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	<title>19th Hole - The Golf Blog From Your Golf Travel</title>
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		<title>5 Golf Holes you must play before&#8230;</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/15/5-golf-holes-you-must-play-before/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/15/5-golf-holes-you-must-play-before/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 16:39:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Course reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fun golf stuff]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cape kidnappers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pebble Beach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[road hole bunker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass 17th]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[st andrews old course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Belfry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the belfry brabazon course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the road hole]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tpc sawgrass]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11471</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether it is the stunning contrasts of desert and mountains in Arizona or the blue azures of the Pacific Ocean framing the North Island of New Zealand, golf has acquired some of the most stunning landscapes upon which we can attempt to master this rather tricky sport. Following extensive research (and eating lots of club [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-belfry1.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11489" title="the-belfry" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-belfry1.jpg" alt="the-belfry" width="295" height="196" /></a>Whether it is the stunning contrasts of desert and mountains in Arizona or the blue azures of the Pacific Ocean framing the North Island of New Zealand, golf has acquired some of the most stunning landscapes upon which we can attempt to master this rather tricky sport. Following extensive research (and eating lots of club sandwiches in various 19<sup>th</sup> holes), we’ve come up with our definitive list of 5 holes you have to play, whether you are a seasoned pro or someone who just likes a nice view, these will tick off everything you’d ever need from a golfing bucket list.<span id="more-11471"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="Sawgrass Golf Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/marriott-sawgrass-golf-resort.html">TPC Sawgrass</a>, Ponte Vedra, <a title="Florida Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa-florida.html">Florida</a>, United States &#8211; <strong>17<sup>th</sup> hole, 132 yards, Par 3</strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong>Without doubt, this is golf’s most famous par-3. This stunning one-hit-wonder is, on paper at least, a rather simple proposition, at just 132 yards which is typically a wedge or 9-iron for a good player, this should be a great birdie opportunity – BUT golf is never quite that simple. Course designer Pete Dye set about creating the Stadium course in 1980 which was specifically formed for tournament golf. With narrow fairways and large water hazards, the Stadium Course is one of the toughest on the PGA Tour, these attributes should, in theory at least, make the course famous, it is however the stunning 17<sup>th</sup> hole which causes a stir for all who play it. With a bunker the only respite for anyone missing the island green, this hole causes problems for all who play it. (<em>Including myself&#8230;apparently pitching wedge wasn’t enough club!</em>)<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sawgrass-17th1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11496" title="sawgrass-17th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sawgrass-17th1.jpg" alt="sawgrass-17th" width="592" height="320" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">It is estimated that over 150,000 golf balls find their way into the water on this remarkable hole every year.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="St Andrews Old Course" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/old-course-st-andrews.html">St Andrews <strong>Old Course</strong></a>, Fife, <a title="Scottish Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-breaks/scotland.html">Scotland</a> &#8211; <strong>17<sup>th</sup> hole, 495 yards, Par 4</strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>Golf is a sport built on tradition and history. From Old Tom Morris and Bobby Jones, to Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, all of the games greats have walked the fairways at the Home of Golf where there are few holes that inspire and simultaneously strike fear into each and every player to step onto the tee as the par 4 17<sup>th</sup>, or “The Road Hole”, as it is more commonly known.  A lengthy par 4 of 495 yards, this testing hole requires two solid blows to get up near the green but that is the easy part! The famous Road Hole Bunker awaits any shots short of the extremely shallow green while anything long may have to be played back off the wall (see below) on the other side of the tarmac road just over the back of the green. A par here is a real achievement!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Ygib4TXU3rA" frameborder="0" width="592" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Miguel Angel Jimenez showing us how it&#8217;s done!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="Pebble Beach golf breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/pebble-beach-golf-links.html">Pebble Beach</a>, Monterey Peninsula California, USA &#8211; <strong>18<sup>th</sup> hole, 543 yards, Par 5</strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>There are few more dramatic holes in golf than the par 5. Long hitters view them as a chance to pick up one if not two shots by bagging an eagle or a birdie so in professional play, and indeed in the amateur ranks, we can expect to see longer hitters going for broke to try and get home in two. However the guys who designed Pebble Beach – two amateur architects named Jack Neville and Douglass Grant – constructed a hole that, while easily being reachable for modern golfers, will strike fear into even the bravest of souls! The crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean run all the way up the left flank of the hole and it doesn’t get much better on the right as long, lush rough, trees and bunkers lie in wait for anything missing right. This hole is the epitome of the risk vs. reward par 5 and one of the most beautiful holes in the game to boot.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pebble-beach2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11498" title="pebble-beach" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pebble-beach2.jpg" alt="pebble-beach" width="592" height="308" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">The view from the 18th tee at Pebble Beach can be a daunting one if you aren&#8217;t &#8220;on it&#8221; with your driver!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Brabazon Course, <a title="The Belfry Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/the-belfry.html">The Belfry</a>, England &#8211; <strong>10<sup>th</sup> hole, 311 yards, Par 4</strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>Perhaps the only type of hole that can match the reachable par 5 for drama and excitement is the driveable par 4 and The Belfry’s Brabazon Course has perhaps the finest of the lot. Measuring 311 yards, this tempting little corker is certainly within striking distance for big hitters but it isn’t simply a case of grip it, rip it and see what happens as anyone going for it will have to manufacture a deft cut through a galley of trees and over a treacherous little stream in order to find the putting surface. Pull it off and you’re a hero but miss and you could easily run up a double bogey or worse. The temptation, hesitation and drama that this famous hole can produce have been well known to the world since the days of Seve in the Ryder Cup. What will you do when you step onto the 10<sup>th</sup> tee at The Belfry?<br />
<br/></p>
