Dolgellau Golf Club

19th October. 2012 Dear Sirs, I played here on October 18th. I was in the area for a meeting, ‘just happened to have my clubs in the car’, and thought I’d give it a try. Right from the outset I have to say that it wasn’t a proper test, as it had been raining for days, the course was very soggy with puddles on some of the greens, and the weather conditions had obviously prevented the Greenkeeper from getting out. In addition, some of the fairways had been attacked by crows and badgers, no doubt after caddis-fly grubs, (but this is so even with ‘class’ courses, and time plus spraying will put it right). Add to this it was very windy and showery whilst I was out, so things weren’t ideal. Despite all of this I rather liked it. It’s a 9-hole course, played twice (from different tees) for competitions. It’s rather hilly and you need to be fit to walk it, but I’ve played quite a few which are much more hard work. I hired a buggy (bad back) and got round OK. Given the conditions the ball simply wouldn’t run on the fairways and the greens were mostly slow, but I’d think they’re normally fairly brisk. Not to beat about the bush, the course is very ‘basic’, but none the worse for that, and I imagine that this is golf as it was intended to be played, rather than the manicured parkland courses we’ve got used to. The layout is quite good, and uses the contours well, the 9th/18th having a daunting drive over a deep scrub-filled valley. It’s quite short, with no par 5s, but overall it’s a fair challenge, although not enough to be frightening. Off the course there’s a nice new clubhouse, which has replaced the tiny old cottage you used to have to go to. I only went to book in and out, but it looks big enough for functions and suggests that the members are keen and progressive. To sum up, this is not a Wentworth, and probably wouldn’t want to be, but then again it’s not Wentworth prices - 9 holes plus a buggy, £18.00! With the added bonus of stunning views of Cader Idris and the Mawddach Valley, it’s well worth trying if ever you’re passing. Yours faithfully John Stephens Stourbridge

Wonderful 9 hole course with some of the most spectacular scenery I have ever seen from a golf course. Holes are short but challenging, with decent greens. Would suit mid to high handicappers. I was playing with a beginner, who really enjoyed her day. Excellent new clubhouse and staff were very welcoming and friendly. Intend to come back and play as soon as I can!

I played Dolgellau Golf course and it is excellent with challenging fairways,much improved greens and the best views I've seen on a golf course and will be back

Now under new management and the course is as good as they get. Greens are now in excellent condition. There is no club house but an old cottage to have drinks and snacks

If your in the area then you can do a lot worse than this little 9 hole par 66 course. The views are fantastic (the greens are still bad!) and the fairways are good. You'll probably get buzzed by a couple of jet fighters too. Dont forget a pot of the first class tea from the cottage cum clubhouse. On a 2-1 voucher this is a bargain for the great views and reaonable walking (considering this is north wales!).

Nice parkland course with 4 very birdieable par 4's (1st,4th,7th & 9th), 2 mid distance par 4's (3rd & 6th) and 3 short par 3's (2nd,5th & 8th). Greens are terrible, brilliant estuary views, friendly reception, worth a round.