Swinging the Seven Lakes: A Full-Day Golf Escape in Hammamet
Two courses, seven lakes, and a coastal breeze that turns every shot into a conversation.
Morning drifts in over the Bay of Hammamet with a quiet, salt-bright light. The breeze arrives first—curious, steady, determined—pushing inland across dunes and orchards until it finds the fairways. On the first tee, the olive trees seem to study your stance, their silver leaves twitching like spectators about to clap. Ahead, a ribbon of green rolls toward a lake that sits perfectly still, holding its nerve as if daring you to do the same.
Trail Wisdom
Pick Your Personality: Oliviers vs. Forest
Warm up on Les Oliviers for wider landing zones, then take on the Forest course’s tighter lines and elevation for an afternoon challenge.
Play the Wind, Not Just the Yardage
Breezes off the bay can add or subtract a club; watch flags and treetops and commit to a flight window before you swing.
Hydrate and Shade Up
Bring a refillable bottle and sun protection—long sleeves, hat, and sunscreen are crucial in Tunisia’s bright light.
Respect the Water’s Edge
Seven lakes add beauty and bite; avoid risky retrievals and use drop zones when available to keep the round safe and moving.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A quiet viewpoint near the practice areas overlooks multiple lakes—perfect for a between-round reset.
- •A shaded footpath in the forested holes offers a cool breeze and birdsong when the sun is high.
Wildlife
Hoopoes, Grey herons
Conservation Note
The courses use lakes as water features and irrigation buffers—stay on paths, repair divots, and pack out any trash to protect fragile groves and shorelines.
Hammamet’s seaside kasbah dates to the 15th century, and the area has long drawn artists and travelers seeking Mediterranean light and calm.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Comfortable temps, Quicker greens, Wildflower roughs
Challenges: Breezy afternoons, Occasional light showers
Mild weather and lively turf make spring the sweet spot—book morning tee times and pack a light layer.
summer
Best for: Early-bird tee times, Long daylight, Post-round beach time
Challenges: High heat midday, Stronger coastal winds
Start at sunrise or aim for late-afternoon shade; hydrate consistently and favor breathable fabrics.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Warm sea breezes, Golden light for photos
Challenges: Intermittent showers, Slightly slower greens after rain
Pleasant temperatures and softer light make fall ideal—keep a light rain shell handy.
winter
Best for: Quiet fairways, Cool walking temps
Challenges: Shorter days, Chilly winds and periodic rain
Expect mild but changeable weather; layer up and build a buffer in your tee time for showers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Spikeless Golf ShoesEssential
Comfortable grip for undulating fairways and clubhouse versatility.
Wide-Brim Hat & Sun SleevesEssential
Critical sun protection under bright Mediterranean skies, especially for a full 18–36 holes.
Light Rain Shell
Packable layer for passing showers without weighing down your bag.
Refillable Water BottleEssential
Stay hydrated between holes; many clubhouses offer refills to cut plastic waste.
Common Questions
Do I need to be an experienced golfer to enjoy this?
No. Both Les Oliviers and the Forest course offer multiple tee boxes, making them accessible for beginners while still challenging for advanced players.
Are golf carts and rental clubs available?
Yes, carts and rental sets are typically available for an additional fee; reserve in advance during peak season.
What is the dress code?
Standard golf attire applies: collared shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, and golf shoes. Avoid denim, swimwear, and athletic tank tops.
Is the course family-friendly for non-golfers?
Yes. Non-golfers can relax at the clubhouse or explore nearby Hammamet’s beach and medina while you play.
What’s the best time to tee off in summer?
Aim for first light or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and stronger midday winds.
Can I play both courses in one day?
Absolutely. Many golfers book morning on Les Oliviers and an afternoon round on the Forest for a full, varied day.
What to Pack
Breathable golf apparel and sun sleeves to handle bright conditions; spikeless golf shoes for comfort on undulating terrain; refillable water bottle to stay hydrated sustainably; a light rain shell in fall or winter for passing showers.
Did You Know
This was Tunisia’s first 45-hole golf complex, routed around seven lakes and two par-72 courses—Les Oliviers and the Forest—designed by Ronald Fream.
Quick Travel Tips
Reserve tee times early in spring and fall; book first-light starts in summer to beat heat; carry cash and a card—some small purchases prefer Tunisian dinars; plan a medina walk or beach hour between rounds for an easy reset.
Local Flavor
Post-round, head to Hammamet’s medina for seafood at Le Barberousse perched above the surf, then sip mint tea with a sea view. Detour to Nabeul for hand-painted ceramics and a cone of harissa to bring home the taste of Cap Bon.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Enfidha–Hammamet (NBE, ~45 min) or Tunis–Carthage (TUN, ~1–1.5 hrs). Clubhouse is about 10–15 minutes from central Hammamet by car. Cell coverage is generally good. No permits required; standard golf dress code and an advance tee time booking recommended.
Sustainability Note
Seven interconnected lakes support irrigation and habitat—repair ball marks, avoid sensitive shorelines, use refill stations, and keep carts on signed paths to protect groves and fairways.
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