Castelgandolfo Golf Club: Tee-off near the Papal Summer Residence
Castelgandolfo Golf: Tee off in a volcanic crater! Experience Robert Trent Jones' design below the papal summer residence in a 17th-century palace.
Visitors to Rome usually think of the Colosseum or St. Peter's Basilica. But just a short distance southeast of the Italian capital, in Castelgandolfo, a unique golfing experience awaits. Known as a retreat for popes from the summer heat, the town offers not only history but also, with the Castelgandolfo Golf & Country Club, one of Italy's most spectacular golf courses.
Its unique character is evident upon arrival: The course is nestled in the caldera of an ancient, extinct volcanic crater. The clubhouse, housed in a magnificent 17th-century palace, majestically overlooks the grounds. From there, a fascinating view opens up over the terrain designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The par-72 course spans 5,143 to 6,222 meters and, with four tee boxes, offers fair conditions for all skill levels.
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Strategy in the Crater: The Front Nine
The round begins spectacularly on Hole 1, a par-4 measuring up to 403 meters. From the clubhouse, you play directly into the caldera. Here, direction is crucial: A tee shot slightly to the right of a visible water trough provides the best position to safely approach the green, which is defended by a large bunker.
Another highlight is the par-3, measuring up to 195 meters, which tests your distance control. Throughout the round, fascinating views repeatedly open up to the town of Castelgandolfo and the papal summer residence, including its observatory – a truly unique backdrop worldwide.
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The Finale: Focus until the Palace
The Back Nine also demand tactical skill. Hole 16, a par-4 dogleg to the right, appears narrowed by trees. To safely reach the green, which is protected by two central bunkers, one must precisely calculate the angle.
The round concludes with Hole 18, a gentle par-4 dogleg back towards the clubhouse. Here, it's crucial to correctly account for the elevation change when hitting towards the flag. Those who come up short will inevitably land in the deep bunkers in front of the green. A fitting finale before ascending the steps to the palace.
Conclusion: Impressive Design in a Historic Setting
The Castelgandolfo Golf Club is a facility where members take precedence; therefore, guest players are primarily welcome from Monday to Friday. Even if the course maintenance – especially the bunkers – could occasionally use a little more attention, this does not detract from the enjoyment of the game. The design within the unique caldera landscape is simply impressive and highly recommended for visitors to Rome.
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
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Title will go here and can run on two lines
Release date
12 May 2026
photos
The Castelgandolfo Golf & Country Club was designed by Robert Trent Jones. (Photo: Michael Althoff)
Castelgandolfo Golf & Country Club is nestled in the caldera of an ancient, extinct volcanic crater. (Photos: Michael Althoff)
