Castro Marim (Atlantic & Guadiana)

It was designed by Late English West Country professional Terry Murray The original course located at Castro Marim (comprising the Atlantic and Guadiana nines) first opened to play in 2001. The 18-hole layout was subsequently joined in 2007 with Grouse nine. Grouse nine.

The trees-lined Atlantic or Guadiana loops run through small valleys, and traverse steep terrain. Many golfers playing on these Bermuda grass fairways swaying left or right off the tee box, surrounded by impressive water hazards.

For a course with many tempting small par fours it's quite ironic to think that a par 5 4th hole is not going to be featured in the book of Jeff Barr 1001 golf holes that you have to take a shot at before die.Here's an excerpt from what author Jeff Barr has to say about the iconic hole:

"The #4 hole of Castro Marim features a tee shot that is played starting from an elevated green, which then leads to an open fairway that is low. This is a regular occurrence on this course that is compact near bordering the Spanish border. The course must be considered cautiously. The hole is dogleg left, and a lake is located just beyond the dogleg to the right side of the fairway.

The best strategy is to aim to keep the dogleg as close to the edge that the dogleg is is possible giving you a better chances of a close approach to the green on another shot. The issue is that it must be played upwards, making the shot lengthier.

However, those who lay up are still facing another shot that is played uphill, which will be that is protected by a bunker young pine trees, and naturally inclined land. Finding the putting surface can be difficult so make sure that your wedge shot is sharp before you reach Castro Marim's par 5 4th."