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Golf Holidays: The Best Courses and What to Wear to Them
Looking to lower your handicap this summer? You’re not alone. According to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, global golf playing rose by 34% last year. In fact, club members played more rounds in the first half of 2023 than in the whole of 2019. Golf, in short, is booming. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a keen beginner, here are the best golf holiday destinations chosen by our Abercrombie & Kent experts – plus what to wear when you’re on the course.
The Best Destinations for Golfers
Golf is not just a sport – it’s a lifestyle. As important as the course is the clubhouse and the socialising after you’ve played the full 18. It’s this that Abercrombie & Kent understands. With six decades of expertise, our world-class travel advisors will curate the best trip to suit you. Be it a tour of Scotland or a tee-off among tropical beaches, here are our top three holidays for golfers.
Any list of the world’s finest golf courses will surely start with Scotland. It’s here that golf was invented – first recorded in the Middle Ages – and it’s to Scotland that we owe the game we play today. Starting in Edinburgh, this tailor-made holiday encompasses the most famous and challenging courses, from Kingsbarns at St Andrews to Gleneagles’ PGA course, host to both the Ryder and Solheim Cups. When you’re not teeing-off, you’ll enjoy the widest whisky selection Scotland has to offer, with expert guidance from a senior whisky ambassador. Perfection.
A haven for golfers and families alike, this luxury island resort offers suites and villas set among tropical gardens or on the beachfront. But it’s the spectacular 18-hole championship golf course that wins it for us, complete with a leading Golf Academy where pros are on hand to better your game with the help of advanced computer software. When you’re not on the green, you’ll find plenty of water sports from diving to windsurfing and deep-sea fishing, plus four gourmet restaurants. The grilled seafood is a speciality.
In striking distance of the French Riviera, this picturesque resort boasts a stunning location among the hills of Provence, complete with private terraces and spectacular views – and, of course, a first-class golf course. After the game, enjoy a spa treatment or visit its range of saunas, steam rooms and swimming pools; otherwise, head into the surrounding area where you’ll find wineries, markets and fantastic restaurants.
Easy Holiday Outfit Ideas
Read & ShopFrom crochet knits to bold patterned co-ords, these are the trending pieces to pack for your next getaway.
What to Wear on the Golf Course
Golf clothes have had a rough time. While other sportswear staples – the rugby shirt or varsity jacket – have long achieved stylish status, the golfing uniform has enjoyed no such accolade. But things are changing. Thanks to brands like J.Lindeberg, Bogner and RLX Ralph Lauren, golf clothes have ascended to sartorial glory.
But first, back to basics: dress codes. While each club has its own guidelines (don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask), there are general rules. Traditional and smart-casual clubs will call for a collared shirt, worn with tailored trousers or shorts. Blazers and ties are often mandatory for entering clubhouses – jeans, cargo trousers and trainers are, on most courses, not allowed.
Polo Ralph Lauren polo shirt, Bogner gilet and shorts, J.Lindeberg cap and gloves
So, to brands. J.Lindeberg, Bogner, Kjus and RLX Ralph Lauren are among the best, offering characterful pieces underpinned by high-tech performance. The Kjus Liam gilet is made from the brand’s ultra-soft Techwool – offering moisture-management, antibacterial properties and comfortable stretch. And Bogner’s golfing collection is borne from the same 90-year expertise that informs its pro skiwear.
Golf style is equally about personality, though. Look at renowned champions Gary Player and Arnold Palmer: their wide-leg pleated trousers worn with colourful polos and V-neck knits would look great on and off the course to this day. Love them or hate them, novelty trousers are now a signature of England’s Ian Poulter. In short, despite tradition, it’s fine –and even encouraged, sometimes – to have a bit of fun on the course.
The Best Golf Accessories
Preparing for your next round? Protection from the sun is key. A solid sunscreen is essential as are a cap and sunglasses – equally just to see what you’re doing. Then there’s the bag. Function is everything: plenty of space, padded straps and numerous pockets to store spare balls, towels, tees, water bottles and then some. In our selection, you’ll find a breadth of brighter colours and playful patterns to inject character into your outfit, too.
HOLIDAYS
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