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<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZysiTTWey3w" frameborder="0" width="592" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Advancements in technology have seen the 10th at The Belfry be extended to 311 yards.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="Cape Kidnappers" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/cape-kidnappers.html">Cape Kidnappers</a>, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand &#8211; <strong>15<sup>th</sup> hole, 549 yards, Par 5</strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>There are few courses in the world that could claim to be as visually stunning or dramatically located as Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.  This three shotter not only requires distance off the tee but accuracy with hazards framing the hole. While some holes rely on a small pond short of the green to protect it, the 15<sup>th</sup> hole has the Pacific Ocean and 500 foot high cliffs to capture any shot finding itself long or left of the green. Any golfer walking off with a par 5 can count themselves very lucky and I’m sure are very talented <em>(Ed. Yes I did make a par and yes it is on my CV!)</em><br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/cape-kidnappers1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11501" title="cape-kidnappers" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/cape-kidnappers1.jpg" alt="cape-kidnappers" width="592" height="298" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">An aerial shot of holes 13 through 16 at Cape Kidnappers.</em></strong></p>
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<p><strong>And one more for luck&#8230;</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="Legend Golf &amp; Safari Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/legend-golf-resort.html">Legend Golf &amp; Safari Resort</a>, Limpopo Province, South Africa &#8211; <strong>Xtreme 19<sup>th</sup> hole, 437 yards, Par 3 </strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>While this hole may not be your classic “great golf hole” you certainly can’t argue with the excitement and unique challenge it brings. The tee, some 470 yards above the green, is only accessible by helicopter and by most accounts it takes the ball over 30 seconds to hit the giant Africa-shaped putting surface below. To add to the excitement there is the small matter of $1,000,000 for anyone who bags a hole in one!</p>
<p>PS – Those with vertigo need not apply!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/xtreme-19th1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11502" title="xtreme-19th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/xtreme-19th1.jpg" alt="xtreme-19th" width="592" height="332" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Despite looking rather small in the photo, the green on the Xtreme 19th is a whopper!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="UK Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/uk-golf-breaks.html">UK golf breaks</a>, <a title="South Africa Golf Break" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/south-africa.html">South African golf holidays</a> and <a title="American Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa.html">American golf tours</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
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		<title>Top 100 Golf Courses &#8211; How many have you played?</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/top-100-golf-courses-how-many-have-you-played/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/top-100-golf-courses-how-many-have-you-played/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 17:20:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fun golf stuff]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[best golf courses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[golf holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[luxury golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pebble Beach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pine valley]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[royal county down]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[royal portrush]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Top 100 Golf Courses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[turnberry]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11464</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As the great golf course architect, Pete Dye once said: “The ardent golfer would play Mount Everest if somebody would put a flagstick on top”. While this may be true for a lot of us who have been well and truly bitten by the golfing bug, there are a select few places, or courses more [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/YGT-top-100-golf-courses.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11468" title="YGT-top-100-golf-courses" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/YGT-top-100-golf-courses.jpg" alt="YGT-top-100-golf-courses" width="295" height="198" /></a>As the great golf course architect, Pete Dye once said: “The ardent golfer would play Mount Everest if somebody would put a flagstick on top”. While this may be true for a lot of us who have been well and truly bitten by the golfing bug, there are a select few places, or courses more specifically, where we would move mountains to play. There are golf courses that enjoy a perennial position in lists of the best on the planet and perhaps one of the best things about them is that we, the golfing masses, can invariably pay them a visit for 18 holes of heaven. Here are our Top 100 golf courses that are accessible to your average Joe&#8230;how many of them have you ticked off your golfing bucket list?<span id="more-11464"></span></p>
<p><a title="Top 100 Golf Courses" href="http://www.facebook.com/yourgolftravel/app_156233146501"><strong>Click here to complete the survey and see how you have fared compared with other friends of Your Golf Travel&#8230;</strong></a></p>
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		<title>Algarve Golf Breaks &#8211; Quinta do Lago&#8230;The Jewel in the Algarve&#8217;s Crown</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/algarve-golf-breaks-quinta-do-lago-the-jewel-in-the-algarves-crown/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/algarve-golf-breaks-quinta-do-lago-the-jewel-in-the-algarves-crown/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 12:58:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Course reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[algarve golf holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[portugal golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quinta do lago laranjal course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quinta do lago north course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quinta do lago resort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quinta do lago south course]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11436</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What’s in a name? For Quinta do Lago it means a special golfing oasis that fans of the Algarve will love. When it comes to naming their golf courses, many Portuguese developers don’t make much of an effort. They tend to say what they see and it goes down on the deeds – Pinheiros Altos [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11437" title="quinta-do-lago" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago.jpg" alt="quinta-do-lago" width="295" height="197" /></a>What’s in a name?</p>
<p>For <a title="Quinta do Lago" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/quinta-do-lago.html"><strong>Quinta do Lago</strong></a> it means a special golfing oasis that fans of the <a title="Algarve Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/portugal-algarve.html"><strong>Algarve</strong></a> will love.</p>
<p>When it comes to naming their golf courses, many Portuguese developers don’t make much of an effort. They tend to say what they see and it goes down on the deeds – <a title="Pinheiros Altos" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/pinheiros-altos.html"><strong>Pinheiros Altos</strong></a> (tall pines), <strong><a title="Boavista Golf Club" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/boavista-golf.html">Boavista</a></strong> (nice view) and <strong><a title="Monte Rei" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/monte-rei.html">Monte Rei</a></strong> (er, King of the Hill?) to name but a few.</p>
