Are you a passionate golfer who is always on the lookout for new and exciting courses to experience? If so, you may want to consider golfing in Turkey. This emerging golf destination offers world-class courses set amidst stunning natural scenery that will take your breath away. Whether you prefer challenging layouts that hug the coastline or mountainous courses in the Turkish lake district, golf in Turkey provides a variety of unique playing experiences for golfers of all skill levels. With over 20 high-quality courses and an ideal Mediterranean climate, Turkey deserves a spot on every golfer’s must-play list. This article will explore some of the premier golf courses in Turkey and provide tips for planning your Turkish golf getaway.
Turkey has become a premier golf destination, attracting players from around the world. With over 20 world-class courses set amid stunning scenery, it offers an unparalleled experience for golfers of all levels.
Belek Golf Region
The Belek region on the Mediterranean coast is considered the heart of golf in Turkey, with over 15 championship courses in proximity. Courses like the PGA Sultan, designed by European Golf Design, and the Montgomerie Maxx Royal, designed by Colin Montgomerie, have hosted several prestigious European tour events.
Year-Round Golf Season
One of the biggest draws of golfing in Turkey is the long season. You can play almost year-round, from March through November, with the summer being the most popular. Spring and fall also offer pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and lower green fees.
Affordable Luxury
Especially compared with popular golf destinations like Spain, Portugal or Scotland, a golf holiday to Turkey delivers outstanding value with costs significantly less for accommodations, food, and drinks along with greens fees. You can truly indulge during your vacation without breaking the bank thanks to Turkey’s favourable exchange rates that straighten your vacation dollars further.
Golf Tours and Packages
The easiest way to experience multiple courses is through a golf tour or package. Many tour operators offer pre-arranged golf packages that include accommodations, green fees, transfers, and even sightseeing options. This allows you to sit back and enjoy your holiday while all the details are handled for you.
With world-class courses, year-round play, luxurious resorts, and golf tours handling the planning, Turkey provides an unforgettable golf getaway. Every golfer should experience the beauty and challenge of golf in Turkey.
Top Golf Courses and Resorts to Visit in Turkey
Turkey is home to some world-class golf courses and resorts, many of which offer luxury golf holidays and packages for visitors. Here are some of the top places to visit for a golf getaway in Turkey:
Gloria Golf Resort
The Gloria Golf Resort in Belek features two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by renowned architect Michael Gayon. The Old Course and the New Course offers scenic sea views and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. The resort also has luxurious accommodations, spas, restaurants and nightlife. Golf holiday packages are available that include unlimited golf, meals, and resort amenities.
Cornelia Golf Club
Located in the popular Antalya region, the Cornelia Golf Club has three 18-hole courses designed by Nick Faldo. The King Course and the Queen Course are championship-level, while the Prince Course is ideal for casual and beginner golfers. Accommodations at the on-site Cornelia De Luxe Resort provide easy access to the golf club and other facilities. Golf and spa packages can be booked for a relaxing holiday experience.
Carya Golf Club
The Carya Golf Club in Belek features a world-class 18-hole course designed by golf legend Peter Thomson. Set within a pine forest, the course offers a memorable playing experience for golfers of all abilities. The on-site 5-star hotel provides luxurious rooms along with restaurants, pools, tennis courts and a beach club. Various stay-and-play packages include unlimited golf, carts, range balls and resort amenities.
With scenic courses, luxury resorts and ideal weather conditions, Turkey offers an unforgettable golf escape in a stunning location. Booking an all-inclusive golf package is the perfect way to experience world-class golf in this Mediterranean paradise.
Planning Your Ideal Golf Holiday in Turkey
Planning a golf in Turkey requires some forethought to make the most of your trip. With over 200 courses set in stunning locations, from the Mediterranean coastline to the snow-capped Taurus Mountains, you’ll want to determine your priorities to choose the right region and courses.
Selecting a Region
Turkey’s diverse geography means each region offers a unique golfing experience. The Belek coast is home to over a dozen world-class courses and all-inclusive resorts, ideal for a luxury beach getaway. Inland, the pine forests of Antalya provide a cooler climate in summer. Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape creates a dramatic backdrop for golfing. Consider Istanbul and the Marmara region to combine golf with culture in Turkey’s largest city.
Booking Accommodation
Resorts in popular golfing destinations like Belek often offer all-inclusive packages with accommodation, meals, and access to several nearby courses. Alternatively, you can book a hotel in the area and play at courses within a 30-minute drive. For a more independent trip, renting a villa or apartment in Antalya and self-catering allows maximum flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Transportation and Equipment
Most resorts and golf clubs provide shuttle transport between your accommodation and their courses. For other areas, renting a vehicle allows you to navigate independently. Major car rental companies have locations across Turkey. Bring your clubs or rent on-site for convenience.
With the proper planning, you can craft an amazing golf escape in Turkey. Choose a region that appeals to you, find suitable accommodation, book tee times at courses you’re eager to play, and arrange transportation to get you there in style. A golf holiday in Turkey will exceed your expectations with scenic courses, Mediterranean weather, and Turkish hospitality. You’ll return home with memories of an unforgettable trip.
When to Visit Turkey for the Best Golf Weather
When planning a golf holiday in Turkey, the time of year you visit can significantly impact your experience on the course. The Mediterranean climate brings hot, dry summers and short, mild winters, allowing for an extended golf season. However, for the best playing conditions with comfortable temperatures, the shoulder months of April to June and September to October are ideal.
Spring (April to June)
As the rainy winter season comes to an end, spring brings warmer weather and blooming landscapes. Average highs of (25-35 C) and low chance of rain provide pleasant conditions for golfing. The courses are green and lush, with flowers dotting the greens and fairways. Late spring, especially May and June, sees the largest influx of tourists, so booking tee times in advance is recommended.
Fall (September to October)
When the summer heat begins to fade, fall offers a second opportunity for prime golfing. September and October welcome cooler temperatures, averaging highs of (30 C), as well as smaller crowds. The summer brown landscapes come alive again with golden and red hues. As an added benefit, hotel rates start to decrease at the end of the season.
While Turkey’s golf season spans nearly year-round, spring and fall undoubtedly provide the most comfortable temperatures and weather conditions for enjoying world-class courses. With stunning scenery and smaller crowds, golfing in the shoulder months allows you to experience Turkey’s natural beauty and vibrant culture at a more relaxed pace. If high summer heat is not a deterrent, July and August also allow for extended hours of daylight to fit in more rounds of golf.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit Turkey, offers a premier golfing destination with a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget. Discover ancient history, stunning beaches, and culinary delights in between rounds for a well-rounded holiday experience. With new courses continuously being developed, you may find it hard to leave without already planning a return trip.
discover the magic of golf in Turkey. With its captivating courses, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural tapestry, Turkey promises an unforgettable golfing experience that will leave you yearning for more. So, pack your clubs and get ready to tee off on an adventure unlike any other.
