National Golf Club Belek

The National Golf Club Belek, opened in 1994, holds the distinction of being the first golf club in Belek and the first in Turkey built to international championship standards. Designed by David Jones and David Feherty, it has consistently been ranked among the top courses in Continental Europe. Known for its mature landscape and technical difficulty, it offers a classic "forest-style" golf experience that contrasts with the more open layouts of newer resorts.

National Golf Course Overview

The National is not a course where power overrides strategy. It is carved through ancient eucalyptus and pine forests with the snow-capped Taurus Mountains as a backdrop. It is famous for its tight, undulating fairways and exceptionally small, fast greens that require surgical precision.

Technical Specifications

Key Course Characteristics

1. The "Thinker’s" Course

The National is defined by its narrowness. Mature trees overhang many of the fairways, meaning a drive that is only slightly off-line may not just land in the rough but be completely blocked from the green. Strategic positioning on the fairway is essential to have a clear line of sight for the approach.

2. Signature Holes

• Hole 4: A challenging Par 4 that requires a precise tee shot between a dense forest on the left and a large lake on the right. The approach is to an elevated green that slopes aggressively.
• Hole 18: One of the most famous finishing holes in Turkey. This Par 4 requires a shot over a lake to a green situated directly in front of the clubhouse terrace. It is a high-pressure finish where club selection is vital due to the prevailing winds.

3. Championship Pedigree

The course has a long history of hosting professional events, including the Turkish Ladies Open on the Ladies European Tour (LET). Its reputation for being a "fair but stern" test makes it a favorite for professionals and low-handicappers.

The Clubhouse and Facilities

The clubhouse at the National radiates a traditional, British-inspired atmosphere, reflecting its heritage as the "original" club of Belek.

Dining & Atmosphere

• The Clubhouse Restaurant: Known for having one of the best culinary reputations in Belek, the restaurant serves international and traditional Turkish dishes. The terrace offers a spectacular view of the 18th hole, making it the perfect spot for "post-round" analysis.
• Ambience: While many newer clubs are ultra-modern, the National maintains a cozy, prestigious, and slightly more formal atmosphere.

Amenities & Practice

• Academy Course: The 9-hole executive course is perfect for beginners or for experienced players looking to sharpen their short game.
• Practice Range: A 40-bay driving range, specialized chipping and pitching areas, and several practice bunkers.
• Pro Shop: A well-appointed shop featuring high-end golf apparel and the latest equipment from major brands.

Enhanced Course Nuances

• Small Greens: Unlike the PGA Sultan’s large multi-tiered greens, the National’s greens are notably smaller. This puts a premium on "Green in Regulation" (GIR) percentages.
• Natural Hazards: The course utilizes the natural terrain effectively; the lakes are not just decorative but are strategically positioned to swallow "safe" lay-up shots.
• Recent Updates: The course underwent significant renovations in 2015 to increase the hole count to 27, allowing for different 18-hole combinations (The Irmak, The Tuna, and The Ada nines).