<p>Thankfully, the people building the golf club at Quinta do Lago on the Algarve looked up and saw a beautiful lake, not a sewage pipe!<span id="more-11436"></span><br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-south.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11439" title="quinta-do-lago-south" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-south.jpg" alt="quinta-do-lago-south" width="592" height="263" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Quinta do Lago South Course &#8211; The scene of Colin Montgomerie&#8217;s maiden professional win.</em></strong></p>
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<p>This exclusive golf and residential estate of nearly 2,000 acres borders the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park. It’s a striking setting, adorned with copious lush greenery, native umbrella pines and tranquil lakes, and the three championship golf courses certainly live up to their surroundings. The three stunning layouts at Quinta do Lago Golf Club are among the very best not just in Portugal, but in the whole of Europe and they blend seamlessly with a precession of grand private villas and a superb range of accommodation options, making Quinta do Lago <em>the </em>go to destination for those who want to sample the very best the Algarve has to offer.</p>
<p>To play golf at Quinta do Lago is an absolute joy thanks to the three top class golf courses, The North, South and Laranjal. Each course has been designed in harmony with its natural environment and expertly tweaked by master designers to ensure the quality of the courses is without question. The South Course for instance, has had the privilege of hosting the Portuguese Open on no less than eight occasions with past champions of the highest order including a young Colin Montgomerie who secured his maiden professional title here.<br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-north.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11441" title="quinta-do-lago-north" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-north.jpg" alt="quinta-do-lago-north" width="592" height="255" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Quinta do Lago North Course &#8211; A stern test but not one that will leave golfers overawed.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Perhaps the best thing about the three courses at Quinta do Lago is that each layout offers a different, yet equally enthralling challenge to the last. While all three can boast firm, sandy fairways akin to the great heathland courses of the Surrey sandbelt, as well as slick and true putting surfaces that are among the finest in Portugal, each layout will test a different facet of your game.</p>
<p>The South Course, a course that enjoys a perennial position on lists of the Top 100 golf courses in Europe, is certainly a stiff test, even for low handicap players, with strategically positioned bunkers, threatening water and severely sloping greens. The course is demanding, but should not overawe the average golfer, and with superb views on a number of outstanding holes is a fantastic place to enjoy a round of golf.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-laranjal.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11443" title="quinta-do-lago-laranjal" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-laranjal.jpg" alt="quinta-do-lago-laranjal" width="592" height="208" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Quinta do Lago Laranjal Course &#8211; Voted Number 1 in the Algarve in 2011.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The North is similar in style to the magnificent South but is a good deal shorter meaning shots are more likely to be dropped or gained on and around the greens. Highlights on the North include a number of tricky dog-leg holes, while this course is most renowned for its par-5s, particularly the closing hole, which demands a fine drive over water and between the encroaching fairway bunkers. All in all the North will allow higher handicappers to enjoy a similar experience to that found on the South without worrying about being out of their depth.</p>
<p>The latest championship course at Quinta do Lago, the Laranjal, has been carved out of a former orangery and perfectly complements its older siblings. The scenic location is complemented by the beautiful features of the course. Umbrella pines, cork oaks, orange trees and no less than five lakes make the Laranjal one of the most picturesque offerings in the whole of the Algarve. In fact, the Laranjal was voted the best golf course in the Algarve in 2011.</p>
<p>All courses boast first class facilities including driving ranges, a Paul McGinley  Golf Academy, putting greens, pro-shops and luxurious clubhouses, each of which features a large terrace – the perfect setting to relax and mull over the day’s events, to toast the victor or, console the vanquished!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-laranjal-2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11445" title="quinta-do-lago-laranjal-2" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/quinta-do-lago-laranjal-2.jpg" alt="quinta-do-lago-laranjal-2" width="592" height="291" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Tree lined fairways, gleaming white sandy bunkers and verdant, rolling terrain are common features of all three Quinta do Lago golf courses.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>But what of the accommodation?</strong></p>
<p>There are a number of excellent accommodation options that are ideally suited to golfers visiting Quinta do Lago on or around this magnificent estate. Nearby hotels include the <a title="Dom Pedro Marina Hotel" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/dom-pedro-marina-hotel.html"><strong>Dom Pedro Marina</strong></a> and the 5* <a title="Pestana Vila Sol Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/vila-sol.html"><strong>Pestana Vila Sol</strong></a>, both located in <a title="Vilamoura Golf Break" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/algarve-vilamoura.html"><strong>Vilamoura</strong></a>, one of the most popular destinations in Europe for travelling golfers. Those who opt for accommodation in Vilamoura will also benefit from free transfers to and from the golf courses.</p>
<p>Perhaps the best of the lot though are the 5* <a title="Monte da Quinta Club" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/monte-da-quinta-club.html"><strong>Monte da Quinta Club</strong></a> and the 4* Monte da Quinta Suites, townhouses and villas. Ranging from one bedroom suites to grand 5* villas, these units all feature private gardens and a plunge pool or swimming pool. Best of all, they offer exceptional value for money and those who book 30 days prior to travelling between October 1<sup>st</sup>-30<sup>th</sup> will also receive a free welcome dinner at the Bamboo Restaurant at the Monte da Quinta Suites!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/monte-da-quinta-club-pool.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11449" title="monte-da-quinta-club-pool" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/monte-da-quinta-club-pool.jpg" alt="monte-da-quinta-club-pool" width="592" height="307" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Monte da Quinta Club</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Specifically designed to maximise both comfort and convenience, the units feature a washing machine, satellite television, Playstation, internet access, hi-fi system, telephone and air-conditioning throughout. The accommodations also feature fully-equipped kitchens which allow guests to enjoy meals in the comfort and privacy of their home away from home. While the thought of enjoying an evening meal in the cosy surrounds of your private accommodation, there are also a number of fantastic restaurants dotted around the estate which are sure to satisfy anyone’s tastes should they decide to venture out to enjoy a top class meal.</p>
<p>Variety, quality, service, atmosphere and fresh, locally sourced ingredients are all fundamental parts of the dining experience at Quinta do Lago. Located by the sea, expect to sample some of the finest seafood and spectacular views from a handful of restaurants. There are restaurants to suit every mood, taste and occasion and regardless of your choice, you can be assured of a meal to remember.</p>
