As the year slowly creeps towards shorter days and colder weather, those of us who love being outdoors can naturally start to feel a little disheartened. Half of the enjoyment of great golfing days can simply be the basking in the beautiful weather outside. But adverse winter conditions should never mean your game has to suffer, as there are plenty of courses, both abroad and here in the UK, that provide the perfect spot for your winter golfing getaway.
TURNBERRY, AYSHIRE
One of the finest Open Championship venues, Turnberry is on the bucket-list for most golfers around the world. Perhaps most famous for the ‘Duel in Sun’ between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus at the 1977 Open Championship, the iconic course provides an even greater challenge in the winter months, with an increased breeze blowing in off the picturesque Ayshire coast. The Ailsa Course is consistently voted amongst the greatest golf courses in the world, with the accompanying Turnberry Resort providing equally world-class facilities, including five-star accommodation, fine dining and a spectacular spa. The perfect way to chase away those winter blues, without even leaving the UK.
PENINA HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT, THE ALGARVE
For a European golfing break this winter, the Penina Hotel and Golf Resort is amongst the most comprehensive and well-renowned destinations on offer. It features three exclusive courses, including the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course which has been host to the Portuguese Open on ten occasions. It was the first 18-hole course to be built on the Algarve, and remains one of the most sought after and prestigious courses in Portugal, and all of Europe.
SUN CITY, SOUTH AFRICA
Amongst the most exclusive golf retreats available worldwide, Sun City is the perfect getaway for escaping the British weather. It features two 18-hole, par 72 courses designed by South African legend Gary Player: the intriguingly named Lost City Golf Course and the Gary Player Golf Course. Both are designed to challenge all levels of player, and are surrounded by some of the most phenomenal views the continent has to offer. Packages at Sun City can include visits to nearby Cape Town and Safari excursions to compliment the world-class golfing facilities. It even has full shopping facilities, a casino and a waterpark to ensure that you’re enjoying your time off the course as much as you are on it.
With all these breaks, as well as many more across the UK and beyond, the golfing holiday has become as much of a getaway for the whole family as it is for you; the magnificent spa and restaurant facilities, as well as amazing kids clubs ensure that everyone can have the best holiday possible. The transition from being ‘someone who plays golf’ to ‘a golfer’ is about your lifestyle choices. Your choice of holiday destination this winter, much like your choice of ETIQUS timepiece, can help distinguish you as a true golfer.