Britain's Other Great Golfing Destination

(page 2 of 2)

And since you are knocking around Wales with your clubs, make sure to sample, if you drink, Brains beer and Penderyn single-malt whiskey, both of which are made in and near Cardiff. They go well with an increasing number of highly rated Welsh restaurants that focus more on the fruits of Wales' seacoast than the fried and tired fare that was all too common a decade ago.

Breathtaking Scenery

From Cardiff, try moving on to Tenby, the oldest golf club in Wales, about 90 minutes around the Wales peninsula from the Welsh capital city, and which will cost 36 pounds to 45 pounds. The site of many Welsh golf championship matches, Tenby boasts staggering ocean views, the mist close enough to kiss your swing on a windy day. Tight fairways, thick rough, and fast greens, this course is so pretty that the quality of play is almost secondary. Nefyn & District is located on the peninsula, another 90 minutes or so north of Tenby, and provides some of the most beautiful holes in the country. A round can take a little longer than most at these clubs because of all the pausing between holes to soak up the sea, cliff, and castle views. If you have a slice, beware of some of these holes, such as the 11th, where an errant tee shot will go right off the nearby cliff. Use your mulligans sparingly—and buy an extra one or two from your playing partner if necessary.

With the exchange rate so disadvantageous for U.S. visitors, it pays to look around for the right lodging and golf day. But the good news is that there are so many to choose from. Even if the Ryder Cup course is a budget buster, many others have green fees from 45 pounds to 120 pounds, with some unforgettable Welsh scenery. Book ahead for all tee times, especially this time of year. Every course has a Web site with tee times bookable by e-mail. Deposits or full fees paid in advance are customary.

Some helpful Web sites to assist in your planning: www.heartofwalesgolfbreaks.co.uk, www.worthwhiledrives.com, www.golfasitshouldbe.com, and www.walesgolfvacations.com.

Some packages can save you time and money. One is the Brecon Beacons Golf Tour, which can organize three rounds at Garnant Park Golf Club, Glynhir Golf Club, and Pontardawe Golf Club, with accommodations at 4-star hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, with prices starting at 149 pounds a night for hotel and golf.

Click here to see a roundup of the finest golf courses in Wales.

Kiley is a senior correspondent in BusinessWeek's Detroit bureau.