Golf the Legendary Courses on Your Scotland Golf Vacation

If you're planning a Scotland Golf Vacation, then make sure

to at least book some of these legendary courses into your

itenarary. Scotland is the birthplace of golf, and no trip

there would be complete without visiting some of the famed

links we've only heard about or seen on TV. Take the

oppportunity to play some or all of these gems, and come

home from your Scotland golf vacation with a clubhouse full

of memories.

The Old Course at St. Andrews - A Scotland golf vacation

must include a visit to the Old Course at St. Andrews. The

site of 27 Open Championships, St. Andrews has been the

scene for much of golf's history. Best estimates say that

golf was being contested here 100 years before Columbus

discovered America. Another interesting tidbit is that the

course was originally 22 holes, unti 1764 when the Society

of St. Andrews Golfers, the predecessor to the Royal and

Ancient Golf Club, decided to combine some holes and shorten

the course to 18 holes, the standard number we play today.

Much of St. Andrews is well-know: the 112 bunkers, including

the imfamous pot bunkers; The Swilken Burn Bridge; the Road

Hole, no. 17, one of the toughest holes in golf and the

seven double greens, which sometimes require errant shots to

the green to play a prodigious putt on greens that measure

more than an acre in total size. Don't leave St. Andrews off

your Scotland golf vacation: you'll regret it!

Carnoustie - The second oldest course in Scotland, dating

from the 1500's, Carnoustie has developed a reputation for

toughness second to none in Scottish golf. The list of Open

winners on championshisp contested here reads like a who's

who of golf: Tommy Armour, Ben Hogan, Henry Cotton, Gary

Player, Tom Watson and the latest, Pual Lawrie in 1999. A

long links course at 7368 yards from the tips, Carnoustie

demands length and accuracy off every tee. And if that

wasn't enough, the wind and rain play a significant role in

any round. One of the more famous holes is the par 5 sixth

hole, which is known as Hogan's Alley for his birdie/birdie

finish on the 36-hole final day of the '53 Open. A Scotland

golf vacation must include Carnoustie!

Gleneagles - A most friendly golf complex of four courses,

Glenagles has long been a favorite among those who truly

love the game of golf. Home of the PGA Centenary golf

course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and home to the Ryder Cup

Championships in 2014, PGA Centenary was called by Nicklaus

the "finest parcel of land in the world I have ever been

given to work with." A longish course at 7081 yards, it

nevertheless demands pinpoint accuracy and is a prime

example of target golf, thus avoiding the numerous ponds and

streams as well as both pot bunkers and American style sand

traps. A longtime favorite of Bob Hope, Glenagles is a

treasured stop on your Scotland golf vacation.

Muirfield - The very name of Muirfield included in your

Scotland golf vacation should raise the heart rate a few

notches. Past Open winners here include the likes of Vardon,

Player, Nicklaus, Trevino, Watson and Faldo. A stern test of

golf in every resepct, Muirfield also boasts the oldest golf

club, the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, with

rolls dating back to 1744. Often bestowed the with honor of

being the finest course in not only Scotland but the entire

British Ilses, Muirfield brings a combination of history and

incredible golf that would make any Scotland golf vacation

one for the ages.

Royal Troon Golf Club - A true test of golf, Royal Troon has

seen it's share of legends hoist the Claret Jug: Bobby

Locke, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Mark Calcavechia and

Justin Leonard have won here. Wind is the story here at

Troon. And while the front side presents numerous scoring

opportunities, the wind can wreak havoc with those plans.

The back side is just plain hard. So make hay on the front

side if you can. One of the most famous holes in golf is

located here, the eighth hole, measuring a wee 126 yards, is

known the world over as "the Postage Stamp". Include Royal

Troon on any Scotland golf vacation.

Turnberry - Possibly the most scenic of Scotland golf

vacation stops, Turnberry has been called the Pebble beach

of the British Isles. And when you factor in the weather,

that rings true. A bewitching combination of great golf and

magnificent views, such as the castle of Robert the Bruce,

Scotland's King from 1306 to 1329, lying off the 9th and

10th holes, make playing this tough course an even more

challenging task. The site of several stirring Opens, the

most memorable being the famous Nicklaus/Watson battle in

1977. Be sure to include Turnberry as one of your stops on

your Scotland golf vacation.

