The Dutch Stage Is Set
The golf world is turning its eyes toward the Netherlands this September. While the country is famous for its classic coastline links, a modern inland course is about to steal the show. According to Golf Monthly, the Bernardus Golf Club is the chosen venue for this year’s Solheim Cup. This facility, located 60 miles south-east of Amsterdam, represents a shift in the Dutch golf landscape. The course was built specifically for championship play and has already proven its mettle. It hosted three recent Dutch Opens, also known as the KLM Opens. The event promises to bring top-tier competitive golf to a venue that is mature beyond its years.
The layout features a unique mix of heathland character and dramatic visual elements. Golf Monthly notes the presence of expansive bunkering, wide ditches, and a pair of lakes on the front nine. These features create a sumptuous but demanding environment for the players. The course opened in 2018 and was designed by Kyle Phillips. His name carries weight in the industry, as he is also responsible for high-profile UK and Ireland courses like The Grove and Dundonald Links. The design ensures that every hole offers a distinct challenge, keeping the competitive edge sharp.
Water And Drama Define The Challenge
Two specific holes are expected to create real drama during the tournament. The par-3 17th and the par-3 8th stand out as the most dangerous spots on the map. Both holes are described as beautiful yet scary, requiring confident shots over water. The 8th hole is the shortest on the course, yet it remains a test of nerve. The 17th, a par-3, can create real drama at the end of any round. These water carry shots will likely decide matches in the later stages of the competition.
According to Golf Monthly, the course plays as a par 72 and measures 6,557 yards. The layout is kept in immaculate order, which is crucial for professional standards. The wide ditches and visual bunkering add a layer of intimidation that goes beyond simple yardage. Players will need to navigate these hazards with precision. The front nine concludes with a very well-protected green, adding another layer of difficulty to the early holes. The combination of mature trees and modern design creates a course that feels established despite its 2018 opening date.
Beyond the fairways, the venue offers significant amenities for members and visitors. Day membership is priced at €255, which includes a trolley and access to extensive practice facilities. The estate also features a pool, tennis court, gym, and sauna for relaxation. For dining, the Michelin-starred Nami restaurant offers a blend of Japanese and South American cuisine. The estate’s wine list is also highly rated. For a more casual experience, the Bernardus Café serves as an ideal spot for golfers to unwind.
The selection of Bernardus signals a growing confidence in modern inland golf in the Netherlands. It moves away from the traditional coastal stereotype to showcase a different style of play. The course design by Kyle Phillips brings a proven track record of championship quality to the Solheim Cup. The presence of water on key holes ensures that the tournament will be visually engaging for fans. The dramatic nature of the 8th and 17th holes provides natural television moments that are essential for the sport’s growth.
The facility’s ability to host three previous Opens demonstrates its readiness for the big stage. The immaculate condition of the grounds suggests that the course will play fast and true. This setup allows the teams to focus on strategy rather than fighting bad lies or poor conditions. The blend of heathland feel with modern hazards creates a unique test that neither team will have seen before. It is a venue that rewards accuracy and punishes hesitation, which fits the high stakes of the Solheim Cup perfectly.
