TOP - The world's greatest getaways - WORLD RESORTS - Barnbougle
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE MOST AUTHORITATIVE R ANKINGS IN THE GAME
GLENEAGLES,
TOP
SCOTLAND
WORLD
RESORTS
The world’s
greatest getaways
Ranking and rating the 100 best places to stay and play
WELCOME
N
ever have I wanted to have We have produced a GB&I £60 and recognised. 40 marks
more pages for a Top 100 Under ranking already and an Under n ACCOMMODATION
ranking than this month. It is £35 will follow in 2022. Believe me, The range, quality and quantity of
nearly 40 pages in size and dominates we are very conscious of the cost of the accommodation. 20 marks
the magazine – I don’t think anyone can
suggest we aren’t taking these Top
100s seriously! But there are so many
more resorts I would love to have
the top-end destinations.
And finally on this, we also hope
there is some escapism, as we plough
through a British winter, in looking at
n NON-GOLF AMENITIES
Additional facilities that can make
a resort a family and couples
attraction. 20 marks
MORE THAN JUST GOLF
showcased with bigger pictures. pictures of and reading about so many n SETTING
I’ve tried to pick out resorts from sun-kissed foreign fields. Lots of 14s and 15s for standard
different parts of the world and with a countryside locations, but those that TOP
different look in a bid to illustrate the HOW DID WE DO IT drop jaws get a boost with 18 and 19s
fact there is something for everyone. Firstly, what is a golf resort? It’s an – occasionally even higher. 20 marks CONTINENTAL EUROPE
There are resorts from 33 countries important point to clarify as it explains COURSES 2022
GOLF DU MEDOC
(CHATEAUX)
18
and with so much variety – some are why Resort X made it in yet Resort Y Golf is clearly still the key
very golf-centric, others have especially didn’t. We define a resort like this: the category in all of this, but we take
amazing accommodation, plenty have course and accommodation have to accommodation and non-golf
so much to do away from the course. be owned by the same company and amenities into account fairly strongly,
Among this diversity, there are two the accommodation has to be on-site. because we didn’t want a list of
themes: many are spectacular seaside Any time there is a short transfer time ‘courses with rooms’ and to end up
entries; and many are expensive. involved, the resort loses a mark in the with a list of Top 100-ranked courses
I do realise that precludes many from ‘setting’ category. with a dormy house. We wanted to
ever going to them, and we are very Led by myself (I’ve been to 59 of the include rounded resorts that could
conscious of that; we want these Top 100), well-travelled figures from the appeal to couples and families as well
100s to be relevant and to be used as a golf travel industry, in addition to our as those for absolute golf nuts.
guide to plan your trips. But adding a GB&I and continental Europe panels,
value element would have been so assessed all 100 in these categories: I hope you enjoy these next 30-
hard, given there are so many packages plus pages – just be prepared to start
for so many resorts. Tracking all the n GOLF COURSE/S feeling the travel itch very strongly.
deals available via third parties would The quality of the course/s – with
have made this ranking impossible! second or third courses duly Chris Bertram, Top 100 Editor
CH¬TEAUX COURSE
TOP
CONTINENTAL EUROPE
COURSES 2022
GOLF DU MEDOC
(VIGNES)
65
Punta Espada, Eden Roc,
Dominican Republic VIGNES COURSE
92 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK
+33 (0)5 56 70 31 31 | h6660@accor.com | https://golfdumedocresort.com/
TOP
THE SCOTSMAN WHO
STARTED A DYNASTY
David McLay Kidd on his big Bandon break
My father was a greenkeeper and eventually estates
manager at Gleneagles, so I was around golf all my
life. I took a landscape architecture degree and
worked a little in the industry before joining
Gleneagles myself. They had been bought by
Guinness, who decided they were going to spread the
Gleneagles brand by creating more Gleneagles-
inspired resorts all over the world; Gleneagles New
York or Gleneagles Caribbean. They created a small
1
team to start that process and I spent the next few
years travelling the world, looking at different sites
Guinness were buying or thinking of buying.
Gleneagles then decided not to build the 10 resorts
they were planning and, towards the end of my time
with Gleneagles Golf Development, through necessity
we started to sell our services to third parties.
One of those services was me, as a course designer.
And along came Mike Keiser who, strictly speaking,
hired Gleneagles Golf Development to build Bandon
Dunes. Every major design firm had looked at the
land, but a friend of his, Rick Summers, who is a golf
publisher on the East Coast and who also knew Ian
Ferrier at Gleneagles, said, “Why don’t you hire a
Scotsman to do this project?” He said, “I would if I
could find any”. So that’s how we came to be in touch.
BANDON DUNES I went over to Bandon Dunes with my father for a
week and then met Mike and I thought, he’s probably
PORTLAND, USA not going to hire me, so I was as blunt as a Scotsman
can be. I said, “You’re going to build a pastiche,
Courses 40 (+10) Accommodation 16 American-style course with cart paths and crass
Amenities 12 Setting 19 TOTAL 97 things. However, if you weren’t going to do that and
were serious about building a links, these would be
It had to be Bandon Dunes. With a staggering the fundamental things you would have to do. You’d
FOUR courses in our World Top 100 and the have to make people walk, and keep the clubhouse
fifth a contender for that list, this golf Mecca away from the beach because the way the land is, the
in Oregon simply had to be our No.1 resort. only way to get to the clubhouse would be to drive the
As our marking system indicates, we want access road through the course. No Scottish or Irish
resorts that offer more than just great golf, and links would have that. Anyway, Mike liked what he
while Bandon’s accommodation and especially heard and must’ve thought I had something about
non-golf amenities are limited compared to me, so invited me back again. In the autumn of 1997
many in this list, four World Top 100 courses I started building it and was there every single day
is simply bewildering. So much so that Mike until it was finished. I had been indoctrinated with
Keiser’s resort broke our marking system. this Scottish golfing sensibility my entire life and,
Scoring Bandon 40/40 for its courses would aged 27, I found myself building a links in America.
have meant scoring other resorts unflatteringly So I was spewing forth that fairways had to be wide,
low to compensate. We’ve thus adapted bunkers had to be strategic not penal, greens had to
Bandon’s marks, so the rest can look sensible. look like they were seamless in the landscape.
The five 18-holers – by David McLay Kidd, Tom Did I think it would become the Mecca it is today?
Doak (2), Bill Coore-Ben Crenshaw (2) – plus a When we were building Bandon Dunes, Mike mused
brilliant 13-hole Par 3 are the reasons you fly to as to whether to offer only Bud or include Bud Light,
Oregon. There are two inns, 44 cottages, a and whether there would only be cheeseburgers on
massage centre, fishing and hiking. But this is the menu. The expectation was that there would be
all about the golf – and it is, in no uncertain fewer than 10,000 rounds a year, so the amenities
terms, the greatest show on earth. would be minimal. So I guess the answer is a ‘No’!
94 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 95
TOP
2
GLENEAGLES
PERTH, SCOTLAND
Courses 36 Accommodation 20
A TOUCH
OF CLASS
Amenities 20 Setting 18 TOTAL 94
Just three marks between Gleneagles and
Bandon Dunes, yet they are so different in
terms of what they offer. Of course
Gleneagles has world-class golf of its own,
with a World Top 100 entry (King’s), a
GB&I Top 100 entry (Queen’s) and a
Scottish Top 100 entry (PGA Centenary),
but it can’t compete with Bandon for quality
and quantity of course. Nowhere can.
