Australia
With animated cities and sweeping natural landscapes, Australia has all the makings of a distinctly unique holiday destination. And this holds true whether or not you’re up for tee!
By Jennilyn Q. Salvador
Australia is considered the sixth largest nation in the world, and it’s also the only country to govern an entire continent. Encompassing approximately the same size as that of the 48 mainland states of America, it ironically has the lowest human population density: only about two people in every square kilometer. But Australia is far from wanting in interesting sights. Quite the opposite, actually, as it offers myriad places of interest to appeal to just about any kind of traveler – from the easy-going and laidback nature lover, to the fun-loving and trendy partygoer. Oh, and yes, this country-continent also draws many golf enthusiasts to its shores – with very good reason.
At the mere mention of Australia, many images immediately come to mind, and without a doubt, the Great Barrier Reef would be on most people’s list. And why wouldn’t it be? This spectacular site is known as the world’s largest reef system, stretching over an area of about 344,400 square kilometers. The Great Barrier Reef is so big that it can be seen in outer space. Now, if you want to take a detour and step on dry land (at least part of the time), there’s Tasmania to lure you. An archipelago of over 300 islands, it offers more than a handful of national parks and reserves, perfect for taking a welcome retreat back to nature. If you’re more of a city person, Australia doesn’t disappoint either. Sydney, the country’s capital, has a lively arts and culture scene, with the internationally-renowned Sydney Opera House as one of its most popular attractions. Melbourne likewise has plenty to offer, from food and wine to shopping places.
The interesting play of contrasts from its varied geography to its myriad lifestyle scene seems to extend to its golf courses. Australia has some of the most beautiful courses around, and it’s no surprise why it is frequented by golfers around the word. Here are just four of the tee venues you might want to keep a tab on:
Barnbougle Dunes
Located in Tasmania, Barnbougle Dunes seems to hint of the island state’s penchant for nature. This golf course, found on the North East coast, is set against the backdrop of long stretches of coastlines, lush wilderness, and cool climate. Barnbougle Dunes also mirrors the charms of coastal courses which are associated in Scotland and Ireland, and even at a glance, the inspiration is well worth it. The Dunes is voted Australia’s number 1 Public Golf Course; it is number 7 in the world’s public access course; and if that isn’t enough, it landed as the 35th best course on the planet.
http://www.barnbougledunes.com.au/
Joondalup Resort
Well-appointed rooms and suites, a number of fine restaurants and cafes, and a host of different facilities. With all these at hand, Joondalup Resort establishes itself as one of the must-see destinations north of Perth – after all, it is just 25 minutes away by car. Apart from its close proximity to white sand beaches of the Sunset Coast, it also prides itself with having kangaroos freely roam the area, and an animated wild floral setting. The golf course, not surprisingly, holds the same appeal as the rest of the place does. The landscape changes from lush bushlands to impressive limestone quarries, making the play more challenging and interesting.
http://www.joondalupresort.com.au/
The Cut
Opened only in 2005, The Cut Golf Course is steadily making a name for itself. It was recognized in 2008 by Australian Golf Digest Magazine as the number 1 golf course, and at present it remains to be one of the top 10 courses in the country. That’s quite unusual for a golf course that is fairly new, but The Cut continuously proves that it deserves the recognitions it receives. The golf course is set against a backdrop of ocean-front dunes, and it features stunning views along the coast scattered among its strategically-placed 18 holes. Playing at The Cut can be synonymous to redefining one’s perception of this classic game: a beautiful background combined with the vivid imagination of its designer.
http://www.the-cut.com.au/
Hamilton Island Golf Club
Hamilton Island Golf Club is serenely situated just at the edge of The Great Barrier Reef, making it capture some of the most breathtaking sceneries nature has to offer. Aside from this distinct advantage, Hamilton is likewise regarded as the only championship golf course in the country. It was designed to cater to people of all levels in golf, from beginners and resort guests, to serious enthusiasts and professional golfers. But perhaps just as important as its design is the rugged natural beauty surrounding it, with terrains and beaches encompassed in its scenery that accounts for a memorable experience – even outside the golf course.
http://www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au
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