Golf in Sicily and Sardinia

Sicily and Sardinia are the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, and offer golfers very different experiences than what they will find on most of the Italian mainland.

These two islands are popular among travelers, but for different reasons.

Sicily has a rich cultural heritage and is known for numerous historical sites located throughout the island.

Sardinia also has a rich cultural heritage, but is far less populated, and is more known for its spectacular beaches.

Both islands currently offer a few legitimate golf properties to include in your travels.

Sicily

If you have any interest in history, Sicily should be on your bucket list of places to visit.  It is one of the most, if not THE most, conquered territories on the planet.

As a result, it’s culture has been influenced by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and even the Normans.

Because the island is so rich in history and places to see, it’s impossible to get a complete Sicilian experience in anything under two weeks.

Some of the places you must visit are Palermo, Agrigento, Cefalu, Taormina, Syracuse, and Mt. Etna, just to name a few.

You also have the ability to play some pretty good golf courses with scenery you will find nowhere else.

The primary resort in Sicily that is on the bucket list of many European golfers is the Verdura Resort, located on the west coast of Sicily.

This is a true resort in every sense of the word, with 45 holes, including two championship quality golf courses overlooking the Mediterranean; private beach, 156 room hotel; 60 meter pool; tennis courts; spa; and several restaurants and bars.

Over to the east, is the Il Picciolo Etna resort, located at the base of Mt. Etna.  This property offers a highly rated 18 hole championship golf course, hotel with 104 rooms and suites, two restaurants, outdoor pool and a spa.

There is also the Borgo di Luce Il Monasteri resort near Syracuse at the southeast part of Sicily, but not currently recommended as the course conditions have reportedly been sub-par.

Sardinia

While Sardinia does not have nearly the number of historical sites as Sicily, Cagliari, the capital in the south, is definitely worth a visit in that regard.

Among European travelers, Sardinia is primarily a place to visit for unbelievable beaches.

The most popular area is the Costa Smeralda in the north, and this is where you will find one of the best golf courses on the island, Pevero Golf Club.  This is another Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design, and it also hosts 2018 Open Champion Francesco Molinari’s golf academy.

There are two 18 hole facilities located at the south side of the island near Cagliari… Is Molas Resort and Tanka Golf Villasimius.

Is Molas has hosted several Italian Open’s for the European Tour, while Tanka is simply a golf club with few amenities, but reportedly has amazing views of the sea.

Lastly is Is Arenas Golf and Country Club, which is located within a pine forest off the west coast of Sardinia.  This is a par 72 course designed by noted architect Robert Von Hagge and is considered to be a true gem for golf enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

If you are a history buff who enjoys golf and great food, Sicily will check all of your boxes.

A great trip to Sicily would include a stay in Palermo, a visit to Agrigento, known as the Valley of the Temples, golf at the Verdura resort for a few days, and then a swing over to the east coast to visit Taormina, Mt. Etna and play at Il Picciolo.

Sardinia is a paradise for golfers looking for something similar to the Caribbean.   Both Pevero and Is Arenas are can’t miss golf courses, while Tanka is worth a visit just for the surroundings alone.

A vacation to either island is sure to provide you with memories of a lifetime.