Origini Golf Mantova

The course is a regulation nine-hole layout designed by the architect Achille Ripamonti, set in the Po Valley countryside, a few minutes from the city of the Gonzagas. Its par of 34 comes from an unusual mix: two par 5s, three par 4s and four par 3s, one of them surrounded by water.

The most recognisable feature is the green inspired by the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass, the most famous island green in world golf: a homage the club makes a point of highlighting. The website describes the holes as regulation-length and well kept; length and slope figures are not published.

The club publishes its competition calendar and fees on its website: for up-to-date figures it is best to ask the office. The contact for bookings and lessons is the secretary and head of the Golf Academy, Gabriele Marcomigni, on 334 8191639 or at [email protected].

To warm up before a round there is a driving range with 12 illuminated bays, four of them covered and heated in winter, with a coin-operated ball dispenser. The practice area also includes a chipping area with a bunker and a 250-square-metre putting green with nine practice holes.

The clubhouse occupies a restored 19th-century farmhouse that keeps its original architectural features and floors: inside are the changing rooms, the pro shop and a bag store. The club presents itself as a family-friendly place, combining golf with the countryside experience typical of an agriturismo.

The Golf Academy runs lessons for beginners and for those who want to improve. The website celebrates the club's tenth anniversary and promotes the Trofeo Elif.

• A nod to Sawgrass. The green of one hole is modelled on the 17th at TPC Sawgrass, in Florida.
• A par 3 with water all around. Among the four short holes of the par 34 is one surrounded by water.
• Four par 3s in nine holes. The par of 34 is built from two par 5s, three par 4s and four par 3s.
• A farmhouse as clubhouse. The 19th-century building has kept its original floors and architecture.