Golf tourism in and near Sofia
Golf tourism in Sofia region, excellent golf courses and top Sofia hotels
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Best Western Hotel Expo - Sofia , BB |
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Benefit from golf tourism opportunities in Sofia
Bulgaria gains popularity as a golf tourism venue
First of all, it is important to emphasize that Bulgaria's mild climate is an essential factor for attracting golf fans to the country. Golf industry is set to become one of the major sectors of tourism in Bulgaria. There are already some excellent golf courses in Bulgaria and many more will be opening over the next few years. Yes, that it is true, a sport which has been existing for at least six centuries and has almost 100 million followers all over the world, is rapidly gaining popularity in Bulgaria. We are pretty sure that you have not missed to make your way to Mediterranean golf destinations such as Spain, for instance, however we assume that you might feel rather uncomfortable during the sizzling hot summer months. We have good news for you!
Summer temperatures in Bulgaria, especially in the mountainous regions, are all you might have been looking for and still even the sunseekers could not complain about the amount of sunshine as there is plenty of it.
The indications are that Bulgaria's golf venues will all be of a consistently high quality and that they will offer a fantastic range of facilities. World-famous golf celebrities such as Ian Woosnam and Gary Player have helped to design several of these new championship-level golf courses.
If you often spend your summer holiday at the Black Sea, then you know the weather can extend well into October. Thus, the golf lovers may enjoy the delights of the fresh crystal clear air and spectacular views. In the mountain regions, the golf resorts are close to famous ski resorts such as Bansko ski resort. Hence, those properties even in the summer will attract golfers, hikers, cycling groups, enthusiasts as well as those who simply wish a relaxing holiday in a astounding location. On the other hand, golf resorts along the Black Sea coast, such as those at Kavarna and Balchik, will impress tourists who are seeking a vacation close to the beautiful sandy beaches, as well as those who come primarily to enjoy some golf adventures. It is important to mention hereby that all golf developments are designed to be all-year-round destinations and to serve the needs of beginners and advanced players alike. Furthermore, many of them include a superb range of facilities, such as heated swimming pools, spa and beauty centres, fitness centers, medical centres, indoor and outdoor sports facilities and many more.
Golf is a sport that many people from far and wide come to play at Bulgaria’s capital city. There are two golf courses in close proximity to Sofia. Plans to extend one of the courses have already begun and in the future Sofia is expected to become one of the top golf destinations in Bulgaria. Thus, business travellers will be pleased to hear that they can easily enjoy themselves and wash their worries away after a busy meeting as Sofia has so much to offer. As it comes to golf benefits, many people are realizing the great investment potential in this area, both the most ardent golf fans and those who are buying excellent properties in the area. Whether you already play at a high level, so you are considered an advanced player, or you are just starting out in the world of golf, do not hesitate to try your hand at this prestigious sport and visit Bulgaria, a veritable paradise for all those who love this sport for so many different reasons. The great weather, lack of wind and pleasant, mild climate in the Sofia region are perfect for playing golf. Have fun, play your favourite sport whilst being in Sofia! The quality of the service, the stylishly designed hotels and ample range of amenities and sports facilities will definitely make you stay even more in Sofia city.
Due to the increasingly rapid rise of the interest of foreign investors in Bulgaria last years, several more golf courses are planned to be constructed.
Let us represent you the golf courses which you may enjoy whilst being in Sofia
3*Air Sofia Golf Club - Ihtiman
The 3-star Air Sofia Golf Club is actually the first Bulgarian golf course is situated at the outskirts of Ihtiman, a small town which lies about 45 km from Sofia city, on the highway Sofia-Plovdiv / Trakia Highway E-80/, making its location ideal for any golfers looking to escape for a few days of golf and relaxation under the sun. You will be glad to hear that this golf course is also close to the lovely mountain resort Borovets. Certainly the golf complex Air Sofia is a wonderful place for relaxation and complete recuperation. It is one of the few places in Bulgaria, where besides refreshing yourself by playing golf, you can also play football, basketball, volleyball, tennis. You shouldn’t miss the opportunity to pamper yourself with sauna and solarium. The golf playground in Ihtiman is constructed to match the world class standards. This complex, providing all facilities for full value holiday, is situated approximately 50 minutes away from Sofia, driving by car, so be invited to spend a couple of days or so there. Visiting Air Sofia Golf Club means that you will find one of the best kept secrets in the Balkans. It has been developed over the last four years to provide you, your friends and family with an ample choice of sports and leisure activities that will rival with any in the world. There are 18 fairways with the total length of 4431 m, Par 71.
English experts and eminent Spanish architects have designed the course, the green landscape and the drainage system.