Where Gleneagles becomes a much more
attractive resort for many is in terms of its
accommodation and non-golf amenities.
There was never any doubt Gleneagles
would earn top marks in both categories.
The bedrooms and public rooms of the grand
hotel are exquisite, mixing old-world
character with new-age luxury and
amenities. The bathrooms alone are an
experience in themselves; even those of us
who dwell only briefly on pampering will
linger longer among the opulence of the retro
bath, sleek shower, high-end toiletries and
fluffiest of towels.
The food has no peer, and regular readers
will know we consider the breakfast at
Gleneagles to be a bucket-list experience.
Take your pick from the various watering
holes, but take our advice and find time for at
least one cocktail in The American Bar.
No resort in this ranking has more to do
away from the course. There is gundog
handling, archery, air rifle shooting, tennis,
survival training, a spa and fitness centre,
indoor and outdoor heated pools, off-road
Above The
driving, horse riding, bike riding, fishing and Gleneagles Estate
many more we have forgotten. is home to three
But let’s not overlook the golf. In the James championship
Braid-designed King’s and Queen’s it has two courses, an elite
practice facility
of Britain’s finest inland courses, courses that and a nine-hole
ooze enduring class and atmosphere. The par 3 course.
King’s is the star, a World Top 100 course that
has a perfect balance between challenge and Far left You may
never want to
enjoyment for club golfers. The Queen’s is a leave the opulence
delight; playable and cute, a course you’d like of your bathroom.
to play time and again. And while the PGA
Centenary is regarded as the No.3 here, that Left The
luxury hotel is
is very relative; it is a fixture in our Scottish surrounded by
Top 100 and a Ryder Cup host. more than 850
So, not the wealth of golf riches of Bandon, acres of hill,
but for families and couples in particular, field, stream and
green. A ‘glorious
there is not a finer golf resort in the world. playground’ for all.
Very possibly the greatest No.2 we have had
in all of our Top 100s. What a place.
96 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK
3
Pinehurst has NINE courses and scores 93 masterclass in course architecture.
yet isn’t even second on the list – that’s the But it’s not just about No.2 – far from it. In
mind-blowing quality at the top of this fact some even think it might not even be the
ranking. It’s a list of one resort after best course on the property. No.4, by Hanse,
another you’d give anything to visit. has its fans, as does No.1, where it all started
171 HOLES Its golf offering is akin to adding all the in 1898. No.3, created by Donald Ross in 1910,
ON SITE! courses at Carnoustie to all those at Woburn is a fun, sporty course that has all of the
to all those at Rosapenna. And they also have great Scot’s design characteristics.
PINEHURST
a fabulous nine-hole par 3 designed by Gil Away from the 171 holes, there are three
Hanse, The Cradle, which has quickly hotels, condominiums, villas, six
become a ‘must play’ part of any trip here. restaurants, spa, lawn sports, tennis, hiking/
NORTH CAROLINA, USA Like Bandon, it ‘broke’ our golf mark system. biking trails, fishing, fitness – as if you’ll
Among the 18-holers, No.2 is in our World have time for anything but golf!
Courses 40+2 Accommodation 18
Amenities 17 Setting 16 TOTAL 93 Top 100 at No.8, a Donald Ross design that And the hotels are top class. The Carolina
was renovated by Coore-Crenshaw before has been dubbed the ‘Queen of the South’
the US Open won by Martin Kaymer. The and is a grand, century-old building with 230
anchor site for the US Open, it is simply a rooms. A touch of class.
98 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK
TOP
7 EPIC
COURSES
BARNBOUGLE DUNES
TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA
Courses 38 Accommodation 17 Amenities 14 Setting 20 Total 89
There are two bucket-list courses and three four-bedroom,
here – Barnbougle Dunes by Tom four-bathroom villas, each with
Doak and Mike Clayton, and its own large living room and
Lost Farm by Coore-Crenshaw kitchenette. There are also
– which are No.19 and 28 two-bedroom ocean villas. A Spa
respectively in our World Top 100 at Lost Farm and good dining
ranking. Then there’s a fabulous lead the relatively limited
new short course as well as a amenities. This is mainly
50-room Lodge, located at Lost awesome golf, but worth every
Farm, 22 two-bedroom cottages, mile of the journey to Tasmania.
4 TURNBERRY 5 PEBBLE BEACH 6 STREAMSONG 8 KIAWAH ISLAND 9 CABOT CLIFFS 10 TERRE BLANCHE
AYRSHIRE, SCOTLAND PEBBLE BEACH, USA FLORIDA, USA SOUTH CAROLINA, USA NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA NICE, FRANCE
Courses 36 Accommodation 18 Courses 37 Accommodation 19 Courses 39 Accommodation 17 Courses 36 Accommodation 18 Courses 38 Accommodation 18 Courses 30 Accommodation 20
Amenities 18 Setting 20 Total 92 Amenities 15 Setting 20 Total 91 Amenities 17 Setting 17 Total 90 Amenities 16 Setting 19 Total 89 Amenities 12 Setting 20 Total 88 Amenities 20 Setting 18 Total 88
An entry that frankly needs little You think it is all about that course, but it It would have been a very worthy No.1, We think you’ll agree the strength in depth Canada’s top resort is in the top 10 on the The only entry in the top 10 without a
description, other than to say the isn’t. Pebble Beach has under its umbrella because its golf offering is sensational and it of this top 10 is crazy. Another South Carolina back of two World Top 100 courses. Cabot World Top 100 course among its attractions.
overhauled Ailsa (by Martin Ebert) is three hotels, with 492 rooms and suites in has at least as good accommodation and entry, this time the 1991 Ryder Cup and 2021 Cliffs by Coore-Crenshaw is No. 22 and Continental Europe’s No.1 resort has two
a masterpiece and the King Robert the total, five courses (Pebble, Spanish Bay, better amenities than Bandon. Streamsong US PGA host. It boasts 242 rooms and 13 Cabot Links by Rod Whitman, Coore’s terrific courses though, and they are backed
Bruce is also much improved. We gave it Spyglass Hill, Del Monte and a nine-hole comprises one hotel, three World Top 100 suites, 400 villas, five courses headlined by right-hand man, is No.45. Both enjoy a up by high-class accommodation, a wealth
one of the highest golf marks, the setting is par 3), 10 restaurants, a spa, hiking/biking courses, four restaurants, spa, fishing, clay- World Top 100 entry the Ocean, fitness, spa, breathtaking Cape Breton setting. Chic Golf of amenities and a delightfully tranquil
epic and the hotel is also hugely improved. trails, and equestrian centre. No.5 feels low. shooting, archery, pool. Tempting, isn’t it? pool, tennis, and 15 restaurants and bars. Villas and Lodge Rooms. Limited amenities. setting. Terre Blanche ticks all the boxes.
100 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 101
TOP
13
This super-resort lies on rooms and suites while the
613 hectares of lush Spa boasts an indoor
countryside, sheltered by
the Outeniqua Mountains.
heated Roman Bath and
wellness treatments. The
« Come as a guest,
AFRICA’S
FINEST
There are three Gary
Player-designed courses
including one in our
Leisure Centre has an
array of facilities, while
there is a Kidz Club, teen
leave as a storyteller »
FANCOURT World Top 100, The Links,
which is backed up by
lounge, gym, cinema,
indoor heated and outdoor
GEORGE, SOUTH AFRICA Outeniqua and Montagu
as well as the six-hole
swimming pool. Tennis,
running and walking
Courses 34 Accommodation 18 Amenities 18 Bramble. The Fancourt trails, bird watching and
Setting 18 TOTAL 88 Hotel offers 115 luxurious fishing complete the scene.
