“If only I hit it straight that would have been perfect.” Every golfer has said this at some point in their golfing career. But it’s impoortant to remember, while attempting to attain the perfect swing, your visual surroundings are crucial. And as with anything in life, a change of scenery–particularly one that’s quite different from home–is a great way to get things moving along. The rural setting of the courses in the tri-state area provide some escape for golfers, but the crashing waves of the Caribbean can sometimes offer a different perspective.
The comforting tropical views along the Puntacana Resort and Club will without-a-doubt serve as an ideal source of inspiration. Golf Magazine previously named La Cana Golf Club at Puntacana Resort and Club the number one course in the Caribbean. Certainly, few things are better than a golf course set between rocky cliffs, coral reefs, and the Caribbean Sea. And if an excuse for taking this golf-inspired trip is necessary, remember the famous quote by esteemed author P.G. Wodehouse, “If only I had taken up golf earlier and devoted my whole time to it instead of fooling about writing stories and things, I might have got my handicap down to under eighteen.”
The Golf Experience at Puntacana Resort and Club will not leave you disappointed with its irreplaceable views found at both Corales Golf Club and La Cana Golf Club. Corales Golf Club, designed by Tom Fazio, offers an exclusive 18-hole par 72 course with six holes on bluffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. But beware of the Devil’s Elbow, the more challenging last three holes played on the Bay of Corales. Luckily for prospective golfers, caddies are mandatory at Corales and are there to alleviate some of the pressure. La Cana Golf Club, designed by P.B. Dye, offers a 27-hole course consisting of three nines, Tortuga, Hacienda and Arrecife. Ten holes have ocean views while four are played on the Caribbean Sea. Caddies are available for this course as well, but are optional. Both golf clubs include a club grill and offer both bar and beverage cart service.
The Caribbean Sea-surrounded locale of Puntacana Resort and Club doesn’t dismiss its impressive dining, which includes options ranging from Mediterranean and Italian to modern American. Most of the restaurants, including The Grill, an American-style grill at La Cana Golf and Beach Club, display the relaxing and inspiring views of the Caribbean Sea. Relaxation and sun combine when dining at the beachfront tropical restaurant of Playa Blanca at The Westin Puntacana Resort and Club.
Puntacana Resort and Club features the Oscar de la Renta Tennis Center, respectfully named after the late fashion designer. It turns out de la Renta was an active enthusiast in the Dominican Republic community, having founded a school near the Puntacana Resort and Club, in the location of his hometown. The tennis center offers a tennis camp for all ages from June through August under the supervision of Felix De Los Santos. Additionally, the Annual Oscar de la Renta Social Tennis Tournament held in December helps lend support towards the education of Puntacana Resort and Club’s younger employees. The tournament features men’s and women’s singles and doubles.
The resort also offers an array of activities in addition to golf and tennis ranging from kite boarding, scuba diving, snorkeling, horseback riding, and fishing. All of these activities include views of the Caribbean that promote relaxation and repose. The featured Six Senses Spa offers signature treatments and Asian therapies while embodying a holistic focus which includes Thai and Foot Acupressure, beauty and pampering treatments, yoga, and meditation. Whether your ideal day is a detox treatment or pampering for a special celebration, the spa focuses on promoting a natural lifestyle, S.L.O.W. LIFE (Sustainable, Local, Organic and Wellness).
Last but not least, Puntacana Resort and Club participates with Grupo Puntacana, a volunteer organization offering a diverse variety of volunteer positions in an effort to protect and restore the natural resources and improve the health and wellbeing of surrounding Punta Cana communities. Included in the volunteer opportunities are Coral Reef Restoration Program, La Milagrosa Maternal and Child Center, Childcare Yess Kinder, Nuestra Senora del Carmen Nursing Home, and more.
The post Above Par: Golf and Getaways at Puntacana Resort and Club appeared first on VUE magazine.