Tag: Golf

3Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Sports Business

153rd Open at Royal Portrush: a £280m economic impact for Northern Ireland

Golf's Open Championship has reaffirmed its status as one of the world’s most powerful drivers of sports tourism, with the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush generating £89.2 million in total economic impact for Northern Ireland, according to a study by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sports Industry Research Centre. Causeway Coast and Glens alone benefited by £43.7 million, underscoring the Championship’s transformative effect on host destinations.  Beyond visitor spending, the global visibility of the golf major delivered a further £191 million in destination marketing value, driven by worldwide broadcast coverage, digital platforms and extensive online media reach, as reported by YouGov.  The Open’s spectacular return to the iconic Causeway Coast drew a record-breaking 278,000 specta...

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29Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Calendars, Events

2026 golf events calendar: the majors and biggest tournaments

Golf fans around the world can look forward to a packed international calendar in 2026. At the heart of the season are the four men’s majors and five women’s majors, each offering its own legacy and challenge. On the men’s major schedule the Masters Tournament returns to Augusta National in April, followed by the PGA Championship in May, the US Open in June, and The Open Championship in July, where golf’s oldest major will again draw massive global attention.  The women’s game takes centre stage across five majors, reflecting its rapid international growth. The Chevron Championship tees off the major season, while the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, US Women’s Open, Amundi Evian Championship, and the AIG Women’s Open continue to elevate the global reach of elite women’s golf, att...

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22Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Calendars

PGA Tour 2026 calendar marks 20th year of golf’s FedExCup

The 2026 PGA Tour men's golf season is set to deliver one of the most globally compelling and competitive calendars in recent memory, showcasing a seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and world-class destinations. The 2026 Tour marks the 20th edition of the FedExCup. Tee­ing off in January under the Hawaiian sun, the season charts a dynamic journey through iconic American courses, coastal classics, and major metropolitan stops – each offering its own drama as players battle for FedExCup points and season-defining moments. A highlight of the year once again comes from the sport’s four men’s majors, with the Masters, PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open Championship anchoring the heart of the season and drawing global attention from millions of fans and sports travellers.  ...

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18Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027

With Europe clinching a dramatic Ryder Cup victory over the USA at Bethpage Black, all eyes now turn to Ireland as the countdown begins for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, where golf’s greatest team event will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Team Europe stars Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy played pivotal roles in New York, with Lowry delivering the decisive half point that ensured Europe retained the coveted trophy in front of packed galleries. Ireland’s Ryder Cup roots run strong, with Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke among recent captains, having also provided unforgettable moments such as McGinley holing the winning putt in 2002 and Clarke’s performance at the K Club in 2006, when Ireland last hosted the event. The Island of Ireland is no stranger to hostin...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express

For golf travellers who believe the journey should be every bit as memorable as the destination, the “Italian Swing” voyage aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is a bucket list experience like no other. This four-day, three-night adventure fuses world-class golf with the romance of slow luxury travel – a rolling celebration of Italy’s landscapes, cuisine, and culture. Unveiled as part of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express’s series of curated Italian itineraries, the Italian Swing offers an indulgent round trip from Rome to Apulia, Siena, and Perugia, showcasing Italy’s finest fairways in cinematic style. Think golden Tuscan hills, medieval towns, coastal vistas, and evenings of exquisite dining – all wrapped in the timeless elegance of a train that redefines old-world glamour. Onbo...

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5Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates to open in Dubai in 2030

Hotel group Mandarin Oriental has announced that its first dedicated golf resort – Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates – will be located in Dubai, UAE. Opening in 2030 and featuring branded residences, the luxury golf and wellness resort will be the group’s third property in the city and uniquely positioned within Jumeirah Golf Estates’s next phase of development.  When it opens its doors, the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai will comprise 121 spacious rooms and suites. In addition, there will be 97 branded residences ranging from three- to six-bedroom villas, each with its own amenities and private access to a lounge, meeting space, pool and fitness areas. A highlight of the resort will be The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, presenting an extensive range of the group’s...

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5Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Highland Icons’ golf breaks at Links House

The UK's most northerly luxury destination has launched 'Highland Icons' golf breaks on the world-famous North Coast 500 for autumn and spring. The five-star Links House at Royal Dornoch has created the ultimate stay-and-play packages for passionate golfers looking for a world-class experience within easy access of four championship level courses listed amongst the UK's top 100. Located just one hour from Inverness Airport, Links House is easily accessible for a two or three-night golf break from London, Manchester, Bristol and Belfast.  As well as sitting less than 100 yards from the first tee at Royal Dornoch, the legendary Links House is also well-placed within 30 minutes of Brora, Tain and Golspie golf courses.  Whether you're escaping for a competitive few days with frie...

