Although Sri Lanka has not made her name in the world of Golf just yet but the tiny island has some of the finest golf courses in Asia thereby proving there is a long history of Golf in the country. The Victoria Golf and Country Resort in Kandy is the most revered 18 hole golf course in Sri Lanka for its most beautifully landscaped course secluded away from the city amongst the valleys in the Central Highlands. The Royal Colombo Golf Club, the second oldest golf club outside of England was established in 1879, this and the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club reflect the colonial period with their colonial styled clubhouses. The recently established golf course at Hotel Shangri La, Hambantota is the latest addition to the collection of Sri Lanka’s golf courses.
The Royal Colombo Golf Club
The Royal Colombo Golf Club was inaugurated in 1879 which introduced the sport of Golf to the country. It attained the ‘Royal’ status from the British crown in 1928 making it the second oldest golf club out of Britain. It spans over 18 holes, 6,560 yards Black tees, 6,303 yards white tees and 5186 yards Ladies tee. There are individual practice areas with green fees and caddie fees being imposed. The club possesses a full functioning Ladies’ division which has been involved in many tournaments. The club also has special facilities such as the gym and a relaxing lounge making the establishment a notable golf course within 20 minutes drive in the pulsating city of Colombo.
Victoria Golf & Country Resort, Kandy
Revered as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, the Victoria Golf and Country Resort is one of the major attractions in the mid country. It was designed by Donald Steel and is situated over a 500 acre coconut estate in Digana on the outskirts of Kandy, sitting on top of the hilly slopes overlooking the Victoria Reservoir. It’s 18 hole, 6,933 yard and 73 Par championship golf course goes along the natural contours of the rolling land whilst maintaining international standards. It offers the most picturesque scenery and striking views of nature.
However, for the enthusiastic golfer, the course gives a challenging 18 holes game and yet, the par 4 6th hole has come to be the signature hole. Apart from the golf course, the resort provides many accommodation options from villas, boutique hotels and budget hotels. You can enjoy bird watching over the reservoir and surrounding hills and many activities such as swimming, horse riding, tennis and Ayurvedic massage treatments, making it a wonderful place with a relaxing atmosphere for a full family experience.
Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
The Nuwara Eliya Golf club was founded in 1889, and is one of the oldest golf clubs in Asia. During earlier times the British planters needed a place for recreation and leisure, so they founded the club with a classic combination of old colonial past and a modern touch. It is definitely one of the most iconic locations in Nuwara Eliya, and it has a worldly atmosphere that inspires every keen golfer. The 18 hole golf course is 6399 yards long, with a par 71 layout. The course covers approximately 40.5 hectares (1oo acres). It is lined with rows of cypresses and eucalyptuses with dense shrubbery. It has a very scenic and peaceful environment not so far from the hustle and bustle of the town, which takes people back in time reminiscing carefree days. The resident golf professionals provide lessons every day of the week, so amateurs have the opportunity of learning, with the added effect of the perfectly manicured lawns and the atmosphere.
Eagles’ Golf Links, Trincomalee
Located on the East coast of the island, the Eagle’s Golf course has spectacular views of the crystal blue waters of the Marble beach and well preserved gardens. The golf course spanning over 171 acres will test every golfer’s skill since it has a heap of challenges like sand bunkers and water hedges that are sure to yield a tough game. There is a green fee of $50 for foreign nationals. Other services pertaining to the sport like caddie, ball spotters and clubs are provided to the players on request. After a hard game the players can relax at the club house which is bordered by a breathtaking view soaked in serenity. The Eagles’ club house provides accommodation for members as well as other players; with discounts for former military personnel, since the place is owned and managed by the Sri Lankan Air Force.
Shangri La’s Hambantota Golf Resort and Spa
Located along the ancient Spice Route in the beautiful city of Hambantota, this luxury resort is the largest resort in Sri Lanka. The resort that spreads up to about 58 hectares is surrounded by stunning tropical gardens and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean.The golf course will undoubtedly leave you with a memorable golfing experience. This 18-hole course spreads across a large coconut palm plantation, lakes, sand dunes, and a sapphire quarry which will not only give you the most beautiful golfing experience but also some of the most picturesque views that flaunts the diversity of the island at its best. Shangri-La’s golf course is the first and the only resort golf course, not only in Hambantota but also the first and only in the entire country. Professionally designed by the world-renowned golf architect, Rodney Wright; his goal was to design a course that people would always remember.
