Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club marked its centenary in 2007, which makes it one of Italy's oldest and best-loved clubs. Back at the turn of the twentieth century, Lake Como was the holiday playground of Britain's well-heeled travellers, and a banker named Henry John Mylius reckoned the area deserved a serious golf course. More than a hundred years on, his idea is still delivering a round with real character.
This isn't a glossy resort layout built around buggies and Instagram moments. It's a traditional course where placement matters, the setting does half the talking and you feel the club's history from the first tee. If you like courses with a bit of soul and a clubhouse atmosphere that's been earned rather than manufactured, Menaggio ticks a lot of boxes.
The other win is what surrounds it. Play in the morning, then spend the afternoon hopping between lakeside villages, with long Italian lunches, a glass or two and views that never get old. It's an easy rhythm to fall into, and it makes the 19th hole feel like part of the holiday rather than an afterthought.
Who is this for?
Golfers, couples and groups who want a heritage club experience on Lake Como, with plenty to enjoy away from the course.
Who is it best for?
Players who'd choose tradition and atmosphere over a modern resort set-up, and organisers who want an easy, looked-after trip.
