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The course is similar in topography to a British down-land -- Worthing springs to mind for those who know that charming club in West Sussex -- with several holes in a valley setting and others subject to changes of elevation of varying degree. It’s of simple design, suggesting that minimal earth moving was undertaken by the French architect What he found is, by and large, what you’ll see.
Tree-lined in parts, the fairways follow the natural contours and so, like most British down-land and moor-land courses, there are some blind shots here and there and a series of lakes and ponds that require careful circumnavigation and a degree of accuracy. (The course guide is an imperative purchase.)
Bunkers are minimal and most are strategic, placed to act as directional beacons or to prevent a wayward ball running into more serious trouble. The fairways are generously wide, some up to 50 yards in places, and there is little rough, although if you’re too far off-line you’ll be scratching your head over the next shot and if you have to search for your ball chances are you’ll be re-loading.
So it’s a grand driving course, particularly from the elevated tees which also serve to stretch the course, a muscular challenge at 6,679 yards from the tiger tees and quite meaty from the club tees of 6,200 yards, both par-72.
The highlights are the greens. They are large, variable in configuration, cunning in their subtle undulations and impeccable in presentation, among the finest I have seen.
The matt will bring Axminster to mind although, like me, you’ll probably be stretched to identify the grass.
“Must be one of the new species I’ve heard about,” you’ll think. But would you believe poa annua? You’ll find it difficult to accept but it’s true so don’t tell the gang and you’ll win a few bets when you visit!
The British greenkeeper, a master of his trade, is a kind-hearted soul. The greens were running at nine on the stimp meter which, he says, is quite fast enough for a holiday course, even for club members who know the intricacies. Anything quicker would perforce increase the volume of putts, thus slowing down play and detracting from the fun.
That’s the essence of this charming course. It is picturesque, welcoming and great fun for golfers of all levels. The other local attractions are a glorious bonus.
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