TURKEY

Golf in Turkey: Where East Meets West on the Fairways

Golf in Turkey represents a fascinating fusion of ancient cultures and modern luxury, with world-class courses set against dramatic backdrops of Mediterranean coastlines and rugged Anatolian landscapes.

The sport's roots in Turkey date back to 1895 when the Istanbul Golf Club was established, primarily serving British expatriates and diplomats during the Ottoman era.

However, the modern golf boom began in the 1990s when visionary developments transformed the Belek region into the country's golfing epicenter.

Today, Turkey boasts over 20 courses, many designed by legendary architects, offering a unique blend of challenging play and resort-style luxury.

The Turkish Golf Federation, founded in 1996, has been instrumental in developing the sport locally while positioning Turkey as an emerging golf tourism destination.

What makes Turkish golf distinctive is its combination of championship-level courses with rich historical surroundings, where players can enjoy 21st century golf facilities just miles from ancient Greco-Roman ruins.

Key regions showcase Turkey's diverse golf offerings.

The Antalya-Belek corridor along the Turquoise Coast is the undisputed golf capital, featuring 15 courses within a 30km stretch of Mediterranean shoreline.

Istanbul's outskirts offer urban golf escapes like Klassis Golf & Country Club, blending convenience with challenging play.

The Bodrum Peninsula attracts luxury seekers with its hillside courses overlooking the Aegean, while new developments in Cappadocia promise future golf amid surreal volcanic landscapes.

Each region combines golf with distinct cultural and geographical characteristics, from pine-forested fairways in Belek to the cosmopolitan flair of Istanbul courses.

Signature courses highlight Turkey's golf ambitions.

The Montgomerie Maxx Royal in Belek, designed by Colin Montgomerie, hosted the Turkish Airlines Open from 2013-2019, attracting top European Tour players to its risk-reward layout featuring extensive water hazards.

Carya Golf Club, a Heathland-style course by Thomson-Perrett, stands out for its night golf capabilities and stands of fragrant eucalyptus trees.

The Regnum Carya Golf Club, a David Jones design, made history as Turkey's first European Tour host venue in 2016.

These courses exemplify Turkey's commitment to creating championship-caliber golf experiences while respecting the natural environment.

Player development is gaining momentum through programs like the Turkish Golf Federation's youth initiatives and academies at major resorts.

While Turkey hasn't yet produced world-class professionals, young talents like Ali Altuntas are making waves on developmental tours.

Golf tourism thrives with all-inclusive packages at Belek's integrated resorts, where peak season runs from October to May to avoid summer heat.

Non-golf attractions include Antalya's ancient ruins, Istanbul's historic sites, and Cappadocia's hot air balloon rides.

Sustainability efforts are increasingly important, with courses like Gloria Golf Club implementing water recycling systems and solar energy solutions.

Future projects include the ambitious Capella Golf Resort in Cappadocia and Turkey's aspirations to host the Ryder Cup by 2032, signaling long-term commitment to golf development..