Slovenia is going for golf

Top golfing holiday destinations have in the past been restricted to places like Scotland and the many courses of America, but countries like Slovenia have been creeping up on the world's golf getaway leaderboard.

Slovenia has a handful of top courses spread around the country, and thanks to its favourable economy, is an affordable place to take a golfing holiday with friends or family.

The Royal Course in Bled is considered to be one the oldest and most attractive courses in Europe.

Built by order of the Yugoslavian royal family in 1937, the recently expanded course is one of the most exquisite and exclusive in the country.

It suits players of all skills, and for those who like more of a challenge, it neighbours the 'Golf course on the lake', which is infamous for its tricky water hazards, so golfers best bring a plentiful supply of balls.

Avid players who want to play all year round should head to Lipica. Its proximity to the Italian border and the Adriatic Sea lends it a year-long Mediterranean climate, making it one of the few places where golfers can grab a game whatever month it is.

People who are taking their families will be interested to know that Lipica's course is also located in the same complex as the famous horse stables, renowned for its white dressage horses.

Children are welcome to watch the horses and take a tour, and if they are lucky, go for a ride.

Further east in Slovenia, Mokrice's course sits in the impressive shadow of a medieval castle. This magnificent backdrop is made more so during the summer months, when an international festival of ancient music comes to town in nearby Brezice.

Already boasting a large number of golf courses, Slovenia welcomes its newest course to the party, that of Otocec, in July 2006.

Situated in the verdant, rolling hills of the Dolenjska region, the course sits on the banks of the river Krka and will be expanded to a full 18-hole quota by 2008.

All courses are situated near either rural accommodation or swanky resorts, meaning there is something for the pocket of every golf fan. XXX