Golfers can swing for the stars on tours of top courses around the world
By LISA KLEIN
Golfers with a true passion for the sport often have a list of courses around the world that they dream to play.
Now doing so is easier than ever thanks to a limited series of trips from Kensington Tours that brings golf lovers to the most famous greens in Ireland, Scotland and New Zealand.
“We’ve designed these exclusive trips to take our clients beyond the field and offer an insider’s access to some of the world’s most coveted events and locations, where our clients not only witness the grandeur of these sporting events, but also feel an integral part of the legacy and tradition,” said William Forbes, senior vice president of product for Kensington Tours.
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Kensington Tours has designed its new trips for golf enthusiasts who want to gain access to bucket-list courses in destinations synonymous with the sport.
“The inspiration for these trips comes from a deep understanding of what we know our clients seek: an intimate, immersive connection with the sports they cherish in destinations where they can play or watch the games they love,” Mr. Forbes said.
The golf-centric itineraries open up a wide range of courses for travelers to play, from each country’s top-of-the-line options to well-worn courses to those famous as venues for major events such as the Ryder Cup.
“In Ireland, as well as in Scotland – which is the birthplace of golf – the courses are etched into the land, offering challenges that have tested the mettle of golfers for centuries,” Mr. Forbes said.
An eight-day trip through Scotland includes stops at the historic Carnoustie Golf Club, St. Andrews Links and Carrick Golf Course.
On the eight-day Emerald Isle excursion, golfers will test themselves at Royal Portrush, Royal County Down and Portmarnock Golf Course, among others.
And on a two-week journey to New Zealand, travelers can take swings Titirangi Golf Course, Kauri Cliffs, Millbrook Resort & Country Club, Sky High Fairways, Jack’s Point and Cape Kidnappers.
“New Zealand has quickly become one of the game’s top destinations,” Mr. Forbes said. “Its breathtaking vistas add another layer of awe-inspiring beauty that elevates the game to an art form.”
In between rounds, golfers will get a chance to look at much more than the tee, with the trips packing in plenty of cultural sights in each destination.
Those who are Scotland bound will visit Edinburgh, castles, the country’s famous lochs and, of course, whisky distilleries. In Ireland, more whisky awaits, along with a Dublin jaunt and visit to the Guinness Storehouse, while in New Zealand, the natural beauty of the island nation will unfold.
As with all Kensington Tours’ offerings, each itinerary is fully customizable to fit in any and every course or other activity a group is interested in to create the golfing trip of a lifetime.
“For serious golfers, these aren’t just destinations; they are sanctuaries where the game transcends sport,” Mr. Forbes said. “Every fairway is woven with history and every green is a testament to the spirit of golfing legends.”