As you would expect from the home of the Sunset Strip, Las Vegas' approach to golf centres on the dramatic, with lush golfing paradises magically set against Mother Nature's stunning rocky backdrop. But it is not just about pizzazz; just as with its world-famous gambling cathedrals, the secret to Las Vegas' success is in superb quality and customer attention.
The courses on offer are a great mix of challenges that will keep golfers of all levels happy and eager to come back for more. The variety and quality of the golfing experience are the two things you won't be gambling on in Vegas.
Courses in the areaWe could happily recommend 15 or 20 to play. Nonetheless, we have highlighted below just a few of very best courses and deals to help you get the absolute best from one of the world's premier
golf destinations.
Las Vegas Golf Adventures, from $239 (£147)
The destination of choice for people looking to arrange a tour of the area's best courses, this website offers the best rates and widest choice of packages. They offer specialist stag party packages and allow you to customise your tour. The VIP High Rollers Special includes a stretch limousine to take you from your luxurious hotel to the tee.
TPC Las Vegas, from $119 (£73)
Las Vegas is a popular home for many of the PGA Tour's professionals and this is their course of choice. The tournament-quality course, which measures almost 7,100 yards, also attracts a slew of celebrities.
But there's plenty to distract you from your celebrity-spotting at the TPC, not least the incredible scenery that takes in Red Rock Canyon and the Strip itself, and challenge of the course. It is a stern test for anyone from the back tees. This is an opportunity for the amateur golfer to play a round like the pros, and that experience is helped by the presence of a caddie that accompanies each group, giving expert advice.
Paiute Golf Resort – The Wolf, from $109 (£67)
There are three top courses to play at Paiute, but the Wolf is without doubt the pick of the bunch. At 7,600, it is Nevada's longest course but you do not need to be playing from the back tee to for The Wolf to show its teeth. The undulating fairways are tough targets for your drives and dog legs and desert hazards abound. A stunning course.
Las Vegas National Golf Club, from $40 (£25)
This course is very much the one most steeped in that Las Vegas' vintage Rat Pack spirit. Opened in 1961, golden oldies like Nicklaus and Trevino have tasted victory here but just because the challenge is top quality, the atmosphere does not have to be too serious. The focus is very much on fun at the National. It measures just 6,815 yards and the course is forgiving. Look out for its 50th birthday specials.
AccommodationLet's face it, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to places to stay in Las Vegas. With so much temptation on your doorstep, you may not see the inside of your room as often as you would elsewhere, but the service and value will bowl you over. Here are some of the best choices.
The Four Seasons Hotel, from $179 (£110)
One of the United States' absolute
best hotels and considered by many to be the top dog in Vegas. The food is incredible, the stunning rooms come with all mod cons and the views down the Strip from 40 storeys up are unforgettable. As part of the Mandalay Bay complex, the casino's facilities are right on hand. That said, it is one of the most tranquil havens in the city and with twelve different types of room, you are bound to find the perfect place to lay your head.
South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, from $52 (£31)
This option is a very good hotel in its own right, with the variety of leisure facilities you would expect from a Las Vegas hotel and spacious, well-appointed rooms, but where it outclasses its rivals is in value for money. The rates are absolutely fantastic and while its location away from the Strip might rule it out for some people, it is much more convenient for getting to a golf course.
FeatherDanse Bed and Breakfast, from $55 (£33)
The hotels of Las Vegas are deservedly renowned, but this is a brilliant pick for people wanting something a bit different. This brilliant B&B is affordable, has superb breakfasts and offers a comfortable and welcoming experience that is a perfect foil to craziness of the Strip.
TravelDirect flights from London start at around £600 from
Virgin Atlantic, with flight times of around 10 hours. Flights with one stop start at around £400 from
Delta or
KLM.
Alternatively, fly to Los Angeles and get there via a rented car. The drive is about four hours. Direct flights start at £430 from
Flybmi, indirect flights again start at around £400 from Delta or KLM.
In terms of car hire,
Hertz offer a Toyota Corolla or similar for a week for £115.