Though Golf may have taken birth in Scotland, the sport is loved and cherished by people all over the world. The love for the sport, especially among the wealthy has been one of the main factors that have influenced the development of luxurious golf courses.
Golf isn’t merely a leisure sport. It’s the martini lunch of the modern workforce, the buoyant venue where business gets done.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina
This seaside golf resort is located about 45 minutes away from Charleston and boasts of 90 championship holes. The courses in Kiawah Island have been designed by the likes of Clyde Johnston, Peter Dyke, Tom Fazio, and many other great golf course designers. Kiawah is also home to the Ocean Course, which is considered to be one of the world’s best golf courses. You can also choose from a wide range of accommodation options such as private homes and condos. Other attractions include spas, tennis courts, pools and of course, the beach.
St. Andrews Links, Scotland
Located in the land where it all began, St. Andrews is the quintessential golf resort. The St. Andrews Links is one of the oldest golf destinations in the world and is home to seven courses. It also plays host to the Open Championship quite often. To add to the experience, visitors can take some time off, to bask in the ambiance of hills and beaches. As for accommodation, the Old Course Hotel makes for a comfortable choice.
Argentario Golf & Spa Resort, Italy
Voted by some as the ‘Best Luxury Hotel in Italy’, the Argentario Golf & Spa resort is the perfect solution for those who are looking to play golf and relax a little. The resort has 73 suites and rooms in total, which are also extremely luxurious. When not indulging in Golf, you can soak in the breathtaking beauty of the coastline.
Pebble Beach Resorts, California
One of the most popular courses among Golf fans, the Pebble Beach Golf Resort also offers magnificent ocean views. It is home to famous courses such as the Scottish styled Links at Spanish Bay and the Treasure Island themed Spyglass Hill. For accommodation, you can choose between the Casa Palmero and The Lodge of Pebble Beach. While the former is known for its relaxed atmosphere, the latter is the ideal option for a more luxurious stay.
The American Club, Wisconsin
Though not as popular as other courses, the American Club is a perfect choice, if you’re looking for a place to practice your short game. Apart from being one of the most scenic golf locations, it offers very good options in terms of golf courses. You can choose between the Straits course near the Michigan shoreline or the Whistling Straits designed by Peter Dye. As for accommodation, The American Club has nothing less than a 5-star rating. Exquisite gardens, on-site pubs, barbershops and a bowling alley are standard features at the resort.
Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina
Considered to be the “Cradle of American Golf”, the Pinehurst Resort is home to 9 courses. One of the courses, referred to as Course No. 1, is more than a hundred years old and Course No. 2 enjoys the reputation of playing host to the US Open. Course No. 2 was also designed by Donald Ross and is considered to be his masterpiece while the entire resort itself was designed by the famous architect, Frederick Olmsted.
Visitors can choose between condos and 3 other accommodation options. Pinehurst also enjoys scenic beauty in the form of pine trees and fairways decorated with blossoms.
Fancourt, South Africa
Designed not to disappoint the avid Golfer, Fancourt is the ideal place to practice your swing. Fancourt is home to 3 of the most highly ranked golf courses in the world, namely the Montagu, the Links and the Outeniqua. All three courses were designed by the famous Gary Player. Visitors can either stay at the Fancourt House or the century old Manor House. When not teeing off, visitors would be wise to try the Garden Route Safari tour, as it is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Cabot Links, Nova Scotia
Located at the northernmost point of Nova Scotia, Cabot Links is the true links-style course. Games can be quite challenging as the wind here refuses to die down. Coastal views and a seaside location provide a fantastic ambiance. For accommodation, visitors can always check themselves into ‘The Lodge’ and quench their thirst at the ‘Cabot Bar’. As for other attractions, visitors can go whale watching, kayaking, or paddle boarding at the Inverness Beach.
Eden Roc, Dominican Republic
Luxury and exclusivity are the key benefits at the Eden Roc resort and it is also home to the spectacular Punta Espada golf course designed by the very famous golf course designer, Jack Nicklaus. Visitors can take advantage of various amenities while relaxing in the sun-soaked atmosphere of the coastal location.
