Back in the 15th century, wielding appropriated sticks with which to whack pebbles across a local terrain of marshes, grassland and sand dunes, some (bored, possibly drunk) pioneering Scotsmen from Fife inadvertently happened upon the game of golf. The rest as they say is…
FORE! The future of modern sport? The most lucrative pastime on the planet? A good excuse for a relaxing stroll in the countryside? All of the above? However you look at it, golf today is a brilliantly entertaining and globally popular sport and one that, like skiing and surfing, has the power to orchestrate entire holidays around the particular landscapes required by its practice.
Stunning views unfold from the Lemuria Championship Golf Course
From the weather-beaten coastline of east Scotland, then, to the sunkissed shores of the Seychelles. At its best golf ticks the sporting boxes of physical, mental and even spiritual stimulation. An element of competition – against fellow players, the course or yourself – enhances things too. But unlike most sports, golf has the unique knack of also providing its enthusiasts with the added bonus of, more often than not, the opportunity to play amid beautiful rolling scenery. And it hardly gets more beautiful than the Seychelles. Golf in the the Seychelles is quickly becoming recognised by the sport’s global community, and the islands currently play host to two world-class courses. Each boast the kind of spectacular views and vistas that can inspire the best in players, who often raise their game to match such uplifting surroundings.
The Lemuria Championship Golf Course
You’ll find this excellent 18-hole, par 72 championship course onsite at the Constance Lemuria Resort on the north west of Praslin island. There are no green-fees for resort guests, and visitors from other islands and hotels are welcome on day-trips. The course winds lazily through tropical forest and hugs the scenic coastline along a 6,105 yard stretch. Palm trees stud the fairways and three golden beaches as well as the sparkling Indian Ocean are visible from this links. The advanced golfer will meet suitable challenges on The Lemuria Championship Golf Course, while intermediate and beginner players will enjoy testing their wits in a professional arena where the Seychelles Pro-Am is contested annually.
Stay at?
Well, it has to be Constance Lumeria Resort. In-resort, beachfront golf right on your doorstep at this all-suite luxury hotel where a supervised kids club means those travelling en famille won’t have cut short their tee-times.
An inspirational setting for golf
The Seychelles Golf Club
The Seychelles Golf Club is located on Mahe’s gorgeous, sun-soaked south east coast. Technically a nine-hole affair, the course can be played in reverse over the back-nine creating fully 18 holes. With a par 68 and reaching 4,990 yards, its narrow fairways lined with casurina trees and coconut palms test your skills while mangrove marshes throw up further challenges. Rare bird species and red crabs (liable to run off, albeit sideways, with your golf ball!) are often seen in and around the course, which was built on a section of nature reserve in 1980. Winding down with a cold drink and light snack or meal at the popular clubhouse is a worthy reward after a satisfying round, and you can also relax here in the swimming pool.
Stay at?
Choose a tranquil Pool Villa and luxuriate in one of eight spa pavilions at Banyan Tree Resort on the south west of Mahe; within driving distance of Seychelles Golf Club.