and navy to suit your style. The threepiece ball boasts a 70 compression and a cast urethane cover, which generates soft feel and greenside control, and the Speed Wrapped Core – also seen in the Tour-level TP5 – enhances ball speed and distance. taylormadegolf.com

SMOOTH GOING

MOTOCADDY ME REMOTE

Designed for effortless hands-free control, the all-new ME Remote boasts an impressive 100m range, while its rugged tyres, 360° rotating front wheels, and anti-tip rear wheel ensure smooth navigation across all terrains. Golfers can switch between remote and manual handle control, supported by safety functions including “pause/resume” and an emergency stop. A compactfolding frame, USB charging port, and extended lithium battery are all useful design and performance features. motocaddy.com

STEWART GOLF Q FOLLOW TROLLEY

The latest evolution of Stewart Golf’s hands-free flagship trolley boasts an upgraded remote with an increased range of up to 75m, while its Follow technology will have it faithfully keeping your clubs in transit at a respectful distance as you power across the course. A second-gen lithium battery ensures smarter energy use and deeper integration with Stewart’s revamped smartphone app for real-time power management, while other new features include a magnetic rangefinder mount. Alongside a standard black finish, the new Design Series offers a choice of six vibrant accent colours – red, yellow, copper, champagne, amethyst and aqua. stewartgolf.com

SHOT SCOPE PRO L5

Shot Scope’s next-gen rangefinder is designed to give golfers clarity, speed and total confidence when it comes to sizing up yardages and club selection. Its ultra-clear OLED display ensures yardages are easy to read in all light conditions, while target-lock vibration and adaptive slope technology deliver precise measurements on targets up to 1,300 yards away. Paired with the free Shot Scope app, golfers can unlock GPS aerial maps, hazard distances and green yardages for complete course management. Offered in black or white, it features a builtin magnet for attaching to a cart or trolley for easy access. shotscope.com

BOOK SMARTS

Fans of golf in all its infinite variety will delight in the publication of Remarkable Golf Courses, a high-quality coffee table tome written by sports journalist Iain Spragg that showcases the sport at its most surprising and eccentric. Packed full of quirky design features and intriguing tales, the 224-page book is lavishly illustrated with hundreds of full-colour photos capturing some of the most unusual and memorable courses to be found on god’s green earth, from the highest course in La Paz, Bolivia, to the lowest, in Death Valley, USA; from Arctic Circle fairways to Tierra del Fuego’s southern tip; from a Los Angeles course with its own funicular railway to a classic English country estate that requires a ferry to reach the 18th green; and a floating hole in Idaho where not just the pin but the distance from shore shifts daily. Ancient history meets modern play, with Scottish courses threaded through standing stones, English fairways following Roman roads, and Welsh greens overlooked by medieval ruins. In Guatemala, golfers tee off on the side of an active volcano, while Hawaii’s lush greens butt against black lava flows. Remarkable Golf Courses is published by HarperCollins. harpercollins.com

With a swing as graceful as it is powerful, Nelly Korda has redefined what it means to be a champion. At just 26, she has secured her place among golf’s greats, embodying poise, precision and style both on and off the course. From fairways to fashion front rows, she is that rare athlete who balances competitive grit with effortless elegance. In this exclusive conversation with , the sportswoman reflects on the rituals that ground her, the family ties that sustain her, and the ever-evolving pursuit of perfection.

UT: You’ve been groundbreaking as a golfer and an athlete at the top of your game. What nearterm goals are you focused on now?

NK: The best thing about sports is the pursuit of getting better in every aspect. With the competition getting fiercer every year, there is a motivating factor in trying to always improve. I’m a big believer in small goals that eventually lead you to your bigger ones.

UT: Golf is famously a great leveller. Who have been some of your favourite amateur playing partners — whether in Pro-Am events or otherwise?

NK: I don’t think I have a favourite... I’ve had the pleasure of playing with some amazing individuals across many professions. It’s fun to see how the game can bring people together.

UT: Do you have a favourite course to play professionally — and a personal favourite for practice or casual rounds?

NK: Professionally, I love to play them all, but practice-wise, I would say my home course, Concession Golf Club, Florida, and the most fun I’ve had playing? Probably Augusta National.

UT: Beyond your unmistakable Richard Mille timepiece, what’s the one travel essential that you’d never consider leaving home without?

NK: I definitely don’t leave without my Richard Mille watch! Travelling so much, I have it all: iPad, Kindle, etc. Anything to keep me entertained.

UT: When you play with amateurs, what’s the one piece of advice you always share?

NK: I would say to never be intimidated by the game of golf – we’ve all been in the same exact position at some point in our life. And to not be afraid to play with someone that is better than you, because that is where you learn the most.

CHAMPION’S MIND, CHAMPION’S LIFE

FIVE MINUTES WITH NELLY KORDA

UT: What’s currently on your playlist — mainly music or mainly podcasts?

