Le Pavoniere Golf Club
If you are a golfer, and Italy is on your vacation bucket list, consider a golf trip to Tuscany.
Italy is not known as a golf destination. Given that there are only a couple hundred golf courses throughout the entire country, this is no surprise.
However, the Italian Golf Federation is making a push to change this, and grow the game in Italy.
As a start to this long term project, Italy hosted last year’s Ryder Cup matches just outside of Rome.
However, Italy does have a long standing golf tradition, with several courses over 100 years old.
And, a few of the best courses in all of Italy are located in Tuscany.
Every first trip to Italy should include Florence. Many Americans who have Italy on their bucket list will typically include Venice, Florence and Rome on their itinerary.
Rightfully so, those are the big three destinations in Italy.
Golfers can also consider that itinerary and play some excellent golf.
The must play golf courses in Tuscany
Tuscany is actually home to Italy’s highest ranked golf course, and which is also considered one of the best in all of Europe… Castiglion del Bosco Golf Club.
Until recently, you were only able to play this Tom Weiskopf designed course with a member.
However, the property offers just over forty guest rooms, and guests are now allowed access to the golf course.
Keep in mind, this is a very exclusive property, so you will be paying quite a bit for the opportunity. You can check out the offerings here… Castiglion del Bosco.
As you might have imagined, Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region. The best course near Florence is Le Pavoniere Golf & Country Club, located about ten miles northwest of Florence.
This is an Arnold Palmer design that is definitely a must play given its proximity to Florence.
If you are looking for a Mediterranean golf experience, you can’t go wrong with the Argentario Golf and Wellness Resort. While it is a bit off the beaten path, this resort has everything you want in a golf and spa retreat.
This property is located at the southwest corner of Tuscany on what is effectively an island connected to the mainland by two land bridges and one man made bridge.
Royal Golf La Bagnaia
Moving further north, just to the south of Siena, and about 35 miles south of Florence is Royal Golf La Bagnaia. This is a Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed course that offers magnificent views of the Tuscan countryside.
Another property not to be missed is the Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, located about 25 miles southwest of Florence. This resort offers 27 holes and more splendid views of the Tuscan countryside.
When to play golf in Tuscany
The absolute best times to play golf in Tuscany are April to June and September to early November.
Temperatures in this part of Italy can get pretty steamy in July and August, and if you intend to explore Tuscany beyond just the golf courses, you’ll want to avoid those months.
While Winter in Tuscany is relatively mild, it can still get pretty frigid and the golf course conditions won’t be ideal.
The best way to get around Tuscany
While the train system in Italy is great, the golf resorts are generally not close to any train stations.
Therefore, you will definitely want to rent a car for at least part of your trip. In fact, it is definitely the best way to get around Tuscany, as renting a car provides you with the opportunity to explore the countryside at your own pace.
We recommend Discover Cars for finding the best deals on car rentals in Tuscany.
Where to stay in Tuscany
If you are traveling to Tuscany, it’s imperative that you spend at least a couple days in Florence. Florence is very walkable, so you will want to stay close to the city center.
Our top recommended hotel in Florence is the Hotel Calimala. This hotel is located directly between the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and offers a variety of room choices from deluxe doubles to large suites.
Florence can provide you with a good central location to access Le Pavoniere Golf Club, Royal Golf La Bagnaia and Castelfalfi.
If you decide to include Argentario and/or Castiglion del Bosco as part of your golf itinerary, then you will want to stay at those resorts.
To find other options for Florence and Tuscany, use the search form below.