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2Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Five Iron Golf UAE to open new venues in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Five Iron Golf’s UAE franchisee, which already operates the flagship indoor golf and entertainment venue at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, has confirmed two new venue openings as part of its regional expansion. A lease has been signed for a location at Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, along with a third site at DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts in Business Bay, Dubai. Both venues are scheduled to open in Q1 2026, with further plans to expand into key markets across Asia, Europe and Africa. To support this growth, the group has closed a new financing round led by Powerhouse Capital, with participation from NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., recent PGA Tour winner Kurt Kitayama, LPGA star Alison Lee and Managing Partner of Sharp Alpha Lloyd Danzig. The UAE fran...

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28Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Calendars, Events

DP World Tour 2026 calendar: 42 tournaments across five ‘global swings’ 

The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship and a new venue for the Amgen Irish Open headline the 2026 DP World Tour global schedule.  Featuring a minimum of 42 Race to Dubai tournaments in 25 different countries, the schedule will once again comprise three distinct phases, beginning with five ‘Global Swings’ followed by the ‘Back 9’, with the season then culminating with the ‘DP World Tour Play-Offs’ in November 2026. Members will compete for a record total prize fund of $157.5 million (outside the Major Championships) on golf’s global Tour next season. The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship, the first tournament on the European Swing, will take place from 7-10 May 2026 at Real Club de Golf El Prat in Barcelona. It is a new event on the 2026 schedule following the agreement annou...

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20Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sports resort in focus: Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club, Scotland

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s rolling Perthshire countryside, just 20 minutes from Dundee Airport and under an hour from Edinburgh, Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club is a luxury retreat that fuses championship golf with timeless Scottish hospitality. Set across 365 acres of parkland and woodland, this historic estate is both a tranquil escape and a gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. With its blend of elite golf access, refined accommodation, diverse dining, and adventure-filled countryside setting, Murrayshall offers the complete Scottish getaway. Whether you’re chasing bucket-list golf, a romantic retreat, or an outdoor family escape, this Perthshire gem delivers an unforgettable experience at the very heart of Scotland. https://www.youtube.com/watch...

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18Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Guides

A guide to golf in Dubai

Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world’s premier golf tourism destinations, attracting both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs to its sun-drenched fairways. What was once desert terrain has been transformed into a golfer’s paradise, where championship courses designed by legends of the game sit alongside cutting-edge entertainment venues and luxurious resorts. The city’s year-round warm climate, stunning skyline backdrops, and exceptional hospitality make it an irresistible choice for anyone looking to combine sport with leisure. At the heart of Dubai’s appeal is its role as a regular stop on the men’s DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour), with prestigious events such as the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and season-ending DP World Tour Championship drawi...

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18Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

MENA Golf Tour relaunches with Keith Waters as chairman and commissioner

The MENA Golf Tour makes its anticipated return in 2025 with former DP World Tour chief operating officer and Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) board member Keith Waters appointed as chairman and commissioner. Waters’ extensive experience and strategic leadership are expected to significantly elevate the Tour’s status and influence.  Established in 2011, the MENA Golf Tour remains the only OWGR-recognised circuit headquartered in the Middle East, providing vital opportunities for professional golfers from the region and around the globe. The addition of Waters, who brings more than 40 years of expertise developing the DP World Tour and was instrumental in founding the OWGR in 2004, is set to be transformative.  “I’m delighted to be involved in the relaunch of the MENA Golf...

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4Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Golf Tourism South Africa launches to promote golf travel across the country

A new era for South African tourism has begun with the launch of Golf Tourism South Africa (GTSA), currently the only national platform solely focused on promoting golf tourism across the country. Registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC), GTSA brings together the golf, travel, wine, hospitality, and lifestyle industries under one collaborative umbrella – with the mission of positioning South Africa as a world-class golf tourism destination. GSTA has been founded by Cuthbert Simphiwe Ncube, chair of the African Tourism Board, global tourism leader, and GTSA director; Charlene Thomson, founder of We Women Golf Magazine, golf tourism expert, and GTSA co-visionary; and Lynnqwinda Scott, founder of Visit Africa, digital marketing strategist with more than 20 years in tourism, branding, and ...

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22Jul By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

A guide to Camiral – host resort of golf’s Ryder Cup in 2031

Formerly the PGA Catalunya, Camiral, a Quinta do Lago Resort is a world-class golf and wellness resort between Girona, the Costa Brava beaches and Barcelona. Home to two championship courses and a PGA National Academy, Camiral has been selected to the 2031 Ryder Cup – a prestigious return of the tournament to Spain after 34 years. Camiral’s selection marks Spain’s second time hosting the men’s golf team event between Europe and the US since Valderrama in 1997. According to reports, the event is predicted to have an economic impact of more than €1.3 billion and attract 300,000 visitors to the region. One of Europe’s most acclaimed golf destinations, Camiral has hosted multiple DP World Tour events, including the Open de España and the Final Stage of the Qualifying School. Its world-re...