<p>Recommended restaurants include Caso do Lago which is beautifully situated overlooking the lakes of the Ria Formosa Nature Park. An informal atmosphere and casual dress code makes it ideal for golfers to unwind after a round on one of the championship courses. A refreshing walk along the adjacent golden beeches is the perfect way to round of the day.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/monte-da-quinta-suite.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11451" title="monte-da-quinta-suite" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/monte-da-quinta-suite.jpg" alt="monte-da-quinta-suite" width="592" height="342" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Monte da Quinta Suites</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Guests can also enjoy a casual meal at any time of the day at the new Koko Lane Bistro, outstanding seafood at GiGi’s and top class French and Mediterranean cuisine at Casa Velha – this is the perfect place to head for a special evening meal.</p>
<p>More active travellers can also enjoy windsurfing on the private lake, horse riding, tennis, cycling, clay pigeon shooting, deep sea fishing, waterskiing, sailing and canoeing&#8230;plenty to keep you entertained and energized during your time away from the golf course!</p>
<p>All things considered, there are few resorts in Portugal, or anywhere else for that matter, that can offer such a complete package as Quinta do Lago. There may be other developments like Quinta do Lago on the Algarve, but this place has special qualities; the Augusta-like aura of the courses, the elegant and varied accommodation options and a rare and welcome sense of isolation.</p>
<p>In short, the ‘Estate of the Lake’ makes you feel special. We love it, and so will you.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Algarve-TP_POS_CMYK_algarve-copy.jpg"><img src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Algarve-TP_POS_CMYK_algarve-copy.jpg" alt="ALGARVE" title="ALGARVE" width="537" height="92" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11462" /></a><br />
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		<title>Golf Picture of the Week &#8211; TPC Sawgrass</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/golf-picture-of-the-week-tpc-sawgrass/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/14/golf-picture-of-the-week-tpc-sawgrass/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 10:27:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pictures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american golf holidays]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11432</guid>
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/TPC-Sawgrass-Stadium.jpg"><img src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/TPC-Sawgrass-Stadium.jpg" alt="TPC-Sawgrass-Stadium" title="TPC-Sawgrass-Stadium" width="300" height="300" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11433" /></a></p>
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		<title>Pebble Beach Golf Holidays &#8211; YGT on the Scene</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/10/pebble-beach-golf-holidays-ygt-on-the-scene/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 10:38:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Course reviews]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11418</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It’s not something you pass up every day&#8230;the chance to play Pebble Beach whilst on a trip to California, so naturally I jumped at the chance. My first experience was the 17 mile drive to reach my accommodation at the Lodge and straight away this gets the golfing juices flowing and the heart pumping in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11419" title="Pebble-Beach" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach.jpg" alt="Pebble-Beach" width="295" height="197" /></a>It’s not something you pass up every day&#8230;the chance to play Pebble Beach whilst on a trip to California, so naturally I jumped at the chance. My first experience was the 17 mile drive to reach my accommodation at the Lodge and straight away this gets the golfing juices flowing and the heart pumping in anticipation of what awaits at the end of the short drive from Monterey Peninsula Airport. I was put up in a Garden View Room&#8230;well, I say room, but it was more like a villa suite with so much space and plush toiletries that I immediately felt like a king while enjoying views over the first fairway&#8230;I was truly in golfing heaven!<span id="more-11418"></span></p>
<p>My round was booked in for 3pm that same day and my initial amazement was the general buzz around the clubhouse, pro-shop and mini village area with many people all wanting a piece of the action in one form or another. I was fortunate to be playing with their Director of Business Development Joe Fijol, whom was the perfect gentlemen and ideal company for my first time around this famous course which has become one of the leading lights in American Golf.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-6th.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11421" title="pebble-beach-6th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-6th.jpg" alt="pebble-beach-6th" width="592" height="306" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">The par 5 6th at Pebble Beach is part of one of the most spectacular collections of golf holes in the world.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>My round started somewhat shakily, yet with no excuses as the weather was ideal with sunny skies and a mild breeze and while I won’t bore you with my score on every hole, I easily could&#8230;it was that memorable! There were some highs and some lows from a personal playing perspective, but nothing could take away the enjoyment factor of walking the fairways on one of the world’s greatest golf courses. One thing that fascinated me and something I hadn’t considered before teeing off is how much wildlife you get to see in one round. It certainly helped having Joe by my side to point these things out! There were dear running across fairways in front of me and when I reached the jaw dropping coastline stretch of holes 4 through 10, I was amazed to see a school of 15ft Tiger Sharks, seals with newborn pups, starfish and even a humpback whale!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-7th.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11423" title="Pebble-Beach-7th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-7th.jpg" alt="Pebble-Beach-7th" width="592" height="415" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">YGT&#8217;s man, Robin Couchman, taking aim at the par 3 7th where he would go on to bag a birdie!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>One thing I do feel compelled to mention was my overwhelming excitement at making a 2 at one of the most famous short holes in golf, the stunning par 3 7<sup>th</sup>! Ok so I will also drop in the fact that I snuck a birdie 4 at the intimidating par 5 18<sup>th</sup> finishing hole&#8230;something I will remember forever!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-18th.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11425" title="Pebble-Beach-18th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pebble-Beach-18th.jpg" alt="Pebble-Beach-18th" width="592" height="321" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">In the setting sun Robin arrives at the 18th tee&#8230;four strokes later his round at Pebble was complete.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If it’s on your “bucket list” (as the Americans put it), for golf courses to play in your life and you didn’t realise you could, make sure you put it firmly at the top of said list. Being a public course, anyone can play and in my humble opinion it’s worth every penny and every cent even if just for the bragging rights alone!</p>
<p>I hope to return to play it again one day soon and will be adding the likes of <a title="Spyglass Hill" href="www.yourgolftravel.com/spyglass-hill.html">Spyglass Hill</a> and the <a title="The Links at Spanish Bay" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/spanish-bay.html">Links at Spanish Bay</a> to the itinerary as I overheard many a golfer singing their praises as well. If they’re almost as good as Pebble, they are much better than the vast majority of courses I have played in days gone by!</p>
<p>With a Pebble Yell, he cried more, more, more!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="Pebble Beach golf breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/pebble-beach-golf-links.html">Pebble Beach Golf Holidays</a> and other <a title="American Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa.html">American Golf Breaks</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call free on 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
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		<title>Moroccan Golf Breaks &amp; Mr Montgomerie</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/09/moroccan-golf-breaks-and-mr-montgomerie/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/09/moroccan-golf-breaks-and-mr-montgomerie/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 16:41:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Golf news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[annika sorentstam golf courses]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Popular destinations such as the Algarve in Portugal, the Costa del Sol in Spain and the mighty USA have long been at the heart of the golf travel and rightly so considering the wealth of world class courses, stunning scenery, excellent food and, of course, impeccable playing conditions all on offer. However in recent years [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Morocco.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11406" title="Morocco" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Morocco.jpg" alt="Morocco" width="295" height="197" /></a>Popular destinations such as the <a title="Algarve Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/portugal-algarve.html">Algarve</a> in <a title="Golf Breaks in Portugal" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/portugal.html">Portugal</a>, the <a title="Costa Del Sol" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/spain-costa-del-sol-andalucia.html">Costa del Sol</a> in <a title="Golf breaks in Spain" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/spain.html">Spain</a> and the mighty <a title="American Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa.html">USA</a> have long been at the heart of the golf travel and rightly so considering the wealth of world class courses, stunning scenery, excellent food and, of course, impeccable playing conditions all on offer.</p>
<p>However in recent years certain factors have extended golf’s reach into parts of the world that may not have traditionally been considered as ideal golf holiday destinations. Morocco is just such a destination and as we speak there are a number of superb golf courses which are perfectly complemented by outstanding accommodation options, a climate conducive to golf and, perhaps most importantly, fascinating cultural and historical attractions.</p>
<p>All of these factors make Morocco a great option for your next golf break and to make the deal even sweeter, Ryder Cup legend and European Golf Design have teamed up to add yet another world class golf course to Morocco’s portfolio.</p>
<p>Next to one of Morocco’s finest beaches, Plage des Nations, near Rabat, the 8 time European Order of Merit winner and EGD will be creating a golf course that is set to be the centrepiece of a new 1,200-acre luxury resort and expansive residential community that will also feature a golf clubhouse, beach club, hotel and shopping centre.</p>
<p>This will be the eighth time Monty and EGD have worked together and previous efforts, including courses in <a title="Ireland Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-breaks/ireland.html">Ireland</a>, <a title="Turkey Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/turkey.html">Turkey</a> and <a title="Scotland Golf Courses" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-breaks/scotland.html">Scotland</a>, would suggest that they have created one of the most successful design partnerships in <a title="European Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays-europe.html">Europe</a>, the <a title="Middle East Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/middle-east.html">Middle East</a> and <a title="African Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/africa.html">Africa</a>.</p>
<p>The Plage des Nations Resort is set to become one of the largest developments of its kind in North Africa and will occupy a site offering breathtaking elevated views of the Atlantic Ocean. The 18-hole, Par 72 golf course will wind its way through valleys and an undulating downland landscape just a stone’s throw from the beachfront and the infinite expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.</p>
<p>Of the course in question, Montgomerie said: “We’ve got interesting terrain and changes in elevation to work with, which is helping us to create a lively, intricate, and strategic design. We will be having some fun with the contouring, to encourage golfers to play more creatively. I am keen on designs that test a golfer’s initiative &amp; decision making, so Plage des Nations is going to be a definitive expression of that philosophy.  It will be challenging putting it together and we’re confident that the end result will be a beautiful, testing and fun golf course.”</p>
<p>As well as Colin Montgomerie, EGD offers signature design golf courses from Annika Sorenstam, designer of the Annika Course at the <a title="Mission Hills Golf Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/mission-hills-golf-resort.html">Mission Hills Resort</a> in <a title="China Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/china.html">China</a>, and Bernhard Langer whose previous efforts include the <a title="Portmarnock Hotel and Links" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/portmarnock-hotel-and-golf-links.html">Portmarnock Links</a> in Ireland. There are also a number of other players from the European Tour involved with course designs across the globe. EGD will be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, with its team of acclaimed architects having made their mark on more than 50 golf courses across the globe. Their most notable creation thus far has been the famous Twenty Ten Course at the <a title="Celtic Manor Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/celtic-manor-golf-hotel.html">Celtic Manor Resort</a> in <a title="Wales Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-breaks/wales.html">Wales</a>.</p>
<p>Jeremy Slessor, Managing Director of EGD, said: “Signature design is proven to raise the profile of many developments, adding value to sales of golf tourism packages, membership and real estate. Colin Montgomerie and EGD have worked on a number of projects and what you get with Colin is a hands-on approach and involvement from a world-class player who has an instinctive talent for golf course design. He has a clear idea of what he expects of a course bearing his name and Plage des Nations is an exciting prospect that we look forward to working on together.”</p>
<p>It seems then, that the already superb golf holiday destination of Morocco is about to get a whole lot better! Watch this space!</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="Morocco golf breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/morocco.html">Moroccan Golf Breaks</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call free on 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
