Keeping your next golf trip affordable can sometimes be tough, so we asked TSG travel partners at Golf Escapes to write a piece for those looking for golf on a budget and how you can beat the high prices!

Golf On A Budget by Golf Escapes…

Of course, everyone wants to play the best courses and stay in the nicest hotels possible, but often, it cannot be done for the set budget.

If you can be flexible with your dates, then there are always some little periods in the year where there is a deal to be had.

So here are our top tips of when to stay and play at certain hotels and courses for the 2019/20 season.

Golf On A Budget – The Courses – Spain…

Our first visit is to Las Colinas golf course on the border of the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions.

Voted Spain’s best course 3 years in a row at the World Golf Awards, this is one that should be on everyone’s list to play.

Littered with bunkers and huge water hazards, it is a course that is very pleasant on the eye.

With little else around the course too, it is a peaceful experience, which helps as you work your way around this challenging course.

But when should you play it?

September. Las Colinas class September as their ‘low season’, even though it is a lot of regions most popular month for golfers.

They cut the prices by 25% and makes one of Europe’s best courses a very affordable round of golf.

Coming in at below £80 per person with a buggy included too, you have to include it in your itinerary for anybody staying from La Manga right up to Benidorm.

It is well worth the journey.

Next is an option for groups on a budget. Mar Menor Golf Resort in Murcia is a resort that continues to baffle everyone here at Golf Escapes, but for all the right reasons.

The resort has a 5-star hotel (4-star apartments) a good selection of bars and restaurants.

Oh, and a lovely Jack Nicklaus golf course all within ‘a stone’s throw’ of each other.

Yet the apartments are known as ‘The Residences at Mar Menor’ is one of the cheapest and best value packages available in Europe.

The resort is cheap all year round and perfect for those looking for golf on a budget.

However,  to make it even better, they class the ‘peak season’ of May as their ‘low season’.

So let’s talk numbers. 3 nights 2 rounds from £159 & 7 nights 4 rounds from £309 in May, yes May!

Not only is there a great course on site, but there are also 6 other courses that you can play for no extra cost.

And all golfers can use the free shuttle bus provided by the resort to take you there too.

We hope to see you there in May because we will be.

Golf On A Budget – The Courses – Portugal…

The next stop off is in the Eastern Algarve and we are going to talk luxury.

Not just luxury accommodation, but a golf course to match it too.

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is one of Portugals finest golf resorts, perhaps even the best.

Its huge Villas are traditional in design with modern touches throughout, making it the perfect place to relax before tackling the demanding course on site.

The Nicklaus course of Monte Rei is a Golf Escapes favourite and has to be considered a bucket list course that competes with some of the best courses in the world.

Perfectly maintained all year, stunning surroundings and a level of service you can’t imagine is why this course is so superior to many others.

Sounds expensive right?

For a resort this good, it is worth paying for, but in the prime golfing period between 1^st – 14^th March.

For instance, you could do 3 nights and 2 rounds (with buggies and range balls) from £359 per person!

So, I bet we can guess where you will be going next March!

Praia D’el Rey. I am sure most of you have heard of the resort north of Lisbon and most would think of it as a prestigious golf course.

That’s because it is. It has recently had a rather good addition to the resort too.

West Cliffs golf course opened 18 months ago and has quickly become one of the most ‘sort after’ courses in the country.

These two courses mixed with Royal Obidos and Bom Sucesso (all within 15 minutes of each other) makes for one of the best selections of courses to play in Europe.

However, back to the question of when to visit though…

To be honest, we’ve cheated with this one. Go at any time.

Anywhere from April until June and from September until the end of October is when we would recommend though.

It can be a bit chillier here in the lower seasons, so nice to wait until the weather warms up, but when it does, it is a place of stunning natural beauty.

Prices at either the 5 star Marriot Praia D’el Rey Hotel or the Praia D’el Rey Village (apartments and villas) are fantastic value for money during these periods.

It is another resort that is hard to understand why it is so cheap considering the quality of golf courses.

With 4 nights and 3 rounds staying in the village starting from £245 this package would be at least double the price if the resort was based in the Algarve.

