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Wales, undiscovered golf destination

Wales has received the Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year award at the International Association of Golf Tour Operators' annual gala event, held during the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) at Biarritz, France.

For the homeland of Ian Woosnam, twice Masters winner and possible next Captain of the European Ryder Team, 2002 has been a good year since Wales won the Ryder Cup in 2010 at Celtic Manor Resort at Coldra Woods, Newport. In fact, Wales has some 200 courses set amidst spectacular scenery; looking out over unspoilt golden bays; walking in the shadow of ancient castles; taking in the sheer poetry of mystic mountain vistas. An ancient land with a noble history, yet possessing the most modern and luxurious venues.

So, now that top golf travel journalists from more than 20 countries in the world, members of the Golf Travel Writers Association, have nominated and voted for Wales, the Welsh golf tourism will certainly get a boost! That's what said Roger Pride, Wales Tourist Board Marketing Director, receiving the award at the gala diner: "This is fantastic news for golf tourism in Wales and proves what we've been saying all along - that Wales is the next big thing in global golf.
"This award is testament to Wales' success in winning the Ryder Cup in 2010, to the growing quality of the tourism product, to the commitment of the Welsh Assembly Government to growing golf tourism into Wales and to the collective team approach by all partners in this task."

Anne Harper, President of the Golf Travel Writers' Association, whose members voted for Wales, commented on Wales' award: "When you consider how rich Wales' golfing heritage is, it is surprising it has lain undiscovered for so long. It has its share of wonderful historic and new courses - links, heartland and parkland in stunning locations, with green fees that won't give you a nasty shock."

And according to Peter Walton, Chief Executive of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, Wales' success lies in its ability to offer stress-free golfing: "Whilst golf travel is growing faster than most other tourism sectors, the choice of places to play is expanding even faster. To be successful, golf destinations have to deliver high quality courses at value for money prices, and that is exactly what Wales has done.
"From the moment you set foot in any one of the many wonderful golf clubs in the country you are made to feel welcome, and being relaxed is the key to enjoying any golfing holiday.
"To be recognised by the world's leading golf travel writers as the best undiscovered golf destination of the year is a massive achievement, and one which I am sure will see Wales become a favourite golfing haven for domestic and international visitors alike."

Celtic Manor, home of 2010 Ryder Cup matches

Royal StDavid's

Llamynech were Wosnam shot his first balls at seven

Vale Country Club