(c) J. Hogg
By
2 weeks ago
Apes Hill Barbados is one of the world’s most talked-about stay-and-play destinations – a bucket-list course for golfers, the exclusive venue is drenched in Caribbean sunshine and surrounded by an exotic island of white sandy beaches. Five years ago, the luxurious resort was just a twinkle in the eye of Canadian investor, Glenn Chamandy. Now, thanks to the work of the late American course designer, Ron Kirby, the prestigious venue is a ‘must-visit’ location for golfers who enjoy playing whatever the season.
Kirby famously worked on some of the world’s greatest golf courses. From Gleneagles to high-profile Old Head in Kinsale, Ireland, he liked his courses to be breathtakingly beautiful, using natural vistas as a star attraction and made accessible to everyone, from novice to champion. Features such as native coral rock, Barbadian flora and glistening lakes are all used to maximum impact at Apes Hill. Since the 18-hole championship course reopened in 2022, the family-friendly resort has won rave reviews, with many saying Kirby’s final project was one of his best.
Sunil Chatrani, executive chairman of Apes Hill, said: ‘Ron’s fun-first design philosophy combined with Apes Hill’s stunning landscapes were a match made in heaven. It’s one of the most complete golf offerings you will find anywhere and a Caribbean paradise.’
A round at Apes Hill is unforgettable and plays over 7,000 yards off the back tee. A par-71, players can choose from four teeing options over the undulating fairway terrain, helping to ensure the course is playable for every standard of golfer. However, Apes Hill’s offering doesn’t end when players step off the 18th green. The championship course is now complemented by ‘Little Apes’, a route of nine, par-3 holes that can be enjoyed in just an hour. It’s perfect for a quick round to unwind or sharpen your short game – and great for children too.
One par-3 hole at Apes Hill is arguably the most iconic. Overlooked by the sleek modern clubhouse and Noisy Cricket restaurant, the ‘19th hole’ confronts golfers with a vast lake, where they aim to hit a comparatively small island green in the centre. ‘It’s the ultimate challenge to settle any lingering sense of competition after a round of 18 holes but the thrill if you land your tee shot is worth the risk,’ said Chatrani.
A new, state-of-the-art Performance Centre allows guests to work on their golf between rounds and has attracted some of the Caribbean’s most promising players. The high-tech equipment should improve every aspect of a player’s game, from physical strength to putting and swing speed. Lessons with knowledgeable PGA professionals are available.
A thriving real estate community has also developed at Apes Hill, as many hope to invest in an on-site luxury property too. Fourteen four-bedroom Hilltop Villas overlook the Little Apes course on Seaview Ridge and offer spectacular vistas across the Caribbean. You don’t have to buy your dream home at Apes Hill to enjoy the fantastic range of golf experiences. Stay-and-play rental villas are now available to book and include a private golf buggy to make exploring the resort an absolute breeze.
Close to the 18th fairway, the resort’s two-storey Courtyard Villas have gained popularity since opening for holiday stays at the start of 2024. Each three-bedroom villa is fully equipped with kitchen and dining facilities, as well as outdoor seating and dining options and a private plunge pool. Without a golf club in your hand, Apes Hill is a relaxing holiday destination in its own right. The Noisy Cricket restaurant specialises in fresh local ingredients for food and cocktails, while non-golf pursuits include swimming, yoga, tennis, padel tennis, hiking and guided gully trails. Although the resort’s lofty altitude lends it a sense of seclusion, Barbados’ bustling towns and those famous sandy beaches are never more than a short journey away either.
Apes Hill offers the golfing holiday of a lifetime, with a dream property to match. An acclaimed course, cool Caribbean breezes and spectacular facilities ensure this Barbados resort is a cut above the rest.
For more information, visit apeshill.com
