Orlando has always been a top holiday destination for most. From the Universal Studios to DisneyWorld and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there is a lot to do during a family holiday. If golfing is your thing though Orlando has some of the best, most luxurious golf courses in the world and when choosing between them your options are limitless, but here to help you make your choice in where to stay are five of the best courses and what makes them stand out from the crowd
Disneys Magnolia Golf Course
While some of the family take on the trills of the theme park, and others check out the flicks at Universal Pictures you could de-stress on the manicured greens of the Magnolia Golf Course at Disney World. This course is the longest from Disney and hosts the Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals Classic tournament. The course takes its name from the fragrant blossoming magnolia trees which make up part of its beauty. The course golf carts are fitted with the latest GPS technology which gives you a realistic image of the upcoming fairways, greens and hazards.
Tom Watson Course
Framed by fast, firm and wide fairways, cleverly placed bunkers and large greens this par 72 course is for the strategic players out there. The Tom Watson is one of three Reunion Resort courses and puts a premium on sharp, short games. The Tom Watson Course was listed on Golfweeks Best Courses in 2013 for Florida, one of only four in Orlando and designed by its namesake, leading eight time championship winner Tom Watson.
Bay Hill Club
Arnold Palmers Bay Hill Club and Lodge is a luxury resort which offers the top level golf experience through its 27 holes. It prides itself on being the best of the best and provides a range of activities and experiences for its guests. The Bay Hill Club and Lodge has been owned by Arnold Palmer since 1974 and hosts the PGA Tour Arnold Palmer Invitational annually, usually on or close to the first day of spring. Amenities on offer include a 70-bedroom lodge, spa, salon, fitness centre, tennis courts and pool.
ChampionsGate Golf Club
ChampionsGate features two 18 hole golf courses designed by architect and golfer Greg norman, dedicated to providing a golf masterpiece. The International Course is exceptionally challenging, recommended for skilled and avid players. The course features high-side dunes and swirling grasses that grow down into the banks of the hazards. There are over 160 randomly placed pot bunkers and has been constructed around the Central Florida Wetlands to add extra challenge. If you fancy a nice bit of winter sun, you can catch some of the top players compete with their sons to win the Willie Park Trophy at the Father Son Challenge during the first weekend of December.
Grand Cypress Golf Club
The Grand Cypress resort boasts four well renowned courses. The New Course opened in 1988 and is regarded as one of the best courses in Florida. It adds another dimension to golf with its steep bunkers and slopes. The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus as a tribute to The old Course at St Andrews in Scotland. The course doesnt feature as many water hazards as others but when you come across them you will be challenged as much, if not more, than on other courses. The facilities include locker rooms and restaurant in The Club and the Grand Cypress Academy of Golf which is dedicated to world class golf instruction.