While there is much more great golf to be found on lesser

known tracks, these legends are what has given Scotland most

of it's lore and charm. Try to visit as many of these as you

can on your next Scotland golf vacation!

Keith Thompson is addicted to golf and runs the site Scotland Golf Vacation [http://scotland-golf-vacation.golf-vacation-deals.info]

Guide to Golf Courses and Golf Clubs in Suffolk

Golf courses in Suffolk offer a range of beautiful courses and is the ideal location for golf fans to explore some wonderful English countryside and, more importantly, some quite superb golf courses.

Newton Green Golf Club is situated on the A134, three miles east of the historic market town of Sudbury. The club's 18-hole, moorland golf course with panoramic views offers a challenging and rewarding experience for any golfer in Suffolk. There is also a new section which has two par fives, including one of over 550 yards. Par for the course is 69.

Visitors and Societies are always welcome to Newton Green and there are a number of Open Competitions held each year. Newton Green Golf Club also welcomes juniors into the sport by way of free lessons offered by PGA professional Tim Cooper through his coaching academy.

One of the most popular golf courses in Suffolk is Hintlesham Hall Golf Club, which sits in 150 acres of luscious Suffolk countryside and offers some of the very best golf in the area. The course is set in beautiful, ancient parkland and is a superb test of golf for players of all standards.

An added bonus is the magnificent Hintlesham Hall Hotel, which is adjacent to the Course and offers Spa facilities, a swimming pool and a first class dining venue. Ideal for the non golfers in your family!

High Lodge, Saxmundham, offers a number of services and sporting activities for visitors, one of which is of course golf. The 9 hole golf course is set within 50 acres of beautiful grounds. Open 7 days a week, the Pay and Play course is suitable for all golfers from beginners to low handicappers, and tuition is available. High Lodge is also a fantastic venue for a golfing holiday in Suffolk. There is luxurious lodge accommodation available on-site that overlook a lake in a beautiful peaceful location amongst woodlands.

Situated only three miles north of Ipswich, Fynn Valley Golf Club is set in a picturesque undulating river valley. Fynn Valley has a full eighteen hole parkland course, a nine hole short course, 22 driving ranges, putting greens, a practice bunker, and optional expert tuition from qualified PGA professionals. Categories of membership are available for all standards of golfer. A progressive, friendly and informal club where members are nurtured and visitors encouraged. The Valley Restaurant and Courtyard Bar are situated in converted Edwardian barns, which retain many of their original features, resulting in a unique setting.

Fynn Valley also has corporate and conference facilities. Corporate Golf Days can be arranged for groups for either the 18 hole or 9 hole course. Whatever your golf, function, dining or corporate requirements, Fynn Valley is the ideal venue.

The Thorpeness Country Club offers not just an 18 hole golf course overlooked by one of Suffolk's most famous folly's - The House in the Clouds - but it's also a popular wedding venue overlooking the sea. In the grounds are seven tennis courts and landscaped gardens.

The famous 18 hole golf course is popular and playable all year round. Built over gorse and heather countryside it is a challenge for even the experienced golfer.

Another great golf course to try on your tour of Golf Courses in Suffolk can be found at Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa, an enjoyable parkland just a few miles outside the town of Woodbridge. Golfers can enjoy the challenging 18 Hole Par 71 golf course which plays host to prestigious tournaments such as the PGA EuroPro Tour, a two tier luxury driving range, the American Golf Shop and Doctorgolf Teaching Academy.

Suffolk Hotel, Golf & Leisure, Bury St Edmunds offer Golf Package Holidays and Short Golf Breaks in Suffolk designed to cater for all your golfing needs and wants! Located on the outskirts of the historic town Bury St. Edmunds, the hotel has first-rate facilities including an 18-hole Championship golf course along with comfortable en suite accommodation.

