The recent opening of two additional golf courses in the heart of Tuscany create additional opportunities for travelers to combine golf and a visit to one of the most iconic lifestyle destinations in the world.
Villa La Massa in Florence
Less than 15km’s from the medevil city of Siena is Borgo La Bagnaia, a Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design which is the central feature of this new development. The course undulates through the Tuscan countryside with an attractive, playable feel. It only opened in September, 2011 and is moving quickly through the maturation phase. This five star resort also offers and extensive spa and multiple dining options, including a Pizzeria which is noted as one of the finest in the area, on the night we were there it was very busy with locals….always a good indication!. The nearby city of Siena, famous for it horse race through the city’s main Piazza, the Palio happens twice annually in July and August.
About 50 minutes to the south of Siena and in a more remote location is the Tom Wieskopf designed layout at Castiglion del Bosco. Part of a 4,500 acre development in the finest Tuscan tradition, CdB offers travelers the option of staying in one of the 9 luxuriously appointed villas dotted around the estate or in one of the 23 suites in the Borgo which sits atop a hill and is the centre of activity with a spa, swimming pool and dining options. The accommodations at CdB are very possibly the finest, with an attention to detail of construction and design I recall seeing anywhere in the world. I should also mention that in terms of food quality and wine, CdB delivers a fabulous experience, it was consistently outstanding. A visit and tour of the onsite vineyard is a must for any visitor. The golf course opened in July 2011 and access is limited to members and guests of the estate.
While it does not have an onsite golf course, the sister property of Villa D’Este on Lake Como, is the more intimate Villa La Massa on the outskirts of Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world….Villa La Massa is only 10 minutes from Ugolino and a similar distance from the Chianati region famous for it’s wines. Villa La Massa is perched on the edge of the Arno River which runs through Florence and deliver impeccable service in a comfortable setting.
All in all, Tuscany can deliver a golf travel experience which touches so many of the senses, it is a destination worthy of serious consideration for your next trip.
About the Author: Gordon Dalgleish is the Co-Founding Director of PerryGolf, the leading provider of international golf vacations. You can find him onGoogle+
