I finally made it out to Cordevalle after a number of attempts to coordinate it. Played yesterday morning as the second group out. There was a frost delay so we had breakfast in the restaurant and i... Continue »

I finally made it out to Cordevalle after a number of attempts to coordinate it. Played yesterday morning as the second group out. There was a frost delay so we had breakfast in the restaurant and it was excellent. For a resort and private club, it was very quiet throughout with only a few groups going out after us. All staff were very friendly and it’s credit card only in the restaurant and pro shop. The pro shop is on the smaller side with an average amount of clothing options.

We opted for breakfast over range and warm up, so I’m not sure what the practice facility and driving range set up is like. On to the course conditions. As expected for a higher end place like this, everything was very nice. Of course with a ton of rain last week and plenty of sun this week, everything was very green and lush throughout. However, I get the feeling that they keep it that way regardless.

Greens rolled very smooth with no pitch marks to be found. Green complexes were that perfect blend of enough undulations to make it challenging but not overly tricked out to the point it’s ridiculous. I also noticed that the greens all took on different shapes and sizes. Some were smaller traditional round shape (like Del Monte and Pacific Grove) while others would be long and skinny or short and very wide. It definitely helped having a forecaddie who knew the greens on approach shots . Our Forecaddie was Felix who has been there 20 years and he was excellent with his reads. Also, all flags are white regardless of pin location. The first half dozen greens were very slow, but that was probably due to the cold and frost. Once the sun was out they sped up to a medium fast pace.

Fairways were bliss. Lush and a deep emerald green color throughout. Rough was thick enough to keep you honest but not overly penal. Tee boxes were excellent. All were level with great coverage. Even the shorter par 3’s were divot free. Bunkers were top notch as well. All bunkers (between us we were in numerous traps) had high quality fluffy sand.

As for the layout. That’s the one area I was a bit disappointed. The course is set in the foothills so it has some minor elevation changes which is great. Most fairways have ample landing area and there are a couple of water hazards on the course. The disappointment was that every hole was pretty much dead straight. Not a dog leg in sight. There were a couple of creeks to navigate but they didn’t really come into play. Only the longest of hitters would be forced to lay up off the tee on one and the other even the shortest of hitters could comfortably carry off the tee. The main defense on the course are the numerous fairway bunkers. Again, it was excellent conditions and a very enjoyable track, but lacked the “wow” factor for me. Maybe during a different time of year it comes alive. I traded a round at Spanish Bay to play and for a one time deal, I have no regrets. Would I do it again? That’s a tough question.