There are a number of good golf courses to be enjoyed around Lake Como.
The first is the famous Menaggio and Cadenabbia golf course. Originally founded by an English aristocrat in 1907, this very tight 18 hole course was completely redesigned in 1965 but still maintains a traditional British feel. It offers breathtaking views over Lake Como from its elevated position above the lakes western shore. The clubhouse features a magnificent library of golfing literature, said to be second only to that at St Andrews. This is a Par 70 of 5455 metres.
Arguably more challenging still is the Villa d’Este golf course in Montorfano. Many consider this to be the most difficult course on Lake Maggiore. Whatever your views on the difficulty rating of this par 69 course, no one can fail to enjoy the stunning views the course enjoys from its elevated position. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to relax after your game with a spot of lunch on the verandah of the clubhouse!
Another course worth mentioning is La Pinetina, a course set within an area of almost 400 acres of stunning Appiano Gentile and Tradate Parco Pineta parkland.
Also worth a visit is Le Robinie. This is Italy’s only Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and has the unmistakable imprint of the famour golfer.
For those who don’t mind a drive to the golf course, there are a number of excellent courses on Lake Maggiore as well. The autostrada leads from Como all the way to the head of Lake Maggiore where golfers can find the Patriziale Ascona Golf Club, the Losone Golf Club and the Locarno Golf Club. The latter is ideal if you’re more of a beginner. There’s a 9 hole course here perfect for the novice golfer as well as a driving range and golf school where you can enjoy lessons from the professionals. For those preferring an 18 hole course, Losone is the newst course on the lake, opened in 2001. Players will find the course becomes progressively more difficult as they play.
Slightly less far to trek is Lake Lugano. Lugano itself also has an excellent course just 8 km from the centre of the town.
All the courses are normally open all year round but it is worth ringing ahead to check opening times to avoid any disappointment on arrival.