11 COSTA NAVARINO 12 CASA DE CAMPO 14 ADARE MANOR
KALAMATA, GREECE PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC LIMERICK, IRELAND
Courses 32 Accommodation 19 Courses 34 Accommodation 18 Course 32 Accommodation 20
Amenities 19 Setting 18 Total 88 Amenities 18 Setting 18 Total 88 Amenities 19 Setting 17 Total 88
Another entry from Continental Europe, Three brilliant courses – Teeth of the Dog Adare can celebrate being the World’s No.1
this one with two courses in our Top 100 (World Top 100 entry), Dye Fore and The single-course golf resort. It’s a serious
mainland Europe ranking – the technical Links – all by Pete Dye. A Caribbean setting honour... just look at the awesome multi-
Dunes by Bernhard Langer/Ross that is medicine for the eyes. A variety of course resorts beneath it. A hugely
McMurray, and the scenic Bay by Robert rooms and suites as well as luxury villas – improved course is allied to accommodation
Trent Jones Jnr. Two wonderful hotels and some oceanfront. A spa, pools, and a wealth that has no peer in this list – that’s saying TERRE BLANCHE HOTEL SPA GOLF RESORT *****
amenities that include a mini water park. of sports such as tennis and water sports. something. Just an incredibly special place. 3100 Route de Bagnols-en-ForÍt 83440 Tourrettes | Provence-Alpes-CÙte díAzur | France
T : + 33 (0)4 94 39 90 00 | www.terre-blanche.com
35 minutes away from Cannes | 45 minutes away from Nice International Airport
104 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK
TOP
15 SUN CITY 16 DIAMANTE 17 SANDY LANE
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO ST JAMES, BARBADOS
Courses 32 Accommodation 19 Courses 33 Accommodation 18 Courses 32 Accommodation 19
Amenities 20 Setting 17 Total 88 Amenities 17 Setting 19 Total 87 Amenities 18 Setting 18 Total 87
Home to two 18-hole courses designed by Headlined by Davis Love’s The Dunes, a The famous Green Monkey – the Tom Fazio
Gary Player – Lost City and Gary Player – World Top 100 course that weaves through layout carved from an old stone quarry
complemented by an incredible array of Pacific dunes with views of beach and ocean which is exclusive to Sandy Lane guests –
five-star accommodation, from the from nearly every hole. There’s also Tiger plus The Old Nine and The Country Club
exquisitely designed The Palace to the chic Woods’ El Cardonal design, luxury studios are lush, immaculate parklands. The high-
Cabanas. Amenities range from a world- and villas, a 10-acre saltwater lagoon for end villas and suites make you feel like you
class water park and nightlife to Big 5 safari. water sports, plus a spa and fitness centre. have the resort to yourself. Exceptional spa.
18 PGA CATALUNYA 20 THE AMERICAN CLUB 21 CARYA
GIRONA, SPAIN WISCONSIN, USA BELEK, TURKEY
Courses 32 Accommodation 19 Courses 36 Accommodation 18 Courses 33 Accommodation 19
Amenities 19 Setting 17 Total 87 Amenities 15 Setting 18 Total 87 Amenities 19 Setting 16 TOTAL 87
A top-20 continental European course, the All under the Kohler umbrella, the AC has Two continental European Top 100 courses
Stadium, that is complemented by a very 2021 Ryder Cup course Whistling Straits, its (Carya and The National) are backed up by
good No.2, the Tour. Both are beautifully sister Irish, as well as Blackwolf Run’s River the wonderful Regnum Carya hotel, which
presented. There are two hotels, the and Meadow Valleys and a par 3 course. is luxurious, stylish and is beaten by very
Camiral and the Lavida, plus villas to rent. Two hotels, four cabins, seven restaurants, few in this ranking in terms of non-golf
The Camiral is absolutely gorgeous with pools, tennis, fitness, hiking/biking... but it amenities – everything from a water park
plenty of facilities. A terrific all-rounder. loses a Setting mark for a 10-minute transfer. to bowling alley. Amazing for families.
19
Kyle Phillips-designed golf courses and The hotel more than matches the
a Rocco Forte hotel sounds like it should golf, with accommodation set down in a
be pretty impressive – and the reality truly succession of low-rise apartments, all with
SEASIDE
is. Add in a cliff-edge and beachside setting
and Verdura’s allure is pretty obvious.
course or sea views. It is all done incredibly
tastefully, as luxury meets elegance and 22 ROSAPENNA 23 BELLE MARE PLAGE 24 FAIRMONTBANFFSPRINGS
SETTING The two courses have actually changed comfort at every turn. DOWNINGS, IRELAND POINTE DE FLACQ, MAURITIUS BANFF, CANADA
significantly in the past year after a freak The amenities start with an infinity pool
Courses 37 Accommodation 17 Courses 31 Accommodation 18 Course 32 Accommodation 18
VERDURA
storm required redesign work by Phillips. that is just yards from the gorgeous white
Amenities 14 Setting 18 Total 86 Amenities 18 Setting 19 Total 86 Amenities 17 Setting 18 Total 85
Once very equal in status as far as we were sand beach and continue with the water
concerned, the West just pipping the East, sports available in the azure Med. There is The brand-new St Patrick’s Links by Tom Two courses and a five-star hotel located Located in Banff National Park, a UNESCO
SICILY, ITALY now the latter is clearly superior. And it is
really, really good.
also a superb gym and spa, plus a kids’ club.
There is an appealing, relaxed vibe to
Doak is a game changer for Rosapenna.
Certain to be in our next World Top 100
on the edge of the Indian Ocean. The Links,
by Peter Alliss and Rodney Wright, opened
World Heritage Site, the 757-room Banff
Springs hotel – Canada’s ‘Castle in the
Courses 33 Accommodation 19 Phillips is one of the world’s great Verdura, illustrated by the fact you get Courses, combined with the existing Sandy in 2002 while the Legend was designed by Rockies – is a landmark in the eponymous
Amenities 16 Setting 19 TOTAL 87 architects and he has made the most of the about the resort on vintage cycles. And Hills and Old Tom Morris, it makes it one former European Tour player Hugh alpine town. The Stanley Thompson course,
cliff-edge stretch while creating memorable guess what, it’s Italy, so the restaurants of the strongest golf offerings in the world. Baiocchi in 1994. The hotel is a delight, and No.78 in our World Top 100, is complemented
holes on the less dramatic ground inland. serve food to die for. Limited amenities, but a large hotel. packed with amenities, the setting dreamy. by a spa, bowling, fitness and a kids’ club.
106 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 107
TOP
27
MUKUL
SECRET
ESCAPE
ONE
MANAGUA, NICARAGUA FOR 2022
Course 26 Accommodation 20 Amenities 18 Setting 20 Total 84 Cabot St Lucia is a
guaranteed entry next time,
Yes, Nicaragua. And yes, it really is good private pool are simply out of this world with a Coore-Crenshaw
enough for the top 30. A David McLay and just yards from a pristine beach that design in a spectacular
Kidd course – called Guacalito de la Isla – is a dream for kids, surfers and runners. setting, plus high-end
is just the start. It has a tropical feel as it The spa is exceptional – and one of the lodging. It looks
winds among native vegetation in an area very best in this ranking. There is tennis, special.
known as the Emerald Coast, and, as our a kids’ club, yoga and hiking. Yet perhaps
picture shows, pops its head out onto the Mukul’s USP is its atmosphere, it has an
Pacific shore. The individual villas with uncommon magic about it.