NK: If I listen to podcasts, they’re usually true crime, but typically a lot of music. I’ve been very into country music lately.

UT: When it’s time to disconnect from golf and unwind, what’s your go-to ritual?

NK: A little bit of Netflix and a lot of family time!

UT: You had that famous moment being photographed with Tiger Woods... Who would be in your dream four-ball, living or deceased?

NK: For me, it’ll always be my family.

UT: Same question for a dream dinner — which three people, dead or alive, would be at the table?

NK: Definitely my family, again! With our

schedules, we don’t really get many opportunities to spend quality time together.

UT: What’s your one non-negotiable when you’re travelling?

NK: My number one non- negotiable is that I always travel with my own pillow.

UT: You’ve had a remarkably consistent year on the course. What aspects of your game are you working to sharpen?

NK: Sometimes I wish I was only working on one particular thing, but golf is such a unique and technique-based sport that I’m always working on every part of my game.

AS TOLD TO FARHAD HEYDARI

PRIME TIME

Korda, with her unmistakable Richard Mille timepiece

Stories That Last

Situated between the picturesque Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals, Pulitzer Amsterdam spans across twenty-five interconnecting 17th and 18th-century canal houses portraying a blend of mid-century décor with contemporary luxury and modern influences. Discover the capital with a canal cruise on one of the hotel’s unique vessels and recover in the tranquil inner garden for afternoon drinks.

Pulitzeramsterdam.com

Pulitzer Amsterdam

A neighborhood in its own right

Fabulous Florals

Artfully designed, Pulitzer’s Collector’s Suites are named after their imagined past. Taking its inspiration from the city’s rich botanical culture, the Flower Collector’s Suite echoes the ornate glass panelling of vintage greenhouses, lush floral tones of Amsterdam’s flower market and of course, the celebrated Dutch tulip.

ADIDAS ORIGINALS COLLECTION

The design team at adidas Golf has trawled through the company’s 75-year-old archives to launch a new range of golf wear that bridges the gap between sport, performance, lifestyle and culture. The Golf Originals collection triumphantly reintroduces the brand’s famed Trefoil logo –the floral-inspired design that was superseded by the now equally iconic 3 Stripes back in 1989. The men’s range includes polos, argyle quarter-zips, blended cotton-cashmere knit sweaters and pleated trousers with sewn-on 3-Stripe detail, while a pleated skort, sleeveless dress and cashmere knit sweater are highlights of the women’s line, which features a colour palette of blues, whites, greens and yellows. adidas.com

REEBOK GOLF SHOES

ORIGINAL PENGUIN 70TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION

Original Penguin is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a special collection that pays homage to its enduring legacy and the iconic polo shirt that defined the Rat Pack era.

Golfing legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Chi-Chi Rodriguez, alongside such cultural icons as Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby, have famously sported the brand, solidifying Pete the Penguin as a symbol of cool confidence. The 70th Anniversary Collection reimagines classic 1950s styles with a modern twist, with key pieces including Pete’s Earl Polo –a modern take on the original – the shortsleeved Heritage Sweater Polo, the technical Earl Polo, a quarter-zip lightweight pullover, and flat-front trousers. originalpenguin.com

FASHION FORWARD

Step out in style with the latest in heritage golf wear

Reebok has returned to the golf market this year with the launch of a comprehensive footwear range. Worn in the pro leagues by Crushers GC captain Bryson DeChambeau, the new collection includes four models. The Nano Golf (€120) features a foam midsole, breathable uppers and an underfoot torsion shank to create a solid swing platform. Question Golf (£170), whose design is inspired by basketball legend Allen Iverson’s preferred style of shoe, boasts full-grain leather uppers, a suede toe and a spikeless outsole. The OG Pump Golf (£180) features Reebok’s iconic ‘Pump’ technology mounted on weatherproof pebbled leather uppers, and a heritage-inspired saddle; while the Club C Golf (£100) is a sneaker-style design that features water-resistant leather uppers and a spikeless outsole for added traction. reebok.com

GHOST CLUBHOUSE HOODIE

This stylish hoodie from edgy new apparel brand Ghost is ideal for chilly autumn rounds or chilling in the clubhouse, with its premium French terry cotton offering the perfect blend of comfort, breathability and durability. Featuring a subtle chest logo and a silicone sleeve label, the hoodie’s kangaroo front pocket includes a discreet zip pocket, while a snap-closure hood eliminates draw cords that might interfere with your swing. It comes in teal, black, white, grey and slate blue, and in sizes S-XXXL. ghostgolf.com

CASTAWAY

ISLAND FIJI TAKES GREAT CARE IN ITS STEWARDSHIP

A founding member of MES Fiji (Mamanuca Environment Society) and a leading advocate of environmental sustainability in tourism development, Castaway’s collective actions include coral planting, beach and underwater clean-up, fish house making and coastal tree planting, in addition to back-of-house goals such as reducing energy, water and waste while working alongside like-minded local non-profit organizations.

