Renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Italy’s climate and stunning landscapes also makes it the perfect country to play golf in.
Italy is home to more than 250 golf courses, including the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club near Rome, host venue of the 44th Ryder Cup. All eyes will be on the world-class Italian venue as Team Europe and Team US go head-to-head in the popular men’s golf event from Friday 29 September to Sunday 1 October 2023 – just a week after the women’s Solheim Cup in Spain.
In 2021 at Whistling Straits, the US convincingly regained the Ryder Cup with a record 19-9 victory. The likes of Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm will be looking to lead Team Europe to victory as they aim to win back the famous gold trophy.
The perfect setting
Located in the region of Guidonia Montecelio, just outside Rome, Ryder Cup 2023 venue the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club is no stranger to hosting prestigious golf tournaments, having hosted the DP World Tour’s Italian Open. A stunning championship course with meticulously designed fairways, challenging greens and breathtaking views, the Marco Simone provides the perfect setting for this golfing spectacle.
The facility, owned by the Biagiotti family, has 27 holes and is only 17km from the centre of Rome, said Italia.net. The technical features, the proximity to the Italian capital city, the clubhouse, which is among the largest in Europe, and the ample space to accommodate a large number of spectators make it the “ideal location for an event of the magnitude of the Ryder Cup”.
Spectators will have “unrivalled vantage points” of the on-course action, said golfmarcosimone.com, as well as “distant views of the famous Eternal City”. Fans will also get to enjoy “spectacular views” of St Peter’s Basilica and of the Castle of Marco Simone which together will “provide the backdrop to golf’s greatest team contest”.
Beyond golf, guests can indulge in the club’s spa and wellness centre, or simply relax by the pool and enjoy the serene surroundings. The club provides a perfect blend of sporting excellence, luxurious comforts, and natural beauty, making it an exceptional destination for both golf aficionados and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
‘Green oasis of relaxation’
Only the third course on continental Europe to host “the game’s biggest team event”, said European Tour Destinations, the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club has been “completely transformed” to host international golfing events, including the 2023 Ryder Cup and the 2022 and 2023 Italian Opens, and its nine-hole course “sits alongside a stunning 11th-century castle”.
The venue is a “green oasis of relaxation”, said Leading Courses, and playing golf with a view of St Peter’s Dome “adds excitement to the game”. It is “ideal for all golfing enthusiasts”, but also for those who “love the quality of a healthy, sporting lifestyle”.
Maria Elena Rossi, director of global marketing and promotion at ENIT, Italy’s tourism board, said: “Italy is hosting the Ryder Cup this year, which we hope will showcase Italy as being a key location for golf players in Europe, as well as further boosting the Italian tourism and the golf tourism sector.”
Main image: DP World Tour
Tickets and travel
For Ryder Cup 2023 travel, hospitality and ticket packages see: