BOVEY CASTLE 5*

Although it has always been a course of considerable repute, Bovey Castle has greatly benefited from recent investment to improve both its condition and appearance; the drainage and irrigation systems have been completely overhauled, new tee boxes added and many of the bunkers and greens have been reworked.

The resultant 6,303 yard championship layout befits the grandeur of the estate, and is a real gem of a course. Against the backdrop of the Bovey and Bowden Rivers, which golfers must negotiate frequently, Bovey Castle has been restored to its former glory and is among England's most luxurious destinations for a golf break.

The warm and welcoming clubhouse stands above the opening hole at Bovey Castle, and is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast and lunch, or to analyse the day's golf with friends over a well-earned drink.

Golfing legend Sir Henry Cotton has described Bovey Castle's 7^th hole as "possibly the best par-4 in British inland golf".

A golf or leisure escape to Bovey Castle provides the ultimate in luxury from start to finish, set deep within some 368 square miles of the Dartmoor National Park. There is a variety of accommodation options in the sprawling grounds, that were originally conceived as a private home and sporting estate.

The Castle is a throwback to the grandiose extravagance of the 1920s with the charm and opulence of that time being retained through striking period furnishings and decoration. The accommodation is divided between the Castle, the Mews and the original Lodge, all of which ensure the ultimate in luxury hospitality. The 65 guest bedrooms and suites located in the Castle are styled with the traditional elegant simplicity of the golden era, garnished with the finest linen and fresh flowers.

In addition, there are a number of granite lodges that can cater for larger groups and families who seek that extra privacy. Visitors to Bovey Castle will be astounded by the undiluted quality of the Castle and its magical surroundings, where a luxury golf or leisure escape is guaranteed.

Bovey Castle's newly designed well-being complex offers a superb range of options, including holistic and massage therapy, and an endless array of Elemis skin, body, hand and face treatments. The centre also boasts saunas, steam rooms, jacuzzis, a solarium and the awesome swimming pool that is perched above the River Bovey, and opens out on the sun terrace during the summer months. The enormous estate offers a myriad of activities and outdoor pursuits, which makes Bovey Castle a fantastic choice not only for golf but for a comprehensive leisure holiday.

Bovey Castle was voted ‘Best Golf Resort' at the World Travel Awards in 2005.

The hotel's primary restaurant is decorated in 1920s art deco Palm Court style, and is a fine dining room of considerable repute, with chinoiserie hand-painted wall coverings.

The Cigar Cave and the restaurant are supported by Bovey's extensive wine cellars and the resident Sommelier, who can choose the perfect bottle from an extensive list of bins from the Old and New World.

The Oak Room and Piano Bar has a list of some 150 original cocktails, which can be enjoyed whilst the resident pianist tickles the ivory of the Grand piano.