25 SAND VALLEY 26 QUINTA DO LAGO 28 PRAIA D’EL REY 29 FAIRMONT JASPER PARK 30 LE TOUESSROK 31 THE BROADMOOR
WISCONSIN, USA ALGARVE, PORTUGAL OBIDOS, PORTUGAL ALBERTA, CANADA TROU D’EAU DOUCE , MAURITIUS COLORADO SPRINGS, USA
Courses 37 Accommodation 16 Courses 33 Accommodation 17 Courses 34 Accommodation 16 Course 32 Accommodation 18 Course 26 Accommodation 19 Courses 31 Accommodation 19
Amenities 14 Setting 17 Total 84 Amenities 17 Setting 17 Total 84 Amenities 15 Setting 19 Total 84 Amenities 15 Setting 19 Total 84 Amenities 19 Setting 20 TOTAL 84 Amenities 18 Setting 16 TOTAL 84
Two courses in our World Top 100 – Sand Part of what is a large village in the Algarve, Two courses in the top 30 of our continental It took 50 teams of horses and 200 men a One of the world’s great locations for golf, Has two courses, the East and West, both
Valley by Coore-Crenshaw (2017) and there wasn’t a hotel attached to the courses European list, plus a Marriott hotel quietly year to clear boulders and debris on land for Le Touessrok sits picture-perfectly on Ile influenced by Donald Ross and Robert
Mammoth Dunes by David McLay Kidd until they acquired the enjoyably quirky at least as good as many more vaunted spots. the No.71 in our World Top 100 Courses. aux Cerfs (island of deer), made all the more Trent Jones Snr. The former has staged the
(2018), plus The Sandbox, a 17-hole short Magnolia. Add it to the courses – the South West Cliffs is one of Europe’s new A Stanley Thompson design, it sits between memorable by the boat trip to get there from US Women’s Open and Jack Nicklaus’ first
course. There are stylish Lodge rooms and is a Top 100 fixture, the revamped North has superstars, epic in scale and aesthetics, the Rockies and glistening lakes. There are the hotel jetty. The Shangri-La hotel is set US Amateur win. Enjoyed by presidents and
cottages, two restaurants, porch dining, food been one and Laranjal easily could be – plus while Praia D’el Rey is an old favourite that 442 delightful bedrooms and luxury cabins. down on fingers of land stretching into the celebrities, there are 84 rooms, a spa, pools,
truck and tennis. One for the connoisseur. fantastic sports, and QdL has much to enjoy. still inspires. Superb Atlantic Ocean setting. The spa headlines the non-golf appeal. Indian Ocean. Just an amazing place. 10 restaurants, fitness centre and tennis.
108 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 109
TOP
36 EDEN ROC 37 GLORIA
CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC BELEK, TURKEY
Course 30 Accommodation 19 Courses 30 Accommodation 18
Amenities 16 Setting 18 Total 83 Amenities 19 Setting 16 TOTAL 83
Jack Nicklaus’ Punta Espada design is Three courses and three hotels all within a
routed along cliffs and next to beaches drive and a mid-iron from each other make
and waterfalls. Opulent accommodation this one of Europe’s great resorts. The golf
ranging from boutique villas with private is consistently good across all courses and
pools to beachfront suites. Amenities range the hotels offer something a little different
from mountain bikes to scuba. A high-end to cater for all tastes. The common theme is
32
resort done exceptionally tastefully. luxury, with an incredible array of amenities.
LEMURIA
IDYLLIC
ISLAND
PRASLIN, SEYCHELLES
Course 25 Accommodation 19 38 THE GREENBRIER 39 THE K CLUB
Amenities 19 Setting 20 TOTAL 83
CHARLESTON, USA DUBLIN, IRELAND
A beach recognised as one of the world’s that is just one small part of the awesome
Courses 33 Accommodation 18 Courses 29 Accommodation 19
most beautiful is a good start to a resort. Lemuria experience. This picture gives
Amenities 16 Setting 16 Total 83 Amenities 18 Setting 17 Total 83
Anse Georgette (top left on this picture), you a good taste of what to expect, but also
really is that good, too. It is the achingly add in the cute little white-wood villas The Old White by icons Seth Raynor and Enjoying a real renaissance at the
beautiful backdrop to the all-world 15th, just yards from the lapping waves of the Charles Blair Macdonald opened in 1914. moment, with investment on and off
a drop par 3 that takes some beating as Indian Ocean. Watersports, tennis, a spa, Raynor then added The Greenbrier, the course, the 2006 Ryder Cup host is a
an Insta brag or screensaver. That is the yoga, a gym and terrific food complement which has hosted the Ryder and Solheim brilliant all-rounder. The courses are two
outstanding highlight of a lovely course the peerless setting and accommodation. Cups, and The Meadows. Plus a wealth of Ireland’s finest, with the Palmer (now
of rooms, restaurants and bars plus spa, the Palmer North) offering a thrilling finale,
pool, fitness. while the rooms are absolutely fabulous.
33 ONE&ONLY PALMILLA 34 SANDALS EMERALD BAY 35 SEA ISLAND 40 FOUR SEASONS LANAI 41 HERITAGE AWALI 42 ARDFIN
LOS CABOS, MEXICO GREAT EXUMA, BAHAMAS SEA ISLAND, USA HAWAII, USA BEL OMBRE , MAURITIUS JURA, SCOTLAND
Course 26 Accommodation 20 Course 28 Accommodation 18 Courses 32 Accommodation 18 Course 27 Accommodation 18 Course 27 Accommodation 19 Course 33 Accommodation 20
Amenities 19 Setting 18 Total 83 Amenities 18 Setting 19 Total 83 Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 83 Amenities 19 Setting 18 Total 82 Amenities 18 Setting 18 TOTAL 82 Amenities 9 Setting 20 TOTAL 82
Opened in 1992, this was Jack Nicklaus’ This oceanfront resort in Great Exuma Three courses – the Seaside, which looks like This adults-only, luxury retreat is famed for Stay at Heritage Awali or nearby sister hotel The marks tell the story; a wonderful
first signature course in Latin America. It boasts a Greg Norman design with six a links and is characterised by tidal creeks, its wellness consultations, spa treatments, Le Telfair and play at Heritage Golf Club, course in a breathtaking setting with world-
has three nines with four lakes and notable holes hugging the coastline of a gorgeous dunes, salt marshes and the Atlantic – the fitness and wellbeing classes. A Jack a couple of minutes away by transfer. class accommodation... but it is very much
elevation changes. The range and quality of peninsula. Host of the Bahamas Great Plantation, where Davis Love grew up and Nicklaus course on lava outcrops hugs the The Peter Matkovich design is technically a break for golfers because if you want non-
accommodation has few peers in this list. Exuma Classic on the Korn Ferry Tour. has been remodelled – and the fun Retreat. Pacific on three holes. Accommodation is excellent and tranquil. Beachside Awali has golf amenities, it’s not for you. The Bob
There are non-golf experiences for families There is a huge spa, a deepwater marina, Three hotels, cottages, hunting lodge, 13 achingly chic. Five restaurants, tennis, pool, an Africa-themed design; a wonderful hotel Harrison course is already one of Scotland’s
and couples. Simply a stay in paradise. 11 restaurants and stylish accommodation. restaurants and a host of outdoor activities. cultural tours, fishing, and fabulous setting. with a peerless spa and superb dining. finest, and the bedrooms simply exquisite.
