Guests at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives are in for a delight with the launch of the country’s first nine-hole recreational golf course at the resort. 

Designed by Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, the Villingili Golf Course sits on seven and a half hectares of previously undeveloped land at the southern end of Villingili Island.

The official opening ceremony took place earlier in presence of His Excellency Ahmed Adheeb Abdul Ghafoor, minister of tourism, arts and culture. He was accompanied by Rene Egle, general manager at the property.

“We are excited to offer a new experience to the Maldives traveller,” said Egle.

“Apart from our other recreational options, the Villingili Golf Course will add a new and unique activity for our guests – a game of golf amid expansive views of the Indian Ocean and the tropical landscape.”

Spectacular sights await guests at each of the nine holes, mostly par three and averaging 123.4 yards in length. 

Designed to be a fun course for golf aficionados and beginners alike, the Villingili Golf Course was developed with the island’s natural beauty in mind, enhancing existing flora to highlight the gleaming ocean and turquoise lagoon along a scenic walking path. 

A diversity of palms, pandanus and various exotic plants are dotted along sandy beach coves on the east and west shorelines.

The golf course is exclusive to guests of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives. 

Facilities include a clubhouse, refreshment bar and a pro shop carrying an assortment of golf apparel, gear and merchandise.

Shoe and equipment rental services are also available.