How to spend three days at Celtic Manor
Nestled in the Usk Valley, we take a look at what this iconic Welsh golfing resort has to offer and how to spend your time there wisely.
With so much on offer, three days will rarely be enough time to utilize all of the fabulous facilities at Celtic Manor, the Welsh venue that has risen to become one of the United Kingdom's most iconic golf destinations.
Nestled in the Usk Valley, Celtic Manor serves up world-class golf and spa facilities in conjunction with award-winning dining, a combination that has elevated the resort to the status as one of Europe's finest golf resorts. Whether you're traveling as part of a larger group or as a couple, you can easily fill three days of your time. In fact, your only problem may be fitting it all in.
Day One
How else to begin your time at Celtic Manor than with a round on the Twenty Ten, the first course built specifically to host golf’s greatest team tournament.
A collaboration between renowned architects, tour pros and the European PGA, the Twenty Ten was designed with the specific intention of creating a unique Ryder Cup venue and from the moment you drive over the crown of the hill and look down at the golfing gem that awaits, you know you're in for a truly unforgettable experience.
A day at Celtic Manor is much more than simply a round of golf. Arrive and you will be greeted by the concierge team who will whisk you on a tour of the clubhouse, before showing you to your designated locker, emblazoned with the name of the Ryder Cup player who used it during the prestigious match-play event.
At its heart, the Twenty Ten is a course designed for the world’s best golfers and measuring 7,493 from the back tees there is no disputing that the water-strewn layout is something of a brute. However well you manage to tackle this golfing heavyweight, history abounds on every fairway. Try and replicate Tiger Woods’ unforgettable hole out over the water on the 12th, repeat Ian Poulter's magical chip-in in for eagle at the 11th, or see if you duplicate Graeme McDowell’s heroics over the closing stretch to clinch the trophy.
Spending an evening at Steak on Six, the intimate restaurant specialises in succulent steaks sourced from the British Isles is a highlight of any trip to Celtic Manor, and what better way to finish your day?
Set in a spectacular elevated setting on the sixth floor of the Resort Hotel, the 2 AA Rosette restaurant serves up an unforgettable dining experience and coupled with pre-drinks in the exclusive sixth-floor Signature Lounge is the ideal way to raise a glass to your first day at the resort.
Day Two
It’s important to start your day right, so why not begin the morning by heading over to the Forum Health Club, where you can take a dip in the pool, work out in the fitness studio or make the most of the 40+ classes on offer each week in the dance studio. For a more leisurely breakfast, stock up on a delicious buffet breakfast at The Olive Tree, before heading back to the course.
There are two other courses at the resort, the Montgomerie and the Roman Road, both of which offer an unforgettable championship experience.
The first course to open at the resort, the Roman Road was voted the ‘the top inland course in Wales’ by Golf Monthly Magazine upon opening in 1995. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Senior, the par 70 course overlooks the Severn Estuary with views across to Somerset and Devon.
Meanwhile, the Montgomerie opened alongside its sister course, the Twenty Ten, in 2007. An open parkland affair with plenty of dramatic shots across valleys and dotted with the odd pot bunker, the course takes in holes from the resort’s original layout, Wentworth Hills, merging them with Monty’s innovative new design.
Back at the resort, we recommend taking on a whole different golfing challenge. Adventure Golf, the fun putting challenge which takes in some of the most memorable holes in golf, and the odd Celtic-inspired raft, is a must for golfers and non-golfers alike.
When it comes it eating well, visitors will be spoilt for choice. The Rib Smokehouse and Grill, situated five minutes from the resort hotel in the Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor, is a great choice for a relaxed evening sharing a few beers. Meanwhile, for a luxurious end to your stay, it has to be Rafters, the award-winning restaurant serving up luxurious fare overlooking the Twenty Ten course and Usk Valley.
Day Three
Following two days out on the Celtic Manor courses, it’s time to unwind before heading home. For the ultimate pampering experience escape to the tranquil haven of the Forum Spa. Indulge in a treatment or head over to the beauty bar where you can sit and sip while enjoying some heavenly pampering.
Published
Senior UK Travel Consultant