110 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 111ADVERTISING FEATURE
Paradise Found on VERDURA RESORT UNVEILS NEW-LOOK EAST COURSE
Verdura Resort has returned to 45 holes
Sicily’s South Coast
with the reopening this autumn of the
spectacular, new-look East Course
following a major redesign at the award-
winning Sicilian venue.
Globally acclaimed golf architect Kyle
Phillips returned to the site of his original
Welcome to Verdura Resort: 230 hectares of sun-kissed Mediterranean creation to upgrade the 18-hole
championship layout and has spent the
coastline, countryside, spa and golf. last three years reworking his magic at
the resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel.
O
live trees, orange groves and Verdura Resort is an oasis, a centre The extensive renovation has seen
white-sand beaches. Tennis of wellbeing, escapism and indulgence a number of new features added and
courts, water sports, set against the backdrop of charming modifications made to the routing of the layout added definition. Forte Sicilian Open, Verdura Resort
championship golf and kids’ clubs. Sicilian villages, ancient Greek and East Course and the neighbouring West Phillips said: “We have certainly made is nestled in 230 hectares of stunning
Infinity pools, thalassotherapy and the Roman sites and the beautiful, blue Course. The reordering of hole numbers the most of the terrain available to us. The Mediterranean landscape on Sicily’s
flagship Rocco Forte Spa. Fine dining, Mediterranean Sea. has allowed for the restoration of former course is new and fresh and I think it will southern coast. The courses and
healthy eating and world-famous local Luxury accommodation comes in the favourite holes and brings exciting new be really well received. It has definitely facilities combined have established
wine. Luxurious eco-architecture and form of suites and family rooms, to the additions, while the planting of fescue reached the level we were striving for.” Verdura as one of the world’s elite golf
organic ingredients, grown on our land. brand-new Rocco Forte Private Villas. Rocco Forte Private Villas grasses throughout the course gives the Home of the European Tour’s Rocco and lifestyle destinations.
CONTACT
Email reservations.verdura@roccofortehotels.com
Phone +39 0925 9980 01
https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/verdura-resort/offers/
https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/verdura-resort/activities/
112 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 113TOP
43 HALF MOON JAMAICA 44 LAUCALA 45 CARTON HOUSE
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA LAUCALA ISLAND, FIJI DUBLIN, IRELAND
Course 27 Accommodation 19 Course 27 Accommodation 19 Courses 31 Accommodation 18
Amenities 18 Setting 18 Total 82 Amenities 17 Setting 19 Total 82 Amenities 17 Setting 16 Total 82
A course by Robert Trent Jones Snr from Owned by Red Bull magnate Dietrich Would not have looked out of place 15 places
1962 that’s routed through an old sugar cane Mateschitz, this tropical hideaway has ‘just’ higher – that’s how good it is, but also how
estate, hugging the slopes of hills overlooking 25 villas or it would be higher. They are all high the quality is. Two courses of even
Half Moon. There are 210 elegant rooms luxury versions of traditional Fijian houses, standard – the Montgomerie and O’Meara –
and 27 villas. Resort amenities start with with pool and mod cons. David McLay Kidd are beautifully presented, while the hotel is
two miles of beach plus gym, tennis, scuba, course is predictably spectacular. There are five star and then some. Can charm couples,
water sports, squash and horse riding. five bars and restaurants, a spa and stable. groups and families very, very easily.
46 LE PARADIS 47 DOONBEG 48 CAPE KIDNAPPERS
BEL OMBRE, MAURITIUS KILKEE, IRELAND HAWKE’S BAY, NEW ZEALAND
Course 27 Accommodation 18 Course 31 Accommodation 19 Course 33 Accommodation 16
Amenities 18 Setting 19 Total 82 Amenities 12 Setting 19 TOTAL 81 Amenities 12 Setting 20 TOTAL 81
Spread out between the mountains and What it lacks in quantity it makes up for in Runs a little contrary to our mantra of
white sand of Le Morne peninsula, the quality. Just one course, a relatively small eschewing ‘courses with rooms’ as only a
course offers Insta-worthy moments on amount of accommodation and limited handful of guests can stay at one time. The
more or less every hole. There are 299 non-golf amenities, but the golf and rooms accommodation is exquisite, though. And
stylish rooms, suites or villas. Sister hotel are indubitably world-class. The setting for there is a gorgeous spa and farm to explore.
Dinarobin next door gives it a total of eight both, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, And did we mention the Tom Doak-
restaurants. A wide range of activities. is magnificent. Oozes effortless class. designed clifftop, World Top 100 course?
49 GOLF DU MEDOC 50 FINCA CORTESIN 51 ATLANTIS BAHAMAS
BORDEAUX, FRANCE MALAGA, SPAIN PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS
Courses 33 Accommodation 16 Course 27 Accommodation 20 Course 26 Accommodation 19
Amenities 14 Setting 17 Total 80 Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 80 Amenities 17 Setting 18 Total 80
A Bill Coore-designed course – with echoes The top-ranked single-course resort in Ocean Club is a part of the Atlantis Resort
of Walton Heath – when he wasn’t the huge continental Europe has a Cabell Robinson- on Paradise Island, and you have a choice
name he is now is the big attraction here, designed layout on an adventurous of several excellent hotels, each offering high-
but there’s a second entry in our continental landscape. Immaculately manicured, with end accommodation and amenities. The
Top 100 too (by Coore’s right-hand man, Rod flawless brand-new greens. A hotel of class Tom Weiskopf-designed course has seven
Whitman). Neat hotel, nice spa, food and the and opulence with very few peers, even holes that border the ocean and all but one
wine (note the location) is naturally divine. among this most illustrious company. have views of the Bahamas’ blue waters.
114 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UKTOP
57
Course 28 Accommodation 17
Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 78
Let’s start with the setting. Michlifen sits
in the heart of the Atlas Mountains at an altitude
AFRICAN of 1,650m. This Alpine-esque twist in North Africa
ALPINES
gives the Jack Nicklaus course constantly changing
elevation and character as it traverses craggy
MICHLIFEN
ravines, winds through forests and follows the
edge of bluffs. The Alpine theme continues in the
gorgeous accommodation. Fewer amenities than
52 SANDALS ST LUCIA 53 LA QUINTA RESORT 54 ANAHITA IFRANE, MOROCCO some, but a truly world-class destination.
GROS ISLET, ST LUCIA PALM SPRINGS, USA BEAU CHAMP, MAURITIUS
Course 26 Accommodation 18 Courses 33 Accommodation 16 Course 25 Accommodation 19
Amenities 18 Setting 18 Total 80 Amenities 15 Setting 16 Total 80 Amenities 17 Setting 18 Total 79
Sandals St Lucia is a Greg Norman- The well-regarded Stadium at PGA West, Set among 213 hectares of tropical gardens,
designed course featuring dramatic the Mountain (nestled at the base of the this five-star resort features an Ernie Els-
elevation changes as it travels between lush Santa Rosa Mountains) and the faux links designed course with six ocean-front holes
Caribbean vegetation. Luxury hotels at La Dunes – all by Pete Dye – plus designs by and a high-octane climax. Also add in
Toc (has nine holes on site) and Halcyon, Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman in a five- gorgeous accommodation, two beaches,
but Grande St Lucian is far the best option course offering. More than 1,000 rooms, spa, boutiques, fitness centre, tennis courts,
as it is five minutes away. A gorgeous spot. seven restaurants, a spa, pool and tennis. kids’ & teens’ club and a water sports centre.