The layout of the fairway and the incredible obstacles, water hazards, bridges and bunkers would be a real challenge even for the advanced golf players.
At the same time beginners will not be disappointed as the complex is constructed to suit their needs and even exceed their expectations.
The terrain of the golf course has been covered with three varieties of special grass /imported from UK/ and those have been blended, using special techniques.
What more should I expect?
The golf club features a well equipped golf store, hire out equipment and caddies.
The golf club is situated in an almost plain valley at an altitude of 600-700 meters and surrounded by steep slopes. The climate is mild continental with coldest month January (0-4ºCelsius) and hottest month July (23-25° Celsius).
The grass blend formulas used for the certain areas of the course are based on climate, precipitation and soil analyses. The soil of the greens, tees, fairways, putting - greens and the training course areas have been additionally treated. However, the rough area has not been treated, so the natural vegetation has been preserved.
The available drainage system is based on the so called French drainage, providing for the optimum terrain moisture in the green areas and allowing practice even in the rainy weather. The drainage system is autonomous for the separate area and it ends with an absorbing well.
Enjoy a round with your friends, whist avoiding the numerous bunkers and water hazards that make this well maintained 18-hole, 6,359 yard, par 71 course, such a challenge to golfers of all handicap's. The Air Sofia Golf Club now boasts more than 200 members and it often hosts tournaments within Bulgaria and is perfect for both couples, families, friends, business travellers and small groups looking to escape and enjoy some golf challenge. Please, be notified that lessons are available at the golf school which can be found at the driving range, ideal for beginners or for golfers who just need some advice, or why don’t you take a lesson over 3-holes, which will help improve your all round game. Non-golfers will not be bored as well since there is plenty to do. They can opt for a relaxation in the outdoor swimming pool or take some riding lessons at the horse riding centre on-site.
St. Sofia Golf Club & Spa
St. Sofia Golf Club & Spa offers the perfect venue for business or pleasure as it is ideally located just 15 minutes away from Sofia’s downtown, 10 km away east of Sofia in Ravno Pole village. The personal approach combined with excellent golf facilities, creates a relaxing and friendly atmosphere which ensures your pleasurable golf experience.
The St. Sofia Golf Club and Spa course was constructed in 2004 by the company Golf Balkan and it conforms to all European standards in terms of the golf sport. The course consists of 18 holes and a Golf Academy for all levels of tuition, from the very beginner to experienced golfers. The 6, 175 m long-playground with its well-maintained green areas provides excellent conditions for a superb game for all levels golf players. The golf complex also features 72 par, pro shop, spa & meeting facilities. The golf course is a host of a variety of tournaments and championships on a regular basis.
In fact,St. Sofia Golf Club and Spa is the first golf course in Bulgaria officially rated by the European Golf Association. This is evidence that the golf course corresponds to all European Golf standards. St. Sofia Golf Club & Spa offers world-class facilities for golf enthusiasts, it absolutely deserves your attention.
Read more about St. Sofia Golf Club and Spa
Many golf courses are in process of construction and Sofia region is expected to have at least 5 operating golf courses until the end of 2010.
Forthcoming
Kuttina Golf Centre
The Kuttina golf complex is the third big golf complex nearby Sofia, which will be finished in 2010. The complex will feature 18 hole Championship golf course, Par 72, 9 hole golf course, Par 36, driving range, international Golf School, football pitch, tennis/squash courts, swimming pools, club house and residential Area, consisting of five-star hotel, apartments and chalets.
Sport Center Kuttina will represent a brand new concept of residential area, a paradise isolated from any housing development, but still excellently communicated and providing excellent facilities.
Pravets Golf Resort & Spa
Pravets Golf Resort is the 5th golf resort awarded with First Class Investor Certificate in Bulgaria. The resort lies 50 km southwest of Sofia, approximately 45 minutes away by car from Sofia’s downtown and 30 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. The golf complex will be a unique of its kind for the region of Eastern Europe. The golf complex is expected to open doors in the end of 2010. The golf complex features a 18-hole PGA /The Association of the professional golf players/ standard championship golf course and a large driving range. The club house features golf shop and golf cart rental. The complex will offer a unique spa and recreational centre with a wide choice of massages, therapies and aromatherapy. First class tennis courts, volleyball courts and Olympic-size swimming pool will be at the disposal of its guest. Pravets Golf Resort & Spa also features a hotel, residential buildings and luxurious villas, nicely integrated in the park alleys of the complex. The golf course will be definitely that kind which definitely makes the hotels packed with golf fans.
Best Western Hotel Expo, Sofia
distance to center: 9kmdistance to airport: 8km
The Expo Hotel is one of the world's largest hotel Chain situated in Sofia, offering excellent service, comfort and elegant ambience.
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