GRANDE PINES GOLF CLUB ( 407-239-6108)
Florida Golf Course Review Review 1/31/05
Grande Pines is a Steve Smyers/Nick Faldo collaboration that is recognized as one of central Florida's best
upscale layouts. Formerly known as the International Club, this course was completely rebuilt from tee to green in
2003, and now is the crowned jewel of the Marriott Vacation Club complex - with time share units and resort style amenities on property.
The careful consideration that went into developing a world class golf experience is evident not only in the top
notch conditioning and beautiful aesthetic qualities of the course - but in all aspects of the resort property. A
modern clubhouse features a pro shop, locker rooms with showers for men and women, and a casual but well
appointed restaurant/lounge (with outdoor patio) that serves breakfast and lunch menus. Practice facilities include two grass ranges, a putting green and a short game area with sand bunker.
It is a good idea to work on your sand game before venturing onto the course. The 72 soft sand bunkers that can
be found lining the fairways and protecting the greens are intricately designed, large in size and penal in nature -
with grass walls and high lips. Water comes into play on 11 holes, adding challenge as well as aesthetic beauty.
Most of the fairways are quite generous, with wide landing zones making the course inviting for the average and
beginning player. The green complexes are often raised and protected by mounds and deep bunkers. The grass
type is TiffEagle - the highest quality available in Florida - providing quick and true rolling putting surfaces. Land
on these greens in regulation and good scores can be had. Land in the bunkers and you will realize why they are called hazards.
Low handicappers will be challenged from the two back sets of tees, which play to 7012 yards/140 slope and
6612 yards/135 slope. An alternate set (recommended for the average golfer) measures 6070 yards/133 slope
and the forward tees play to 5418 yards with a slope of 126. This is not an ordinary resort course! Most golfers
should be able to find the wide fairways, but good course management and a respectable iron game will
certainly come in handy - especially greenside. There are routes that cautious players may negotiate to avoid the hazards - and better players will be rewarded if successful with bold shot selections.
This is how golf should be...
All golfers will appreciate the outstanding conditioning, design and service. Pro Link GPS, ice chests and
weather covers are standard on all carts. Sprinkler heads are measured to the front, middle and back of the
greens, and cart paths also have permanent markings. Great golf course, beautiful landscaping, outstanding
facilities...Golf instruction by certified teachers from the Faldo Golf Institute by Marriott is available on property -
providing programs for all skill levels. Grande Pines is open for Public play, is a great place for outings and
special events and is located just 1 1/2 miles from Sea World! For more info, visit our page for the course, with direct link to their website by clicking here.
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