More golf courses and golf clubs in Suffolk - -

Aldeburgh Golf Club

Aldeburgh, IP15 5PE

01728 452890 / 453309 (Pro)

Beccles Golf Club

Bromeswell Heath, The Common, Common Lane, Beccles, NR34 9BX

01502 712244

Bungay & Waveney Valley Golf Club

Outney Common, Bungay, NR35 1DS

01986 892337

Bury St Edmunds Golf Club

Tut Hill, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 6LG

01284 755979

Clare Park Lake Golf Course

Stoke Road, Clare, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 8HE

01787 278693

Diss Golf Club

Stuston Common, Diss, IP21 4AA

01379 641025 / 644399 (Pro)

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club

Ferry Road, Felixstowe, IP4 9RY

01394 283060

Halesworth Golf Club

Branfield Road, Halesworth, IP19 9XA

01986 875567

Haverhill Golf Club

Coupals Road, Haverhill, Suffolk, CB9 7UW

01440 761951

Southwold Golf Club

The Common, Southwold, IP18 6TB

01502 723234 & 723790 (Pro)

Woodbridge Golf Club

Bromeswell Heath, Woodbridge, IP12 2PF

01394 382038 / 383213 (Pro)

For more information on Golf in Suffolk please visit us at the Suffolk Tourist Guide - the best place for information, tourism, and culture in Suffolk.

Top 10 Golf Courses in Ireland

Slieve Russel (Cavan)

The Slieve Russel Golf Course is found among the lakeland and drumlin valley district of Ballyconnell in County Cavan.

It's one of the more "newer" golf courses on this list as it opened in August 1992 and almost immediately it became an attraction as one of Ireland's top courses.

The parkland course was brilliantly designer by golf-course architect Patrick Merrigan and contains 300 acres of manicured gardens and 50 acres of lakes, so as you can imagine, water hazards are a major challenge on this course.

The course has played host to a number of prestigious golf tournaments such as the Irish PGA Championship in 1996, European Tour Events and the North West of Ireland Open in 2001/2002.

Royal Portrush (Antrim)

The Royal Portrush Golf Course is another top golf course in Ireland and is located on the spectacular north coast of County Antrim. The course boasts a spectacular setting and is overlooked by the 13th century ruins of Dunluce Castle.

It has two challenging links courses - the Dunluce Links and the Valley Links. It has hosted the British Open, the North of Ireland Championship and the British Amateur Championship.

The Dunluce Golf Links was designed by Harry Colt and will put the most seasoned golfer to the test. The Valley Links lies between huge sands hills and some higher ground next to the shoreline. The course has its fair share of challenges with many elevated tees, menacing bunkers, sand hills and dunes.

Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell are big fans of this course while it is classed as a favourite for Padraig Harrington and Darren Clarke.

Ballybunion Golf Club (Kerry)

Ballybunion Golf Course is located in the stunning coastal resort of Ballybunion, County Kerry on the south coast of Ireland. This golf club has two courses - the new course which (also known as the Cashen Course) and the old course.

Ballybunion's Old Course is a magnificent 18-hole golf course and is regarded to be one of the finest links courses in the world. In fact, this golf course is nearly always listed in the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World.

Famous visitors who have fell in love with this course include Tiger Woods, Greg Norman, Ernie Els, Phil Mickleson, Ian Woosnam and Vijay Singh (who has said that Ballybunion is his favourite course outside of the US!). Other famous personalities to have played there include Michael Jordan, Bill Murray and Bill Clinton.

Both courses are spectacularly located on sand dunes and boast some of the most breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Famous American golfer, Tom Watson once described the 11TH hole as "the best par 4 in the world".

Druid's Glen (Wicklow)

Druid's Glen can be found in County Wicklow, nestled between the mountains and the sea, about 30km south of Dublin city centre. This classic parkland course is often referred to as "The Augusta of Europe" and the golf course especially comes into its own during the Summer months when the plants and flowers and in full bloom. The golfer will really feel a piece of heaven on earth here with its beautiful tricking streams, forests, flora and fauna.

In 2000/01, Druids Glen was awarded the title "European Golf Course of the Year" and it was the location of the Irish Open from 1996-1999.

Top golfers who have played here include; Ian Woosnam, Retief Goosen, John Daly, Jose- Maria Olazabal, Ernie Els and Nick Faldo.

Note: When on the 12th green - check out the pre Christian stone altar overlooking the green. It is believed to have been belong to Druids, hence the name of the golf course, Druid's Glen!

Mount Juliet (Kilkenny)

Mount Juliet is located near Thomastown in County Kilkenny, just about a 20 minute drive from Kilkenny city. This 18-hole championship golf course was carefully designed by Jack Nicklaus and last year it claimed the title of "Best Parkland Course in Ireland" by Backspin Magazine.

