The Sandbanks Traveller | What is it about Golf?

With so many amazing destinations to choose from it can be hard to know where to start. This edition is here to give you the headlines on the best courses and golfing destinations so you can start dreaming about your next trip.

Whether you birdie, eagle or bogey your way around the course, the destination, vistas, culture, food and hospitality will certainly compliment your days on the course. Read on to choose your destination; it's time to tee off.

Scotland

With a legacy that spans six centuries, why not travel to play at the home of golf itself. Saturated with tradition and charm, playing around this bonnie land is a must for any golfer's bucket list. There are over 550 courses to choose from, including links courses, parkland courses, 9-hole courses and everything in between.

The Old Course:

A legend amongst golf courses, The Old Course at St Andrews is perhaps the most iconic golf course in the world.

Royal Dornoch:

Fall in love with the enchanting scenery, perfect holes and endearing Highland hospitality at this impressive course.?

Carnoustie Golf Links:

Steeped in history, the 3 golf courses situated here are a completely unique experience. Not to be missed.?

When to Visit:

During late May and early June the courses and hotels aren't too busy, the days are long and the courses are in great shape.

Tours not to Miss:

The Open 2022

Thu Jul 14th - Sun Jul 17

St Andrews will host the 150th Open Championship for a record 30th time.

Dubai

Spectacular weather, world-class courses and unmissable tournaments make Dubai a top choice for winter sun golf holidays. Emerald-coloured turf and spectacular views of the city skyline make for an impressive backdrop throughout the day, and many courses are flood lit to be enjoyed after the sun has gone down. With courses designed by Sir Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie and Ernie Els, Dubai is a perfect place to combine luxury with your favourite past time.

Emirates Golf Club:

The Middle East's premier location. All the world's greats have played here so get ready to follow in the footsteps of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

Jumeirah Golf Estates:

Two world-class courses, Fire and Earth. The Earth course has held the DP World Tour Championshop since 2009.

Address Montgomerie Dubai:

This stunning course winds it's way through the Emirates Hills estate with unparalleled views of the Dubai skyline.?

When to Visit:

From November to March, temperatures hover in the mid 20s, with a glorious ten hours of sunshine a day.

Tours not to Miss:

DP World Tour Championship

Thu Nov 17th - Sun Nov 20th

Jumeirah Golf Estates have hosted this tour every year since 2009.

Portugal

Year round sun and an excellent climate make the Algarve a fantastic destination for golfers. Courses span all the way from the East coast to the West so there is plenty of choice. The quality and density of championship golf in Portugal is unparalleled in Europe. Add to that breathtaking clifftop views and vibrant coastal villages and you have a winning combination for an unforgettable trip.

Monty Rei Golf & Country Club:

Rated best club in Portugal four years in a row, it is all about the experience when you visit Monte Rei. Be prepared for incredible hospitality paired with vistas of the Serra do Caldeirao mountains.

Quinta do Lago:

Nestled in 2,000 acres of countryside and bordering the Atlantic ocean, this course is absolutely breathtaking. It has won several awards for excellence and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Faro international airport.

Vale do Lobo:

Both 18-hole courses take players through umbrella pine and fig-lined fairways ending up on clifftops looking down over the ocean. Simply spectacular.

When to Visit:

Weather in the low 20's and low chance of rainfall make November and March through to May the perfect time to visit the Algarve for golf.

Tours not to Miss:

European Tour

Dates TBC for 2022

Hosted at Victoria Golf Vilamoura, the Portugal Masters makes a seasonal switch for the Race to Dubai.

Mallorca

Beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine and a generous climate. Add to that award-winning golf courses and you will be able to see why Mallorca is now considered one of Europe's best golfing destinations. Mallorca offers something for everyone from shorter, less technical courses to those ready to challenge even the most experienced golfers. Stunning views of turquoise seas and mountains in the distance are just the icing on the cake..

T Poniente Golf Course:

One of Mallorca's oldest and most respected courses. A relaxed atmosphere, rolling hills, lakes and majestic pines. One of the most enjoyable rounds you will ever play.

Club de Golf Alcanada:

Situated on the Northern tip of the island, Alcanada offers splendid views and a course like no other. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr it is considered quite the test.

Real Golf Bendinat:

This course captivates and challenges it's golfers with one of Mallorca's finest layouts. That being said it also makes an attractive and fun course for golfers of all abilities.

When to visit:

Outside of the peak season of July and August is the best time to plan a golfing holiday to this Balearic island. March to May and September to November tend to be cooler and less crowded.

Tours not to miss:

Spanish Professional Championship

Balearic Islands Trophy

Challenge HRH Count of Barcelona