Marco Simone Golf & Country Club

Location: Guidonia Montecelio (near Rome) | Style: Parkland | Length: ~7,299 yards | Par: 72 | Designer: Jim Fazio (original) / Redesigned by Tom Fazio II & European Golf Design | Founded: late 1980s

Situated just 20 minutes outside of Rome, Marco Simone Golf & Country Club combines championship standards with historic Italian character. Originally designed by Jim Fazio in the late 1980s and later comprehensively re-designed ahead of the 2023 Ryder Cup 2023 by Tom Fazio II and European Golf Design, the course offers a rigorous test for low-handicappers while remaining accessible to keen club golfers thanks to multiple teeing options.

The layout threads through Roman countryside and historic terrain, lakes, undulating fairways, broad greens, glimpses of the dome of St Peter’s Basilica, and the adjacent 11th-century Castle of Marco Simone forge a distinctive backdrop. With its blend of elevation changes, risk-reward holes, and panoramic views, the course stands out as a must-play destination for golf travellers in Italy.

Course highlights

• Host venue for the 2023 Ryder Cup, the first time the event was held in Italy.
• Hosted multiple editions of the Italian Open (1994, 2021-23) on the European Tour.
• Stunning views over Rome’s skyline, including St Peter’s dome, and the historic castle of Marco Simone, anchored on-site.
• Redesigned to offer strategic interest: enhanced risk-reward holes, broader landing zones, and spectator-friendly routing ahead of the Ryder Cup.
• Accessible teeing options allow a pleasurable experience for various levels of golfers while retaining a championship pedigree.

Signature Holes

The signature hole here is the 16th hole, a driveable par 4 with water on the right of the green to catch any errant tee shots. This hole is the scene of Tommy Fleetwood's tee shot that won the 2023 Ryder Cup! The perfect risk, reward hole.

Another of the stand out holes on the course is the 546 yard, par 5 1st hole which plays downhill with a slight dog left to the right.

Clubhouse & amenities

The clubhouse at Marco Simone is set in elegant surroundings with sweeping views of the course and Rome beyond. On-site amenities include:

• A full driving range, putting and short-game practice area, and academy facilities for instruction.
• Dining at the “On the Green” restaurant offering Italian cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting.
• Wellness facilities such as a gym, spa, and pool for post-round relaxation.

Nearby activities

• A short drive (≈20-30 minutes) brings you to the heart of Rome, where you can explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican, Pantheon, and the vibrant city atmosphere.
• The surrounding Lazio countryside offers heritage and wine-country experiences; the castle on site dates to the 11th century and lies in the midst of Roman villa archaeology and ancient estates.
• For non-golfers in your party: sightseeing in Rome, spa stays, historic villa visits, and luxury shopping provide complementary travel experiences.

Did You Know?

• Marco Simone became the third venue on continental Europe (after Spain and France) to host the Ryder Cup.
• The course underwent a substantial redesign starting in 2018 specifically to prepare for the Ryder Cup, re-routing several holes, enhancing stadium-style spectator zones, and increasing capacity while retaining golf integrity.
• Owned by Lavinia Biagiotti Cigna, President and CEO of the Biagiotti Group, one of Italy’s largest fashion houses, the restoration of the stunning 11th century castle and course has been a lifelong passion for the family since her late parents bought the property in 1978.