55 WESTIN ABU DHABI 56 SANDALS OCHI 58 DOM PEDRO VILAMOURA
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Course 27 Accommodation 18 Course 26 Accommodation 18 Courses 31 Accommodation 16
Amenities 18 Setting 16 Total 79 Amenities 18 Setting 17 Total 79 Amenities 15 Setting 16 Total 78
A course of impressive technical merit that Formerly known as Upton, Sandals Surpassed by few in this ranking in terms
has hosted one of the European Tour’s renovated the course they acquired in 1992 of quantity; the Dom Pedro group have five
flagship events for many years and which is and turned it into one of the finest in the courses and three hotels to choose from.
always in fabulous condition. The 1st tee is Caribbean. Rolling fairways in lush hills of The Old (a continental Top 100 fixture) and
a gap wedge from the Westin hotel, with Ocho Rios offer sea and mountain views, European Tour venue Victoria are joined by
many bedrooms overlooking the course. but Sandals Ochi Beach and Royal Plantation Laguna, Millennium and Pinhal. Three tidy
Facilities led by a super spa. Epic breakfast. are 15 minutes away, hence a lost mark. hotels near the beach/Vilamoura marina.
59 FOUR SEASONS HUALALAI 60 PGA NATIONAL TURKEY 61 REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE 62 PUEBLO BONITO 63 KAURI CLIFFS 64 MAZAGAN BEACH
KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII BELEK, TURKEY ATLANTA, USA CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO MATAURI BAY, NEW ZEALAND EL JADIDA, MOROCCO
Course 28 Accommodation 17 Courses 30 Accommodation 16 Courses 32 Accommodation 16 Courses 28 Accommodation 16 Course 31 Accommodation 16 Courses 30 Accommodation 17
Amenities 15 Setting 18 Total 78 Amenities 17 Setting 15 Total 78 Amenities 14 Setting 16 Total 78 Amenities 15 Setting 19 Total 78 Amenities 12 Setting 19 Total 78 Amenities 15 Setting 16 Total 78
A sleek hotel with 25 villas, suites and Two courses of very balanced quality, with This American super-resort halfway “I’ve never seen any place that has three A World Top 100 course in a breathtaking In a location that takes in 7km of beach, add
rooms, six restaurants, fishing, spa and the Sultan a European Tour host that is a between Atlanta and Augusta has 251 holes hanging out over the ocean like this. setting is the main allure of this resort. 492 rooms and suites to 13 restaurants and
triathlon clinic among its amenities. The fixture in our continental Top 100, and the rooms, five restaurants, a spa, fitness centre, They are unbelievable.” So says Quivira’s Like sister property Cape Kidnappers, it bars, plus myriad non-golf activities, and
Jack Nicklaus course begins in a lush oasis Pasha an entertaining and high-class No.2. tennis and swimming pools. But the golf is designer Jack Nicklaus. The course is is close to a ‘course with rooms’. But if you you have a very attractive proposition. Into
before flowing across green fairways set There are two hotels, the Kempinski and the main attraction, with five courses by the only open to guests of Pueblo Bonito, an aren’t seeking lots of amenities, you will that mix also add a Gary Player-design golf
against black lava, then returning to the the Sirene, both packed with amenities. likes of Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf set adults-only luxury resort with facilities love the spectacular course and the limited course in immaculate condition and with
ocean for the finale. All-round class. A brilliant option for groups and families. in tranquil lake and woodland locations. and accommodation of a dreamy level. (in number) but opulent accommodation. sea views for another Moroccan superstar.
116 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 117ADVERTISING FEATURE
The Palace in the Glen
short-game skill. For many guests, there is
no better course for a late-afternoon stroll,
as the sun slowly sets on the estate.
Finally, for those wishing to follow in the
Gleneagles, the iconic Scottish hotel and sporting estate, is the World’s footsteps of Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup
heroes, The PGA Centenary Course awaits.
#1 Golf Resort outside of the USA. Guests visiting this spectacular Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it has been the
850-acre ‘Glorious Playground’ can expect an indulgence of history- setting for some of the most dramatic
scenes in professional team golf.
laden golf, a wealth of leisure pursuits and the finest hospitality. Its modern layout, with large greens,
accommodating fairways and lush, all-
year-round conditioning make it a perfect
I WATCH THE
nspired by Gleneagles’ roaring 1920s setting for a competitive match among
heritage, this quintessentially British friends. You’ll need to be strong and
hotel and sporting estate continues to straight off the tee to master what has GOLFING GREATS
reaffirm its position as a leading, one- become one of Scotland’s finest The King’s – Hole 1 AT GLENEAGLES
of-a-kind luxury destination. contemporary inland layouts, and a perfect Following on from the huge success
Set beneath the Ochil Hills, in the heart partner to Braid’s more intricate classics. FOOD AND BEVERAGE of The Ryder Cup (2014) and The Solheim
of Perthshire, it has been a must-go Nowhere exemplifies the hotel’s style Cup (2019), Gleneagles will host The
destination for nearly a century, beginning BEDROOMS better than its restaurants and bars. Senior Open Presented by Rolex in
its life in the glamorous age of travel when As glorious as the landscape that frames There is something for everyone, from 2022 (July 21-24).
guests arrived in great style at Gleneagles’ them, every bedroom at Gleneagles offers relaxed clubhouse lunches in The Dormy Played on The King’s Course, the 35th
own railway station, still in use today. a luxury 5-star hotel feel. to fine dining at Andrew Fairlie, edition of the tournament will welcome a
The 850-acre estate showcases the All are individually inspired by the Scotland’s only two Michelin-starred host of golfing stars, including some of
natural beauty for which Scotland is famed mountains and moorlands, rivers and restaurant experience. golf’s most decorated players, among
them a host of Major winners.
and offers guests a playground of country lochs of the Perthshire countryside and The Dormy’s laid-back charm makes
pursuits and activities, with golf sitting epitomise country house elegance, each it a firm favourite with golfers, families
proudly at its core. carefully designed to offer warm, home- and their friends. With an open fire and
The Queen’s – Hole 10 from-home comforts. inspiring views across The King’s and
GOLF Eight different categories of rooms and The Queen’s courses, it creates the perfect
You are spoiled for choice when you arrive National Golf Academy and a pitch & putt greenside run-offs, marrying perfectly with suites are available, either from within the place for post-round relaxation.
at the world-famous Gleneagles hotel. With course, makes Gleneagles a perfect solution intricate green complexes and a host of sweeping staircases and historic nooks of A hearty menu of grill classics, and
three 18-hole championship golf courses – for beginners, social groups and families. testing drives. the main house, or the more modern, Braid specialities from the tandoor ovens, will
all featuring in the Golf World Top 100 For aficionados, the two classics designed Its sister course, The Queen’s, is a slightly House, which offers guests convenient appeal to all tastes and appetites.
rankings – the wealth of golf on offer is by James Braid – The King’s and The more relaxed affair, but no less challenging. access to the wellness facilities including a
staggering. The courses each offer very Queen’s – have been welcoming golfers for Often referred to as one of the finest par gym, pool and spectacular spa. PURSUITS
different experiences, so there is something more than 100 years. 68 layouts in the UK, it requires precision Gleneagles offers the perfect retreat for Spa
for everyone, and every ability. The King’s brings links-style golf to and patience to master its pristine fairways those looking for authentic relaxation, fun
The addition of the Wee Course, a 9-hole the heather-dotted Perthshire heathland, and greens. It’s a course that requires and adventure. It has an unrivalled range SPA
par three course, a state-of-the-art PGA with a mix of rolling fairways and thought, ingenuity and copious amounts of
TEE IT UP IN 2022 of pursuits including over 50 outdoor 2021 saw the opening of a newly refurbished
From March 2022, enjoy one night in the activities, led by passionate experts who are spa at Gleneagles, a soothing haven from
hotel and one round of golf on any of the
all leaders in their field. everyday stresses where spirits are lifted
three championship courses from £435
Among the many experiences offered, and your body can rest, recover and restore.
per room, based on two people sharing a
room and a round of golf each. you can try your hand at falconry with With beautiful new spaces for restoration
Including breakfast, you’ll also have Harris Hawks, archery, clay target and and rejuvenation, spa treatments and
complimentary access to the Health air rifle shooting, horse riding at the experiences have been designed in
Club facilities, pitch & putt, outdoor tennis equestrian centre, indoor and outdoor collaboration with some of the world’s
and Pashley bikes. tennis, off-roading, cycling, gundog leading wellness brands including Dr.
training and fly fishing. Barbara Sturm and Tata Harper.
