Italian golfers from now on will have an extraordinary short-haul opportunity at Sicily’s Verdura Resort, part of Rocco Forte Hotels, following a new partnership with the PGA of Italy.
As part of the new agreement, the award winning five-star resort – home of the European Tour’s Rocco Forte Sicilian Open – will offer professional-led coaching breaks to members of the Italian PGA.
Amateurs travelling with them will be able to take advantage of benefits such as five green fees included when staying for seven nights, plus unlimited range balls and buggies for the low season.
It means guests from Italy can enjoy the world-class facilities at Verdura with additional opportunities and will also be among the first golfers to test out the latest developments to the resort.
Aside from the superb Kyle Phillips-designed Championship course and the nine-hole par-three Executive course, the redesigned second layout reopens later this year following a major renovation programme. As the final preparations take place over the next few months, the first new nine holes will be open in August with the full 18 ready for play from October.
In addition, the practice facilities are the envy of many European resorts with a double-ended driving range and first-class academy. The venue also features Italy’s only European Tour-approved Performance Institute, where players of all abilities can hone their swings using cutting-edge technology.
Sir Rocco Forte said: “I am very happy to announce the partnership between Verdura Resort and PGA Italiana which takes place at a time when the world of sport and travel is penalised, like many other activities, by the ongoing health emergency.
“This partnership is intended as a strong signal of Rocco Forte Hotels’ willingness to restart and – on a more personal level – a testimony of my passion for golf and confidence in the growth of this game in Italy, especially in anticipation of the Ryder Cup 2023.
“The collaboration with PGA is a certificate of excellence that makes me particularly proud of what we have achieved at Verdura Resort, where professionals will be able to help students improve their technique and allow them to experience the game of golf in an absolutely unique setting.”
A spokesperson for PGA of Italy said: “Verdura Resort is an exceptional location with world-class golf and leisure facilities. It is five-star quality throughout and it makes perfect sense to build this partnership.”