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13Jul By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Somabay: sport and adventure on Egypt’s Red Sea

Located on a private peninsula along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Somabay is a luxury destination resort offering year-round sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and world-class amenities just 45 minutes from Hurghada International Airport. The resort is home to a collection of top-tier accommodations, including The Cascades Golf Resort, Kempinski Soma Bay, Sheraton Soma Bay, and The Breakers Diving & Surfing Lodge, each offering distinct styles – from family-friendly luxury to boutique surf culture.  A haven for active travellers, Somabay offers golf on a Gary Player-designed course, diving at its pristine house reef, and perfect kitesurfing conditions. Wellness is central, too, with the expansive Cascades Spa & Thalasso offering rejuvenation through hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy ...

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9Jul By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Elevate Golf: Northern Ireland to host golf tourism event in 2026 

Golf tourism’s newest B2B event Elevate Golf is to be held in Northern Ireland for the first time in 2026. Taking place from 25-30 October, Elevate Golf 2026 will see the finest golf courses, resorts and accommodation providers connect with high-class international tour operators during tailor-made appointments, and in more casual surroundings on the golf course and at evening receptions. Elevate Golf – which will be in its third edition in 2026 – is held in two stages, with the first half of the six-day event in Northern Ireland. Here, a carefully selected pool of the best golf tour operators from across the globe will be hosted at the luxurious Galgorm Resort in County Antrim, experiencing the hotel's premium hospitality. Leanne Thorpe, director of Elevate Golf, said: “At Elevate G...

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22Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: Dolce by Wyndham Siracusa Monasteri Golf & Spa, Sicily

The recently launched Dolce by Wyndham Siracusa Monasteri Golf & Spa in Sicily is a must‑visit for sports travellers seeking a blend of heritage and activity. Its 18‑hole, par‑71 championship golf course offers a memorable and challenging experience for both seasoned golfers and newcomers.  After a round of golf, guests can relax in the resort’s spa, take a dip in one of the pools, or stay active with fitness and cycling. Just moments from Siracusa’s historic sights and beaches, this resort delivers the ideal balance of sport, relaxation, and exploration. History Set amid fragrant citrus orchards just outside Siracusa, a UNESCO World Heritage city, this enchanting 102‑room resort is a serene and captivating retreat.  Its rich heritage stretches from its beginnings as a...

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16Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events

Austrian Alpine Open: Kitzbühel to host DP World Tour golf event in 2026

The DP World Tour is making its way to Kitzbühel in 2026, with the Austrian Alpine Open setting the stage for a new era of alpine golf. Following its successful debut at Gut Altentann, the Austrian Alpine Open 2026 will be held at the Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith golf course, marking a significant milestone for Austrian sport and year-round tourism in Tyrol.“The DP World Tour is, next to the PGA Tour, the world’s largest professional golf series,” said Karin Seiler, managing director of Tyrol Tourism. “We’re therefore very pleased to have brought this international sporting event to our region in cooperation with SalzburgerLand – and to have Kitzbühel, an experienced partner with an outstanding golf offering, on board. By hosting the event in early summer, we are strengthening the shoulder s...

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27Apr By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Sports Travel

Golf in Ireland: major winners and world-class courses

After a dramatic final play-off, Rory McIlroy became the first golfer from the island of Ireland to win The Masters – and only the sixth ever in the history of the game to win the Grand Slam of all four men’s majors (The Masters, US PGA Championship, US Open and The Open Championship). For a small island on the edge of Europe, Ireland is a powerhouse when it comes to golf, with McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke and Shane Lowry all recent major winners.  With world-class courses in some of the most spectacular locations on the planet, it’s not surprising that Northern Ireland is where McIlroy first honed his skills. McIlroy first joined Holywood Golf Club at the age of seven, becoming the club’s youngest ever member. Set high in the Holywood Hills of County...

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26Apr By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Business

Cambodia wins IAGTO’s Asia Pacific golf destination of the year award

At the 25th annual IAGTO Asia Pacific Awards in Danang, Cambodia was announced as the winner of the Asia Pacific Golf Destination of the Year award, while Sri Lanka picked up the Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year award for the Asia Pacific region.  The golf tourism industry’s celebrated IAGTO Awards are voted for by IAGTO’s (the International Association of Golf Tour Operators) 700-plus golf tour operators in 69 countries who nominate destinations, golf resorts and golf courses that delivered the best possible experience for their golf travelling clients in the past 12 months at the time of voting.  Golf Course of the Year Awards were presented to the golf course receiving the most votes in each of five South-East Asian countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand ...

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