MUST PLAY 2023

The golf travel destinations you need to visit this year

Start dreaming

While the world is still dealing with the pandemic, there's been a clear softening of travel restrictions across the board over the last year or so. That's great news for fans of our game, as there's never been a better time to get out there and see what planet golf has to offer. If you've never been on a golf break abroad, either with friends or your other half, then it's absolutely the right time to break your duck; if you have, and it's a regular in your annual golfing calendar. then you'll know how many great destinations there are out there - many of which feature in this travel special.

If you're looking to head for sunnier climes in Europe, then take your pick. The traditional powerhouses of Spain and Portugal are stronger than ever, but Italy, Greece and Bulgaria are among the continent's less heralded but highly viable golf-break destinations. The Algarve, Lisbon and the Costa del Sol all feature here, as well as stunning Sicily, Piemonte and Costa Navarino, one of Europe's most exciting golf developments.

Of course, golf isn't solely confined to this continent, and there's plenty to excite further afield if that's your preference. In this travel special, we consider courses in Vietnam, South Africa, Mauritius, Barbados and more. Wherever you want to play, we've got you covered.

Dundonald Links

Fresh from a 2022 that saw the popular layout metamorphose into a fully fledged resort, Dundonald Links has earned a place on the list of Scotland's finest. The Ayrshire venue has been celebrated for its championship course since an extensive 2003 redesign by exalted architect Kyle Phillips. Now, after significant investment, it boasts the facilities to match.