Beautiful Tennis Courts in the World
Tennis has developed into a sport that highlights the beauty of the world, with competitions and tournaments held across the corners of the globe, nature, history, architecture, and culture take center stage. Here we have listed down the 20 Best Tennis Courts in the World.
Although the most famous tennis courts would be the Grand Slam venues and other massive courts like the National Tennis Center in Beijing, in this article we will list some of the most beautiful, scenic, and mesmerizing tennis courts from around the world that further prove the earlier sentiment.
Emerald Cay in the Turks and Caicos
The Emerald Cay is easily the most mesmerizing and beautiful of the island villas in the Turks and Caicos islands. Located on a 2+ acre privately owned man-made island, the villa is like a tennis paradise on Earth with stunning architecture and a full-size tennis court overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caicos banks.
There are many other amenities as well like a home cinema, gym, kayaks, snorkel gear, paddle boats, and so much more. Given it’s a rental property with a very heavy price tag to boot, the tennis court sees seldom use which is a shame given the serene beauty and view of the rugged coast of the Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve.
Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt in Austria
The Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt is a green spa hotel, resort, and Tyrolean farm situated in the mountains of Austria. No matter where you are on the property, you are surrounded by the majestic alpine forests of the Wilder Kaiser range which offset the massive white peak mountains of Austria.
The hotel is a busy tourist spot and it’s not hard to see why. Activities for children, a spa and sauna, and multiple sports and fitness facilities make Stanglwirt a perfect vacation spot. This fact holds especially true for tennis lovers who have the choice of 6 indoor and 8 outdoor courts. But when the view is this spectacular, the red sand outdoor courts win. Even the internationally renowned “Peter Burwash International Tennis School” has found its home in Stanglwirt.
Tennis De La Cavalerie in Paris
One of the most unique tennis courts in the world finds its home rather appropriately in the breathtakingly constructed city of love. The Tennis De La Cavalerie is a small tennis club right in the heart of Paris. The court is located on the 7th floor in an art deco building that was first built in 1924 by the famous architect R. Farradeche.
The beehive-like curved roof was installed in 2000 and gives the location a unique and elegant style that is amplified with views from the windows of the lovely city of Paris. The greenest hardcourt is exclusive to club members but can also be rented out for both tennis and other commercial events.
Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona
This 5-star hotel in the center of Arizona is home to one of nature’s greatest phenomenons. The crimson landscape of the Boynton Canyon features jagged peaks and centuries of deposition and erosion that have given way to the dozen shades and strips of red along the canyon walls.
One truly feels humbled and in nature at the hotel. Nothing can compare to the feeling one gets when playing at one of 5 outdoor courts at the foothills of the red rock hills. Besides the tennis courts, the resort has a beautiful pool, casual dining, great food, and many activities to try. Hiking and biking in the Boynton Canyon as well tour organized tours of the Grand Canyon are some big selling points.
Pearl Beach Resort in Bora Bora
Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts is a tropical paradise. Poised in Motu Tevairoa, the island resort features authentic Polynesian-style architecture and traditionally designed rooms. The white sandy beaches and clear waters aren’t the only attractions. The island even has a dazzling lagoon and jungle. Of the many facilities and services available at the resort, the Tavai Spa, a fitness center, and a tennis court in particular are notable additions.
Tucked away in the jungle, the tennis court seems like a well-kept secret. The majestic palm trees and greenery make the resort feel like the perfect tropical getaway. As it is a resort, no tennis competitions or events are held there which almost adds to the elusive and hidden nature of the court.
Tennis Blog | |
---|---|
Top 20 – Best Female Tennis Players of all Time |
Burj al Arab in Dubai
Temporarily in 2005, Burj al Arab, one of the most luxurious and recognizable skyscrapers in the world, was home to the highest tennis court and match ever. Burj al Arab itself is one of the tallest buildings in the world and 4th tallest hotel standing at 321 meters.
The helipad turned tennis cart was part of the promotional activity for the ATP Dubai Duty-Free Open in 2005 when they called 2 tennis legends, Roger Federer and Andre Agassi to partake in a tennis match at over 650 feet above sea level. Although it is unlikely the spot will be repurposed into a tennis court anytime soon, the breathtaking sky-high views and heart-stopping play have earned this court a spot on this list.
Peter Island Resort and Spa in the British Virgin Islands
This world-class resort has often been listed by travel portals as one of the best places to stay in the world so it is no surprise that the luxury experience comes with 2 full-size tennis courts for tennis lovers. The Peter Island Resort, located in the British Virgin Islands is another island resort like many others on this list but what separates this resort from the others is its sheer size and magnitude.
The elegant resort and spa is poised on a 1,800-acre oasis with 5 whole beaches, a tropical jungle to explore, and many activities to enjoy. The oceanfront tennis courts surrounded by palm trees are in close vicinity to the beach, allowing for a quick dip in the beautiful blue waters right after a match.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Hawaii
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel provides one of, if not the best, exclusive tennis experiences in all of Hawaii. Its Seaside Tennis Club has been named one of the Top 10 tennis resorts in the world and for good reason.