Golf Escapes really can’t applaud this resort highly enough as it is a truly unbelievable destination for the keenest of golfers.

Last but certainly not least… The Conrad Algarve.

Voted in the top 5 hotels in the Algarve on TripAdvisor, a Michelin Star restaurant and awards under its belt such as having the best spa and the best hotel suite in Europe.

The hotel is situated in the perfect location of the classy town, Quinta do Lago.

Opposite bars and restaurants and 3 world class golf courses (Quinta do Lago North, South & Laranjal) within 5 minutes, this hotel has everything to offer.

The hotel is luxury in every sense of the word and is one of the most expensive hotels in the Algarve and rightly so.

It is quite simply outstanding.

Of course, it wouldn’t be in this article if it didn’t have a sneaky period where it becomes a place where anybody can visit.

This period is from the beginning of March until the beginning of April, the perfect time of the year for golfers.

It is literally half the price in March compared to June & September.

A Golf Escape of pure quality throughout is very possible, and more than affordable in the month of March.

And if you wanted to treat yourself next year, get it booked sooner rather than later for even further discounts.

Golf On A Budget – The Courses – The Canaries…

Known for its steady warm temperatures all year round, making it a fantastic winter golf destination.

Get away from the rain, wind and snow in the UK for some golf in the sun.

The golf courses know this though and for that reason, their high seasons are from October through to April.

So why don’t we go there in May or September? Same weather, same golf courses, but a fraction of the price.

For example Costa Adeje Golf in Tenerife… 

If you were to play this course on the 1^st of May or September, compared to the 1^st of November or February you would save over £35 per round!

The same for Salobre Old Course in Gran Canaria.

You would save over £25 per round at this golf course.

These are just two examples, but similar savings are to be had at all courses in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura during the ‘summer’ months.

It seems strange to think things would be cheaper at these times of the year, but it really is the case, we promise.

When you think of a good time of year to play golf abroad, most people would say April, May & September give you the full package.

Sun, but not too hot and also not paying the high hotel prices that June, July and August bring.

Golf On A Budget – The Courses – Greece…

Nestled right in the centre of Paphos new town is the Dionysos Hotel and this property offers unbelievable prices for those looking for golf on a budget and especially in April.

Peak golf season and with average temperatures 21°, this has to be the perfect opportunity to visit such a fantastic golf destination.

The 3-star hotel in a perfect location is £20 per person, per night cheaper in April that it is in September!

This hotel paired with the fabulous courses the island has to offer.

Aphrodite Hills, Secret Valley, Elea and Minthis make for the perfect golfing getaway for couples and groups alike.

They very much look forward to welcoming you in the most wonderful Cypriot manor.

We hope this might have helped plan your holiday for this year and next.

Be as flexible as possible with your dates and you never know what deals might just be a few days away from the dates you were first thinking.

By Stuart Ridley

Crown Golf One Shot – APRIL 2019!

One 40ft Putt, One Chance, One FREE Years Membership to Crown Golf!

The Crown Golf One Shot event on Saturday 13^th April 2019, for any golfer and non-golfer of all ages to attend and try out.

You only get one shot and one chance!

For a day of competition, food, sunshine and great activities it’s not worth missing out on…

You’ll have the chance to win a one-year FREE membership and the GDPs (Golf Development Professionals) will be running complimentary golf clinics as well as family activities for those new to the game.

Crown Golf One Shot – Why Golf?

What can get better than this?

No other sport can bring people together so quickly.

It’s a natural talent, you can play as an individual or in a team.

And you get to see the great outdoors and every game is a new adventure!

It’s very good for both your mental and physical health and such a great sport to be a part of.

It’s a great social activity and a great way of getting people together…

So why don’t you get into golf by winning yourself a FREE one-year membership and seeing this all for yourself?

Crown Golf One Shot – Meet your local Crown Golf Team…

As well as running the Crown Golf One Shot event in the day, all the clubs will be holding different activities on the day such as Beat The Pro, junior 15ft putt,  longest drive competition, junior coaching and other outdoor games.

In addition, depending on the crown golf course you visit, many special guests will be attending and more.

This is a great chance to get to know the amazing, welcoming and friendly team who work there.

