There is something enchanting about the boot shaped country of Italy, right from its Gothic architecture to its glassy lakes and mouthwatering cuisine that keeps drawing droves of tourists from all corners of the globe. The country boasts of dramatic coastlines, breathtaking rural countryside, renaissance art, and everything that is dolce la vita.

Golf is not new in Italy; in fact the history of golf in this boot shaped country spans over a period of over a hundred years. The English colony of Florence was the first to have a golf course in Italy (the Florence Golf Club) later Ugolino Golf Club now boasts as Italy’s oldest golf club. Though the sport was introduced to Italy ages ago, it has not yet penetrated into the hearts of Italians the same way soccer does.

However, golf holidays in Italy offer variety, scenic beauty and value for money since golf is yet to capture the minds of Italians. There are about 250 golf courses in the whole of Italy, each unique with spectacular views. Here are a few of the best.

BIELLA IN VALCAROZZA

It is not easy to rank any golf course in Italy is not easy but La Biella in Valcarozza is often ranked as the best due to its challenging layouts that would intimidate even the highly skilled golfer. It spans out on an expansive undulating terrain, with numerous elevated trees and dog-legging holes in the mix. It is set in a pleasantly beautiful natural setting of mature silver birch, oak, chestnut and fir trees. The course offers stunning mountain views with the Italian Alps rising a few kilometers from the course heading north and west. The most remarkable and challenging holes are the par 5-9^th and 18^th but it is the par 5-16^th that will keep your arms tensed trying to figure out the best way to conquer its snaking terrain.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB AND COUNTRY CLUB

Located in Turin near Piedmont, the stunning Royal Golf Club and Country was built in 1971 by the famous designer Sir Robert John Trent and extends gracefully over undulated terrain of the La Mandria National Park. It offers challenging golfing experiences with its strategic bunkers water hazards. Piedmont region of Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine and you can look forward to delightful Italian specialties after a challenging game of golf, especially if you stay in a luxury villa like this.

IS ARENAS

Along the western coast of the stunning island of Sardinia, the Is Arenas golf course spreads gently across stunning landscapes of sand and lush forests. It is the perfect combination of unspoilt natural beauty, sun, sand and dazzling deep blue waters. It is ideal for those seeking to avoid crowded areas and still enjoy everything about golf in an undiscovered stunning Mediterranean Island.

MILANO GOLF CLUB

The pride of the historical City of Milan, Milano Golf Club is the rightful home of golf in Italy. Located just outside the center of commerce and industry it is ideal for golfers on a city break or business travelers. The course is flat but wooded for the perfect city break with a bit of golfing in Italy.