Tee Shots in the Countryside

Written on Thursday, April 15, 2021 by Emma

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What is a great way to exercise, breathe fresh air and view some spectacular scenery around the world? Golf! South Africa, Ireland, Mexico, Hawaii, Bermuda, Scotland, New Zealand the list is endless, there are so many perfectly placed scenic courses around the world to be played and we have plenty of them here in Australia.

My inspiration to take up golf early last year was after a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. It occurred to me that many courses were situated on the coastline boasting spectacular views. After further investigation I realised many of the most popular courses around the world showcased some of the most spectacular landscapes of mountains, bush, desert, lakes, and some very dramatic cliff faced coastlines. I now understood why so many golfers love to travel to experience these amazing courses.

My plans to incorporate golf into my overseas holidays may have been put on hold but the opportunity to experience some of these beautiful courses boasting incredible views and stunning scenery was just beginning. You don’t have to be a great golfer, its all about the experience of combining some exercise, natures beauty and local hospitality to create great memories and a fantastic holiday.

Many of us have been fortunate to holiday overseas and have often overlooked the little gems right here at home. In supporting our own region over the last 12 months our team have spent many weekends exploring the little townships of Victoria.

With golf clubs in the boot, I have travelled around the countryside experiencing local hospitality and playing a few rounds on some beautiful courses. It’s extremely relaxing and helped me appreciate the beauty of nature here in Australia.

Below are the few I have visited so far. If anyone has any others I must get to, I would love to hear about them.

Warburton – Picturesque and challenging, watch those hills (carts are available). Little historical buildings scattered around the course.  Stunning mountain views and flowing streams. Kookaburras laughing away at weak tee shots, it’s a beautiful experience in the natural surroundings.  The local area itself is quaint. It has some lovely restaurants and pubs for a nice meal and for those who like to ride there is the Warburton to Lilydale rail trail, a great 40km flat riding path dotted with wineries and sights along the way for a great day out. There are many accommodation options on offer.

Hepburn Springs – Also a little hilly, but a beautiful peaceful bushland setting and a lot of wildlife to share the experience with. Hepburn and its neighboring town of Daylesford is quite popular for a weekend away offering many accommodation options, spas and wellness offerings quite a few pubs and restaurants and lots of shopping.

Mallacoota – Bush setting. Generally, quite flat. Great views of the water. Lovely to play among the kangaroos especially late afternoon. The township is small and of course recovering from devastating bushfires. Lots of activity on the water especially if you are keen to fish.

Heathcote – Lovely and flat. As many country clubs are run by volunteers, they have a vending machine to pay your green fees. Once again plenty of wildlife to watch. Heathcote boasts many great wineries (famous for Shiraz) and a large main street offering many options for eating and shopping.

Myrtleford – Lovely course, quite narrow. If you are not so straight your ball will probably end up on another fairway. Surrounded by mountains and farms it’s a beautiful course to walk around, listening to the sounds of birds and taking in that mountain fresh air.

Local country courses welcome visitors. Just check in with them as many have competitions and closed to social play, so its often best to book. Many of the golf clubs also offer meals, a pro shop and of course a drink after your game.

There are so many courses and towns still to experience. What’s next? Perhaps the Peninsula, Phillip Island and up on the Murray, so many choices.

If you are interested in seeing a little more of Victoria or even venturing further, we are here to help with your arrangements. We are increasing our product range every day, with holiday house rentals, motels, hotels and some unique properties and hidden gems. If golf is not your pleasure, we have plenty of other options for you to experience on your next getaway.