Golf vacations, especially on any of the more famous courses are a dream come true for many avid golfer. Nearly half the globe apart, there are two destinations in particular that often stand out as first choice for the golf vacation of a lifetime.
Considered the birthplace of modern golf, Scotland boasts a number of challenging courses that many countries cannot compete with. These beautiful links offer rugged, yet extremely green, groomed terrain and many have ocean views as far as the eye can see.
For places to stay, there is everything from castles and luxury hotels to country cottages nestled among the greens, but the most renowned is, of course, the St. Andrews. Home of a castle of the same name that can be seen from the Old Course, St. Andrews was also the site of two Open Championship victories for American favorite, Jack Nicklaus.
With a blazing fire and a pint of Guinness in hand, one might think it would be easy to forget about the links. But not with the St. Andrews right outside the door! Among the many great choices to be had in Scotland, St. Andrews is as famous as it gets. Today, the rich history, unique culture and overall experience makes this busy course a must visit for any true golf fan.
Although Long Island’s Bethpage Black Course tops many a list of golf review sites, it would be hard to argue about the prominence of the phenomenal course at Pebble Beach. This challenging course, set on the spectacular 17-mile drive section of California’s coastal highway, is everything a golf enthusiast could ask for. Designed with input from Jack Nicklaus and boasting ocean views from nearly all points, Pebble Beach offers more than 6,000 yards of golfer paradise. Since 1918, the Pebble Beach facility has been hosting the most famous of names and is still one of the best courses in California for golf vacations.
As you might expect, the experience of a round at the St. Andrews or at Pebble Beach does not come cheaply. Even if the price tag seems more than you can comfortable handle, don’t despair. Golf vacation packages are becoming more and more available. As demand increases, expect the price tags on these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to drop. Something else to explore might be the all inclusive golf vacations. The cost is a little more up front but can often end up being considerably cheaper than what you would pay separately for all that is included.
If instead of purchasing your own golf vacation package, you’re fortunate enough to travel to one of these places as part of a company-sponsored trip you may end up with a pocket full of imprinted golf tees. Many companies like to give these and those with their logo on them away as promotional items. These make great collectibles but make sure you don’t pass up the opportunity of taking home a couple that say “St. Andrews” or “Pebble Beach”. Those are the ones that will turn your friends green with envy.