GLENEAGLES:
AT A GLANCE
n 233 luxury bedrooms, including
27 suites
n 9 restaurants and bars
n Over 50 outdoor activities
n Three 18-hole championship
golf courses
n An award-winning destination spa
n Complimentary access to indoor
and outdoor swimming pool, gym,
tennis courts, croquet, Pashley bikes
and pitch & putt Manor Room The Century Bar Clay Shooting
n Direct train access from London,
PGA Centenary
and flights to/from Edinburgh and – Hole 18 MAKE YOUR RESERVATION
Glasgow airports Call Resort Sales on 0800 704 705 to check availability and make a booking. www.gleneagles.comTOP
65 HAMBANTOTA 66 BANYAN TREE, PHUKET 67 GRAND WAILEA 68 OMNI HOMESTEAD 69 CELTIC MANOR 70 FRENCH LICK
AMBALANTOTA, SRI LANKA PHUKET, THAILAND MAUI, HAWAII VIRGINIA, USA NEWPORT, WALES LOUISVILLE, USA
Course 24 Accommodation 19 Course 26 Accommodation 18 Courses 30 Accommodation 17 Courses 28 Accommodation 17 Courses 29 Accommodation 17 Courses 30 Accommodation 16
Amenities 17 Setting 18 Total 78 Amenities 17 Setting 17 Total 78 Amenities 14 Setting 17 Total 78 Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 78 Amenities 17 Setting 15 Total 78 Amenities 16 Setting 16 Total 78
Designed by Rodney Wright, the course at Luxury, all-pool villas nestled around a Three courses with awesome views of Sitting in the natural beauty of the A course that has been in our GB&I Top 100 Nestled in Hoosier National Forest, this is an
Shangri-La’s Hambantota on the south-east lagoon, surrounded by lush greenery and Mount Haleakala and the Pacific. The Blue Allegheny Mountains, the two and has the ‘experience’ factor of having American resort oozing pedigree. It is home
coast of Sri Lanka is a delight. Set among a edged by the sweeping white sands of Bang is on the lush lower slopes, the Trent Jones championship courses – Cascades and the hosted a Ryder Cup is backed up by two to two historic hotels, two spas, and even a
coconut plantation and framed by lakes and Tao Beach. Laguna Golf Phuket was Gold is a real test, the Emerald a fun round. Old – have entertained Presidents Taft, other 18-holers – a good start. Add to that a casino in addition to 45 holes of golf. The
the Indian Ocean. Its exquisite, effortlessly renovated by Paul Jansen in 2014 and offers There are 383 rooms, four restaurants, a spa, Eisenhower and Bush. There are 423 rooms, five-star hotel – with extensive amenities – great Donald Ross’ 1917 creation hosted the
good beachfront hotel has many amenities. an enjoyable test. Kids’ club, fitness, pools, tennis, pool, and fitness in 40 acres of tropical five restaurants, a spa, pool, hiking/biking, and other accommodation options and you 1924 US PGA and was later joined by Pete
For the connoisseur, quietly magnificent. tennis and yoga make it a complete package. gardens just a few steps from Wailea Beach. zipline, fishing, pools and equestrian. have an exceptionally rounded offering. Dye’s 18 and nine by Tom Bendelow.
73
Courses 30 Accommodation 16
Amenities 16 Setting 16 Total 78
La Cala’s cosy hotel is perfect for a relaxing
THREE afternoon by the pool, enjoying a world-
COURSES
class spa and indulging in La Bodega’s to-
die-for tapas. But all that is topped by its
LA CALA
golf offering. It has 54 holes and good luck
trying to do a 1-2-3 of the courses, they’re
so evenly balanced. The common theme? 71 THE BELFRY 72 MOUNT JULIET 74 FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS
MALAGA, SPAIN They’ve just been impressively renovated. SUTTON COLDFIELD, ENGLAND KILKENNY, IRELAND ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND
Courses 30 Accommodation 15 Course 28 Accommodation 18 Courses 27 Accommodation 17
Amenities 18 Setting 15 Total 78 Amenities 17 Setting 15 Total 78 Amenities 16 Setting 18 Total 78
A three-course resort, a refurbished hotel A course by Jack Nicklaus that has hosted Lacks for absolutely nothing. Want an
and a definite feeling of an ‘experience’ the European Tour and a WGC. It is a Insta-worthy setting? Feast your phone
given its Ryder Cup history. The Brabazon beautifully manicured parkland that’s camera on its cliff-edge holes. Want more
is in truth by far the best of the trio, but regarded as one of the top three inland than one course on site? Try its two Scottish
expect all three to be in perfect condition courses in Ireland. A luxury hotel that is Top 100 fixtures. Want a stylish hotel with
year round. Lots for the family to do away a wonderful retreat and will leave even the amenities to keep everyone happy? The
from the course, inside and out. most discerning traveller satisfied. Fairmont effortlessly obliges.
75 LOUGH ERNE 76 THE GROVE 77 FOUR SEASONS
ENNISKILLEN, NORTHERN IRELAND WATFORD, ENGLAND TROON NORTH
SCOTTSDALE, USA
Courses 29 Accommodation 16 Course 27 Accommodation 17
Amenities 15 Setting 18 Total 78 Amenities 18 Setting 16 Total 78 Courses 29 Accommodation 15
Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 77
The Nick Faldo design has been in our A country estate on the outskirts of
GB&I Top 100 and makes the most of its London, The Grove is a true all-rounder. This Scottsdale resort has more than 200
setting among lakes. Sprinkled with The Kyle Phillips course has been a GB&I rooms, four restaurants, a spa, tennis,
memorable holes, this excellent parkland Top 100 entry and is in sensational nick all hiking and biking, all in an exhilarating desert
is backed up by the Castle Hume layout. year round. The hotel hosts the England setting. The golf is a short transfer away at the
There is a wonderful hotel offering a luxury football team, as an indication of its quality. celebrated Pinnacle and Monument courses,
stay in a very characterful building. Loads of amenities for all the family. the latter by Weiskopf and Morrish.
120 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ISSUE 421 121TOP
79 ADDRESS
MONTGOMERIE
DUBAI, UAE
Course 25 Accommodation 19
Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 77
78 OLD COURSE HOTEL Sits very close to the centre
ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND of Dubai’s buzz, yet in its
Course 25 Accommodation 19 own little tranquil, green
Amenities 17 Setting 16 Total 77 setting. The course is very
A five-star hotel with opulent rooms and playable and has the
a wealth of facilities that has a mystical famous skyline to line up
setting, given it overlooks 17 and 18 of the against. Limited rooms but
Old Course. The golf is the heathland they are wonderful. Pool
Duke’s, however, a short drive away (which and gym head the facilities.
loses it a point). Otherwise majestic.