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		<title>TPC Sawgrass 17th &#8211; Island Fever</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/09/tpc-sawgrass-17th-island-fever/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/09/tpc-sawgrass-17th-island-fever/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 13:23:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fun golf stuff]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american golf holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[california golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[casa de campo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[florida golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[harbour town golf links]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[la quinta resort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass 17th]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass stadium course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teeth of the dog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the players championship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[usa golf tours]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11384</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This week the PGA Tour is heading to the Sawgrass Golf Resort for The Players Championship and we all know what awaits Rory, Tiger, Rickie and co at the par 3 17th. This hole is arguably the most famous hole in the world and we expect many a golfer would have it atop their golfing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass1.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11385" title="Sawgrass" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass1.jpg" alt="Sawgrass" width="295" height="197" /></a>This week the PGA Tour is heading to the <strong><a title="Sawgrass Golf Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/marriott-sawgrass-golf-resort.html">Sawgrass Golf Resort</a></strong> for The Players Championship and we all know what awaits Rory, Tiger, Rickie and co at the par 3 17<sup>th</sup>. This hole is arguably the most famous hole in the world and we expect many a golfer would have it atop their golfing bucket lists. Before the action gets underway tomorrow morning we thought we would take a quick look at some facts and figures about the world’s most famous par 3&#8230;<span id="more-11384"></span><br />
<br/><br/></p>
<p><strong style="font-size:14px;">Who designed the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course?</strong></p>
<p>Pete Dye, who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame for his ground-breaking golf course designs which include the likes of <strong><a title="Casa de Campo" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/casa-de-campo-resort.html">Casa de Campo</a></strong>, <strong><a title="Harbour Town Golf Links" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/harbour-town-golf-links.html">Harbour Town Golf Links</a></strong> and two of the five courses at the <strong><a title="La Quinta Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/la-quinta-resort-and-club.html">La Quinta Resort</a></strong> in <strong><a title="California Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa-california.html">California</a></strong>, also designed the famous TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course. However he can’t take all the credit as it was his wife, Alice, who also works as a designer, who suggested making the 17<sup>th</sup> into an island green. Unlike most husbands Mr Dye actually listened to what she was saying&#8230;well played Pete&#8230;well played!<br />
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<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-41.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11387" title="Sawgrass 17th" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-41.jpg" alt="Sawgrass 17th" width="592" height="301" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">A Bird&#8217;s Eye View of the par 3 17th at Sawgrass.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong style="font-size:14px;">The 17<sup>th</sup> by numbers&#8230;</strong></p>
<p><strong>50,000 – </strong>The amount of earth, in cubic yards, that was removed from the site of the 17<sup>th</sup> to allow for the construction of the lake.</p>
<p><strong>55 – </strong>The size in square feet of the bunker at the front of the green, making it the smallest of the 92 bunkers on the course. You’d think they could have been a bit more generous considering the penalty for missing the green anywhere else!</p>
<p><strong>3,912 – </strong>The size of the green in square feet. The course’s average green size is 4,500 square feet which when compared to many courses in the UK is pretty big! Still&#8230;the water surrounding the green makes it seem pretty small from the tee!</p>
<p><strong>121 –</strong> The yardage from the middle of the championship tee to the front of the green. Proof that modern golf course architects don’t need to build 250 yards monster par 3s to test the best players in the game. The 7<sup>th</sup> at Pebble Beach, 12<sup>th</sup> at Augusta and the 8<sup>th</sup> at Royal Troon are further evidence of this!</p>
<p><strong>150,000 – </strong>The number of golf balls that find a watery grave at the 17<sup>th</sup> each and every year. This estimated number is based on an average of just over three balls per player during the course of the 45,000 rounds played on the Stadium Course per year. This number may be a little off as we are sure there are plenty of golfers with deep pockets who would happily fire a dozen brand spanking Pro V1s into the water “just for the experience”!</p>
<p><strong>4 –</strong> The number of times per year divers enter the lake to retrieve the lost balls. Divers are hired to enter the water hazards on the course in January, April, July and October, taking two days to clear the lake of balls each time. The resort pays 7 cents per ball found and all of the balls are resold&#8230;and then promptly hit straight back into the water no doubt!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-61.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11389" title="Sawgrass-6" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-61.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-6" width="592" height="275" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">A side view of the 17th green highlights the severe contours which make two-putting a tricky proposition if you find the wrong level with your tee shot.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong style="font-size:14px;">Scoring averages and less than average scoring!</strong></p>
<p><strong>138 – </strong>The number of holes in one by amateurs and professionals from the course&#8217;s opening in 1980 through to March 2006. Surprisingly the 17<sup>th</sup> is by far the most aced hole on the course!</p>
<p><strong>1 – </strong>The number of pars made from the 17<sup>th</sup> tee. In 1999 Freddie “Boom Boom” Couples dunked his first shot into the water only to reload and knock his second attempt into the hole on the fly for an outrageous par! (See the video below)</p>
<p><strong>12 –</strong> The score posted by Bob Tway in the 2005 The Players Championship. With winds blowing between 25 and30 mph, Tway&#8217;s tee shot flew the green, as did his second shot. His third and fourth shots hit on the front of the green and spun back into the water. His fifth attempt found the green and then proceeded to three-putt. Tway went from four strokes off the lead to a distant 13 behind. Robert Gamez also hit four balls into the water but managed to hold his nerve and two-putt for an 11 in the 1990 Players Championship.</p>
<p><strong>66 –</strong> The score posted by Angelo Spagnolo, a 31-year-old grocery store manager from Fayette City, Pennsylvania, on June 19, 1985. Spagnolo hit a total of 27 balls into the water&#8230;some from the tee and others from the drop zone. Rules officials finally urged him to putt his ball around the hazard, down the narrow walkway and onto the green. Spagnolo’s total score for 18 holes? 257! Don’t quit the day job Angelo!<br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong style="font-size:14px;">The 17<sup>th</sup>’s greatest moments&#8230;</strong></p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-BBO6n7HR3o" frameborder="0" width="592" height="315"></iframe><br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>And finally&#8230;a quick guide on how NOT to play the hole on your next Florida Golf Break, brought to you by Your Golf Travel Co-founder, Andrew Harding.</strong><br />
<br/></p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lDYgTLqFMHE" frameborder="0" width="592" height="315"></iframe><br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="Florida Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa-florida.html">Florida Golf Breaks</a> and other <a title="American Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa.html">American Golf Holidays</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call free on 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
