The Italian Lakes are well known for sedate boat trips and gentle waterside strolls, less so for golf in luxuriant parkland surroundings with views of the lakes and distant snow covered mountains. There is big golf, American style, at two new clubs near Lake Orta: Castelconturbia, a triple-nine by Trent Jones, and Bogogno, with its two courses by Robert von Hagge, the Michelangelo of contemporary golf. For a more traditional atmosphere, try Varese, with its clubhouse in a former monastery; and Villa d'Este, set in beautiful woods beside little lake Montorfano.

The Lakes also have one of the world's finest golf resorts in the luxurious Palazzo Arzaga near Verona, with a golf academy, tennis courts and a spa, as well as two strong courses (by Nicklaus and Player). Verona is only half an hour away, Sirmione and the delights of Lake Garda are close at hand.

3 nights at the beautifully restored 15th century 5* Palazzo Arzaga Hotel & Spa to include B&B based on two sharing a twin scheduled flights to Verona and car hire. From £495.

Longer and shorter durations are available on request. For a personal tailor-made quotation, two or three centre holiday or if you wish to play other golf courses nearby please telephone one of our consultants on 020 73719111.