The Solheim Cup heads to the Netherlands this September, and the host venue at Bernardus Golf Club is already drawing sharp attention for its mix of beauty and danger. This inland course, located 60 miles south-east of Amsterdam, offers a stark contrast to the classic coastline links the country is famous for. According to Golf Monthly, the track was built specifically for championship golf and has already hosted three recent Dutch Opens. The layout features a heathland feel with wide ditches and two lakes on the front nine, creating a visual test that demands precision from the moment the players step onto the tee.
The Water Hazards That Define The Scorecard
While the course opened in 2018, it feels mature and kept in immaculate order, a rare feat for a modern facility. The real story lies in the two short holes at the 8th and 17th, which Golf Monthly describes as beautiful yet scary. Each hole requires a confident shot over water to reach a well-protected green. At the conclusion of any round, real drama can be generated by the par-3 17th, a hole capable of deciding the fate of entire matches in the final moments. These risks are not accidental; they are the result of a design by Kyle Phillips, the architect behind high-profile UK and Irish courses like The Grove and Dundonald Links.
More Than Just A Test Of Golf
Beyond the fairways, the venue offers a level of luxury that matches the prestige of the event. The estate includes a Michelin-starred restaurant named Nami, which serves a blend of Japanese and South American cuisine. Day membership costs €255 and includes access to a pool, tennis court, gym, and sauna, proving the club caters to a high-end experience. The wine on the estate is also highly rated, adding to the appeal for fans and players alike. This combination of top-tier food and challenging golf creates an environment where the game is the main event, but the surroundings are far from an afterthought.
A Venue Ready For The Spotlight
The golfing world will soon feast its eyes on this sumptuous course as the Solheim Cup arrives. The front nine concludes with a green that is very well-protected, ensuring that even the best players in the world will face a stiff test. With a par of 72 and a length of 6,557 yards, the course demands both distance and accuracy. Golf Monthly notes that the extensive practice facilities and modern clubhouse provide everything needed for a world-class tournament. This venue is not just hosting a match; it is setting a new standard for how inland courses can compete with the best coastal tracks in Europe.