You’ll get to see the club itself and see how it’s unique from the rest and you get the chance to meet any potential new golfers.

We would love to see everyone down there family and friends getting involved in such a great event at the cost of nothing.

From a range of 20 wonderful clubs in a wide variety of locations, there is no excuse of not being too far away.

It’s a lovely day out and a perfect way of finding out a new talent you didn’t know you had.

Bringing people together couldn’t get any better than this!

By Emily Latham

More Blogs from TSG – 5 top reasons to try golf in 2019…

TheSocialGolfer.com, the online golf club and social golf network website, held its sixth TSG MatchPlay Championship Final (Sponsored by Crown Golf) at their flagship course Pine Ridge Golf Club in Surrey, on Sunday 28^th October 2018…

The TSG MatchPlay Championship ran similarly to an FA Cup style knockout with participants arranging each round of matches at a course of their choice.

With clubs in the Crown Golf offering preferential green fees at its venues including Hampton Court GC, Chesfield Downs GC, throughout the summer for TSG members.

The Social Golfer MatchPlay Final 2018 at Pine Ridge Golf Club…

The finalists Dave Short (Essex) and Ollie McCormack (London) both worked their way through a field of 64 to secure their place at Pine Ridge, having played six matches across the year.

In addition, the two losing Semi-finalists Brigitte Lockwood (London) and Andy King (Kent) competed in the third-place play-off.

The final began with Short (11 Handicap) going 3up after three holes, meaning veteran TSG match-player McCormack (10 Handicap) had a mountain to climb to get the game back.

After a valiant effort, McCormack pegged two holes back only to lose them again by the turn.

However, with gritty determination, McCormack clawed his way back to all square on the 18^th green with his final putt forcing a sudden death play-off…

The pair then played the first hole again, twice, before Short holed out for a Par to clinch victory!

Meanwhile, the third-place trophy went to Kent TSGer Andy King, who’s game was settled on the 17th.

The Social Golfer MatchPlay Final 2018 at Pine Ridge Golf Club – what they said…

Mentally exhausted from the battle, Short, commenting on his win said “Many thanks to The Social Golfer for all the time and energy they put into organising this golf event.”

“The online platform is a fantastic concept and I have met so many golfers and played so many courses, that I would otherwise have never visited.”

He went on to say…

“This is such an honour. Well done to the Pine Ridge staff and greenkeepers for making it such a great day. And of course, commiserations to Ollie, who really pushed me all the way. I am over the moon!”

For more information contact us at theteam@thesocialgolfer.com OR call 01277 200 207

By Ian Mullins

Every now and again we hear about a fantastic ‘good news’ golfing story and this time its the turn of the UK’s best Greenkeepers and it’s also TSG partner Crown Golf News...

TPC Sawgrass GC is in the southeastern United States located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

It is the HQ for the PGA America and annually hosts The Players Championships.

Each year BIGGA members can apply for the opportunity of a lifetime, joining the golf course maintenance team at TPC Sawgrass.

Greenkeepers from around the world get the chance to be part of ‘The Players’ backroom team and BIGGA (The British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association) has revealed the first two members who have been selected to take part in the John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme for 2019.

In total, six BIGGA members will be selected to take part in the event, with one selected from each of BIGGA’s five regions and a sixth being selected from the ranks of international members.

Following the final day’s play, before heading home, the greenkeepers will get the opportunity to hit the 17th hole’s famous island green.

Each of the members underwent a rigorous application process, consisting of an online application, submission of a short video and an interview with BIGGA and John Deere representatives.

But why is this Crown Golf News?

Crown Golf News – Greenkeepers Off to TPC Sawgrass…

One BIGGA member selected from over 5,000 applicants, is Andy Copeland (above left) from Chesfield Downs in Hertfordshire.

Andy recently had an up-close look at course preparations for another massive tournament, being invited along with other greenkeepers to visit Le Golf National ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Andy will be out there volunteering for the full duration of the tournament helping to set up the golf course for play.

Since his arrival in June 2016 to Chesfield Downs GC, the course has seen vast improvements under his leadership of the course conditions.

And the Greens that have been quoted as ‘Best in the Area’ with nothing but positive comments coming from all that play the course.

