When it comes to golf trips and golfing abroad, we tend to think of destinations like Spain’s costas or Portugal’s Algarve. But now there’s another name you should consider before booking your trip. Tunisia.
Despite only being a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Gatwick airport, London, this North African gem is generally overlooked by British golfers. That needs to change.
An Unforgettable Experience
Tunisia is the ideal spot for those seeking great weather as they welcome visitors with a warm Mediterranean climate, lush landscapes, and generous hospitality. It’s a country that feels surprisingly familiar to some European visitors. It combines modern infrastructure with a rich cultural heritage, and that’s before you even set foot on a golf course.
Golf feels like it has a natural home here. With a strong European influence and growing local passion, Tunisia boasts a portfolio of ten golf courses, with more in the pipeline. Many were crafted by renowned architect Ron Fream in the 1970s, and several are undergoing upgrades to meet the standards of the most seasoned travelling golfer.
But the real lure? Tunisia’s golfing season never ends. Year-round sunshine, affordable luxury, and some truly memorable layouts make it a top-tier winter alternative.
Citrus Golf Resort
Just outside the coastal town of Hammamet lies the Citrus Golf Resort, home to two of the country’s standout golfing layouts; La Forêt and Les Oliviers.
La Forêt is the one to play if you’re looking for a serious test. True to its name, this tree-lined course demands accuracy from the tee and rewards the bold play. The fairways are firm and fast, adding an extra challenge to what is an already difficult task being a tight track. It also has the view to match. With elevated tee boxes offering sweeping views and greens that roll as well as any in Europe, it is certainly pleasing on the eye.
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Water hazards play a supporting role, but it’s the forest that could cause the most havoc. Miss the fairway, and you’ll be reaching for a new ball more often than not. Yet for all its challenge, La Forêt remains fair and walkable, with a handful of truly thrilling holes.
Then there’s Les Oliviers, which is the more welcoming sibling. This is the fun one. It’s wide off the tee, players able to go on the front foot, and a joy to play. The front nine stretches out across a breezy plateau, with a host of short par fours and plenty of scoring chances. The back nine dips and climbs through olive groves and palm-fringed fairways, offering just enough spice to keep things interesting.
Together, they’re a perfect pairing. One is stern and strategic, then the other is what I’d call sunny and satisfying.
Other Golf Courses
Tunisia’s golfing map is equipped with plenty of variety. In the north of the country, The Residence Golf Club, near Tunis, delivers sleek parkland golf and is only a short drive from the capital. Further south, lies the El Kantaoui Golf Course, the Golf Palm Links Monastir, and the Flamingo Golf Course. Each of these offerings represent a different challenge and have their own unique quirks. This is shown by the fact some are seaside links-style layouts to more traditional resort designs.
La Cigale Tabarka, part of a luxurious spa resort near the Algerian border, offers yet another dimension to Tunisia’s offering. Meanwhile, Golf de Carthage and Yasmine Valley Golf Club round out a surprisingly diverse portfolio.
No matter your base, a memorable round is never far away.
Beyond the Fairways
A trip to Tunisia isn’t just about golf. Off the course, the country offers a rich tapestry of experiences. If you get the chance, you won’t regret wandering the streets of Sidi Bou Said and acknowledging its blue-and-white architecture which echoes that of Santorini, but with a uniquely North African flair. Or you can head to the lively marina of Port El Kantaoui, with the offer waterfront dining and a relaxed atmosphere on offer.
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With impressive hotels, outstanding food, and exceptional value, Tunisia feels like a well-kept secret. But I doubt that will last for much longer.
It’s about time British golfers took a look at Tunisia as a golf trip. The sun is waiting. The courses are calling. And for those willing to take a slightly different path this year, you won’t be disappointed.
So maybe it’s time to take a fresh look at your next golf holiday. And maybe, just maybe, it’s time to take on Tunisia.
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