EASTERN PROMISE

The Omoda 9 SHS delivers 430bhp, a near700-mile electric range and its price tag undercuts the competition by half, but should you buy one?

Adam Hay-Nicholls takes to the road

Sosaturated have we become with new Chinese car brands, it’s difficult to keep up. The new world order of cars has seen the Chinese sweep in and undercut the competition, thanks to cheap labour and the country having direct access to the raw materials that make batteries. China sells 60% of the world’s EVs and 80% of the batteries that power them.

The Omoda brand, which is owned by the fourth-biggest car manufacturer in China, Chery, could be viewed as the People’s Republic’s answer to Lexus. Its cars are fairly luxurious, extremely well-equipped and businesslike, but rather lacking in character or personality.

In the case of the Omoda 9 SHS (which stands for “Super Hybrid System”), the pros will outweigh the cons for anyone who isn’t particularly style-conscious or fancies themselves as Lewis Hamilton. It’s a cavernous hybrid SUV that is wellappointed and has legroom that’ll embarrass a Mercedes GLE. And let’s take a moment to savour the price: it costs just $60,717. Compare that to the Merc, which is slower and less powerful and costs $108,723.

The smaller Range Rover Velar is a C-segment car at a D-segment price. It starts at $88,252, and then you have to add on all the options. You can easily push it to $108k. The Omoda 9, meanwhile, only offers one extra: paint. White is free, black or grey costs $1,000 and satin grey, $1,350. There are no other options because everything is included as standard. All the safety tech, the selfparking function, 20in wheels, 14-speaker Sony audio, a huge panoramic powered sunroof – you name it, it’s got it. As for styling, it’s a handsome if forgettable-looking thing, like pretty much everything in its class. Squint your eyes and it could definitely pass for a modern Mercedes.

With a claimed 700-mile span (and a tested 760), plus 93 pureelectric miles, the handsome Omoda 9 covers commutes, cross-country jaunts – and smug dinner-party anecdotes

The 430bhp Omoda 9 boasts three headline figures that are seriously noteworthy. Firstly, the price means you’re paying just $135 per horsepower – a figure no other SUV gets near. The D-segment Lexus RX 350h, which is exceedingly well built but no more charismatic than the Omoda, only produces 245bhp and, in Premium Plus spec, comes in at $93,668. It has $3,377 less stuff as standard, according to the Lexus options list. Price it all up and it comes to a rather disappointing $395 per horsepower.

“Its handling is sharp: put it in sports mode and it tugs at the leash”

The second headline figure is the Omoda’s stated 700mile overall range. On a lengthy drive, I actually managed to extract 760 miles before I had to pull into a petrol station.

The third headline is its 34.48kWh battery, meaning this hybrid has more electric power than the all-electric Renault Zoe. With a pure-electric range of 93 miles, it’s the longest-range PHEV available to buy. You could easily do most daily commutes with this car and never have to pay for petrol – a huge plus point.

Dynamically, it’s less involving than the GLE or the Velar, but its handling is sharp and the power delivery unruffled. Put it in sports mode and it tugs at the leash. It won’t reward like a Porsche up the Stelvio pass, but no one’s going to buy it with that in mind. This is a car for getting from A-to-B cheaply, comfortably and reliably, and on that score it delivers better – probably – than any car under $82k. It’s far better value than a Range Rover or Mercedes, even if it lacks their heritage and verve. It certainly overshadows the Lexus.

For families who want state-of-the-art technology and cut-price luxury, the Omoda 9 is a very sensible choice. If you’re the sort of person who buys supermarket own-brand baked beans, you’re going to take this over the British, German and Japanese brands. Yet, if quality, design and individuality are worth a five-figure premium to you, the established marques will prove more fulfilling. The Omoda 9 is a good car, but where’s the lifestyle? (omodajaecoo.com)

PETROL, OPTIONAL

The world’s most exclusive hotels, resorts and palaces in one unique collection.

Close your eyes and imagine your paradise. What do you see? A heritage-filled city… an aquatic escape… a treetop hideaway… an Alpine retreat? Whatever your dream, it’s waiting for you inside Ultratravel Collection, an elite circle of GHA DISCOVERY hotels.

When you stay at any Ultratravel Collection hotel, you can rest assured you’re enjoying a level of luxury that goes beyond thread counts. Breathtaking surroundings. Location-inspired dining, spa and leisure. Insider access to local culture. Timeless elegance and attention to detail. All with GHA DISCOVERY’s generous benefits and rewards.

You’ve seen the world, yes. But have you seen it like this? Explore Ultratravel Collection today and find your paradise.

Deos Mykonos