Anyone who loves golf knows that playing amidst beautiful scenery makes all the difference.
The Poggio dei Medici Golf Club, in the heart of Mugello and just a stone’s throw from Scarperia and Florence, is proof of this. The course winds its way through the Tuscan hills and offers a well-designed layout, perfect both for those seeking a technical challenge and for those who simply want to spend a day in the open air, surrounded by the lush greenery of the fairways.
Opened in the early 1990s by architect Alvise Rossi Fioravanti, drawing on the expertise of professional golfer Baldovino Dassù, Poggio dei Medici was designed from the outset to meet the rigorous American standards of the USGA (United States Golf Association) regarding the quality of the greens, the drainage of the course and the overall construction of the holes.
The exceptional quality of the design has enabled the club to quickly establish itself on the international stage, becoming the venue for prestigious tournaments such as the Ladies Italian Open and several stops on the European Challenge Tour. It is therefore no surprise that the course has been recognised on numerous occasions at the World Golf Awards as Italy’s best golf course.
With an overall par of 72 and a length exceeding 6,300 metres from the rearmost tees, the course makes full use of the natural contours of the Florentine countryside. Each hole has its own distinct character, challenging the player with an enthralling sequence of doglegs, well-placed hazards and wide yet never monotonous fairways.
The start of the round immediately puts strategy to the test, culminating in the first half with striking holes such as the 6th — a short but tricky par 3 requiring great finesse — and the monumental 7th. It is, however, on the back nine that the course reveals the full extent of its tactical rigour. The 13th stands out as the longest on the course: a majestic par 5 of over 500 metres that demands power and consistent accuracy to reach the green safely. Immediately after comes the 14th hole, considered the real stumbling block of the course due to its difficulty rating, where a less-than-perfect tee shot risks jeopardising the chance of saving par. The final stretch of the round offers intense thrills, concluding with a splendid 18th hole that leads players back towards the clubhouse, offering an unforgettable panoramic view before the final putt.
The experience at Poggio dei Medici goes far beyond the 18-hole course. The club welcomes enthusiasts with a fully equipped practice area, where every detail has been carefully considered – ideal for warming up before a round or for honing your technique. A spacious driving range allows you to practise your long shots, whilst the areas dedicated to short game, complete with practice greens and bunkers, enable you to refine your touch for those delicate approaches around the green.
At the end of the day’s play, the elegant clubhouse offers the perfect setting to relax, discuss the highlights of the round and savour the traditional foods and wines of Tuscany, rounding off an experience of pure beauty and sporting passion.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer ready to put yourself to the test on the 18-hole course or simply an enthusiast keen to take your first steps on the driving range, Poggio dei Medici offers everything you need for a special day.
Set amidst the beauty of Mugello, boasting a superbly designed course and the warm welcome of its Club House, this corner of Tuscany is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to experience golf in its truest form.
To fully enjoy the experience after a pleasant round of golf, you simply must stay at a Collichiari property, where the art of hospitality meets the charm of Mugello.
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