Northern Italy & Lakes

Circolo Golf Villa d’Este – Lake‑Side Prestige, Historic Charm & Italy’s Most Iconic Parkland Layout

Circolo Golf Villa d’Este is widely regarded as Italy’s most prestigious golf club, a timeless 1926 Peter Gannon design set in the chestnut, pine, and birch forests above Lake Montorfano, just minutes from Lake Como. Consistently ranked as the No. 1 golf course in Italy and celebrated for its elegance, exclusivity, and technical challenge, it offers a classic parkland experience shaped by nearly a century of history.

With a refined clubhouse that has hosted royalty and dignitaries, immaculate fairways, and a routing that demands precision over power, Villa d’Este delivers one of Europe’s most authentic and atmospheric golf experiences.

Prime Location

Located at:
Via Cantù 13, 22030 Montorfano (Como), Italy

Travel Times

10–15 minutes from Como
40–50 minutes from Milan
45–60 minutes from Milan Malpensa Airport
60–70 minutes from Milan Linate Airport
Set in the wooded hills above Lake Montorfano
7 km from Lake Como’s waterfront and luxury hotels

Private transfers, taxis, and on‑site parking are available.

Course & Facilities

Villa d’Este features an 18‑hole, par‑69 championship course designed by Peter Gannon in 1926. Routed through dense woodland with natural elevation changes, it is known for its strategic shot‑making demands, narrow corridors, and beautifully framed greens.

Course Highlights

18‑Hole Peter Gannon Championship Course
Historic 1926 design with classic parkland shaping
Routed through pine, ash, chestnut, and birch forests
Six par‑3s — a rare and distinctive feature
Charming short par‑4s requiring precision over distance
Natural elevation changes creating uneven lies and demanding approach shots
Views across Lake Montorfano from several holes
Former host of the Italian Open more times than any other club (last hosted in 1972)

A favourite for golfers who appreciate traditional architecture, tight lines, and old‑world elegance.

Practice Facilities

Driving range
Putting greens
Short‑game practice areas
Coaching and academy services available

Course Conditions

Recent assessments and player impressions highlight:

Immaculate conditioning consistent with its elite ranking
Greens that are fast, true, and beautifully maintained
Fairways that reward accuracy; tree‑lined corridors punish wayward shots
A layout considered one of the most technical and demanding in Italy
A serene, exclusive atmosphere befitting a historic private club

Dining & Clubhouse

The clubhouse is an elegant, historic structure that has welcomed royalty from Belgium, Britain, Spain, and Greece, all of whom signed the club’s VIP “gold book.”

Features

Refined restaurant showcasing Italian and regional cuisine
Terrace dining overlooking the course and surrounding woodland
Bar and lounge areas with classic décor
Event spaces suitable for private functions and corporate groups
Pro shop and locker rooms
On‑site lodge accommodation located beside the opening holes

Events & Tournaments

Villa d’Este supports a range of events:

Historic club competitions and sponsored tournaments
Corporate golf days
Private group events
Elegant receptions and celebrations in the clubhouse
Professional event coordination available

Wellness & Leisure

Beyond golf, guests enjoy:

Scenic woodland walking paths
Panoramic viewpoints around Lake Montorfano
Access to nearby luxury hotels and spas around Lake Como
Golf academy services for all levels

Nearby Activities

Exploring Como’s historic centre and lakeside promenade
Boat tours on Lake Como
Visiting Bellagio, Cernobbio, and other iconic lakeside towns
Fine dining and wine experiences across Lombardy
Hiking in the surrounding hills
Day trips to Milan for culture, shopping, and dining

Why Circolo Golf Villa d’Este?

Historic Prestige • Forested Parkland Beauty • Italy’s No. 1 Golf Course

Circolo Golf Villa d’Este stands out for its timeless elegance, technical challenge, and exclusive atmosphere, all set within the wooded hills near Lake Como. With its storied history, royal connections, and beautifully preserved 1926 design, it remains one of Europe’s most iconic and rewarding golf experiences.