A Golf Lover's Ideal Stay in the Dominican Republic

Quickly rising to one of the top golf destinations in the world is the Dominican Republic. With over 26 golf courses designed by some of the top names in the industry, this Caribbean nation is a golf lover's paradise.

And one of the hottest spots on the map is Casa de Campo. This 7,000+-acre resort is more than just a place to vacation, it's a place to indulge in all the finer things in life.

Read on to see all that Casa de Campo offers, none if it more than a golf cart ride away.

First and foremost, the golf. Let's be honest-that's why most people come here. Casa de Campo's famous Teeth of the Dog golf course is rated the #3 golf course in the entire Caribbean by Golf Week, and rightfully so.

Designed by Pete Dye, Teeth of the Dog boasts seven ocean holes that make it hard to keep your focus on the game in front of you. But you'll be happy to find that despite the stunning views, this course is very playable, but not without some challenges.

It's hard to stay mad at your shots too long here-the views force you to step back and appreciate what golf is meant to be: a fun sport.

Though it doesn't get the spotlight that Teeth of the Dog does, the resort's Dye Fore course comes in at a close second. More challenging than its sister course, Dye Fore is a 27-hole course that takes you through a great deal of terrain, up and down hills and holes that kiss the 300-foot cliffs that plunge to the Chavon River below.

You may feel as if some of the scenery looks familiar and there is a reason it does: Dye Fore was home to many scenes in the famous Apocalypse Now movie. So take a trip down film memory lane while creating your own unforgettable memories playing at Dye Fore.

Post-golf, make your way up to the resort's Altos de Chavon, the 16th-century Italian village replica that feels exactly like the real thing-or what we imagine the real thing would feel like, at least.

Prepare to be blown away by the extravagant design of this masterpiece. You can simply walk around and take in all the beauty or indulge in one of the fabulous eateries up here. Chilango Taqueria is a great casual spot for a contemporary Mexican meal of tasty tacos and magnificent margaritas.

Or, head next door to the Oscar de la Renta-designed La Piazzetta. This upscale restaurant offers both classic and modern twists on everyone's favorite Italian dishes, with views that really take the dining experience to the next level.

Inspired by Mediterranean seaside villages, the marina at Casa de Campo does not disappoint-and we aren't just talking about the 350 yachts that call this place home. At the convergence of the Chavon River and the Caribbean Sea, this marina is one of the top in the Caribbean.

Shopping, dining and living are all happening here. From villas and townhouses to home decor and fresh fashion, along with a movie theatre and waterfront eateries, the marina is a spot you'll find yourself visiting multiple times.

Whether you're a seasoned cowboy or have never sat on a horse, you are going to love the equestrian center at Casa de Campo.

Partake is lessons in both English and Western-style riding and jumping, or simply hop on a horse with a guide who will take you through the beautiful grounds of the property. If you've got a group that is really feeling the fun, then get ready for a round of donkey polo. Yes, you read that right. This game is a popular one at the resort, so get practicing.

Now that you're feeling like a bit of a cowboy, it's time to try your hand slinging a gun at the shooting center. With the resort's 245 acres reserved exclusively for shooting, you'll be able to feel like you're in the old west with modern-day equipment that allows for trap, skeet and sporting clays. The resort is home to a 110-foot toward that tests your skill at sporting clays, and its one of the largest in the world.

From beginners to experts, you can work your way through the stations here to get some solid shooting in.

Possibly our favorite part of the experience was the personal golf cart. With unlimited gasoline and freedom to use 24 hours a day, this golf cart brings a whole lot of joy not just to the children. Get from one place to another easily at your own convenience thanks to your cart that you can park right outside your room.

Upon check-in you get keys to a cart that is yours throughout your stay, with unlimited gasoline for all those late-night joy rides.

The beaches of the Caribbean are some of the top in the world, so it's no surprise that Casa de Campo has its own.

But this isn't just your average Caribbean beach (if there is such a thing). The resort's private Mintas Beach is just a short golf cart ride away and has all the watersports you could ever imagine. Or, if you'd prefer, plenty of lounge chairs for you to relax, read your book, and catch some sun-all with a cocktail served in a fresh pineapple.

And when you feel yourself getting hungry, you've got some great options. Try the food truck by the adult pool or head to the Minitas Restaurant for some mouthwatering seafood.