Dean, an 8-handicap golfer, has been on numerous Dan Hendriksen Golf trips and has received coaching over the years. Here, he shares his experience of one of Turkey’s premier golf destinations.
If you’re ever in Belek and love golf, Regnum Carya is a must-play. It’s easily one of the most beautiful and challenging courses I’ve played in Europe. The fairways are lined with pine trees, the greens are pristine, and the course has hosted the Turkish Airlines Open multiple times—a testament to its championship pedigree.
A Charming Welcome
Right from the first tee, you get a sense of the charm—the words “Good Luck” are spelled out in flowers, setting the tone for the challenge ahead. And yep, depending on the tees you play from, you’ll definitely need a mix of luck and skill!
The course demands strategic thinking from the outset, rewarding good course management whilst punishing wayward shots. It’s the kind of layout that makes you work for your score, which is exactly what championship courses should do.
Standout Holes and Memorable Moments
The third hole is a personal favourite: a par-4 with stunning visuals and a charming cluster of pine trees right in the middle of the fairway. Like many of the holes, it really makes you think about your shots. You can’t simply pull driver and swing away—club selection and shot shape matter here.
Playing at dusk is something else—especially with the call to prayer in the background, giving it a calm, magical vibe. There’s something special about experiencing golf in a different culture, and these moments add a dimension beyond just the sport itself.
The Night Golf Experience
And then there’s night golf! It’s a really unique experience—definitely glad I tried it, though once was enough for me! It does come with its own set of challenges. Finding your ball becomes an adventure, judging distances gets trickier, and the entire rhythm of the game changes. Worth experiencing once, but I’ll stick to daylight rounds going forward.
World-Class Facilities
The facilities are top-notch too: a massive putting green, a great driving range, a well-stocked pro shop, and super friendly staff. Everything you need to prepare properly for your round is available, and the quality of the practice facilities matches the quality of the course itself.
The staff genuinely care about providing a great experience, which makes all the difference when you’re playing somewhere new. They understand that international visitors want to make the most of their time on this special course.
The Verdict
Is it cheap? Nope. Worth it? 100% yes. I’ll be back every time I’m in the area.
Regnum Carya represents exactly what destination golf should be—a course that challenges your game whilst providing an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve left. The combination of championship-quality golf, stunning setting, excellent facilities, and that unique Turkish atmosphere creates something special.
For anyone planning a golf trip to Turkey, particularly the Belek area, Regnum Carya deserves to be at the top of your list. It’s the kind of course that reminds you why you love this game, even when it’s testing every aspect of your ability.
If you’re an 8-handicapper like me, you’ll find it challenging but fair. Better players will relish the strategic demands, whilst higher handicappers playing from appropriate tees will still have a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Just remember those flowers spelling “Good Luck” on the first tee—you might just need it!
Dean, 8 Handicap