Golfers of all abilities are put to the test on this stunning course with its bunkers, lakes and bridges. And if you need to brush up on your skills you can try out the driving range, the bunker and chipping green or the putting green.

Top professional golfers to have played here include; Sergio Garcia, Retief Goosen, Darren Clarke and Padraig Harrington.

The luxurious resort of Mount Juliet also offers a deluxe 4 star hotel, a leisure centre, a gym, a spa and other activities like archery and clay pigeon shooting.

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Kerry)

This Killarney Golf & Fishing Club is blessed with a superb location at the edge of the stunning lake of Killarney with the McGillycuddy Mountain range providing a magnificent backdrop.

It can be found just outside the town of Killarney in County Kerry (on the Ring of Kerry road) and is one of the oldest golf courses in Ireland! This golf club has not one, but three championship golf courses, each providing its own unique challenges to the avid golfer.

Killeen is the main course at the club and is the most challenging. Lacabane is the newest golf course while O'Mahony's Point is probably the most scenic.

Christy O Connor Sr, Nick Faldo, Darren Clarke, Bernard Langer and Jose Maria Olazabal have all played at the Killarney Golf & Fishing Club.

Lahinch Golf Club (Clare)

Lahinch Golf Course boasts a breathtaking location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near the picturesque village of Lahinch in County Clare. Often referred to as the "St. Andrew's of Ireland", it's said to be one of the oldest golf courses in Ireland as it was founded in 1892.

Lahinch has two courses - the Old Course and the Castle Course and both provide a tough challenge for even the most intrepid golfer!

Portmarnock Golf Course (Dublin)

This gently undulating links course (27 holes) has a superb location in Portmarnock Dublin, just 8 miles north of Dublin city centre. This 18 hole links course was designed by Bernhard Langer and occupies a small peninsula which juts out into the Irish Sea.

The course is laid out fairly, with no tricks or surprises for the golfer with its gently undulating greens and low sand dunes. With the lay out of the golf course stretching across the curve of the peninsula, you'll enjoy picturesque views from all greens.

This golf course has held a staggering 12 Irish Open Championships. It's also been the venue for the Canada Cup in 1960 and the Walker Cup in 1991.

The K Club (Kildare)

The K Club can be found in Straffan in County Kildare and is regarded to be one of the finest golf courses in Europe. Any big fan of golf will know that the prestigious K-Club golf resort took on a starring role when it was chosen as the venue for the 2006 Ryder Cup.

The K Club has two courses (Palmer Course and Smurfit Course) designed by Arnold Palmer who is regarded as one of the greatest golf players ever. The Palmer Course (also known as the Old Course) was the course chosen for the Ryder Cup. The Smurfit Course is an inland golf links with lots of lakes, islands and wild species of plants randomly planted throughout the course.

If you're an golfing enthusiast then a visit to the hallowed turf of the Irish Ryder Cup is a must - the course is just about a 40 minute drive from Dublin city.

The luxurious K-Club Resort also boasts a 5-star hotel, a number of bars and restaurants and an exclusive spa.

Royal County Down Golf Club (County Down)

This world class links course is located in Newcastle County Down, about 48km south of Belfast city in Northern Ireland. The course can be found at the foot of the majestic Mourne Mountains on the shores of Dundrum Bay.

The course lay out is challenging with its sandhills, bunkers, heather covered dunes and yellow gorse lined fairways. This is definitely a course to be played if you're looking to test your skills with lots of blind shots and some of the fastest greens in Ireland. This course is definitely one of the top courses in Ireland and it's also arguably one of the top golf courses in the world.

Mairead Foley writes for the Ireland travel and accommodation website http://www.GoIreland.com

Visit GoIreland.com for all you need to know about holidaying in Ireland, like what to see and where to go. Check out our quality approved Ireland hotels now and find yourself a great deal!

Featured Las Vegas Golf Courses

The Arroyo is the only golf course available to the public at the Red Rock Country Club, located close to Red Rock Canyon, golfers can expect amazing views while playing this golf course. This Arnold Palmer signature course has gone through recent upgrades on holes 17 through 19, if you have not played the Arroyo in a while, we recommend you do for a new experience.