Andy has created a team around him that share his passion and are striving for the same goals as Andy sets himself.

In 2019 The Players Championship will return to its former March date, necessitated by the shift of the PGA Championship from August to May.

Crown Golf News – Greenkeepers Off to TPC Sawgrass – and we know some others going…

However, with another link to The Social Golfer, head greenkeeper at Cleethorpes Golf Club (and Event Director at this year’s TSG Charity British Inclusive Golf) Matthew Shaul (above right) has also been selected to take part.

TSGers also wish both well…

#GoodLuckGuys

By Ian Mullins

For more Crown Golf News – Click Here

Once again, The Social Golfer online golf club and golf community gathered from all over the UK and with some players flying in from Africa for the 8^th The Social Golfer OPEN 2018 (sponsored by Golf News and Golf Escapes).

First held in 2010, this year’s event was held at North Downs Golf Club in South London…

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship…

Despite the driest British Summer in 60 years, the heavens decided that it was 29^th July that the dry spell was to end.

And didn’t we know about it!

However, this didn’t stop 64 golfers battling 30mph winds, squalling rain and, at times only 200 yards visibility.

The event is a great opportunity for TSG members to mingle and ‘be social’ with many of 5k strong UK members (10k+ worldwide) and compete for the much coveted Halliwell Cup donated by Stroke Survivor and British Inclusive Golf Ambassador, Ian Halliwell.

Furthermore, £5 from every entry fee was donated to British Inclusive Golf.

Golf News was very proud to be the Official Media Partner of the day, as the event included a number of golfing challenges and tests.

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – The Day…

The day’s events comprised, an Individual 18-hole Stableford Competition (Men & Ladies).

A much enjoyed ‘Yellow Ball’ team event, run concurrently with the Straightest Drive and 2 x Nearest Pins.

The Golf News Guest Trophy, Charity Auction and Raffle also on offer.

This year, the event also hosted an indoor ‘Nearest Pin’ competition on North Downs golf simulator, with the winner receiving 2 nights half board at the Isla Canela Golf Hotel in Spain courtesy of Golf Escapes.

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship –  The Winners…

This year’s Men’s winner was Peter Hammond (Hampshire) with 37 Pts and the Women’s winner was Anna Guss (West London & Poland) with 29 Pts. Full results as follows:

Men’s Trophy (Halliwell Cup) …

1st – Peter Hammond – 37 Pts (Won on countback)

2nd – Roger Hurcombe – 37 Pts (British Inclusive Golf)

3rd – Speedy Miller – 34 Pts

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Women’s Trophy…

1st – Anna Guss – 29 Pts (Won on countback)

2nd – Judy Lilley – 29 Pts

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Golf News Guest Trophy…

1st – Jay Penfold (British Inclusive Golf)

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Other winners included…

• NP (3rd hole) – Michael Hanley
• NP(9th Hole) – Paul Langford
• NP in 2(11th hole) – Ian Smith
• Straightest Drive(18th hole) – Judy Lilley
• Nearest to the Sim Pin(sponsored by Golf Escapes) winning a 2-day golfing trip to Spain – Tony Moss
• Yellow Ball Team Winners– Ian Halliwell, Roger Hurcombe, Gary Wilson, Mark Reeves
• Trevor Sandford Trophy – Chip in Birdie – Steve Hunt
• Outstanding Contribution to TSG Award– Brigitte Lockwood

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – The Charity…

As with all good golf society days, there is often a secondary purpose.

This year’s championship was no exception.

The Social Golfer have always been big advocates in supporting disability golf and this year the members raised over £1200 for British Inclusive Golf.

These monies will go towards helping young kids with autism and other mental and physical disabilities through the game of golf.

 The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – What they said…

Speaking to Golf News after the event here’s what some of the attendees said about the day…

“On behalf of British Inclusive Golf, may I thank you and The Social Golfer community at the TSG 2018 Open, for the warm welcome we received and of course the considerable financial support through the funds raised on our behalf.”

