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Gramacho
Premier Golf Course Rating

 

Gramacho, some might think it not for them due to its nine-hole layout. This Ronald Fream designed course makes you think you are playing an 18 hole course, Fream has managed to utilise 9 fairways and make an 18 hole look a like. Gramacho has 9 fairways, but has 18 greens and 18 tees. Making it a true test of golf for even the low handicapper.

View from Clubhouse - 18th Green and Fairway

 

The first, this hole from the tee looks quite daunting with out of bounds on both left and right. The down hill tee shot has to be kept left of centre of the fairway, due to a large rock formation and a tree perched on top. On your driving line are two bunkers, a good driver and you could be in trouble, and it is a good idea to take your 3 wood for safety. Your approach is very crucial as the green looks well protected, which it is bunkers an elevated green are waiting. The green as most are on two levels, get the wrong level and it could be 3 puts, or more….

The second is a long par 5, slight dogleg right with out of bounds left and a large tree centre of fairway. This hole is fairly straightforward but take care when the green approaches, the green is well protected with bunkers. The bunkers are positioned so they come into play on both second and the final chip into the green, yet another large looking green make sure you get the correct flag. The sixteenth looks from the tee to be just a straightforward par 4, but take a look at the card before you tee off. The drive has to be well-placed centre of the fairway but not too long, water does come into play from the tee shot. A well placed 5 or 4 iron is not a chicken's way out, this hole bends left for your second to the green over water. Take care once again with your approach shot, as the green looks closer than it is first thought. Finish this with a par and you have done well.

I think the 18th is probably the most rewarding to par, and from the tee and clubhouse looks like a par 5 should. From the tee you have water on the right, but should not come into play, the crucial bit is where to place your tee shot. In the middle of the fairway is a line of trees, keep to the right and you have no trouble with the second. All the problems start with your approach to an elevated green protected well with bunkers, the green has the normal two tier green try and get the correct flag to aim your approach shot. I have spent many a society day with the gallery looking on, the approach shot can be with anything from a 5 iron to a wedge, get it wrong and the gallery have a good day (get it right and the laugh is on you. I do think this course is one you will enjoy, and remember…

  • COURSE DETAILS
    Course architect Ronald Fream
    Par 72 -18 Holes (Double 9) - SSS 72 - Length 5,919 Meters
  • PLAYER REQUIREMENTS

Current Handicap Certificate Required 36 (Both men and Ladies)
Normal Algarve Dress code, Tailored shorts and collared polo shirts.

  • AMENITIES:

Pro Shop, Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green, Golf Academy, Club Hire, Buggy's, Trolley's, Electric Trolley's and Clubhouse.

 

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