I have read the mixed reviews on Porthmadog and was hugely surprised by the quality on offer. Most writers are critical of the parkland- style front nine, and sure enough there are some bland holes, but the three par 3s, and an excellent par 5 at 8, raise the bar. And interestingly there were clear signs that the Club are spending money on strengthening the weaker holes.

But the course really comes to light from holes 10 to 16, a stellar stretch of links golf at its finest. This stretch, including three par 3s and four par4s, is played over classic links land with rumpled fairways, blind tee shots, lots of sand dunes, elevation changes and fast-running greens. The view from the temporary 12th tee, which adjoins the huge beach at Porthmadog, takes the breath away, it is one of the most spectacular I have ever witnessed on a golf course. The golfing challenges are fair but demanding, we were lucky to play on a clear wind-free October day and I was hitting the ball straight, so decent scoring is possible! And just when it can’t get better, it doesn’t, 17 and 18 marked a return to somewhat tame parkland golf, and a mundane finish.

The golf course is busy, and money is being spent wisely to improve the facility. I can see this place, with its enthusiastic mainly local membership, continuing to thrive and prosper. And if the current investment continues, I can see Porthmadog starting to move smartly up the ratings. Already it offers a hugely enjoyable and varied challenge on some beautiful natural terrain.