Introduction to Golf in Belek – the Antalya region of Turkey
I have huge pleasure in introducing Turkey to our portfolio of destinations, it was one of the so-called “safe destinations” thus far, according to the UK Government FCO Advice, which changed on 1 October.
Turkey has not had any travel disruption since the borders reopened in July and no Covid-19 breakouts in Belek, the resorts have introduced excellent new safety protocols and are not allowed to operate with more than 50% in terms of occupancy to avoid crowded restaurants, beach and pool areas in the resorts. Buffet dining is still available, as well as a la carte dining, special new measures for buffets have been launched, so the cuisine is on display, but it is not actually self-service. As of early October 2020, there is strong evidence to show that the only golfers playing in Belek and travelling to Antalya are UK golfers, who do tend to be the most resilient in Europe, therefore the golf courses are operating at 25-50% of normal capacity.
So, although the idea of travelling is more hassle than in pre-Pandemic times, the planes, airports, resorts and golf courses are much less busy and the overall experience is actually improved, except of course for the wearing of a mask. However, you will not be required to wear a mask poolside, on the beach, or on the golf courses, or when you are eating/drinking in the resort bar and restaurant outlets.
Belek has 14 stunning golf courses all of which are located east of Antalya and are attached to their respective hotel/resorts. We have included sample packages below for each of our top 10 hotels, which are relevant for at least part of the month of March 2021, which is a mid – season period. You can qualify for even better offers from mid-November to the end of February, but the weather can be a bit cooler. As one moves into the prime months like April, May, September and October the prices increase significantly in some cases.
Turkey invented high class all-inclusive and has set high standards from more than 20 years ago, I was personally involved in selling Turkey when there was only 1 single golf course before 1990, the National Golf Club and then Gloria Old came along, now we are spoiled for choice! My golf guide below will help you see where to stay and play, showing also a good measure of the quality of all the courses and the hotels.
In November I am travelling down to Belek for a few days to see some of the hotels and courses again to refresh my product knowledge and I look forward to speaking to you about a potential golfing vacation to Turkey in the coming months. Don’t forget if you book as parties of 8 or more special rates do apply! See below.
Yours in Golf
David Sledmere
Managing Director