Florida – Walt Disney World
Disney World in Florida isn't just a screaming jumble of theme parks packed with throngs of crowds seeking Mickey Mouse's autograph, there are 99 golf holes distanced a far cry from the Mickey mayhem.
WHERE TO PLAY
There are five 18 hole courses within the Disney resort plus a nine hole course. Outside of Disney, there are 93 courses in Greater Orlando. Carts are a must on all of the courses except Oak Trail, this is included in the green fee.
The Magnolia and the Palm are the original two courses which opened with the theme park in 1971 close to, but out of earshot, of the Magic Kingdom. They have been hosting the Walt Disney World Golf Classic on the PGA Tour ever since. Both courses have distinct characteristics - the Magnolia, named after the 1,500 Magnolia trees which line the fairways, enjoys rolling terrain, elevated greens and plenty of bunkers and is trees. Be careful though of Mickey's ears disguised as a bunker on the Par 3 6th. The mainly straight and open 18th provides the perfect opportunity to let the driver rip and repair the damage to the scorecard.
The Palm may be shorter than the Magnolia but the dense forest that lines the fairway certainly makes life a bit more difficult. Watch out for the water too which comes into play on nine holes and forces a shot over water on five of the holes. Build up all your confidence for the 454 yard par 418th where your score card can be ruined. Ranked amongst the toughest 50 holes on the PGA Tour eight times since 1983, the hole looks initially looks innocent enough with its wide fairway but water cuts in before the green and wraps around the right so you really need to think before you hit.
Lake Buena Vista was built a year later and is slightly more forgiving than its one year older cousins.
WHERE TO STAY
The mouse's kingdom swallows 47 square miles, an area the size of Manchester. There are 27 resorts, ranging from budget to deluxe, and if you wanted to stay in every room it would take you 72 years.
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OFF COURSE
For those who love the outdoors there's horse riding through forests, a Richard Petty NASCAR Driving Experience, water sports, boating and fishing trips.
CONTACTS BOOK
By teeing off between 10am and 3pm you can get special rates on green fees. To book tee times at any of the courses call 001 407 938 4653, or visit www.disneyworld.com, or just ask your hotel concierge.
Magnolia
Host to the PGA Tour event every October. Designed by Joe Lee, Par 72 7,109 yards
Palm
Twists through Florida pines and water hazards creating a tight challenge.
Designed by Joe Lee, Par 72 6,957
Lake Buena Vista
One of the few courses to host a PGA Tour event, LPGA Tour event and a USGA event within twelve months. Designed by Joe Lee, Par 72 6,819
Osprey Ridge
Breathtaking natural beauty and a distinct challenge
Designed by Tom Fazio, Par 72 7,101 yards
Eagle Pines
Designed by Pete Dye, Par 72 6,772 yards
Oak Trail
A nine hole walking course, par 36 2,913 yards