THE FACTS ABOUT VILLA D'ESTE

Italy

WHAT? A time tunnel back to the 1920s, when natural beauty was more important than modern gimmicks. With tight corridors of tall pine, ash and chestnut, and as tough a par 69 as you could find WHERE? A short drive from the grand Villa D'Este on the shores of Lake Como at Cernobbio, and about 50km from Milan. Lombardian elegance in everything from the elaborate clubhouse to the drinks menu in the bar. At 365 metres, the course offers great views WHY? Englishman Peter Gannon laid out the hilly, forested course in 1926. It has had a few moments of top-class tournament play in the Italian Open and is renowned for its great short holes. No superstar, but it has a lot of class WHEN? Open February-December (except Tuesdays: it isn't worked too hard), and the forested fairways offer protection from the hottest summer sun. Always call in advance because the club hosts numerous tournaments CONTACT 22030 Montorfano, Italy (00 39 031 200200; www.golfvilladeste.com). Green fees from about £35