The Red Rock Country Club Experience - Because the Arroyo is located at Red Rock Country Club you can expect a true country club experience. Red Rock Country Club was originally built as a private club featuring an 18 hole golf course. An additional 18 holes were added and the combined 36 holes were divided between two golf courses. The Arroyo features several holes that were part of the original Red Rock Country Club.

The Arroyo Golf Course is not overly long, only 6,800 yards, but it makes up for it on the par-3's. This is a classic golf course offering different sets of tees to accommodate any level of golfer. The fairways are generous but the greens are well protected by water and sand.

The Las Vegas Country Club offers a vintage experience for golfers who want to experience some true Las Vegas history. With panoramas of the Las Vegas cityscape, this private golf course is a pure pleasure to play. It will test players' shotmaking skills throughout the round. Designed by Edmond B. Ault, the course first opened in the fall of 1967 and has been a staple of Las Vegas golf ever since. Enjoy the 44,000 square foot clubhouse, along with the grill and atmosphere you'll find here.

Reflection Bay Golf Club was the first public golf course to open at the Lake Las Vegas Resort. The golf course plays host to the nationally televised "Wendy's Three Tour Challenge".

Reflection Bay is fairly long playing over 7,200 yards but several elevation changes shorten the golf course from the card length. One of the main features of Reflection Bay Golf Course is the use of water as both a hazard and visual enhancement, the course features 5 holes which play along the shoreline of the beautiful Lake Las Vegas.

Reflection Bay Golf Club features many of the characteristics that you would expect to find on a Jack Nicklaus design as well as a 5-Star golf resort. Wide fairways, large greens, a n innovative forecaddie program and great course conditions can always be expected at Reflec tion Bay.

Siena Golf Club opened in 1999, the golf course couples deep bunkers and several reachable par-5's to provide character to the course.

Great Course Conditions Year Round at Siena Golf Club. Siena Golf Club prides itself on great course conditions and fast greens. The greens utilize a special grain of Rye Grass which thrives in both hot and cold conditions, making Siena one of the best choices for Summer and Winter golf in Las Vegas. Siena measures only slightly over 6,800 yards from the back tees but still challenges golfers of all skill levels.

Siena Golf Club was designed by Schmidt-Curley, who spent much of their early career studying under Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. The greens at Siena represent the putting ability of Jack Nicklaus. These greens are typically fast, large and have lots of swells on them. Checking the location of the pin is a must at Siena Golf Club. Playing Siena Golf Club. The 18th hole on the Siena Golf Course is a great finishing hole. This short par-4 is onl y 400 yards but plays uphill from the tee. The tee shot must carry to the upper level of the fairway to have any chance of going for the green. On the right side of the hole is another menacing bunker and out of bonds. The best line on this hole is the lone tree that sits on the left side of the fairway. Try to hit the power fade and get as close to this green as possible. The fairway slopes from left to right so the ground will act as a buffer from the left rough.

Silverstone Golf Club in Las Vegas offers 27 championship holes surrounded with lush greens, rolling mounds, and spectacular views of Sheep Mountain. Silverstone will test the best of golfers. With four sets of tee boxes on each hole, this golf course provides a challenging and memorable experience for golfers of all levels. Silverstone is conveniently located 25-30 minutes from the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Definitely three unforgettable nine-hole layouts you'll enjoy again and again and again.

The Falls Golf Club is one of the signature golf courses located at the Lake Las Vegas Resort. This resort is located about 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. The golf course was designed by Tom Weiskopf who directed the Falls between rugged desert landscape and shoreline holes.

The Falls Golf Club recently introduced a forecaddie program that pairs one caddy with each group to help with local golf course knowledge and perform the duties you would expect from the a tour caddy. These duties include raking bunkers, cleaning golf balls and reading putts.

The Falls Golf Club is very well manicured and golf course conditions are extremely important. Both the fairways and greens are fast and the ball tends to roll. This will be another factor in shortening the length of this golf course. It is not unusual to hit several 300 yard drives during the day.

The back nine starts across the road and into the hills that surround the lake. The back nine has far more dramatic elevation changes than the front nine. The 12th hole is a medium length par-5 that features a semi-blind tee shot. The best line off the tee is toward the bunker located on the right side of the center fairway.

