Golf Breaks in Wales

In South Wales, often referred to as The Vale of Glamorgan, great destinations for a golf break include Cardiff which is home to a host of incredible resorts boasting five-star hospitality and exciting championship golf courses with the the added bonus of the city’s bustling nightlife.

Swansea, which isn’t far from the Welsh Capital, is another region which boasts an incredible selection of courses like Royal Porthcawl while the North West & Harlech, part of the North Wales golf catalogue, is home to the mesmerising Nefyn Golf Club, a must course to include on a North Wales golf break. While a trip to the Welsh Borders brings the very best of England and Wales together.

This wide array has made taking a Welsh golf break an increasingly popular choice while providing great value for money, and as the development accelerates on the back of Ryder Cup fever, there is every reason to believe that the popularity of golf breaks in Wales will only continue.

Wales boasts a stunning collection of championship-caliber golf courses, offering a diverse range of challenges and breathtaking scenery. Among the most prestigious is Royal Porthcawl in Mid Glamorgan, consistently ranked as the top course in Wales and a fixture in the world's top 100. Designed in 1891, this exceptional links course has earned widespread acclaim, even being touted as a worthy Open Championship venue. Its pedigree is further cemented by hosting events like the 2014 Senior's Open Championship.

For a truly historic experience, golfers can also venture to Royal St. David's in Harlech, a top-5 Welsh course established in 1894. Here, players are treated to not only a challenging round but also awe-inspiring views of Snowdonia National Park, with the majestic Harlech Castle looming nearby and the tranquil Tremadog Bay bordering the dunes. Beyond these giants, Wales offers other hidden gems. Pennard near Swansea, the third-highest ranked in Wales, provides a unique "links in the sky" experience. Founded in 1896 by the legendary James Braid and C.K. Cotton, its dramatic clifftop setting 200 feet above the sea, with its characteristic humps and hollows, creates an unforgettable round.

Meanwhile, Aberdovey, nestled within Snowdonia National Park, offers a beautiful and natural links experience, securing its place as the second-ranked course in Wales. For a modern championship test, the Celtic Manor Resort's Twenty Ten course, designed specifically for the 2010 Ryder Cup, provides a stern challenge with a varied mix of holes. Finally, for a truly unique and visually stunning round, Nefyn Golf Club on the Llyn Peninsula offers "golf on the edge of the world" with its three loops of nine holes perched dramatically along the coastline.

The Wales Open has been held each year at Celtic Manor since its inception in 2000. Previous winners include Ian Poulter (2003), Miguel Angel Jimenez (2005), Graeme McDowell (2010) and most recently Joost Luiten (2014).

The Twenty Ten Course played host to the 2010 Ryder Cup which produced one of the most captivating finishes in the tournament’s history. A victory by Graeme McDowell over Hunter Mahan in the last of the 12 singles matches was enough to give Colin Montgomerie-led Europe victory. The Hunter Lodges at Celtic Manor offers golfers a luxury golf holiday in Wales that is perfect for groups who want a bit of isolation.

Wales welcomed its first major championship when Royal Porthcawl was awarded hosting rights for the 2014 Senior Open. German legend Bernhard Langer turned in a scintillating performance to win by a staggering 13 shots from Colin Montgomerie in second.

Nefyn Golf Club is considered to be one of the United Kingdom’s best kept secrets; with it’s ‘golf on the edge of the world’ setting, there are few more amazing places to enjoy links golf.

The 25 acres at Machynys Peninsula Golf & Country Club on the South West Wales coast have been sculpted into an incredible resort-style course that draws influence from traditional seaside golf. The first Jack Nicklaus signature design to be completed in Wales; the course has quickly established an impressive reputation and already welcomed a Ladies European Tour event.

The superb links course of Aberdovey Golf Club are crafted across some remarkable terrain that is affected by the elements, creating a memorable test of golf. Groups will love the atmosphere and setting of the club, which is unfussy and unpretentious.

The Vale is one of the finest golf resorts in Wales, with comprehensive facilities including two championship golf courses, a fantastic spa and luxurious accommodation, the perfect venue for a Golf & Spa break or Sunday Driver. The resort’s Vale Grill, which has recently been awarded an AA rosette, is the perfect spot for dinner with that someone special.

Superb spa and leisure facilities are the hallmark at St Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club, where the 14th century manor house has been adapted in fine style to adopt the best modern amenities. Easy access from the M4 adds to the hotel’s popularity.

The four-star resort at Bryn Meadows offers a complete leisure experience, is ideal for non-golfers as well as providing a fantstic golfing experience.

The Celtic Manor Resort boasts lavish five-star accommodation and is undoubtedly one of the finest venues in the country. Aside from the resort’s three outstanding golf courses, its 330 rooms offer the best in comfort, while the individually designed suites are perfect for a special occasion. At night, dine in any of the Celtic Manor’s array of restaurants, including the superb Crown for fine dining.

The Quay Hotel & Spa in Llandudno epitomises cool sophistication and is an excellent option for those looking to explore North Wales. Select an Executive Room, Suite or Penthouse to enjoy additional space and features such as whirlpool baths, wall-mounted televisions in the bathroom and private balconies from which guests can take in breathtaking views of the Conwy Estuary.