Colin Tennant, a subscriber to the Dan Hendriksen Golf channel, shares his passion for his home course in northern Italy - a stunning mountain golf course that combines championship golf with breathtaking scenery.
Anyone taking a holiday in northern Italy, bring your sticks and visit Golf des Iles Borromées. Just off the A26 which links Milan to Switzerland, my home course looks over Switzerland to the north and Milan to the south with the most magnificent views of Lago (Lake) Maggiore and the other smaller connected lakes.
I promise, you will not be disappointed in this par-72, 6,122-metre, eighteen-hole mountain golf course.
A Setting Steeped in History
Located near the historic Piedmont towns of Stresa and Baveno, this region has served as a hideaway for some of the world’s most celebrated figures. Hemingway, Bernard Shaw, and Clarke Gable all found refuge in this stunning corner of Italy. And now, more importantly, me.
The area’s rich cultural heritage provides the perfect backdrop for a golfing experience that transcends the sport itself. You’re not just playing golf - you’re following in the footsteps of literary giants and Hollywood legends.
But the Golf…
The course really is a magnificent walk, or buggy ride, and you will properly enjoy the golf and free fitness test. The mountain terrain ensures every round provides both challenge and workout, with elevation changes that demand strategic thinking and club selection.
After navigating this beautiful test, you should definitely get straight into the restaurant and eat, then eat a bit more and probably have that glass of wine.... The post-round experience is every bit as important as the golf itself, and the clubhouse delivers on all fronts.
Fighting Off the Invasion
I need more Brits to fend off the Swiss/German/French invasion, who all drive down or across to play at this fairly hidden gem. The course’s location at the crossroads of several countries means it attracts a wonderfully international field, but there’s always room for more UK golfers to discover this special place.
The accessibility from multiple countries speaks to both the quality of the course and the convenience of its location. It’s a proper destination that rewards the journey.
Beyond the Golf
It isn’t all golf of course. In your downtime, take a boat trip to the islands, or around the lake to Switzerland, or ride the historic mountain pass train. The region offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure beyond the fairways.
Just to add to this already exciting proposition, I will possibly maybe even buy you a glass of wine!
The Complete Package
We are surrounded by stunning mountains and the lakes, just an hour on the train to Milan, and of course Piedmont offers lots of Italian food and wine heaven. The restaurants in the area are just fantastic. And, to the horror of the mother-in-law, there’s even McDonald’s in nearby Gravellona Toce - and they’ve gone mad and opened a KFC and Burger King if you have the need.
Whether you’re seeking authentic Italian cuisine, world-class wines, or simply the comfort of familiar fast food after a long day, the area caters to every taste and preference.
The Verdict
Golf des Iles Borromées represents everything a destination golf course should be: challenging golf in a spectacular setting with endless off-course attractions. The mountain terrain, the lake views, the proximity to Switzerland and Milan, and the rich cultural heritage of the Piedmont region create an experience that extends far beyond 18 holes.
For UK golfers planning an Italian adventure, this course deserves serious consideration. It’s accessible, it’s beautiful, it’s challenging, and it comes with the promise of excellent food, fine wine, and the warmth of Italian hospitality.
Colin Tennant, 9 Handicap