While there isn’t a huge amount of margin for error at Garda Golf, the picturesque trees that line the fairways of this charming parkland course are sparse enough in places, allowing golfers the chance at salvaging par should they hit the odd wayward tee shot.
With the involvement of British architects Ken Cotton, Frank Pennick & Donald Steel, the course does have the feel of a classic parkland layout, but the location is unmistakably Italian, with the gorgeous clubhouse overlooking the course which takes pride of place in the former Omedeo family estate, nestled in the Valtenesi Hills above the shores of Lake Garda.
Many holes, particularly on the Rosso course, follow the natural lay of the land, making great use of changes in elevation and gentle undulations, while in other parts of the complex, and especially on the Bianco course, beautiful water hazards also come into play. Garda Golf is known for its superb conditioning, with top class greens on display for much of the year.
Garda Golf is held in high esteem among those who visit the Lombardy region for golf, and the course has hosted its fair share of prestigious events, including the Italian Women’s Open in 1990, as well as the European Tour’s Italian Open in 1997 and once more in 2003.
Golf Magazine once ranked the par 3 2nd on the Rosso course in the “Top 500 World’s Greatest Holes” and is arguably the club’s signature hole, with its elevated tee and a green well guarded by a lake and some sumptuous flowerbeds summing up perfectly the golfing experience at Garda Golf.
For those based in Lake Garda during a Lombardy golf tour, the course couldn’t be more ideally placed, with just a few minutes in the car taking you down to the shores of the lake where of an evening, you can enjoy all this magical place has to offer, including countless top class restaurants and bars. Numerous other top class golf courses are also within easy reach and with Verona Airport just 45 minutes away, convenient flight routes are easily available to those flying from the UK.
Considering the romantic surroundings, Lake Garda and subsequently courses like Garda Golf are ideal destinations for couples, but thanks to the incredible array of world class restaurants and relaxing, chic bars, not to mention activities like wine tasting at local vineyards; groups of golfers simply looking to combine championship golf with the finer things in life and a slower paced vibe will also be right at home here.