Tennis is a big attraction at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and with 10 premier tennis courts overlooking the vast sea and a pro shop featuring equipment, machinery, and so much more, you can be sure that you will be playing tennis at the highest level, just a walk away from your room while on vacation at this resort. They even recently updated their court surfaces to the industry hallmark Rebound Ace. The sunsets seen from one of these courts are nothing short of heavenly.
Il San Pietro Di Positano in Italy
One of the most unique resort and spa experiences in the world features a tennis court unlike any other. The Il San Pietro Di Positano resort in Italy stands on a cliffside, suspended between the sky and the beautiful ocean below.
This placement gives the 5-star hotel unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea but the object of our interest today, its tennis courts, have an even more exquisite and unique property. Nested tightly between 2 towering terraced cliffs, all that play would be in awe of the natural topography of the Amalfi Coast which is perfectly offset by the Meditteranean sea just a few yards from the 2 tennis courts. The resort courts are only accessible to the guests so you’ll have to book a stay at this luxurious hotel to enjoy these breathtaking destinations.
The Astor Courts Estate in Rhinebeck, New York
The Astor Courts estate is more than a century-old 40,000 square-foot estate in Rhinebeck, New York. Dutchess County is home to this architectural masterpiece that was first completed in 1904 for John Jacob Astor IV who passed away in the sinking of the Titanic.
The private property currently belongs to real estate developer Arthur Seelbinder. This building has great historical significance, having been the venue for Chelsea Clinton’s marriage in 2010 as well as many people believe that the Astor Courts Estate was the first residency to have indoor swimming. Its indoor tennis court is enclosed under a high, well-lighted vault of Gaustavino tile giving it a timeless and elegant design. The courts are not open to the public.
Hearst Castle in California, USA
Between Los Angeles and San Francisco lies a fabulous estate atop a hill. The amazing Goth architecture and intricate details in every corner of the Hearts Castle estate have been perfectly preserved for tourists and visitors. William Randolph Hearst built his estate on his ranchland overlooking San Simeon in 1919.
Furnished in the 1930s, the Spanish roofs date back to the 1400s. Today, the estate stands tall above the hills and clouds of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Though the study is its main centerpiece, the tennis courts are fully furbished and modernized for play. The amazing views, pleasant weather, and the skill and hard work that went into the construction of the Hearst Castle make it an architectural marvel that can be enjoyed by all. The estate is open to tourists as it conducts regular tours.
Tennis Blog | |
---|---|
10 Most Expensive Tennis Rackets All the Time |
Four Seasons Resort Nevis in the West Indies
One of the best luxury experiences in the world comes from the Four Seasons Resorts around the world. The Caribbean resort on the small island of Nevis, which is only 36 square miles large offers a serene and peaceful tropical experience. With buildings no taller than a coconut tree, the resort has well-maintained the local plants and fauna native to the island of Nevis.
The resort also offers a premium tennis experience with 3 different court surfaces, a pro shop with all the equipment you would need, and even tennis lessons. Group and Private lessons at the Four Seasons Resort are half-hour and one-hour sessions. Though some fees apply, there is unlimited free use of courts for tennis lovers so if you’re looking to go the Caribbean but still wanna get some practice in, the Four Seasons Resort is Navis might just be the perfect fit.
Hacienda De La Paz in Los Angeles, California
Hacienda De La Paz is one of the most architecturally profound and significant estates in the whole of North America. The mansion was built as a collaborative effort between multiple architectural masterminds for John Z. Blazevich. The home in the Rolling Hills, the only guard-gated city in America, has 5 underground stories, with architecture that has Moroccan and Andalusian inspirations.
It is truly marvelous and meticulously intricate in its design and details. The private estate has 2 tennis courts, one outdoor red clay court built around the specifications of the French Open, and an indoor hard court built around the specifications of the US Open. The indoor court is 5 stories tall with a balcony and floor-to-ceiling murals, making it seem like a work of art.
Underground Racquets Ltd in Missouri
Though indoor courts are quite common, underground tennis courts are a much rarer find and even among these courts, this entry is unlike any other. The Underground Racquets Ltd. is situated in a previous limestone and marble query that was abandoned.
Business and entrepreneur Tom Kerr converted the 8-million-square-foot mine into an athletic complex housing unit. The Missouri Underground has 2 tennis courts in a large rectangular area inside the quarry. With stone walls and exposed minerals lining the walls and roof, it feels like you’re playing a match inside a cave but unlike a cave, there is sufficient lighting and proper ventilation.
The massive stone column in the middle has to be the centerpiece of the court as it holds up the impressively tall and massive roof. Only members of Underground Racquets play in this unique court.
