Quinta do Lago North Golf Course Review

Let's face it, at our age, we're not just hacking it around the course anymore.

We appreciate the nuances of the game, the strategic challenges, and the satisfaction of executing a well-thought-out plan. 

Quinta do Lago North, often overshadowed by its more illustrious sibling the South Course, caters perfectly to this mature golfing sensibility.

Scroll down for our full review...

A Warming Welcome, a Subtle Challenge:

Arriving at the North Course, you're greeted by a sense of understated elegance. The clubhouse, shared with the South's, exudes a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The pro shop is stocked with all the essentials, and the staff are knowledgeable and attentive without being overbearing. It's a place where you can relax and focus on the game ahead.

Navigating the North's Nuances:

The North Course may not boast the dramatic scenery of the South, but it offers a different kind of beauty – a more intimate, almost secluded feel. The course winds its way through umbrella pines and tranquil lakes, creating a sense of serenity that allows you to truly immerse yourself in the game.

Accuracy Over Power: 

This is a thinking golfer's course. Tight, tree-lined fairways demand precision off the tee, while strategically placed bunkers and water hazards lie in wait for errant shots. Forget about "grip it and rip it" – this course rewards strategic play and careful course management.

Greens with Personality: 

The greens on the North are smaller and more undulating than those on the South, adding another layer of complexity to the game. Reading the subtle breaks and navigating the contours requires a deft touch and a keen eye. Three-putts are a real possibility if you're not careful.

Variety Keeps You Engaged: 

The North Course offers a delightful mix of holes, each with its own unique character. Shorter par 4s tempt you to take risks, while demanding par 5s require strategic layups and precise approach shots. You'll find yourself using every club in your bag, and you'll need to adapt your game to the challenges presented by each hole.

Related: Quinta do Lago South Golf Course Review

Signature Moments:

• The 7th (Par 5): This is widely considered the signature hole, and for good reason. A demanding tee shot between bunkers, followed by a strategic layup to avoid the water hazard guarding the green, will test your course management skills. The approach shot is played to a raised green with a subtle tier, demanding precision and touch.
   
• The 12th (Par 4): This beautiful hole doglegs left around a lake, requiring a well-placed tee shot to set up your approach. The green is guarded by bunkers on the right, making accuracy essential. It's a classic risk-reward hole that will tempt you to go for the green in two, but beware of the water!
   
• The 14th (Par 3): This challenging par 3 plays downhill to a green surrounded by bunkers. Club selection is crucial, as anything short will find the sand, while anything long will leave a tricky downhill putt. It's a hole that demands precision and nerve.

The Details Matter:

Condition: While it might not be quite as manicured as the South, the North Course is still in superb condition. The fairways are lush and inviting, the greens are smooth and true, and the bunkers are consistently well-maintained. You can tell that the groundskeepers take pride in their work.

Pace of Play: One of the joys of playing the North is the generally more relaxed pace of play. With fewer crowds, you can take your time, enjoy the surroundings, and savor each shot without feeling rushed.

Caddies: While caddies are available, they're not as essential on the North Course as they are on the South. The course is more forgiving, and the GPS-equipped buggies provide ample information to navigate the layout. However, if you're looking for some local knowledge and an extra set of eyes on the greens, a caddie can still be a valuable asset.

Beyond the Fairways:

Practice Makes Perfect: The North Course shares the same excellent practice facilities as the South, offering a spacious driving range, chipping area, and putting green. It's the perfect place to warm up before your round or fine-tune your game afterwards.

Dining with a View: The clubhouse restaurant provides a more casual dining experience than its counterpart on the South, with a menu featuring delicious, reasonably priced fare. The terrace offers lovely views of the course, making it an ideal spot to relax and reflect on your round.

Final Assessment:

Quinta do Lago North is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. It's a course that rewards thoughtful play and strategic thinking, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. 

If you're looking for a more laid-back alternative to the South Course, the North is an excellent choice.

For more information about Quinta do Lago North, please visit their website here.