Golfclub Gaasterland

: a genuine natural nine-hole course in one of Friesland’s most distinctive landscapes

Golfclub Gaasterland developed at Oudemirdum as part of the regional growth of Dutch golf from club 1986–1987; official opening 2003. The main course has 9 holes and was built to serve both regular club competition and accessible visitor play. The foundation was created in 1986 and the club association in 1987. After additional land was acquired, Alan Rijks designed the present loop, officially opened with the clubhouse in 2003. Later improvements generally focused on drainage, tees, bunkering, greens and practice facilities. The club now plays an important role in golf across Friesland, combining active membership, regular competitions and a welcoming regional identity. The course occupies a landscape of protected woodland, Gaasterland hills, meadow, wildlife and forest edges. The property covers more than forty hectares, much of it protected. The undulation is genuine, unlike most Frisian polder land, and wildlife is given priority in course management. Wind is influential across exposed sections, while woodland, hedges or landforms protect other holes. Soil conditions shape firmness, drainage and seasonal playability. The surrounding geography therefore directly affects sightlines, distance judgement and the overall strategic character.

The design is associated with Alan Rijks. It places emphasis on position, angles and continuity rather than spectacle alone. Most holes provide a safer route and a more direct line, with the bolder option defended by water, bunkers or natural rough. Green entrances, contours and hazard placement reward preparation of the previous shot. Alan Rijks used woodland, elevation changes and natural openings. The course avoids major earthmoving and offers playing lines suited to the ecological setting. Multiple tees make the course adaptable, while the back markers demand more precise ball flight and stronger positional control. The course plays to par 36 at approximately 2800 metres. Raw length does not fully explain the challenge. Driving must frequently avoid water, trees or field boundaries, while approach shots require accurate depth control. At roughly 2,800 metres, the loop is a genuine par 36. The course is normally comfortable to walk, although wind, moisture or elevation changes can increase the physical and mental demand.

Visitors are welcomed under the club’s published rules, with practice facilities, clubhouse services and dining available. The clubhouse terrace overlooks the course. Strong volunteer involvement and social cooperation around hospitality reinforce the community character. For The Round, the venue works for both private golf and group occasions, supported by regional accessibility and nearby leisure options. Club created in 1986–1987; course by Alan Rijks; official opening in 2003; approximately 2,800 metres; early European environmental-label recognition. Main course: 9 holes, par 36, approximately 2800 metres. Primary sources are the official club website and NGF/GOLF. NL; ratings, slopes, fees and opening conditions should be checked before publication.

Compétitions NGF, opens régionaux et compétitions de club — Calendrier annuel