29 - Top 50 UK & Ireland Stay and Play Trevose

29 - Top 50 UK & Ireland Stay and Play Trevose

For many, links golf is true golf; for others Harry Colt courses tick all the boxes. Put the two together, as Trevose's renowned Championship course does, and you have something very special. Standing on the elevated 1st tee gazing out towards the Atlantic is enough to set the pulse racing, with the course's thrilling series of opening holes taking you right down to the ocean's edge by the much-photographed 4th green. The front nine hugs the coastline and sand dunes, while the inward half weaves its way inland and back to the welcoming clubhouse. There's little let-up throughout, with the thought-provoking greens ensuring a good challenge, even on those rare wind-free links days. The fact that the championship course has hosted both the Brabazon Trophy and McGregor Trophy is testament to the quality of the layout.

Taking on a classic links as the sun is climbing in the sky is golfing heaven for some, so why not take advantage of Trevose's excellent accommodation options, set the alarm early, and find yourself out on that 4th green while others are still safely tucked up? The self-catering options continue to grow, with the latest addition being seven luxurious, environmentally friendly Fairway Lodges set below the 18th green. A range of other apartments, bungalows, cottages and flats allows up to 130 people to stay here in total, with the clubhouse often buzzing as a result.

The whole place has a relaxed, family-friendly feel with plenty to keep everyone happy, including a massage and beauty salon, tennis courts, outdoor pool, and snooker, table tennis and pool tables. For those who'd rather immerse themselves in the famous Cornish waves than simply look at them, Trevose has a tie-up with the Harlyn Surf School.

Back to the golf, and there's much more than just the Championship course, with extensive practice facilities for those looking to hone their games, as well as the Headland nine-hole course, where you can often see all the way across to St Ives, from its highest point on Trevose Head. The easy-walking Short course is then the ideal test both for youngsters starting out, and more experienced players looking to sharpen their short game on the small greens.

At day's end, the restaurant - with its light, airy feel and enviable views out over the links - is hard to beat, whether you opt for the locally sourced Constantine menu, created by Padstow-born and bred chef Julian Lloyd, or the more traditional fare available on the Colt's menu. With its idyllic setting, and so much going on both on and off the course, Trevose is the perfect place to test your game and relax.

Rooms & suites: 8 Fairway Lodges, 10 flats, 5 bungalows, 1 cottage Courses: 3 - Championship, Headland, Short Golfbreaks.com best Mar/Apr 2014 deal: Two nights' self catering and two rounds from £199pp. Visit www.golfbreaks.com