Golfing holidays can offer fans of the green the chance to show off their skills in some of the most beautiful regions of the world. The USA, Europe, Asia and the Gulf all offer a wide variety of quality golf resorts. Luckily golfing holidays are no longer for the rich and famous with many Golf resorts catering for all interests without sacrificing the quality of the courses. You will however have to get in early as the best courses book up quickly, so be sure to reserve games before setting off. For a great holiday, break out the clubs and head for the destinations where quality is par for the course.
The USA is still has many of the top golfing destinations with a wide range of resorts to suit all tastes. The pound is still strong against the dollar so a long-haul flight to the US can mean a great value trip for those wanting a longer break.
The Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina has often been voted the number one golf destination in the world with eight courses over 2,000 acres – including the newly renovated Course Number One, which has entertained players for over a century. For those looking for a more varied holiday in the US, Walt Disney World in California, provides high quality golfing alongside the obvious attractions for younger travellers, along with other top course at Orange County National and the Hawk’s Landing Course at the nearby Marriot World Center.
However, for a shorter break, continental Europe is home to some of the most diverse sites in the world, many of which are only a couple of hours by plane away. Spain has some of the most distinguished sites and the Golf Club Valderrama in Andalucia has some of the most impressive views of the Mediterranean and a rural feel which is complemented by the onsite wildlife sanctuaries. Golfers can fly into Gibraltar Airport, via airlines such as British Airways. La Manga in Murcia also offers luxurious accommodation with water sports, professional football a high-class spa and the Junior Club which can keep those under 12 entertained throughout the day.
For those hoping to venture further afield, it has been revealed that Marrakech has a new facility for families with a new 150-room five star development at Al Johara, which is located within easy access of the three main 18-hole courses in the area. Dubai also offers many luxury golf courses including the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and The Montgomerie. Flights to Dubai are also very reasonably priced at the moment so it’s a great time to visit this amazing destination.
After a hard day on the course, treat yourself with some of the luxurious facilities which have become synonymous with the world of golfing holidays. Spas and restaurants are now pretty standard for golfing hotels, while many reside close to some amazing sites of interest which are worth a visit.
Although most resorts will hire out clubs, taking your own can ensure you’re playing at the top of your game from the start of the holiday. British Airways carry golf equipment, including 14 clubs, umbrella and golf shoes for free in addition to normal luggage, whilst the same on American Airlines simply counts as part of the baggage allowance, which is standard practice for most non-budget airlines. However, check that you have the correct insurance before leaving as some policies do not cover golf clubs as standard.