“We are totally overwhelmed by the level of support! All our guys had a marvellous time despite the inclement weather and many new friendships were forged.”  Ian Halliwell – Chairman – British Inclusive Golf

Ian Mullins, Event Director of The Social Golfer OPEN said “Being a golf day organiser can have its trials and tribulations but every year the atmosphere at our events just gets better and better. A big thanks to everyone at Golf News, Golf Escapes and Golf Deals Group for putting up over £1k’s worth of prizes. “

“We hope to grow the event even further in the next 12 months in the hope we can broaden the appeal of the day beyond just our members and guests but include more golfers from all over the world!”

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By Ian Mullins

Read about TSG OPEN 2017 Championship – Click Here

One of Essex golf’s most popular figures, Matt Stables, has returned to South Essex Golf Club as Golf Development Professional with a positive message to all golfers – and a promise to improve their game.

Friend and member of The Social Golfer, Matt is an Advanced PGA Professional and has returned this summer after six years away from the club to develop a brand-new series of activities, aimed at growing the game and attracting golfers of all ages to the 27-hole golf complex….

Matt Stables returns to South Essex Golf Club…

“To me, golf is the best sport in the world, and for millions of people pure happiness is a day at the golf club with friends” said Matt Stables. “So I’m back here to engage local people not only with South Essex but also with this amazing sport.”

And if your golf game is getting you down, Stables has this for you…

“I’ll help you shoot four shots lower in the next 12 months”

He promises as he heads into the summer with new initiatives already established such as a Practice Club where both members and visiting golfers mingle with the common goal of shooting lower scores.

He has also started new Junior Classes at the weekends starting with Tiny Tots from four years of age and is also hosting new coaching programmes for female golfers and seniors at South Essex Golf Club.

To back up his new coaching plans, one of Stables’ first acts on his return to South Essex was to dramatically improve the Driving Range at the golf centre.

His range-refurbishment programme has already seen the introduction of all-new golf balls, hitting mats and lighting to the golf centre’s covered 14-bay range, with new range targets and fairway shaping on the outfield.

The 42-year-old pro feels like he is back at home – he was the Head Professional at South Essex Golf Club from 2009 to 2012 and has been welcomed back warmly by many of the club’s regulars.

“South Essex Golf Club is known as a great place for visitors” he said

“However, we’re actually also a great place to be a member. 27 holes playable all year round, a good range, and a great atmosphere in the clubhouse – it’s always buzzing here, which is one of the reasons I’m back in this new role.”

Stables’ methods have made seismic changes to people’s golfing skills.

“There’s no limit to how well you can play this game ” he said.

“I have a pupil who cut a massive 32 shots off his golf game this year! I just gave him a personalised plan of action, and it really paid off.”

“If you want it badly enough, I can get you there.”

Stables has also coached other professional golfers, and also elite amateurs, but although it is seen mainly as a competitive sport he stresses that the emotional benefits of golf are also very important.

“At a golf club like South Essex you make friends, you get fitter, you discover new things about yourself, and you set and achieve new goals – whatever your age”

“Playing golf is an intense emotional experience, and you feel truly alive out there on the course. That’s why we all love it so much. I’m back at South Essex to channel that passion and energy, into better performance. My goal here is to help you enjoy your golf more than ever!”

Contact Matt at 01277 811289

For more information, visit the TSG club Partners Page –  Crown Golf

By Andy Hiseman

To celebrate their sponsorship of the ‘Nearest to the Sim Pin’ at the 2018 TSG OPEN, ourselves and Official TSG Travel Partner Golf Escapes, would like to tell you more about Isla Canela Golf Hotel in Huelva in Spain…

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Location…

The region of Huelva in Spain is full of unspoilt natural beauty, interesting historical sites, wonderful golden beaches, great hotels and even better golf courses.

The region is equidistance between both Faro airport and Seville airport making it easily accessible and we all know that less time travelling means more time holidaying!

Huelva is an up and coming region in terms of the golfing opportunities with the already established Islantilla resort, as well as Isla Canela and the new championship course at El Rompido.

With more and more plans for new golfing opportunities here every year it is a perfect destination for your next golf holiday to sunny Spain.

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Hotel…

A great place to stay and enjoy in Huelva is the Isla Canela Golf Hotel.

This four-star hotel is modern and luxurious and is just a five minutes’ drive from Isla Canela as well as only a mile or so from the beach.

