Over the years I’ve travelled a fair amount, so it’s surprising that until last weekend I had never visited the Netherlands, especially as it’s such a short flight from the UK. I couldn’t believe it when the Captain announced a journey time of 35 minutes from Stansted!
The purpose of the trip was to celebrate a year to go until next year’s Solheim Cup at Bernardus Golf from 7-13 September. In true Dutch style, European Captain Anna Nordqvist and Vice-Captain Caroline Hedwall, joined USA Captain Angela Stanford and Assistant Captain Paula Creamer for a tandem cycle ride from Den Bosch Station to the venue, which is the same cycle route that many fans will take.
I must admit, I’m finding it hard to imagine thousands of fans arriving at a station and then getting on a bike, but for big events in the Netherlands, this is a common and popular method of transport for a country that is committed to sustainability. Don’t worry, if like me, you’re not comfortable on a bike, there will be transfer buses!What a place Bernardus is! It's a gorgeous venue with a modern, luxurious clubhouse that's inspired by the Sydney Opera House. The course is going to be perfect for a Solheim Cup, providing all the drama we could ask for. I got to play a round on Monday with a fellow journalist and we were joined by the head pro who pointed out the holes that are likely to make or break a player and a match!With no second cut, there’s little room for error on this course. If you don’t find the fairway, the heather and fescue is brutal. Imagine ditches on one side and bunkers on the other, that’s what some holes present, along with larger expanses of water to overcome. That’s just off the tee! You also have to be creative around the greens and know your spot, otherwise your ball will roll off into no-man’s land.
As a typical Kyle Phillips design, Bernardus offers plenty of risk-reward shots. But for us club players, it's a challenging, yet friendly and fun layout from the forward tees. I would highly recommend taking advantage of a day membership and playing it before the Solheim Cup next September. It makes a world of difference when you watch the pros, as you can relate to the holes better and really appreciate their talent!
Tickets are on sale now and I know accommodation is selling out fast, especially in Den Bosch. I was impressed with Amsterdam, the ‘Venice of the North’, but it is just under an hour away by train to Den Bosch, so I would recommend a couple of days to explore the city pre or post the Solheim Cup and choose somewhere more local to stay for the event.
The head pro told us that Oisterwijk, which is just 10 miles from Bernardus, is a good option. Nice hotels and cosy restaurants – he should know, he lives there! I hope I’ve whetted your appetite, it will be an amazing event.
By Alison Root, Women's Editor Golf Monthly
