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Hickory Masters 13-14 May 2026 at Villa d'Este

On 13^th–14^th May 2026, against the timeless backdrop of the Golf Club Villa d’Este, a new edition of the Hickory Masters will take shape: the international tournament that celebrates golf in its most authentic form, played with original pre-1935 clubs and according to the rules and spirit of the game as it was originally conceived.

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Villa d’Este: a legacy through the ages

Since its inauguration in 1926, the Golf Club Villa d’Este has served as a premier stage for golf in Italy and across Europe. From the early editions of international tournaments held between the two World Wars, the club has welcomed players from all over the continent—gathering not only to compete, but to share an ideal of the game rooted in style, respect, and tradition.

Over the course of its history, Villa d’Este has hosted the Italian Open 12 times—holding the record as the club with the most editions played in the country. Beginning in 1932, it has also been the venue for numerous editions of the international amateur championships, both men’s and women’s, further cementing its reputation as one of the most prestigious golf courses in Europe.

But Villa d’Este is not only synonymous with luxury—it is a witness to over a century of Italian and European history. Built in the 16th century on the shores of Lake Como as a residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, it has evolved through the centuries into an aristocratic villa, an imperial residence, and, ultimately, a world-renowned hotel.

Warmly lit lounge at Golf Club Villa d’Este, featuring classic wooden furnishings, red and green armchairs, and historic honor boards.

Hickory Masters: golf as it once was

The prestigious Golf Club Villa d’Este will host a new edition of the Hickory Masters—an event dedicated to the purest and most original form of golf. Played exclusively with original hickory clubs dating back to before 1935 and according to the game’s historical rules, the tournament does more than celebrate the past: it honors it, preserves it, and keeps it alive.

The Hickory Masters is not a revival—it is a living commitment to the daily preservation of authentic golf. An immersive experience where every stroke, every movement, every club faithfully conveys the very essence of the sport.

Vintage golf scene at Villa d'Este: a golfer tees off as spectators in 1930s attire gather around the clubhouse and terrace, capturing the elegance of early 20th-century tournaments.

Images from the past

The club’s historical photographs and postcards tell this story: elegantly dressed players, vintage tees overlooking the woods, official matches played between friends and nations. Each image is a fragment of the past brought back to life. With the Hickory Masters 2026, Villa d’Este is writing a new chapter in this long-standing tradition.

Architectural rendering of Villa d’Este Country Club, showing the building’s layout, terraces with parasols, and the adjacent golf course.

Historic view of Villa d’Este’s country club from across the golf course, capturing its elegant architecture and players on the course.

Black and white photograph of a game in progress at the 18-hole Villa d’Este Golf Club, with players on the green beneath the clubhouse terrace.

Vintage postcard of the Villa d’Este Golf Club seen from below, showing the building’s arcades and sloping course in Montorfano.

Historic golf match on the green of Villa d’Este Golf Club with spectators on the slope and terrace of the clubhouse in the background.

Cozy lounge with floral wallpaper and upholstered armchairs at Villa d’Este, featuring a grand fireplace with a crest and Latin motto.

Duplicate of the interior lounge at Villa d’Este, highlighting the symmetrical layout and period furniture illuminated by natural light.

Interior view of a refined lounge or dining room at Villa d’Este, with large arched windows, wooden beams, and elegant furnishings.

Vintage postcard of the inner courtyard of the Villa d’Este Golf Club in Montorfano, with sun umbrellas, central fountain, and curtained arched entrances covered in ivy

Hickory Masters 2026

The first Hickory Masters will be held on 13^th–14^th May 2026 at the historic Circolo Golf Villa d’Este, a prestigious course that perfectly suits hickory play. We’re honored to celebrate its 100th anniversary and share our passion with its members.

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