The Falls Golf Club is a great test of golf. The numerous sets of tees, fast fairways, good variety of holes and great courses conditions make it fun for any skill level of golfer. The added touch of a forecaddie really enhances the experience. With several hotels in the a rea this is a great place to spend the week.

TPC Las Vegas (formerly TPC Canyons) is the only PGA Tour owned public facility in Las Vegas. TPC Las Vegas has been hosting professional golf events for the past decade

TPC Las Vegas offers you A PGA Tour Experience - TPC Las Vegas is a great chance for the average golfer to play a golf course the PGA pros play. In an attempt to make the experience as real as possible, TPC Las Vegas has a forecaddie program in place depending on the season. Each group has one caddie that will act as a guide around the golf course. They will let players know yardages, tend pins and help the players out in any way possible.

TPC Las Vegas plays slightly over 7,000 yards and cuts a path through the rugged desert that surrounds the golf course. On many holes the player will be forced to carry a desert area in order to find the fairway. There is only one hole on the golf course that has water next to the green. The 18th hole is a very dramatic and demanding finishing hole.

TPC Las Vegas is PGA Tour Conditions Open To the Public - TPC Las Vegas is usually in tournament condition. Many touring professionals who reside in Las Vegas like to practice at this facility. Touring professionals like to practice in conditions they experience week in and out on the tour, TPC Las Vegas provides this on a regular basis.

Teresa Johnson is a Travel Affiliate, who helps singles and families with vacation planning. Prior to establishing her travel business, Teresa spent over 20 years as an IT developer, IT Systems Analyst and IT Project Manager. Teresa offers a wide range of products and services - from travel planning, to booking of group cruises and assisting others with starting their home based travel business. Teresa specializes in travel planning for singles and families to help others deal with the sometimes overwhelming prospect of travel planning and starting a new business while still dealing with their normal day to day activities. Teresa educates others on the travel industry and mentors her home based travel team. Teresa is no stranger to the travel industry. She spent over 20 years as a corporate executive where she traveled a great deal.

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Minnesota Golf Courses in the City of Rochester

Minnesota golf courses come in a wide variety, from 9-hole mom and pop operations to 54-hole resort complexes and we have been discussing different destinations in this series of articles. Today we will highlight the city of Rochester in the southeastern portion of the state.

Rochester is located approximately 85 miles southeast of the Twin Cities on Hwy. 52. Rochester is known worldwide as the home of the Mayo Clinic. There are plenty of places to stay and other activities to participate in while in Rochester when you are done golfing. A good reference site is http://www.rochestercvb.org, which is the Rochester Convention and Visitors Bureau, but we are here to primarily discuss the golf opportunities that Rochester has to offer.

The golf courses in Rochester and telephone numbers are:

· Eastwood Golf Club 1-507-281-6173

· Maple Valley Golf & Country Club 1-507-285-9100

· Meadow Lakes Golf Club 1-507-285-1190

· Northern Hills Golf Club 1-507-281-6170

· Oak Summit Golf Course 1-507-252-1808

· Rochester Golf & Country Club 1-507-282-3170

· Soldier's Memorial Field Golf Course 1-507-281-6176

· Willow Creek Golf Course 1-507-285-0305

As you can see there are plenty of opportunities to play golf in Rochester. You can either come for a weekend or stay for a week and never have to play the same golf course twice.

Eastwood Golf Club: Eastwood Golf Club is city owned golf course that is located in the southeastern part of the city. This facility is an 18-hole course that plays 6,205 yards from the back tee markers. Par at Eastwood Golf Club is 70. The course rating is 69.6 and the slope index is 121. The green fee for 18-holes is $26.75 and golf cart rentals are available for $24.00 for 18-holes. If you have a group outing planned in the Rochester area you can rent the entire golf course for half or full day. Contact the golf course management staff for more details.

Maple Valley Golf & Country Club: Maple Valley is a par 71, 18-hole golf course. The course plays at 5,916 yards from the back tee markers with a course rating of 68.1 and a slope index of 108. Maple Valley Golf Course is located approximately 15 minutes south of the city of Rochester in the beautiful Root River bluff country. Elevation changes in this area of the state are quite dramatic so don't let the yardage of this course deceive you.

