Wales may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about top golf destinations, but it is definitely deserving of recognition. The nation offers a multitude of courses that cater to a wide range of golfing preferences, from championship venues to quirky courses set on common ground. Despite often being overshadowed by its nearby competitors – Scotland and Ireland – Wales has a lot to offer to golf enthusiasts. In a recent episode of the Destination Golf podcast, co-hosts Simon Holt and Josh Sens highlighted Wales as one of the world’s most underrated countries for golf, citing layouts such as Royal Porthcawl, Royal St. David’s, Pennard, and Southerndown as evidence of the country’s golfing excellence.
While glossy magazines may not always give Wales the attention it deserves, golfers who are looking for unique and challenging courses should definitely consider a trip to this picturesque nation. In addition to Wales, Sens also highlighted the Dominican Republic, Portugal, and Canada as underrated golf destinations. The Dominican Republic boasts top-notch resort tracks like Teeth of the Dog and Punta Espada, while Portugal offers a diverse range of golf courses beyond the Algarve region. Canada, on the other hand, has a mix of classic and modern golf courses, including Highlands Links, Banff, Jasper, and Cabot Cape Breton.
Holt, on the other hand, recommended New Zealand, Japan, the Netherlands, and England as underrated golf destinations. New Zealand is known for its stunning seaside clubs like Te Arai and Tara Iti, in addition to Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliffs. Japan, the Netherlands, and England also have hidden gem courses that offer unique golfing experiences. Whether you prefer coastal courses or historic tracks, these underrated golf destinations have something for every type of golfer. For more insights on underrated golf countries, you can listen to the full Destination Golf podcast episode.
One of the standout courses in Wales is Royal Porthcawl, a championship venue that has hosted prestigious events like the Senior Open Championship. With its stunning coastal views and challenging layout, Royal Porthcawl is a must-visit for golfers looking for a true test of their skills. Another notable course is Royal St. David’s, located in the charming town of Harlech. This links course offers panoramic views of the Snowdonia mountains and Cardigan Bay, making it a scenic and challenging place to play.
For golfers looking for something off the beaten path, Pennard and Southerndown offer unique and quirky courses that showcase the natural beauty of Wales. Pennard, also known as the “Links in the Sky,” features dramatic cliffside holes and stunning views of Three Cliffs Bay. Southerndown, on the other hand, is set on common land and offers a traditional links experience with undulating fairways and strategic bunkering. These courses may not always make the headlines, but they provide a memorable golfing experience for those who seek them out.
In conclusion, Wales should not be overlooked when planning a golf trip, as it offers a diverse range of courses that cater to all skill levels and preferences. From championship venues like Royal Porthcawl to quirky courses like Pennard and Southerndown, Wales has something for every type of golfer. By exploring underrated golf destinations like Wales, golf enthusiasts can discover hidden gems and enjoy unique playing experiences that they may not find in more well-known golf destinations. So next time you’re planning a golf getaway, consider Wales as your destination and experience the beauty and challenge of Welsh golf courses firsthand.
