3 of My Favourite Golf Holiday Resorts


Vilamoura in the Algarve
Nestled in Algarve, Portugual is one of Europe’s most popular holidaying circuits, the Vilamoura. Covering over 2,000 hectares, the scenic complex consists of beautiful pine forests, lovely swamp areas, long beach all set in a very environmentally conscious planned development. One of the features of this area is its lovely golfing scene.

Within this area are five beautiful courses, each with its own unique character and flavor. The Laguna course, designed by Joseph Lee in 1990, features a typical flat course, with lots of water hazards. Just when you think that you have got it right, another trick is poised in place. With 18 holes, you have a lot of challenges to overcome. The more recent addition, the Millennium Course was aptly built at the turn of the millennium, year 2000. It is here that you can take on a long 27 hole course, flanked by beautiful coastal pine trees. Alternatively, you can head over to the Old Course, built in 1969. This course provides timeless challenge. The first few holes are invitingly easy, before becoming more complicated as the course progresses to the 18th hole. Both Vila Sol and Pinhal present curious challenges, but it is the lengthy Victoria that aims to impress. The longest 18 hole course in Portugal, it promises to provide one of the most interesting experiences in Europe.

Gloria in Belek
Turkey’s golfing circuit comes to life at Belek. Within this short area you will find 15 golf courses, all waiting to be explored. In the Gloria Golf Resort alone, there are two world class championship 18 hole courses, as well as a smaller 9 hole course.

The courses at Gloria were designed by world renowned Michel Gayon. He devilishly set up 67 bunkers and 4 big lakes, just to add flavor to the course. Make sure your aim is straight and true, because the beautiful tree line will punish you for your errant swing. Once you have finished with your round of golf, relax at the resort’s luxurious pool. Alternatively, head over for a massage before enjoying a sumptuous round of Turkish delight. For the avid golfer, you can head down the road and sample the other 10 golf courses around the area.



Aphrodite hills in Paphos
The sunny tourist country of Cyprus is a land of myth and magic. Fall in love with the land of the goddess of love in her serene hill resort of Aphrodite Hills. Located overlooking the Mediterranean, this beautiful golf resort has attracted some of the biggest golfing names each year.

Indeed, her championship course set on a stunning 230 hectares is a beauty to behold. Experience tricky bunkers, confusing ravine areas, as well as fast greens at the resort area. Each hole opens a new chapter of challenge, as well as exciting views to reward you for you fortitude.

If you are not playing golf, head over to the resort’s world acclaimed spa, being crowned the world’s best spa in 2008. Wander about the Greco-Roman designed spa, lazying around the spacious Mediterranean resort. Alternatively, you can continue your golfing pursuits at the nearby Tsada golf course, or head over to the beautiful Secret Valley hidden between rugged red cliffs. 

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