Weekend 18-hole rates are $31.00 plus tax. A power cart can be rented for $14.00 per person plus tax.

Meadow Lakes Golf Club: Meadow Lakes Golf Club is an 18-hole par 71 "links style" course and has water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. There are two island greens featured at Meadow Lakes. There are four sets of tee markers to choose from to challenge golfers of all abilities. Power carts are also available for rent. After your round of golf, don't forget to stop in the lounge for cold refreshments.

Northern Hills Golf Club: Northern Hills Golf Club is a city owned golf course that is located in the northwestern part of the city. Northern Hills Golf Club is an 18-hole facility that plays 6,335 yards from the back tee markers with a course rating of 70.9 and a slope index of 129. Green fee for 18-holes is $26.75 and golf cart rentals are available for $24.00 for 18-holes. If you have a group outing planned in the Rochester area you can rent the entire golf course for half or full day. Contact the golf course management staff for more details.

Oak Summit Golf Course: Oak Summit Golf Course is located five miles south of the city of Rochester and just ¼ mile west of the Rochester Municipal Airport. Oak Summit Golf Course is an 18-hole par 70 facility that features 4 sets of tee markers. The course plays 6,434 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 71.0 and a slope index of 118. The cost to play at Oak Summit Golf Course is $25.00 for 18-holes with power cart rental available for $14.00 per person additional.

Rochester Golf & Country Club: Rochester Golf & Country Club is a private members-owned club located on the western edge of the city. You will have to be a guest of a member to play here or if you are moving to the Rochester area you can apply for membership. There are also non-resident memberships available if you live 40 miles away from Rochester. The Rochester Golf & Country Club features four sets of tee markers, the course plays at 6,469 from the back tees with a course rating of 71.4 and a slope index of 131. If you are in the area and have the ability to get in a round, it certainly will be an adventure for you to experience the history of this club that dates back to 1915.

Soldier's Memorial Field Golf Course: Soldier's Memorial Field Golf Course is a city owned course that is located in the center of the city that was built in 1927 and the Zumbro River runs through the course. The course plays just 5,706 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 66.8 and a slope index of 116. Strategy and ball placement are vital to scoring well as the Zumbro River comes into play on several holes. Green fee for 18-holes is $26.75 and golf cart rentals are available for $24.00 for 18-holes. If you have a group outing planned in the Rochester area you can rent the entire golf course for half or full day. Contact the golf course management staff for more details.

Willow Creek Golf Course: Willow Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole par 70 course that plays 6,053 yards from the back tees. There is also Little Willow 9-hole executive course that plays 1,434 located on the property. The weekend rate to play 18-holes is $26.00. There are also power carts for rent at Willow Creek. After your round of golf don't forget to stop by the 19th Hole Lounge for a cold beverage and a sandwich from the daily menu.

The Rochester area is filled with variety, not only in the choices of golf courses but also in accommodations and other points of interest in the area. Whether you decide to stay for a weekend or a week, and choose to stay in a Bed & Breakfast or a luxury hotel, Rochester has something for everyone. When making plans for your summer vacation make it a Minnesota rural golf vacation!

Copyright 2006 Dana Buttenhoff

Dana Buttenhoff is an avid golfer and a native Minnesotan. After 20 years of golf and traveling around the USA, Dana would like to share the golf gems rural Minnesota has to offer. http://www.minnesotaruralgolf.com

Kenyan Golf: The World's 10 Best Kept Kenya Golfing Secrets and Golf Courses

History of Golf in Kenya

The history of golf in Kenya goes back a long way, with one club in Nairobi due to celebrate its centenary in 2006. Locally, the game is thriving as never before. Young and gifted Kenyan golf players are starting to compete internationally at the highest levels.

But it is only comparatively recently that Kenya as a nation has woken up to the fact that its magnificent golfing inheritance is, in fact, a valuable commodity that can and should be marketed overseas. What's more, several of the Kenyan top golf courses have been refurbished or upgraded in recent times.

