Golf Guide to Sicily and Sardinia

The Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia boast the best climate in the country for a round of golf, so it’s fitting there would be a collection of golf courses that mirror the quality of the weather. In total, there are four golf courses dotted around Sicily, with the pair at Verdura being undoubtedly the best. 

If you’re looking for a beautiful setting, then Il Picciolo Etna's striking environment will leave any golfer in awe. Generally, there is a theme of beauty at all golf courses in these regions, which is again exemplified by the rustic charm of Monasteri Golf Resort – a venue that blends natural beauty and a golfing challenge to create the perfect location for golf. 

We can’t neglect the stunning landscape that is Sardinia. Pevero Golf Club and Is Arenas Golf & Country Club are two of the leading venues on the island, both of which are an absolute pleasure to play.

Italy is home to a welcoming climate and one that is inviting to golfers. Whilst it may fail to reach the peak of the Mediterranean, there isn’t too much difference between Spain, Portugal and Italy in terms of temperature, meaning Italy is a year-round option for British golfers who are looking to escape the gloominess of winter.

The Climate

Whether you travel to Sicily or Sardinia, you are guaranteed a warm environment that has seemingly been created purely for golfing reasons. Sicily tends to be slightly hotter than Sardinia during peak season, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 35°C. The best way to summarise Sardinia’s climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot, dry and long summers. 

There is minimal rainfall on the islands, which should excite potential visitors. In fact, typical rainfall varies between 400 to 550 millimetres per year. For golfers who may want to take the cooler option of the two, a trip to the slightly milder Sardinia should be the preferred option for you.

  Local Time

Italy adheres to CEST time; one hour ahead of Britain.

  Local Currency

Italy uses the Euro and there are plenty of ATMs and bureaux de change.

With several UK airlines flying directly to Sicily's two airports at Palermo and Catania, this Italian island maybe more accessible than you think.  Sardinia has seasonal direct flights from London, Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester.

Flight Information

For golfers travelling from Britain, the typical flight time to Sicily is between 3 hours to 3 hours and 30 minutes; flights to Sardinia usually require a stop, and travellers can expect to land in Sardinia after 5 hours – 5 hours and 30 minutes of flying.

There are many activities and vistas to keep you entertained when away from the golf course in Sicily and Sardinia. In fact, golfers will be spoiled for choice as the historic areas are home to many fun and adventurous activities.

Things to do

Sicily homes some of the most monumental archaeological sites in the world, with fantastic temples such as Hera, Concordia and Lacinia all within walking distance from one another in the UNESCO world heritage site The Valley of Temples.

Palermo is another brilliant option for those who are looking to discover the rich history of the area, with notable locations such as The Norman Palace, Palermo Cathedral, The Ballaro Market and The Massimo Theatre.

Sardinia is rich with beautiful, sandy beaches and the calming environment is always a safe bet to unwind and enjoy the relentless sunshine. Poetto beach is a real standout and one we cannot recommend enough.

For those looking for more adventure, there are plentiful villages scattered across Sardinia, all of which offer a beautiful and serene atmosphere. Some of the best to explore are Bosa, Fonni and Castelsardo.

The Cuisine

When you travel to Italy, you expect to visit the land of exquisite taste – which is what both Sicily and Sardinia can offer in abundance.

La Madia is one of the premium offerings to be based in Sicily and the 2 Michelin-starred restaurant will be a real treat for the taste buds. You’ll struggle to find tastier Sicilian dishes anywhere else!

Another great option is La Capinera, a restaurant that takes a simple yet sophisticated take on fine dining, which is a big reason as to why it was awarded its Michelin star.

Sardinia can rival Sicily from a gastronomy perspective, but either region will deliver first-class dishes that entice you to return.

Somu Ristorante is a real standout in The Costa Smeralda, as the chef utilises local flavours to bolster the overall taste of dishes such as risotto.

It would not be a trip to Italy without a hearty pasta dish, which is something Il Rigugio happily provides. A warm and welcoming environment, the food here can almost overshadow Sardinia’s golfing reputation!