Tee Time in Italy
Traveling to Italy any time soon? If you need a break from the smooth blue ocean and pristine beaches, spending a few hours on the golf course could be the perfect way to take advantage of the stunning weather and get some exercise in at the same time.
Don't forget to take along your golf clubs if you're heading to Sicily or Tuscany. In our golfer's guide to Italy, find the golf courses you don't want to miss playing when you're in the area.
This beautiful resort has two 18-hole golf courses for playing. It's open to the public, although its quality and level of service are more like a private club. Both courses are designed to appeal to golfers of all skill levels.
The West Course
The West Course has hosted the Sicilian and European tour events and has been named the top course in Italy. It begins with a challenging trio of par-4s, so there's no easing you into the flow of things.
The front nine meanders through the resort, heading towards the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as you get closer to the finishing hole. Beware of the ocean wind, which can easily throw you off your game if you aren't paying attention.
The East Course
The East Course is a Scottish-links-style course, backed by the beach and ocean. It's a serene environment, but like its sister course, the unpredictable sea breeze is a force to be reckoned with.
The biggest challenge on this course is the sloping greens. You'll need to read the greens carefully and putt with precision, but it's an exciting course that's well worth playing.
Keen to play golf in Sicily? Stay at your Club Home, The Old Mill between golf rounds.
Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, Tuscany
The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa is a 5-star facility, and its golf course is woven through ancient olive groves in the grounds. With views over the protected Orbetello Lagoon and a microclimate that's suitable for golfing year-round, it's an experience you shouldn't miss.
It's the country's only PGA-licensed golf facility, and it's a technically-challenging one. Beginners might find it tough, but experienced golfers will enjoy the test. Dramatic elevation changes and small, sloped, shielded greens make it a dynamic playing experience.
Does Tuscany sound like your dream holiday? Relax at Podere Le Sensaie or Il Bosco, your stunning restored farmhouses in the heart of the Tuscan countryside.
Bogogno is located close to the Swiss border, in the shadow of the Monte Rosa Massif mountain range, and with stunning views of Lake Maggiore. Their two 18-hole courses are rife with water hazards, and both are hilly enough that newer golfers may find them intimidating. Take a golf cart because walking this course is tough!
The Bonora course has a parkland feel to it, while the Conte is their links-style offering. Both are challenging and surrounded by wild nature, so you'll enjoy the feeling of being out of the city and some lovely panoramic views.
Your five-bedroom contemporary villa, Casa Paradiso is an hour away.
Tips for Your Mediterranean Golf Trip
Ready to book your trip and go? Here are our top tips for making the most of your Mediterranean golfing trip.
- Book tee times in advance.
- Pack clothing for all weather.
- Bring your own clubs if possible.
- Protect yourself against the sun.
- Stay hydrated and fueled.
- Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
- Explore the history and culture as well as golfing!
A golfer's guide to Italy could go on for pages! These courses are ones that we particularly enjoy, and if you're in any of these areas, we're confident that you'll enjoy them just as much.
So take a break from the beach, a while away from the water, and get on the luxury green fairways for a bit of relaxation surrounded by nature. There's nothing like a round of golf to help you burn off some of that Mediterranean food, stretch your legs, and spend some time in a different kind of nature.
About the Author
Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he's not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.