Benamor Golf Club

The first golf course to be built in the Eastern Algarve, the Benamor golf course, based on an original design by Sir Henry Cotton, is within a few miles of the ancient city of Tavira. Ingenious use of the natural topography has produced an interesting variety of holes, which seem sure to capture the imagination of visiting golfers. Although not a long course, measuring a mere 6,000 yards from the back tees, the par-71 course requires great accuracy, as the rough is a hazard in itself. 2011 green fees are 55 euros per round.

Castro Marim Golf Club

Located near the Portugal-Spain border, the Castro Marim Golf Club presents some superb golfing challenges amidst breathtaking mountain, river and sea views. The club offers three 9-hole courses, the “Atlantic,” “Grouse” and “Guadiana” which combine to make up two 18-holes courses. The Atlantic and Guadiana courses combine to form an intimidating 18-hole layout, measuring an awesome 7,224 yards from the back tees. The par-73 Grouse / Guadiana setup is significantly shorter and less testing. Whilst the Atlantic / Guadiana layout will provide a good test for the better players, mid- to high handicappers are likely to be better suited by the shorter course. For a course of undoubted quality, 2011 green fees look particularly competitive at 45 euros per round.

Boavista Golf Club

Opened in 2002, the impressive Boavista golf course was designed by one of Europe`s senior and most respected golf course architect, Howard Swan, past-president of the European Institute of Golf Architects. Swan`s philosophy of preserving the natural terrain is evident, with rolling fairways, lined with almond, fig, olive and palm trees weaving between strategically-placed hazards. With two distinctive sections, the Boavista Golf Course offers a variety of attractive and interesting holes, offering picturesque views over the city of Lagos. Several holes are already considered classics, including the par-3 6th, requiring a tee shot over a ravine and the array of water on holes 14, 15 and 17. However, the “signature” hole at Boavista has to be the stunning par-4 7th hole, set against the glorious background of the Atlantic Ocean with breathtaking panoramic views of the hills at Monchique. 2011 Green fees are 57 euros per round.

Morgado do Reguengo Golf Club

Located between Portimao and Monchique, this intimidating course, at 7,038 yards from the back tees is one of the longest in the Western Algarve. The 18-holes include five par-5s. Tactically positioned bunkers and water hazards make this a championship standard course. However, further sets of tees at 6,443 yards and 5,306 yards make it enjoyable for players of all standards, especially with its huge greens. 2011 green fees are ?58 per round.

Salgados Golf Club

Situated between Pera and Albufeira, the Pedro Vasconelos-designed Salgados golf course was opened in 1994. Built on what used to be marshland, this 18-hole layout is a haven for rare bird species, which can be observed most effectively at dawn and dusk. Clever use of the low-lying wetland landscape, with refinements by American Robert More Graves, has produced a course demanding extreme accuracy, especially with breezes of varying strength affecting playing conditions. However, the par-72 course is fair and with tee boxes from 6,688 yards to 5,182 yards, should provide an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all abilities. 2011 green fees vary from 45 to 65 euros, dependent on season. Nearby accommodation is provided by the 3-star Quintinha Village Armacao de Pera, an elegant, contemporary development, just 34 miles from the main Faro airport.

Article supplied by ilovealgarve.net

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The scenic mountain ranges, quaint historical towns, powdery white beaches and top class nightclubs may be a few of the features that have made Portugal a world famous destination of choice, but that’s only part of its charm. Now Portugal can add ‘luxury golf destination’ to its ever expanding list of assets.

Golf is a particular sort of passion. It’s gaining in popularity with every passing year but few outside of that growing swell of dedicated players understands the need to walk around after a small ball with a big bag of clubs for hours. But as any golf enthusiast will tell you, there’s so much more to it than that. The skill, the precision and the unpredictability all go into making golf one of the most challenging sports around. And traditionally it’s been enjoyed in some exceptional settings.

If there’s any country out there that can lay claim to understanding the needs of golfers, Portugal is it. In fact the country is littered with designer courses, both on the mainland’s and the islands. It’s a true putter’s paradise and being a short three hour flight away means it’s the perfect destination for your next golfing holiday.  And there’s no fear that the family will run out of distractions while the golf enthusiast is running around on the green. There’s the option of a beach holiday in Alentejo, the bread basket of Portugal. And after a relaxing days bathing, there’s always the scenic wine routes and historical architecture to take advantage of, including breathtaking examples from the country’s Moorish and Baroque periods.   Or you can take in some of Europe’s most popular coastal splendour in Vilamoura, Algarve. Algarve plays host to some of the continent’s most pristine beaches and has been hugely popular with British tourists since the 1960s. And here too, in this inviting southern province, is an array of golf courses, including the spectacular Quinta da Ria, an 18-hole par 72 course in the Ria Formosa National Park with sea views.

The golf courses aren’t the only touch of luxury in this Mediterranean playground. The accommodation, like everything else that caters to the curious traveller in Portugal is its own experience and reward. Centro region accommodation alone includes a variety of fantastic period hotels from the Twenties and Thirties as well as the unique rural accommodation available in the schist villages. It’s fair to say that all facilities in all regions are designed to pamper and indulge travellers with the kind luxury and hospitality that invites ultimate relaxation and enjoyment.

You try one of Portugal’s incredible islands. Take a look over all special offers in Azores and you’ll see a catalogue of unique options to satisfy the most adventurous of travellers. There’s hiking and water sports, paragliding and bird watching. And you could even squeeze in a spot of whale and dolphin watching.

The geography in Madeira is so awe-inspiring that it even has a UNESCO World Heritage site in the form of the ancient Laurissilva forest. That’s before you explore the mountains and rock pools.