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		<title>Florida Golf Holidays &#8211; The Sawgrass Stadium Course &amp; The PGA Tour</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/08/florida-golf-holidays-the-sawgrass-stadium-course-the-pga-tour/</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 17:28:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Golf Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[American golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american golf holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PGA Tour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sawgrass 17th]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the players championship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tpc sawgrass]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[usa golf tours]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11359</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This week the PGA Tour heads to Sawgrass where, among other things, the players will have to safely negotiate the tight, tree lined fairways , great swathes of sand and expanses of water in order to be in with a shout of winning The Players Championship; a tournament billed by many as the game’s 5th [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11369" title="Sawgrass" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass.jpg" alt="Sawgrass" width="295" height="197" /></a>This week the PGA Tour heads to <a title="Sawgrass Golf Resort" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/marriott-sawgrass-golf-resort.html">Sawgrass</a> where, among other things, the players will have to safely negotiate the tight, tree lined fairways , great swathes of sand and expanses of water in order to be in with a shout of winning The Players Championship; a tournament billed by many as the game’s 5<sup>th</sup> major championship. We all know plenty about the world famous par 3 17<sup>th</sup> but what of the rest of the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course? Well just to give you a better idea of what awaits the world’s best players this week, here is a brief photo guide of the course.<span id="more-11359"></span></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11360" title="Sawgrass-6" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-6.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-6" width="592" height="275" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">What better way to start than with a shot of the famous par 3 17th?</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11361" title="Sawgrass-4" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-4.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-4" width="592" height="301" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">And to give you an idea of just how much water there is to contend with, here is an aerial shot of perhaps the most famous hole in golf.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11362" title="Sawgrass-2" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-2.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-2" width="592" height="357" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">The Sawgrass Stadium Course twists this way and that meaning those who can shape the ball in either direction at the flick of a switch will be more likely to do well at this week&#8217;s Players Championship.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11363" title="Sawgrass-3" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-3.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-3" width="592" height="306" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Relatively small greens are tucked away and are often well protected by bunkers and overhanging trees. Course management is a real must around this tricky layout.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11364" title="Sawgrass-5" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-5.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-5" width="592" height="278" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Humps, bumps, swales and hollows bring a very subtle links feature to this modern stadium course.</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-7.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11365" title="Sawgrass-7" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-7.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-7" width="592" height="297" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">This shot gives you a good idea of just how tight some of the fairways at Sawgrass can get. Players struggling with the driver this week may well be going going home early!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11366" title="Sawgrass-8" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-8.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-8" width="592" height="275" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">Many of the par 3s at Sawgrass can be make or break holes at The Players Championship. One small slip and a double bogey is on the cards!</em></strong></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11367" title="Sawgrass-1" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Sawgrass-1.jpg" alt="Sawgrass-1" width="592" height="377" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em style="color: #666;">This shot of the 16th at Sawgrass is a good indicator of how precise players will have to be with approach shots this week.</em></strong></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="Florida Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa-florida.html">Florida Golf Tours</a> and other <a title="American Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays/usa.html">American Golf Holidays</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call free on 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
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		<title>The Grove &#8211; He Says&#8230;She Says.</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/08/the-grove-he-says-she-says/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/08/the-grove-he-says-she-says/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 15:54:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Course reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lead article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[england golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[golf and spa breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[his and hers holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spa breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the grove]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK Golf Breaks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/?p=11329</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We all love to escape for a well deserved weekend of golf, pampering and over indulgence but for those with “a better half” it can often be difficult to drop everything and leave them in the lurch for the weekend without incurring some serious “I owe you points”! Thankfully, there are plenty of places in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-2.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-11330" title="the grove hotel" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-2.jpg" alt="the grove hotel" width="295" height="197" /></a>We all love to escape for a well deserved weekend of golf, pampering and over indulgence but for those with “a better half” it can often be difficult to drop everything and leave them in the lurch for the weekend without incurring some serious “I owe you points”! Thankfully, there are plenty of places in the UK &amp; Ireland where golfers and non golfers alike can enjoy a few days of peace and quiet. With such venues in mind we thought we would ask a guy from <a title="yourgolftravel" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/"><strong>yourgolftravel.com</strong></a> and a gal from <strong><a title="Spa Breaks" href="http://www.spabreaks.com/">Spabreaks.com</a></strong> for their take on one of the finest resorts in the Greater London area, The Grove. Read on to see what they had to say&#8230;<span id="more-11329"></span><br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">What did you like the most about The Grove?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> I really appreciated the outstanding levels of service throughout the resort, and was bowled over by the quality of the facilities, which ensure every member of your group will be superbly catered for.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-11.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11349" title="the-grove-11" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-11.jpg" alt="the-grove-11" width="592" height="316" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> To be honest, it’s simply a lovely place to spend time – I would be happy having a cup of tea in the bar, reading the Sunday newspapers and watching the world go by here!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">What did you think of the spa?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> Not exactly an area of expertise for me, but there are times when it really strikes the right note for me; the style was subtle and the staff incredibly knowledgeable. The treatment list sounded impressive, but I was content to just bubble away in the Jacuzzi and swim a few leisurely lengths after spending much of the day on the golf course.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-7.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11339" title="the-grove-7" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-7.jpg" alt="the-grove-7" width="592" height="337" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> The Sequoia spa has an Ayurvedic influence – think natural materials and holistic treatments but set alongside the best in modern amenities and design.  The black mosaic-tiled, ozone –filtered pool (avoids the use of chlorine) is very much a place to relax, and there is also a steam room and a Jacuzzi.  Treatments use ESPA products, and there is a couple’s suite with a king sized bath, steam shower and two treatment beds – basically your own private spa.  The piéce de rèsistance for me however, was the English Rose ritual – a full body and scalp massage lasting one hour and 50 minutes … doesn’t really need explaining further does it?<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">How was the golf course?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> The Grove is pretty unique in the UK, really, in terms of being a purpose-built tournament standard facility. There are no members, so every visitor gets a country club-style experience that makes everything that little bit more enjoyable; bag tags, complimentary club cleaning and more are just some of the extra touches that make golf at The Grove a special experience. The course itself is tough, and long from the back pegs, but there are tees to suit all, but the main thing to take away from The Grove is the truly unrivalled conditioning of the course – it’s like a show garden! Every divot carried a little guilt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11337" title="the-grove" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove.jpg" alt="the-grove" width="592" height="296" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> I didn’t venture out onto the course but there is no denying it is very pretty…no really, you would never know you are only five minutes from the M25!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">What’s the restaurant like?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> For my tastes, The Stables was absolutely ideal. There are more formal eateries, but I enjoyed the laid back ambience and a menu packed with pies, steaks and proper pizza!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11341" title="the-grove-3" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-3.jpg" alt="the-grove-3" width="592" height="330" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> There are several options – fine dining at Colette’s, Lounges for afternoon tea (and aforementioned paper-reading), wood-fired pizzas in The Stables and my favourite for theatrical cooking and amazing Bircher muesli breakfasts – The Glasshouse – open for all meals and pleasingly casual.<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">What else is there to do at The Grove?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> The resort is staffed with some of the country’s top golf pros, so is a great place to book in for some expert tuition. One-on-one or in group clinics, these guys really know their stuff and I went away with a couple of swing thoughts that have really helped my game.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11343" title="the-grove-8" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-8.jpg" alt="the-grove-8" width="592" height="320" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> Explore the grounds, they are really beautiful and there is a whopping 300 acres to run, walk or cycle around.  There is also an outdoor pool, tennis, volleyball, croquet and if the weather is nice head to the Urban Beach in the Walled Garden and grab a deck chair!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">Would you recommend going there?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> It would be extremely difficult not to enjoy yourself at The Grove. The standard throughout is so consistently high that you could come with any expectation or any interest and still be wowed. Great for couples, small groups or corporate events.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-10.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11345" title="the-grove-10" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-10.jpg" alt="the-grove-10" width="592" height="219" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> This is a place for seriously elegant time out, so it’s probably not somewhere to take the kids; but for time out on your own, with friends, and particularly for couples who want to relax together but who also want to enjoy their own activities you would be hard pushed to find somewhere better!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-size: 14px;">What is your top tip for visiting The Grove?</strong></p>
<p><strong>He Said:</strong> Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all that’s on offer. Get there early on arrival day, and don’t hurry off after you check out – there’s so much to explore at the hotel and in the grounds that you should really make the most of.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11347" title="the-grove-6" src="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/the-grove-6.jpg" alt="the-grove-6" width="592" height="234" /></a></p>
<p><strong>She Said:</strong> If you are a fan of the arts, the hotel is hosting an outdoor <em>Expressions of Movement</em> sculpture exhibition until September this year, inspired by the London Olympics and the Queen’s Jubilee – one of the sculptures is a set of thrones by Frances Segelman who made his name creating busts of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh – check it out!<br />
<br/></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For information on <a title="UK &amp; Ireland Golf Breaks" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/uk-golf-breaks.html">UK &amp; Ireland Golf Breaks</a> and other <a title="European Golf Holidays" href="http://www.yourgolftravel.com/golf-holidays-europe.html">European Golf Holidays</a> please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call free on 0800 043 6644.</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;<br />
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a title="The Grove Spa Breaks" href="http://www.spabreaks.com/venues/the-grove?filter=">Click here to learn more about the Spa facilities at The Grove</a>.</strong></p>
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		<title>Golf Picture of the Week &#8211; Tralee Golf Club</title>
		<link>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/08/golf-picture-of-the-week-tralee-golf-club/</link>
		<comments>http://www.yourgolftravel.com/19th-hole/2012/05/08/golf-picture-of-the-week-tralee-golf-club/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 10:40:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rory</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pictures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[county kerry golf]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ireland golf breaks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[irish golf holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[irish links golf]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south west ireland golf tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tralee Golf Club]]></category>

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