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Southern Italy, Golfers Paradise?
22/3/10
Head to southern Italy for great food and great golf; with a mild all-year-round climate, ideal for the sport, the regions of Puglia, Basilicata, Campania and Calabria have a variety of courses on offer to quench the thirst of most golf enthusiasts. While the areas of Abruzzo and Molise, to the west of Rome, lends a lovely contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Italian capital.
Puglia – stretching from the spur of the Gargano peninsula to the heel of Italy’s boot – offers a delightful mixture of beautiful golden beaches, pine forests and undulating countryside with olive and almond groves, and some first-class golf courses.
Bari Alto, San Domenico and Acaya in Lecce – known as the Florence of the South – are all immensely enjoyable 18-hole layouts while Riva dei Tessali has hosted European Challenge Tour events and will test all facets of your game as you weave through pine trees not dissimilar to Augusta.
The area of Basilicata is often referred to as the region of unspoilt opportunity, and it’s easy to see why. Refreshingly under-explored and built on an agricultural economy, it is a great contrast to Italy’s more traditional tourist hubs and a visit to Metaponto Golf Club should be included on the agenda of any golfer visiting the area.
The course may only have opened in 2004, but the par-72 layout belies its young age, as it incorporates citrus and olive groves.
Campania boasts one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world as the Amalfi Coast runs south from Sorrento; golfers can enjoy the nine-hole courses at Circolo Golf Napoli and Volturno.
While the areas of Abruzzo and Molise might be considered novices in golfing terms, they are also two of the most beautiful, unspoiled parts of Italy, and include the Pescara Golf & Country Club, the first 18-hole course in Abruzzo.
“We realise that many UK golfers aren’t aware of the golf product we have to offer them in Italy and we are determined to spread the word because, if you combine a golfing trip with our food, wine and culture, you have the perfect break,” said Valerio Scoyni, director of ENIT, Italy’s national tourist board.
To enquire about a golf break or for further information on golf in Italy visit www.italiantouristboard.co.uk .
