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olf is being played today in places where it was often considered an alien activity, but it is also growing in countries where it has had a relatively low profile. Happily, Italy


falls into that category and Tuscany in particular.


Golf was first played in Tuscany more than 100 years ago, when it was in- troduced by the English, many of whom lived in the area. Tis isn’t surprising because the


Tuscan landscape, treasured by tour- ists and artists alike, lends itself spec- tacularly to golf courses. Te region flows from mountains, hills and


meadows, and works its way to the coast where its sandy dunes are remi- niscent of the links in Scotland and Ireland. Te climate is such that golf can be played year-round. As an add- ed benefit, there’s a lot to do in the areas around the Tuscan courses for non-golfers too—wine tasting, mu- seums, sightseeing, eating and shop-


| Spring 2015


ping are available in many nearby small hilltop towns. If you happen to be staying in Flor- ence, the courses are all within an hour’s drive or so. If you want to stay in the countryside, you can choose from a variety of small hotels or pensiones. While there are many courses in


Tuscany, here is a selection of some of our favorites: UNA Poggio dei Medici Golf Club was built—as the name suggests—on the estate where the Medici family once lived. Te understated 18-hole course melds beautifully with the country- side. Te centerpiece is the aristocratic villa, which dates to the 15th century. It features elegant rooms and a cuisine


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