A golf course requires land, and where to build the course should be among the first decisions made. Permits, contractors, architects, and financing all depend on where it is more than anything else. The best places make golfers from all over the world line up to tee off. Consider pairing up with a destination golf tour to increase visibility for a new course.
1. Scotland
The country that brought golf to the world is still the best place to play. It takes a great course to compete with those already there, but the history of the game in Scotland adds more to the experience for the serious golfer which is why it has become so popular for golf breaks and corporate golf retreats. The beautiful vista seems made for the sport, which is probably how golf became so popular. Even in the traditional scene there is room for new courses to enliven golf.
2. Sweden
Golf in Sweden dates back to 1902, but it has great popularity due to the Swedish people’s love of outdoor activities. The midnight sun allows summer golfers to tee off until very late, a unique opportunity to the far north.
3. Brazil
The current courses range from ‘hard to find’ to ‘hard to get into’, so there are good reasons to build more in Brazil. Many are also considered easier due to length, but also touted as good for the irons, which sounds like an opportunity to build a longer course.
4. South Africa
Demand in South Africa grows despite there being a golf course in nearly every village. This well-kept secret place also offers exotic landscapes to tempt adventurers for a jaunt down the fairway. The temperate climate also makes South Africa a great destination year-round. The availability of holiday accommodation in Cape Town and surrounds also makes for a private, relaxed and luxury city to enjoy Golf.
5. Carolinas, USA
These coastal states offer possibilities mixed with the pleasant hospitality of the South. Tourists flock to the area for many reasons throughout all seasons.
Expect to see China make the list? The ban from the Ministry of Land and Resources in 2004 still stands due to the need to save the land for farming. While the people of China get richer and are more able to afford golf memberships, the land required to set aside for it and the daily water needed to maintain it are out of the question.
Tourists and locals are necessary for a new golf course to support it and make it great. Any ideas from the contractor or architect to provide unique features are welcome bonuses to draw the crowd.