The more you look, the greater the surprise. Aberdovey is a classic links course- Bernard Darwin, golf’s first literary giant, said it was the course his soul loved best. Tenby is the oldest established club in Wales, founded in 1888, but the course is still in vigorous health. Some more of Wales’ earliest courses are to be found on the Isle of Anglesey, at Rhosneigr, Bull Bay and Holyhead. Machynys, a stunning newcomer near Llanelli, boasts a Nicklaus-designed course. And breathtaking Nefyn & District, which has been likened to playing off the deck of a battleship, is a course once played, never forgotten.

These are just a few snapshots from the ‘Golf as it should be’ album. Wales has links golf at its finest, courses soaked in history and fairways in the shadow of ancient castles. It’s also home to some of the best contemporary golf on the planet - play the amazing, multi-million pound Celtic Manor Resort, venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, if you need convincing.

And it’s all so welcoming and friendly. There’s nothing remotely pompous or precious about the game as it is played - and hugely enjoyed - here. Wales is an unstuffy kind of place. We don’t stand on ceremony. These refreshing qualities shine through in our golf.

Another attraction is Wales’s ease of access. You can be teeing off in less than two hours from London and the South East - even quicker from the Midlands and Northwest. And our increasing numbers of overseas guests are surprised by how quickly they can be off the plane and onto the greens, with the major London airports only a few hours away as well as direct flights into Cardiff International Airport.

To cap it all, you’ll also benefit from reasonable green fees and first-class accommodation that’s much easier on the pocket than elsewhere.