80 THE MACHRIE 81 LA MANGA 82 TROIA
ISLAY, SCOTLAND MURCIA, SPAIN LISBON, PORTUGAL
Course 31 Accommodation 16 Courses 29 Accommodation 14 Course 29 Accommodation 16
Amenities 13 Setting 17 Total 77 Amenities 19 Setting 15 Total 77 Amenities 15 Setting 17 Total 77
Probably the oldest resort in the ranking, Don’t dismiss La Manga. It has echoes A course by Robert Trent Jones Snr that
but it’s had the most wonderful and of tabloid tales of football teams in the has an enviable seaside location just
comprehensive makeover in every sense. ’90s, but the courses are all good – the south of Portugal’s capital, plus a few
DJ Russell has made the links playable yet West the pick – and the facilities are so hotel options to choose from that offer
still super fun and the hotel is high end. comprehensive. The hotel lets it down a non-golf entertainment too. The course
For the links lover, absolute perfection. little, but the townhouses are excellent. is continental top-10 standard.
83 LE TOUQUET 84 DOVE MOUNTAIN 85 MONTGOMERIE MAXX
LE TOUQUET, FRANCE TUCSON, USA BELEK, TURKEY
Courses 31 Accommodation 16 Courses 28 Accommodation 17 Course 25 Accommodation 19
Amenities 12 Setting 17 Total 76 Amenities 15 Setting 16 Total 76 Amenities 17 Setting 15 Total 76
A tale of refurbishment on and off the Surrounded by the canyons of the When we say the hotel is probably the
course. La Mer has been renovated by Tortolita Mountains, this Ritz-Carlton most glitzy and opulent in Belek, you
Frank Pont and is just brilliant. There are desert retreat has 253 rooms, five know it’s pretty flashy – it rivals the UAE
two more courses, too. The hotel, which restaurants, high-class spa, tennis, pool for sparkle! Lots of amenities (standard
used to feel a little tired, is now fresh, and fitness. Two of the three Jack Nicklaus Belek) and a course that has been in our
characterful and an ideal base for a break. nines are the host of the WGC Match Play. continental Europe Top 100.
86 BOYNE HIGHLANDS 87 EL SALER 88 BANYAN TREE LANG CO
HARBOR SPRINGS, USA VALENCIA, SPAIN DA NANG CITY, VIETNAM
Courses 30 Accommodation 16 Course 31 Accommodation 15 Course 26 Accommodation 17
Amenities 15 Setting 15 Total 76 Amenities 13 Setting 17 Total 76 Amenities 16 Setting 17 Total 76
Boyne has three resorts close to each other, Arguaby the best-designed course in Luxurious all-pool villas between the
but too far apart for us to deem it one entry. Spain and one of the best on the whole azure waters of Vietnam’s East Sea and
Mountain and Inn Harbour are terrific but continent. The Javier Arana masterpiece the Truong Son mountains. All very chic.
Highlands is the No.1, with four 18-holers has an exhilarating seaside setting and The course at Laguna Lang Co is a Sir
and lots of accommodation intended to feel is backed up by a pleasant hotel with Nick Faldo design with stunning views.
like an English country estate. views of the course and Mediterranean. A gym and yoga head the amenities.
122 ISSUE 421 TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UKADVERTISING FEATURE
Eat, Play, Stay Well… Signature dishes that focus on seasonal, high-
…at PGA Catalunya Golf and Wellness, Spain’s No.1 Golf Resort quality ingredients, sourced locally
and a World Top 100 destination.
A
new age of golf has dawned with WORLD-CLASS WELLNESS
the sport becoming the wellness The new Wellness Centre is the first facility
solution many are seeking for a in Spain to implement a MECOTEC double
healthy and happy lifestyle. cryotherapy chamber and provide
Spain’s #1 Golf Resort perfectly positions photobiomodulation treatments. It is also
itself to attract this emerging golf traveller the only one to collaborate with NADClinic,
and their families, offering guests a host of a pioneering IV infusions clinic in
sporting, leisure and wellness amenities, London, to provide guests with
enhanced by the opening of a new €5 million cutting-edge therapies.
A multitude of outdoor activities to enjoy PGA
Catalunya’s natural environment EXPERIENCE GOLF
Wellness Centre. The Stadium Course’s signature 13th Visitors can now benefit from The Wellness Centre’s relaxing Thermal Pavilion AND WELLNESS
Perfectly located just an hour from the personalised healing and high-tech and natural environment. SPECIAL PACKAGE
vibrant city of Barcelona, 20 minutes from treatments, akin to those found at specialist The weaving cycle routes enable families create the famed local gastronomic scene FROM €343 PPPN
the beaches of the Costa Brava, and 15 clinics and elite athletic facilities, which to discover the estate’s 500 hectares of of Catalunya.
minutes from the historic city of Girona, include specifically tailored immune unspoiled landscape, while the on-site forest With five different dining options, all
Overnight stay includes
n Green Fee on Tour Course
PGA Catalunya Golf and Wellness – a booster, DETOX, anti-ageing and sports adventure park offers thrilling zip-wire overseen by Executive Chef, David Vives,
n Toptracer session
European Tour Destination – has built its recovery programmes. experiences through majestic pines. The who hails from the famous El Celler de n Choice of therapy treatment
reputation on an exceptional golf experience. The Centre’s Thermal Pavilion is the forest trails, with the in-house biologist, Can Roca, a triple winner of the prestigious (Cryotherapy, Oxygen Chamber
The spectacular and imposing Stadium perfect place to relax and fully unwind, never fail to captivate young guests, while Best Restaurant in the World accolade, or Photobiomodulation)
Course, home to three Spanish Open events offering unobstructed views of the resort older generations can opt for calming yoga guests can sample diverse menus, all n Personal training session or signature
and a regular venue for European Tour But while the lure of its golf courses, and and the Montseny massif as its backdrop. classes at sunset or indulgent wine tasting featuring seasonal high-quality ingredients, 60-minute Bodywork massage
tournaments, has been consistently ranked as best-in-class Golf Hub practice facilities, sessions within PGA Catalunya’s vineyards. sourced locally. n Access to the Wellness Centre’s
one of Europe’s finest since opening in 1999. continue to attract families and aficionados FAMILY TIME AND FRESH AIR From a mouth-watering selection for Thermal Pavilion
Its sister layout, the Tour Course, is from across Europe and beyond, a major PGA Catalunya Golf and Wellness RE-ENERGISE IN LUXURY breakfast to nutritious lunches and n Full buffet breakfast + nutritious lunch
n Flexible Cancellation
nestled among pine forests and lakes, programme of investment has seen the also offers a myriad of outdoor A stay at five-star Hotel Camiral affords the indulgent dinners, guests soon realise why
offering a different challenge, suitable for introduction of a host of new leisure activities designed to encourage guests opportunity to enjoy some of the region’s this area of Spain is one of the most QUOTE TGT100
all levels of experience. amenities to enhance the visitor experience. to enjoy its picturesque surroundings freshest and finest produce that combine to extraordinary dining destinations in Europe. For free bottle of cava, 100 range
balls per person per day, and
essential aromatherapy oil
CONTACT
www.pgacatalunya.com
+34 972 472 249
reservations@pgacatalunya.comYou can also read