That certainly covers the sports enthusiasts and the beachcombers. But there are those who might prefer a more urban holiday experience. And for that, look no further than Lisboa special offers. These are fantastic value packages for the traveller who wants to explore a different kind of wildlife, namely Lisbon’s wealth of clubs, bars and restaurants. Enjoy one of Europe’s most popular and exciting cities for an exceptional price, leaving you with more than enough spare change to enjoy even more sumptuous cuisine and soak up some of the continent’s best clubbing.

There’s a whole world to explore wherever you look in Portugal. Take a short flight to this undiscovered Mediterranean gem and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

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Leopard Creek
This Gary Player-designed course has been voted South Africa`s No. 1 on several occasions. It is located near Malelane, where the year-round temperate climate is ideal for golf. The par-72, 6600-yard (from the yellow boxes) Leopard Creek course is bordered to the north and west by the scenic Crocodile River and Kruger National Park.

USA

Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is best remembered for the “War on the Shore” Ryder Cup of 1991, in which Bernhard Langer`s missed 6-foot putt on the last green allowed the USA to regain the Cup. Kiawah Island offers 5 challenging golf courses in a beautiful natural setting near historic Charleston, South Carolina. Non-golfers can enjoy tennis, kayaking and nature tours.

ASIA

Gokarna Forest, Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal is probably an unconsidered holiday destination for most golfers. However, the par-72, 6287-yard Gokarna course is well worthy of consideration. Meandering through a sanctuary of untouched forest, hills and valleys, with the snow-capped Himalayas as a backdrop, Gokarna will challenge even the best players.

NEW ZEALAND

Formosa Golf Course, Auckland
Designed by professional Bob Charles, the Formosa course, at 7200 yards from the back tees, presents a formidable challenge for the best golfers. From the more forward tees, it is suitable for golfers of all abilities.
With the stunning backdrop of Hauraki Gulf, sixteen holes offer wonderful water views, with holes 11 to 16 on a cliff top. Non-golfing facilities include tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool.

CARIBBEAN

The White Witch Golf Course, Rose Hall, Jamaica
This par-71, 6,859-yard golf course is considered one of the best in the Caribbean. It winds through the mountains, with colourful foliage and 16 holes offering panoramic views of the Caribbean.

EUROPE

Meridien Penina, Portugal
Situated on Portugal`s spectacular southern coast, in the heart of the Algarve, near the historic town of Lagos, Meridien Penina offers 3 Henry Cotton-designed courses. The par-73 Championship Course is widely considered the grandfather of Algarve golf courses.

ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT

Golf Clubs
Unbelievably, many golfers actually arrive at their holiday destination without their clubs. Be certain to clean them beforehand, as this will provide a psychological boost on arrival at the course. Additionally, the purchase of a good quality flight bag is recommended, to prevent damage in transit.

Golf Shoes
Comfortable golf shoes are nearly as important as clubs for a successful golfing holiday. Many holiday golf destinations require players to wear “soft” spikes on the course. Purchase these beforehand to save time and inconvenience on arrival. Whatever the state of current footwear, do not be tempted to buy new shoes for a golf holiday. These will inevitably spoil the trip by causing painful blisters.

Golf Balls
A golfer`s favourite brand of ball may not be available at the holiday destination, so it is a good idea to make sure the bag is well stocked for the duration of the vacation.

Miscellaneous
Sunburn and dehydration are major hazards to golfers in warmer climates and can certainly spoil holiday golf. Sun tan lotion, with a high protection factor and sun block, for nose and lips, are definitely recommended. A wide brimmed hat or cap will keep the worst of the sun of the face and is essential for the golfer who is going a little “thin on top.” It is also wise to carry a couple of bottles of water, to keep hydrated during a round. A decent pitchmark repairer is a good idea, as any club will appreciate a visitor caring for its course and avoiding leaving ball marks on the greens. Holiday golfers are also advised to take a selection of golf towels. These will prove useful for cleaning balls and keeping grips and hand free of sweat. Rain is possible in even the warmest climates, so decent-quality rainwear is recommended. Plasters (for blisters) and painkillers, such as aspirin and paracetamol, are also worthwhile inclusions in a holiday golf bag.

Prepare holiday golf equipment well in advance of the trip, to avoid a last-minute rush, which inevitably results in something being overlooked. This approach will leave any golfer relaxed and confident upon arrival at the course, able to compare golf notes and glean valuable information from local players.

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Created by Tom Fazio, an influential golf course designer with a track record which includes the renowned River Course and Osprey Point in Kiawah Island, it is envisaged Christophe Harbour will benefit the local economy by driving the future of tourism for St Kitts.

With an enviable climate and pretty much cloudless skies for 320 days a year, it’s easy to see why the Caribbean island is such a popular destination for the British. Life is made easier by the fact that English is spoken by most West Indians and the affordable flights that serve the island.

The course, set to be open for play in 2011, will be built atop a volcanic ridge and along a natural inland cove. Planned over 250 acres, the Par 72 course will be 7,250 yards from the back tees. In addition to the terrain, wind will be considered a major design element and will influence shot selection choices in the upper holes.

The mountainous environment, sweeping views of two oceans, and spectacular design will make the project unique – a “must play” international venue for golf aficionados.

Careful environmental preservation has been a fundamental to the course’s design: steps have been taken to curb erosion and sustain the environment, to include water filtrations through Reverse Osmosis (RO) and planned wetlands treatments including groups of saltwater mangroves that treat runoff water.

For sales enquiries and to request a brochure, please visit www.christopheharbour.com

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