I was at Borth just a few days ago and completely agree with your sentiment, Richard. The weather wasn't kind but didn't mind at all (well...maybe a little bit, nobody likes getting wet). I think you've summed it up perfectly - it's the simplicity of these grand old courses that makes them special. The small 'quirks' that are dead giveaways that this is a course 'of its time' ; crossing the road after one hole - that actually made me smile.
And just one other general point on courses in Wales - such amazing value for money. Thoroughly enjoying my trip around the north at the moment.
I'm here all week - doing research for my next guide book. So far I've played Welshpool, Aberdovey and Harlech. I also visited Porthmadog yesterday afternoon but was a little late to play so took a whistle-stop buggy tour round the course with the club manager. Nefyn, Pwllheli, Abersoch, Holyhead, Bull Bay, Conwy are also on the list for the rest of the week. I'm trying to squeeze North Wales in somewhere and possibly Maesdu before heading home.
Me and my pals are regular attendees for Royal St David's Open Week. Worth considering as they run a very comprehensive programme of events for all levels of ability. Their new course manager is improving the conditioning on what is a very strong track too. After DDGC it should be on your list.
I was at Borth just a few days ago and completely agree with your sentiment, Richard. The weather wasn't kind but didn't mind at all (well...maybe a little bit, nobody likes getting wet). I think you've summed it up perfectly - it's the simplicity of these grand old courses that makes them special. The small 'quirks' that are dead giveaways that this is a course 'of its time' ; crossing the road after one hole - that actually made me smile.
And just one other general point on courses in Wales - such amazing value for money. Thoroughly enjoying my trip around the north at the moment.
Thank you, Michael. Yes...these sort of places feel protected from the fashions and fads of modern golf, if not from the weather...
Intrigued by your last sentence; where else are you playing up there?
I'm here all week - doing research for my next guide book. So far I've played Welshpool, Aberdovey and Harlech. I also visited Porthmadog yesterday afternoon but was a little late to play so took a whistle-stop buggy tour round the course with the club manager. Nefyn, Pwllheli, Abersoch, Holyhead, Bull Bay, Conwy are also on the list for the rest of the week. I'm trying to squeeze North Wales in somewhere and possibly Maesdu before heading home.
Me and my pals are regular attendees for Royal St David's Open Week. Worth considering as they run a very comprehensive programme of events for all levels of ability. Their new course manager is improving the conditioning on what is a very strong track too. After DDGC it should be on your list.
Your descriptions and your use of our beautiful English language are a delight. Please continue
Thank you! As usual, though, the golf course does the hard work for me!
Well done Richard. We should all explore the delights of Borth for the betterment of golf.
I think I need to go to Wales …..
Definitely! So many more I’ve yet to see, too…Harlech, Machynlleth, Welshpool. Add in the coast and Snowdonia and it’s an embarrassment of riches!
On my list now when I next play Harlech. Thank you.
John, tell me more…never been to Harlech…it was after Aberdovey in a Darwin review I read recently…
Another lovely piece.I had the same feelings when I played Aberdovey.These courses are magical
Magic, yes that’s the right term! A strange blend of sport and nature in harmony.
Thanks Robin, as always!