Vale of Llangollen

Inland layouts in North Wales are all pretty much guaranteed some spectacular scenery as part of the package. None more special than the Vale of Llangollen, nestled on the banks of a fast flowing River Dee with the ancient Welsh hills on both sides.

The Vale of Llangollen is one of only a handful of Welsh courses that holds the coveted HSBC Gold Medal ranking and is regarded as the top inland course in North Wales. Beware of the views that may come as something of a distraction, the highlight being the three holes that run alongside the Dee, and when the colours are out this beautifully conditioned course becomes a floral feast on the eyes. Playing wise it’s an enjoyable trek around the lush green valley floor fairways, pretty much tree lined to make demands on your accuracy and good course management. A little extra length required too, especially at the short holes that all demand at least a mid iron from the tee. The greens are superb quality throughout, rich in diversity when it comes to their testing nature. A grandstand finish is in store with a memorable closing stretch of four holes to truly make or break a scorecard.

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MG Pick: 9th 425 Yards, Par 4

The first riverside hole is one of the highest regarded par fours in Wales. A long sweeping dogleg where you really need to take a bit of a risk in placing your tee shot fairly close to the water in order to open the route to a very tight target tucked away in the left hand corner. Fortune clearly favours the brave here, and the ridge running through the green guarantees a tricky putting test too.

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19th hole

The clubhouse seats up to 95 for society occasions, pray for a nice day to sit out on the large decking area with panoramic views of the course and the hills as a backdrop. A busy competition venue with a variety of open events where visitors are welcomed.

Vale of Llangollen – Holyhead Road, Llangollen, Denbighshire, LL20 7PR

Tel: 01978 860906 www.vlgc.co.uk   –   Website: www.vlgc.co.uk/