Singita Sabora Tented Camp in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Imagine playing tennis in the savannas of Africa, Zebra grazing in the distance, baboons up on trees, and cheetahs prowling at their prey through the bushes, well all o this can become a reality at Singita Sabora Tented Camp in Tanzania. Located in the heart of the Serengeti National Park, the clay tennis court offers an unparalleled view of both the savanna and its local wildlife.
The camp is a 350,000-acre private game reserve and it truly captures the spirit of East Africa. The anti-poaching policy and wildlife preservation has allowed animals like elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, baboons, and more to thrive. It is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience an African safari but with luxurious amenities and services.
Rafael Nadal Tennis Centre at Sani Resort in Greece
From one of the greatest tennis players of all time, comes a tennis academy located in the Kassandra peninsula of Greece. The Sani Resort is almost as well renowned as the King of Clay Nadal himself with 4 consecutive wins as the World’s Leading Family and Beach Resort at the World Travel Awards.
The 5-star resort is a collection of several enchanting hotels surrounded by a lush verdant forest, thriving marshes, and 7 pristine beaches. This rare occurrence of multiple co-existing and diverse habitats makes the Sani resort an exciting place to explore and discover. The Rafa Nadel Tennis Academy is another of the main amenities and features of the resort. Fitted with 8 clay courts, world-level coaches, and equipment, one can be sure that they are receiving the best tutorage possible.
International Tennis Hall of Fame in Rhode Island
This entry gains a spot on this list because of its historical significance alone. The International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island is one of the oldest remaining tennis courts in the world and its role in tennis history is legendary. The property has been masterfully preserved and acts almost like a time capsule with 1900 artifacts of tennis history and other vintage paraphernalia.
This site was once home to the first US National Championships, the precursor to the US Open, all the way back in 1881. Playing in the facility’s 13 grass, 6 hard, and 1 clay court truly makes you feel you’re a part of tennis history. A feeling further amplified by the archaic New England architecture of the facility. All visitors may have a go playing on these storied grounds.
Cloister Tennis Center at Sea Island, Georgia
Stunning wide arches and gorgeous architecture partnered with a great tennis academy, that’s one way to describe the Cloister Sea Island Resort. Situated on 50 lush acres of land, surrounded by a river, saltwater marshes, and the sea, the Sea Island experience is truly one of a kind, and that’s without mentioning the 5 miles of private coastline.
But there is more to this gorgeous estate than just its classically elegant exterior. Tennis is one of the main amenities and sports offered at the Cloister and the Tennis Center, you can expect to find all things tennis. Looking to better your game? Book a lesson with one of the coaches. Trying to get practice in while on vacation? Play a friendly match on one of the 8 tennis courts.
You can even rent racquets if you forget to bring your own. Overall, the grey-black matte tennis courts, contrasted by the white buildings and brightly vibrant red-orange shillings on the roof make playing tennis at the Cloister a very peaceful and aesthetically pleasing experience.
Bunabhainneadar Tennis Court on the Isle of Harris, Scotland
Possibly the most isolated tennis court in the world, the Bunabhainneadar Tennis Court on the Isle of Harris off the west coast of Scotland stands alone on the rocky landscape.
Picture a tennis court, below dark gloomy clouds, the sound of waves crashing in the distance, a cool breeze in the air, and wild sheep grazing in the background, all over a rocky wasteland overlooking the Scottish waters, that’s the Bunabhainneadar Tennis Court. The lone court rests next to a long expansive road with nothing but a small wooden pavilion acting as shelter from the elements.
On an island where there are more sheep than people, this court doesn’t see much use but playing in an isolated place such as this, muting out the world, erasing all distractions until it’s just you, your tennis racquet, a ball, and your opponent, it would be an experience like no other.
The Couch in Amsterdam, Netherlands
On one of six artificial islands off the east coast of Amsterdam lies the IJburg Tennis Club. The club combines modern minimalistic architecture and strong bold colors that help it stand out among tennis clubs.
The goal for the Couch was to create a building that works as a central gathering area and that can be enjoyed by all people, young and old, not just tennis enthusiasts. To become part of the community like a piece of street furniture, and it suffices to say the “Couch” (pun-intended) succeeded in that role.
It is not only a place to sit to view the tennis match or to simply hang out, but it also doubles as a common area underneath it thanks to the unique curved shape of the Couch. So while you take tennis lessons outside, your friends or family could be enjoying the heated and cozy common room under the Couch or could cheer you on from the elevated platform.
Beautiful architecture from today and years long gone, important history, cultural inspiration, and appreciation for the natural beauty of this world are all things tennis as well. There is more to the sport than just hitting the ball and winning.
Comradery, sportsmanship, victory, and defeat, are aspects of tennis every fan appreciates but taking a moment to look for the finer details all around the court can enrich the viewing experience.
If there’s a takeaway from this, it would be that although all these locations and courts are unique, beautiful, and majestic all in their ways yet, they are linked to one another by one common denominator, that which is tennis as at the end of the day, all sports are a tool to bring people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities together.