Wales, with its dramatic landscapes and challenging terrain, offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. From the rugged mountains of Snowdonia to the picturesque coastlines of Pembrokeshire, there’s a golf course to suit every taste and skill level. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the top golf courses in Wales and explore the surrounding attractions that make this country a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
Aberystwyth Golf Club
Located on the stunning Cardigan Bay, Aberystwyth Golf Club is one of the most well-known golf courses in Wales, with amazing views from Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula to the Preseli Mountains in Pembrokeshire. Aberystwyth was one of the courses designed by the legendary six times Open Champion, Harry Vardon, an all- time ‘golfing great’. It is probably his most spectacular in terms of views and it has stood the golfing test of time. In addition to the world-class golf, Aberystwyth offers a variety of other attractions, including beautiful beaches, a ruined castle fortress, and charming shops and restaurants.
Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
The Celtic Manor Resort is a luxury 5* destination that offers three world-class golf courses: the Roman Road, the Twenty Ten Course (which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup), and the Montgomerie Course. The resort also features a spa, swimming pools, and a variety of other leisure facilities. Should you wish to explore further afield, Newport is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene.
Conwy Golf Club, Conwy
Conwy Golf Club is a historic course that dates back to 1895. The challenging Links course (used for The Ryder Cup Senior championship in the past) is set in a picturesque location overlooking the Conwy Estuary and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Conwy is a charming town with a well-preserved medieval castle and a bustling market.
Pennard Golf Club, Gower Peninsula
Pennard Golf Club is a links course located on the Gower Peninsula, one of the most beautiful areas of Wales. The course is challenging but fair and offers stunning views of the coastline including the iconic Three Cliffs Bay. Unusually, the course is also home to the ruins of Pennard Castle! The Gower Peninsula is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing and kayaking, and offers easy access to nearby Swansea.
Clwb Golff Nefyn Cyf, Gwynedd
Clwb Golff Nefyn Cyf is a 27-hole golf course located on the Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales. The course offers stunning views of the sea from every tee and is known for its challenging greens and fairways. The club also features a restaurant, bar, and pro shop.
Tenby Golf Club, Pembrokeshire
Tenby Golf Club, the self-styled the birthplace of golf in Wales, is a popular links course in the picturesque seaside town of Tenby. It offers stunning views of the coastline and Caldey Island and is a challenging but enjoyable course for golfers of all levels. After your round, explore the medieval town of Tenby with its colourful streets, historic harbour, and award-winning beaches.
Newport Sands Golf Club, Pembrokeshire
Newport Sands Golf Club is a championship links course situated on the beautiful North Pembrokeshire Coast. The course is known for its strategic layout, strong winds, and stunning views. While challenging, it offers a rewarding experience for skilled golfers. Newport’s signature hole, the par 3 fifteenth, which is played over sand dunes onto a postage stamp elevated green, has been voted as one of the toughest holes in Britain! After your round, relax in the onsite Cat Rock , or explore the small town of Newport Pembs with its pubs, cafes and independent shops.
Tips for Golfing in Wales
- Book your tee times in advance: Golf courses in Wales can get busy, especially during the summer months. It’s a good idea to book your tee times in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Pack for all weather conditions: The weather in Wales can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions.
- Take advantage of the scenery: Wales is a beautiful country, so take some time to appreciate the scenery while you’re playing golf.
- Explore the local attractions: There are plenty of other things to see and do in Wales, so make sure to take some time to explore the local attractions.
Wales is a fantastic destination for golfers of all levels. With its stunning scenery, challenging courses, and friendly atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. So pack your clubs and get ready for an unforgettable golfing holiday in Wales.