5 nights with breakfast included at Agriturismo La Razza and 2 Green Fees at Matilde Golf and San Valentino Golf Club

A visit to Matilde Golf is the perfect occasion to mix sports, culture, relaxation and fine food in an easily reached area in the heart of the Emilia Romagna region. The 18 holes created by the drafting pencil of architect Marco Croze in 1987 are located on the lands referred to as the Terre Matildiche, the dominions of the Canossa family, where the great Countess wrote pages of history between the 11th and 12th centuries. It is located 9 kilometres Southwest of Reggio Emilia and 25 kilometres from Parma in the Po Valley countryside. You will be spoilt for choice in your search for a good restaurant. The course is challenging, the terrain hilly and gently rolling and you will need to use every shot you have in your repertoire. The greatest difficulty lies in dealing with Hole 11, a long Par 4 of 382 meters from the yellow tees, with the stream that cuts the hole in three places – initially it flanks it on the right, then crosses over to the left side, and finishes by encircling the green. For an average level player to be able to score a par here is enormously satisfying. The last hole, 18, is beautiful and delicate, a par 3 of 146 meters uphill with the green protected by three deep bunkers. This is the stage onto which the clubhouse looks, the preferred observation point of members watching the game during event days. Technical Details Course:18 holes, Par 72, 6231 meters Architect: Marco Croze Topography: From flat to slightly hilly. Distinctive features: suitable even for the best handicaps Pro’s comments: The English golf players would define the Matilde di Canossa as tricky and funny. The holes lie on a hilly terrain and surprises are not lacking. We spoke of Hole 11 previously but allow me to mention Hole 17, a Par 5 with a frontal water hazard that pushes players to aim for the green with the second shot. Very few players enjoy the honour of landing the ball on the green with 2 shots. But for all the others, scoring a 5 is not so extremely tricky ….tricky and funny.

From a technical perspective, this is no stroll through the park. With its narrow fairways, small greens and continuously changing levels, this 18-hole par 72 course designed in 1998 at San Valentino is undoubtedly challenging. However, the pleasure of a match on this well-kept course in the inlands south of Reggio Emilia where the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines begin, is a worthwhile experience. You are surrounded by nature as you play – there is also a nature trail with a gym in the woods and a romantic lake and chapel for private ceremonies. The kindness and helpfulness of the staff are a true plus that inspire tourists to return. The lovely and welcoming clubhouse, with its large picture windows looking onto Hole 18, is the perfect place to regenerate after a match and enjoy a sunset with its magical colors reflecting on the leaves of the woodland. Technical Details Course: 18 holes, Par 72, 5953 meters Architect: Carlo Quintelli. Topography: important differences in height, narrow paths, insidious greens. Distinctive features: if your physical conditions are not good, you risk to pant quickly! The course is not simple at all to play. Those who are able to master well their clubs will reach a good score. Long shots don’t actually help in this rather demanding course.