Going for Golf

National

At the other end of the age scale for golf courses in Belek is the the National Golf Club which is next door to, and just west of, Kaya Eagles. Northern Ireland has had more than a passing influence on the shape and character of this 18-hole course, thanks to former Ryder Cup star turned TV commentator David Feherty and the aforementioned David Jones. The Ulstermen’s design, which opened towards the end of 1994, makes imaginative use of the natural terrain along with four ticklish lakes and the ubiquitous trees to create several testing doglegs and blind approaches. Three holes on the front nine take the breath away, notably the short second where the water-ringed green is Turkey’s answer to the infamous island 17th at Sawgrass, home of The Players Championship. Throw in the long fourth, banked down the left by the local river, and the par-four eighth which has water hazards on both sides, and the back nine will seem a doddle by comparison.

Until, that is, you come to the 18th. It measures only 369 yards, but no matter how far your drive goes you will have to negotiate the pond that shields the front and sides of the green; and if the pin is set left, that same hazard winds round behind the putting surface for a further bite at your cherry. No wonder Feherty is universally regarded as a tease.

For those seeking a warm-up or a gentler examination, the nine-hole executive course at the National is the ideal aperitif. There is no hotel attached to the National, but visitors are made to feel completely at home in the clubhouse which exudes exceptional 19th-hole bonhomie. Then again, the same could be said of all Belek’s golf facilities. Friendly and welcoming, it’s no surprise they inspire such loyalty.