Capdepera

Not far from the medieval walled little city of Capdepera in the east of Mallorca lies its eponymous golf course, designed by American architect Dan Maples and opened in 1989.

Capdepera’s course consists of two distinct parts. The first twelve holes, below the clubhouse, are laid out on a gentle slope which used to be an almond plantation, which perhaps explains the unusual layout of the ponds around the course, some of which are still in use, while others form large depressions in the rough between the holes. Also unusual is the mix of holes in this section with four par threes, four par fours and four par fives. The one-shotters vary in length from 115 to 212 meters while the par fives range from the short 8th, reachable for many in two, to the long 12th (532 meters/585 yards) which plays uphill and requires three solid shots to reach the green in regulation.

The layout is versatile in that it offers loops of six, nine and twelve holes for those unable or unwilling to play a full round. This together with the practice facilities on offer also make the club a favourite among teaching pros travelling with groups of clients in the Northern European off-season.

The last six holes have a more traditional mix with four par fours, one par three and one par five. The layout, however, is anything but traditional. These holes are cut out of a wooded hillside and present a very different challenge from the first twelve holes. Holes 13-18 are quite narrow and most have significant changes in elevation. To score here you need to choose your clubs carefully and place your shots well. Anything too wayward can easily end up lost and/or unplayable. The most well known among these holes is the par three 15th, which has been voted Mallorca’s most scenic golf hole on several occasions, and you will probably not forget the glorious view having played it.