Whilst Bermuda has much to offer visitors, it is perhaps the golf courses that prove the biggest draw. Not only does it boast 9 first class courses packed into the 22 square miles of the island (you are never far from a fairway), but some of these have also been given the accolade of PGA approved championship level courses.
Each course has been designed by some of the top names in golf course architecture to provide obstacles to challenge even the best of golfers, stunning settings in which to enjoy a round of golf and a unique quality to each game. Each course has its own quirks that require a different set of golfing skills and level of play.
However, it’s not just the design that proves a challenge to golfers. Many of the courses
run along the coastline, which in itself provides great views across the Atlantic Ocean, but also means that shots are often affected by offshore winds blowing in across the greens. The canny golfer can use this to their advantage – for example, a wind from the North can help golfers at St. George’s achieve a stunning shot at the 14th hole. For those brave enough to try they can shoot straight across Coot Pond (a small harbour) and onto the green on the other side. For those who succeed they are rewarded with missing the fairway altogether and taking the hole down to a par 3.
For those looking to get in a few rounds of golf whilst visiting Bermuda there are a number of points to consider.
Facts about playing golf in Bermuda
Public and Private Courses. Not all golf courses are open to the public. Some of the courses are private and require introduction by an existing member. However, you may also be introduced through your hotel if they hold corporate membership. Otherwise you can guarantee a game by staying in one of the hotels with a golf course on-site. Your options include the Fairmont Southampton Hotel, the Newstead Belmont Hills and St George’s Club.
The government-run public golf courses in Bermuda rank amongst some of the best in the world, (the PGA Grand Slam site Port Royal is testament to this), and are well worth a visit. You can reserve a tee time at any of the three public courses (Ocean View, Port Royal and St George’s) by contacting the centralised reservation number 441-234 4653.
Limited Irrigation. A fact about Bermuda golf courses is that they are subject to limited irrigation. As a consequence the greens and fairways are often firm and fast which lends a distinct quality to your round of golf.
Dress Code. All clubs on Bermuda have a strict dress code that should be observed by anyone wanting to play. Shirts must have collars and long sleeves, shorts must be Bermuda length (to the knee) and jeans are strictly prohibited. Soft spike shoes are a must and most clubs offer shoe rental if needed.
When to Play. For golfers, the best time to visit Bermuda is out of season (November to March) when it is generally easier to book tee times. Another advantage is that the weather is cooler and hotels are cheaper off-season.
