Gut Apeldör (Big Apple)

The Big Apple 18-hole course was the first layout to appear at the 27-hole Golf Club Gut Apeldör facility in the mid-1990s, with fairways routed around several large water hazards.

Holes on both the Big Apple and Big 9 are laid out on a sandy heathland and hedgerow landscape where the free-draining qualities of the soil allow play to continue not long after any large downpour.

The Big Apple has floodlights on the adjacent holes 10 and 18, permitting golfers to continue playing after dark using special “light balls” which can be purchased from the club reception.

Dogs on a leash are also allowed on the Big Apple at certain times, mainly early in the morning or late in the afternoon – what a nice treat to have your four-legged friend accompany you on your round!

There’s also a 41-bedroom hotel on site for those who’d like to stay and play. The attached wellness centre in the Old Barn is the place to seek out a sauna, massage or treatment.

The Big Apple plays to a par of 72, with holes arranged as two returning nines. Highlight holes include the par three 8th and par five 11th where the greens are protected by water.

There’s further aquatic challenge to contend with on the closing two holes with a pond to the left of the par five 17th and to the right of the home green on the par four 18th.