With a traditional style restaurant, a Tapas bar and a café there is always somewhere to relax and eat at this hotel.

The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool area as well as a fantastic golf course on site.

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Course…

The Isla Canela Golf course is a great course for golfers with a higher handicap as it is a more straightforward course but of course, can be enjoyed by golfers of all abilities.

There are some beautiful views of the beach and the forests which are intermingled with some fantastic dog-leg holes and stunning greens.

This course has little undulation so is perfect if you’re looking for a lovely course that you can walk and take in the scenery whilst playing an enjoyable round of golf.

It’s a perfect destination for your next golf escape to Huelva.

By James Bryan

For more information and some great packages visit www.golf-escapes.com/isla-canela-golf

Looking for golf clubs in my area? Want to try some new courses?

Crown Golf has recently launched their new website that now includes a handy guide for finding the nearest Crown Golf course to you…

Finding a golf club in your area has never been easier…

No matter where you are in the country, you’ll always be able to find the Crown Golf club that’s closest to you.

Whether you’re looking for a convenient course that’s near where you live…

…or you’re looking for somewhere to meet with friends in a location that works for all of you, our club finder will make it happen.

How does it work…

• Simply put in a postcode or the name of a town and we’ll show you all the surrounding golf clubs in that area.
• You can change the distance radius to as great or small as you wish to broaden or narrow your results.
• It’s also a great excuse to visit our new and improved websites

So next time you’re racking your brains trying to decides where to play next, why not give the Crown golf club finder a try and ‘find golf clubs in my area’?

Finding a Golf Club in your area has never been easier – other changes…

We recently overhauled all sites within the Crown Group to improve the experience for our visitors.

We’ve got lots of new functionality including an updated ‘book-a-tee-time’ process.

This means that not only is it now easy to find the club you want, but to book and play it is simple too!

Each of the club websites proudly displays their course highlights and you’ll see testimonials from other golfers so that you can make a truly informed decision about your next round of golf.

Find Golf Clubs in my area – What they said…

“Great course & club offering good membership deals, swimming pool is a delight and I can’t fault anything at all. Been a member for 5 years now, highly recommend The Hertfordshire as a golf club, food hotspot and gym!” – J.R

“Great course, challenging, great hospitality, friendly staff, great food and drink, a great venue for all walks of life.” – VS (About Merrist Wood)

“Chesfield Downs Golf Club is a lovely golf course with great views and welcoming staff” – R.T

“Great club been a member for 3 years. Club pros are excellent for both advice and lessons, clubhouse food very good value highly recommend. If you play golf, come and join us!” – RR (About Sherfield Oaks)

Aside from reviews and green-fees information, you’ll also be able to see what golf events are on, using the ‘What’s on’ section, and if you are planning a golf society day, we have all the resources for this too.

So, if you haven’t visited our new sites yet, what are you waiting for? Your perfect round of golf is just a few clicks away!

Head to www.crown-golf.co.uk/clubfinder to see a list of all of our Clubs and navigate to the one you want.

If you’re ‘looking for a golf club in my area’ and like to see the ‘club finder’ in action, see our facebook page where we’re showcasing a video demo!

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Crown Golf is the official club partner of The Social Golfer

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Having planted my ball on the 7^th green at Peeble Beach (at the TSG Open Championship on a simulator!), the next thing I know I’ve won a golfing trip to Sicily courtesy of Golf Escapes and Il Picciolo Golf Resort.

And having added a few dates to our trip, here’s my review for my fellow Social Golfer members to enjoy….

By Paul Houghton

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – location and accommodation, Facilities…

Il Picciolo Golf Resort in the centre of the Mediterranean island of Sicily is situated roughly 50 miles from Catania Airport.

The hotel is over half way up Mount Etna the scenery is spectacular.

The transfer cost is 120 Euros (one way) and takes 50+ minutes.

The hotel and course itself were built in 1989 but sadly the outside of the hotel reflects this and is badly in need of refurbishment.

On arrival you approach a rather dated reception, where details are taken, language is not a barrier but no help with luggage was offered?

