Cadiz » Valderrama
Designed by Robert Trent Jones and lovingly tended by owner Jaime Ortiz
Patiño this is one of the continents toughest challenges. You may return home
shell-shocked but should be content with the thought that you are one of the
few able to boast: ‘Valderrama? Yes, I’ve played there’. The 4th hole is a par five
of spectacular beauty ending on a raised green by the side of which plunges a
cascade of water on its way to the greenside lake. With recent improvements
to the layout, Valderrama is in prime condition and Mr. Patiño only aims to
make it better: the ‘Augusta of Europe’. Visitors are welcome but must book
in advance. As you walk along the perfectly manicured fairways you quickly
realise why it was officially voted as the #1 course in Europe. The list of
prestigious events held here include the Ryder Cup: 1997 (the first ever held in
Continental Europe), the WGC-American Express Championship: 1999, 2000
and the Volvo Masters: 1988-1996; 2002-2010.
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