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PERSONAL VIEW
To
all golfers, Ponte de Lima will be the emerald in the crown of Costa Verde.
For those appreciating quality in a course, but jaded by the five hour
rounds and punitive prices of the Algarve, it is a find indeed.
Ponte de Lima can only be described as manicured and is set in natural woodland against a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards. Course creators, Daniel and David Silva, appear to have followed the Trent Jones principle, allowing on many holes the option of "going for it" - with consequent reward or punishment - or taking the more conservative line for relative safety. Golfers
of all ambitions and abilities should find it a joy and a suitable examination
of their game.
Many of the drives allow the option of a fade, draw, or long carry for the brave, foolhardy or competent. Golfers of more modest ability, aspirations, or those marking medal card, may wish to reach for the three wood or long iron. and play for position. Greens
are invariably fast over the top and receptive to even the longest shot
in.
Locker room facilities are of the highest order, as is the catering. Do not miss a lunch or early evening meal - the food is exceptional and very reasonably priced. Readers may have gathered my enthusiasm for this gem - so I will end on a minor critical note in the interest of balance. The first hole is untypically odd, and the club house conversion could, in part, have been more architecturally sympathetic to its' origins. That said, I cannot remember enjoying quiet and peaceful rounds more -. with a welcome from the club which is unfailingIy courteous and warm. JOHN
SIMMONS
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