What Golfing in Kenya offers:

For the lovers of the game, Kenyan Golf offers:

o Un-crowded and mostly well maintained courses.

o Comparatively inexpensive green fees and associated playing costs.

o A perfect climate during Europe's winter months.

o Hotel accommodation of a high standards that is also reasonably priced.

o Frequent flights to Nairobi from Europe and the Far East.

o Manu excellent courses in and around Nairobi, at 100metres above sea level, but even more within two hours' drive of the capital

1. Muthaiga Kenyan Golf Club

Of the nation's 40 or so courses, probably the best known is the Muthaiga Golf Club, home to the Kenya Open and founded in 1913. The Kenyan golf course is popular with the locals at the weekends, but it is comparatively easy to play on weekdays. Muthaiga has recently undergone a major refurbishment to lengthen some holes and tighten other aspects of the golf course.

2. Windsor Kenyan Golf Hotel & Country Club

Other good Kenyan golf courses in the Nairobi area are Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club and the Royal Nairobi. Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club is unique to Kenya. Set amid coffee plantations, it consists of a large luxury hotel overlooking its own golf course. The Kenyan golf course itself has some of the trickiest holes and is not for the faint hearted or those a little wayward off the tee.

As such, Windsor golf course is a stiff test for any golfer. There is plenty of water around, not to mention some blind greens, a do-or-die 14th hole and an 18th hole that is capable of wrecking any card.

Like Muthaiga, the Royal Nairobi Golf Club is a golf course with strong colonial ties. Establishes in 1906, this is Kenya's oldest golf course.

3. Railway Kenyan Golf Club

Along with the Railway Golf Club, it is located right in town. AT 6,600 meters off the back tees, the Royal Nairobi is a testing course. Both the club house and the golf course have been refurbished recently.

Slightly further from Nairobi, but certainly no less interesting, are golf courses such as Karen, Limuru and Sigona.

4. Karen Kenyan Golf Club

The 6,630 meter Karen Golf Club, in the Ngong Hills, proved a worthy alternative venue for the 2004 Kenya Open. This is an admirably maintained course with a well connected membership, strong traditions, high standards and strict dress code.

5. Sigona Kenyan Golf Club

About 40 minutes out of Nairobi, on the Nakuru Road, is the recently upgraded Sigona Golf Club. This course is greatly favoured by local golf players and enjoys a moderate climate. Its par-71, 6015 meter golf course is suitable for players of all levels and its fairways are among the best kept in Kenya.

6. Limuru Kenyan Country Club

Located a similar distance from Nairobi is the par-71, 6,020 metre Limuru Country Club. At 2,330 meters, the Limuru is high above level and receives more rainfall than most other courses. Its greens and fairways are particularly lush, even in the dry season. This well maintained Kenyan golf course is a delight to play, but at this altitude players may need a sweater for early morning and evening rounds.

7. The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort at Naivasha is about 2,150metres above sea level and consists of a par-72, 6,073 metre course with some of the best views in Kenya. This is not the toughest golf course in the Kenya, but what it lacks in difficulty it more than makes up for by its sheer charm and beauty.

8. Many Other 9 and 18 hole Golf Courses near Nairobi

Apart from those already mentioned, there are nine-hole and 18-hole Kenyan golf courses dotted all around the highland areas above Nairobi. Some are in excellent condition, while others probably require some improvement before it would be worth traveling long distances to play golf.

Golfing at the Kenyan Coast

On the coast, meanwhile, visitors can expect a tropical atmosphere in terms of climate and playing conditions. There is a choice of two fine courses, Leisure Golf Club and the Nyali Golf Club, with rumours of new Kenyan golf courses to come in the area.

9. Leisure Golf Club in the Kenyan South Coast

The unforgiving Leisure Golf Club at Ukunda, on Mombasa's South Coast, has tight fairways, good quality greens and is in good order thanks to some new grass-cutting equipment. The 6,084 metre golf course is open to non- hotel guests and visitors can expect a warm welcome at the club house.

10. Nyali Golf Club in the Kenyan North Coast

North of Mombasa, the Nyali Golf Club offers a more traditional set-up. This Kenyan golf course is a fair test for any golfer, while the club house has a reputation for excellent food.

Better Winter Golfing in Kenya than in Mediterranean

Whatever Kenyan golf course or courses you decide to play in Kenya, you are bound to be pleasantly surprised by what you find. In fact, compared with the Mediterranean in winter, there really is no contest.

Robert is a tour consultant and co-owner of Landmark Safaris Ltd in Kenya. Visit them http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/sports.php to read more on your Golf tour.