Sadly, the first thing to note is the hotel is not overly disabled friendly, some steps are not accompanied with handrails.  However, the rooms are of a good size with on suite bathroom facilities.

They are clean and the chambermaid service is very good.  Towels and shower gel etc changed every day. The room boasts Sky television and a mini bar.  Only four coat hangers per person encourage you to travel light, but there’s plenty of space for clothing and storage is available.

The restaurant was very spacious but a little dark, the staff were courteous but surely on occasion.

The three-course evening meal costs 29 Euros and was very good, most of the time.  The Saturday evening buffet was superb, only the last night did I feel the food was of a poor standard.  The breakfast layout is bland but of good quality.

The service during breakfast seemed more relaxed.  I fell one evening slipping on a discarded cucumber slice and the staff were very quick to act, cleaning up the debris, but alas did not follow up to ask if this disabled man was injured, so we felt could have been handled better.

The hotel catered for coach parties which stayed one or two nights at the hotel, staff seemed more attentive towards them than the longer staying cliental.

The cocktail bar was run by a very efficient member of staff for most of our stay (7 nights) but when she was not on duty, she was replaced by staff who obviously did not enjoy the role.

The drinks were not cheap at £7 for a G & T, we were never offered a complimentary appetiser even though it was part of our deal?! As far as entertainment goes it karaoke style.

One evening a singer sang along to backing tracks until midnight (about 5 hours), alas she was the only entertainment of the week and whilst it was ok, New York New York wears a bit thin after a while!

The spa was very tranquil and ticked many boxes as to treatments.

The staff there were helpful and made it a very enjoyable experience.  Information on the few trips (3) offered was sparse, no leaflets were offered.  A trip up Etna was offered for £100 but no meal made it seem very expensive.  Getting a taxi return to Taormina was over a £100 it was 30 minutes away.

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – The staff…

To be brutally honest, overall, the staff communication was a problem the whole week.

There was a power cut one day, no explanation was offered to the guests and we only got into our room by seeking help from a cleaner?

The resort manager (Guy) did make an effort to discuss how our experience was going, he was very friendly and chatted whenever we saw him (he was English) but surprisingly, no other staff engaged to that level, instead, they saved their conversation for Italian guests

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – The Golf Course…

The Clubhouse is situated a few hundred yards from the hotel.  Your round can be booked through the hotel, but buggies have to be paid for at the club. The Pro at the club is friendly and his staff are very helpful.

The office doubles with helicopter rides up Etna, so they are not only focussed with the golfers. A spacious locker room is accompanied by shower facilities.  There are drinks machines for refreshments and confectionary.

There had been a fire in the kitchens, so no other food was available at the golf club which was a little disappointing.

However, the Practise facilities are VERY good, a driving range, practice bunker with plenty of sand in it, a dedicated chipping green and practice putting green.  I was given free practise balls – refreshing as that wouldn’t happen in the UK.

A round of golf is not cheap at 85 Euros buggies are 45 Euros.  The course is nicely set out with some challenging holes but the clover (just off the fairways) is four inches long and thick.

Lost balls are inevitable as the fairways are no more than 20 paces.  I felt this was too penial, looking for balls becomes a bit of a chore when you’ve hit a good shot.

It’s a shame as the course has some dramatic holes, but its let down by unkept rough, clover, daisies and very poor signage. A stroke saver is essential for 5 Euros. The slope index does give the average golfer two shots, but it’s the looking for balls that effects your game. #

This is a very undulating course so if you’re going to walk be prepared, the temperature can fluctuate 10 or 12 degrees while you are out there. A fair bit of work needs to address these issues to bring the course up to its best.

However, one thing I will always remember is the scenic backdrop, the views of Mount Etna are spectacular…. and would make me return just to view again.

In summary, Il Picciolo Golf Resort could be an exceptional course but it really needs a lot of work on it to get it above a 3 out of 5 rating.

Would I revisit Il Picciolo?  Probably not until I see improvement in the course, its nowhere near the standard of courses for the same money in Spain or Portugal.

I think its pricing its self out of the market of the average golfer if it wants to attract the better player a lot of work needs to be done to compete with the Algarve etc.

TSG Verdict – 3 out of 5 stars

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