I’ve been going to Florida with my family for the last 4 years and always looked longingly at the fabulous courses there but, with everything else on offer, there’s just never seemed to be the time to try them out. How I’ve itched to put a bag of clubs on my shoulder to tread the luscious fairways & greens that seem to surround the Sunshine State! We all love Florida & last year took the plunge & bought our own villas. I was looking forward to my first trip to see them this year but nothing prepared me for the sight of our very own golf course views!
I booked my first round as soon as I could & soon realised that Golf in Florida is not quite the same as in the UK! When I got to the clubhouse, my buggy was ready & waiting, scorecard & pencil on the steering wheel & someone to put my clubs on the buggy! The clubhouse is a modest size but has everything you need – a well stocked golf shop, snack bar serving good food & all types of drink & most importantly, friendly, helpful staff.
Highlands Reserve also has a driving range - great for a bit of practice if there isn’t time for a full round. There are several target greens, practice bunkers and putting greens.
It’s no wonder that the course is known as one of Orlando’s Premier courses!
Highlands Reserve is situated in one of the highest areas of Florida & so there is no shortage of beautiful scenery. The course itself is fabulous, beautifully maintained tees and very wide & forgiving pine-tree lined fairways. The greens are impeccable; large, fast, undulating and quite difficult to read & judge making for a challenging round for all levels of players.
Half way round the course I discovered something else different to courses in the UK – the beverage buggy!! Would I like an ice cool Bud? Try & stop me! Now I knew I was in heaven! Fabulous golf & a cold beer!
The course was designed by Mike Dasher & is a Par 72 course. (No, you don’t get to know my score!!) It was nominated by Golf for Women Magazine as one of their 50 top courses for 2002 & is very popular with residents & guests alike so I would recommend you book your tee in plenty of time.
The kids even lined up at the side of the pool to wave me along – all in all, a round I will never forget & would heartily recommend to any golfer.