World Class Golf in Barbados

Written by Julie Greiner

For those looking to take in a game of golf while vacationing in the Caribbean, Barbados is the island of choice. With some of the region's most luxurious and breathtaking courses, Barbados has gained unprecedented attention among the world's golf aficionados. Following is a sampling of courses and facilities offered:

Barbados Golf Club

In September 2000, Barbados' first champion ship public golf course officially opened. The course, which was designed originally in 1974, was redesigned and reconstructed by architect Ron Kirby. Kirby, one of the most respected and experienced golf architects in the world, designed the 18-hole, par-72 golf course to be fair and challenging, yet pleasurable and relaxing. Strategically planted twenty-five-year-old trees Golf in Barbados

dot the course, creating a feeling of maturity amid the newly developed 6,805-yard layout. Two lakes enhance play on five holes, forming a dramatic "Amen Corner" on holes 15 and 16. A series of coral waste bunkers has been carved through four holes on the course, adding to the challenge and personality of the course. The course ha been approved by the PGA European Tour to host a Seniors Tournament in 2002. A clubhouse, bar, and restaurant are located on the premises. Club, shoe, pull trolley and cart rentals are available.

Royal Westmoreland Golf & Country Club

Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this superb 178-hole championship course has already established itself as one of the Caribbean's finest, with the front and back nine holes offering contrasting challenges, stunning scenery, a constant view of the Golf Played in Tropics

sea and a succession of "feature holes." This spectacular golf club is part of a $400-million residential and tourism resort development that includes 350 condominiums, a clubhouse, restaurant, swimming pool, fitness center and racquet club.

Sandy Lane Golf Club

The prestigious five-star Sandy Lane Hotel added two new 18-hole courses in 2001 for a total of 45 hole courses in 2001 for a total of 45 holes of championship golf. Sandy Lane now ranks among the top golf resorts in the world. The two new course were designed b the renowned Tom Faxio and are located on a luxurious tropical estate, replete with beautiful homes amid the vibrant lush landscape. The original nine-hole executive course is currently open for play.

Rockley Golf Club

Set amid the South Coast's all-inclusive Club Rockley Resort, this course features a simple nine-hole, 18-tee layout, with a second nine holes playable from varying tee positions.

Almond Beach Club Resort

The Almond Beach golf course is the only course of its kind on the island featuring a par-three, nine-hole layout. The beautifully landscaped grounds of this popular family resort set the scene for a memorable game. Golfing here is relatively straightforward, requiring only a nine iron, wedge sand wedge and putter.