Since the opening of the Korineum Golf Course and Country Club near Esentepe in 2007, North Cyprus has become a favoured destination for golf tourism. The course was designed by the renowned British golf architect, David Hemstock, and is of international championship standard, hosting several professional tournaments each year. These include the Glenfiddich Open Golf Tournament in February, the Besparmak Trophy and Gayem Open.

About a half-hour drive north of the capital Nicosia, Korineum is served by numerous hotels, both close by to Esentepe, and further out towards Kyrenia. If you are unfamiliar with the area, or if you are planning your first golfing trip to North Cyprus, it is well worth your while checking out some independent hotel reviews through a Northern Cyprus Hotels booking and reviewing website so as to give yourself a feel for the type of accommodation available, and its distance from the Course.
Korineum Golf Course Information

Spectacularly woven into 65 hectares of natural olive grove and Carob Tree scrub, the Korineum Golf Course is a real asset to the landscape in which it is set. Views of the mountains and the sea are afforded at every one of its 18 holes. At par 72 and 6,232 metres in length, Korineum is designed to challenge pros, but equally is suitable for beginners to the sport.

The course is open all year round. Features of note at Korineum include:

* Greens average 500sqm
* Tees average 5 per hole
* Fairways undulating and strategically shaped
* Bunkers are a mix of sand and white crushed marble
* Two lakes provide water hazards on the course

Club House and Facilities

The clubhouse at Korineum is a state-of-the-art eco friendly building designed to blend with the natural environment in which it stands. It houses two restaurants, a golfer’s lounge, bar, spa, fitness centre, gymnasium and conference rooms. Sea and mountain views are gained from the building’s extensive outside terraces, as are views along the golf course itself. So whether you wish to relax with a drink or a meal after a round of golf, or simply need inspiration to keep your non-golfing partner happy while you’re out with your clubs, the Korineum clubhouse could be just the ticket!

Venice may be more renowned for its cultural and historic appeal than its sporting credentials, but if you want to kick-start the New Year with something a little more active, don’t despair. Venice’s sporting calendar is bursting with exciting events throughout the year, as well as boasting a wide range of sporting activities to tempt all outdoor lovers. Check out our guide below:

Football/Soccer in Venice

Italy’s passion for football is not wasted on the Venetians and its popularity is growing by the day. The city’s team, Venezia plays in the Pierluigi Penzo stadium, located in the eastern side of Venice in Lisola SantElena. If you’re visiting in football season, tickets are readily available at branches of the Banca Antoniana Popolare Veneta – perfect for an afternoon out.

Boating Regattas and Rowing in Venice

Being the original city of water, boating and rowing regattas are obviously popular in Venice. If this sounds up your street, be sure to visit in September when the Regatta Storica takes place. Celebrating the Renaissance period, this exciting pageant features a wealth of costume-clad crews and historic vessels. Gondola races are also a popular pastime, particularly down the Grand Canal where it becomes particularly competitive. If rowing is more your thing, visit in May during the Vogalonga Marathon, where foreigners are welcome to take part.

Sailing in Venice
If you’re partial to a bit of sailing, a number of sailing schools are located around the city where even motorboat licences can be gained. The main sailing clubs lie near the Giardinetti area in San Marco, which offer boating lessons for adults and young children.

Golf in Venice
If you prefer something a little more slow-paced, a number of great golf courses are located on the lido, just a short distance from the city. The Golf Club Venezia is a particular favourite, having hosted the Italian Seniors Open Tournament and stretching to nearly 7,000 yards.

Tennis in Venice
Also over at the Lido are a number of tennis courts and clubs which welcome non-members should you fancy a game. Get there via the Lido vaporetto, then the bus.

Swimming in Venice
Finally, if you’d prefer to cool off then simply take a dip in the Lido or alternatively head to one of the many public beaches. The best are located in San Nicoló to the north and Murazzi and Alberoni to the south.

For more information on activities, events and restaurants in Venice, check out these online travel guides.