• Visitor numbers increased to 38.6 million in 2017 (Turkish Statistical Institute)
• Golf tourists spend 120% more than general tourists (IAGTO)
• Kusadasi winning favour with golfers and expats alike when it comes to contemporary Turkish homes (Spot Blue)

Back in 2015, KPMG crowned Turkey the ‘Rising Star of Golf,’ flagging it up as one of the most successful golf tourism destinations in the world. Given the International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ assertion that golf tourists spend an average of 120% more than general tourists, the need to nurture this segment of Turkey’s visitors was clear.

Fast forward three years and it’s clear that Turkey is working not only to woo golf tourists with its courses, but also to tempt them to buy golf properties there too.

“Golf tourism in Turkey is big business. There are some absolutely sublime golf courses here, while Turkey has the weather to ensure that golfing here holds almost year-round appeal. A great deal of money has gone into enhancing the country’s golf offering in recent years, from course upgrades and whole new courses to superb golf developments for those with a real passion for the game.”  

Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue

The PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club is currently showcasing its courses, having become Turkey’s first 36-hole golf resort. Representatives are touring key European golfing markets and promoting the courses, which lie in Turkey’s famous Belek golfing paradise.

“…It’s clear from the response that we’ve received at all the shows that there is a real appetite for playing golf in Turkey and at PGA National Turkey.” 

Ahmet Cagil, General Manager, PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club

For many golfers, though, a holiday just isn’t enough. Second homes on golf resorts are immensely popular and Turkey has more than risen to the challenge of providing a tempting array of options. Some of the best are located at Kusadasi, a prestigious golf club with its own academy, pro shop and renowned clubhouse restaurant.

Properties at Kusadasi are not only exquisite in their design, but also surprisingly affordable. A two-bedroom apartment with its own private pool and steps down to a larger, communal pool is priced from just £59,500. Semi-detached houses start from £99,500, while beautifully contemporary, detached triplex villas are available for £159,500.

Visitor numbers to Turkey picked up significantly in 2017, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute. 38.6 million tourists visited Turkey over the course of the year, compared to 31.4 million in 2016. Income from tourism was up as well; the last quarter of 2017 saw an increase in tourism income of 27.7%, 77.7% of which came from visitors from overseas. Overall, tourism income for the year totalled $26.3 billion.

Kusadasi, with its laidback beach vibe and glorious weather, attracts many tourists throughout the year. Its large expat community encourages some of those to stay for longer, buying second homes and even primary residences so that they can enjoy the area more fully – including its excellent golf course.

Belek remains the spiritual home of golf in Turkey, but Kusadasi appeals to those wanting golf and something more as well. The laid back lifestyle, plentiful restaurants and blend of old and new offers something unique in Turkey.

“Not only does East meet West in Kusadasi, but traditional meets modern. And all this for an affordable price tag. It’s an immensely popular area and for many, the superb golfing facilities and golf resort properties give this area the edge over other parts of Turkey, particularly as we gear up for another summer of golf tourism.”

 Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue