The Dutch

Colin Montgomerie and European Golf Design have proved a very successful partnership at home and abroad down the years and this is another example.The KLM Dutch Open is set for its fairways in 2016, 2017 and 2018 – and the Ryder Cup is in their sights.

“My pride at creating ‘The Dutch’”, by Ross McMurray, European Golf Design. “The site was characterised by flat farmland several metres below sea level, with silt/clay soils overlying a deeper layer of peat. Not ideal for golf course construction… Quite radical shaping was used to create a rugged character where undulating fairways, featuring many bumps and hollows, are framed by dramatic mounding. Out of necessity on land which is below sea level there are also many water features; lakes, streams and canals. We wanted to combine influences from links and heathlands with some modern flair to create a unique style. We wanted an immediate ‘wow’ factor then back that up with good strategic design. I really like the way the challenge builds as you go round. From a relatively gentle start it keeps racking up the pressure and the back nine is a real challenge. Most greens have a number of different tiers and lots of run-offs sweep shots away from the surface.”

• Course has: Bar
• Course does not have: Buggy Hire
• Course has: Driving Range
• Course has: Practice Green
• Course has: Pro Shop
• Course has: Restaurant
• Course does not have: Trolley Hire
• Course has: Dress Code
• Course does not have: Club Hire
• Course does not have: Handicap