Villa d'Este Golf Course Centenary Upgrade Targets Younger Players

Lake Como's Villa d'Este hotel has reacquired its historic golf course, Circolo Golf Villa d'Este, ahead of its 100th anniversary. Originally built in 1926 to cater to golfing guests including authors, composers, royals, and stars, the course was sold in the late 1970s but recently bought back by the current ownership. President Giuseppe Fontana, who does not play golf, is overseeing a series of changes to honor the club's legacy while attracting a new generation. These include sustainability initiatives, infrastructure refinements, and a golf academy offering group lessons and open days. The course, located 30 minutes from the hotel on Lake Montorfano, features narrow tree-lined fairways and has hosted 80 Targa d'Oro competitions and 12 Italian Opens. A centenary celebration for members and invited guests is scheduled for June 20 and 21.