Fact File
Par –30
Length – 1016m
Best Time to Play – all year (avoid 12-4pm, because of the heat)
History
This nine-hole golf course opened in May 2012 and is the first of its kind in the Maldives, which is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean and a popular leisure destination. Designed by Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts as a fun, recreational golf course for aficionados and beginners alike, it was developed with the island’s natural beauty in mind.
The Course
It’s obviously not your standard 18-hole championship golf course, but Shangri-La has created something that will definitely entertain golfers of all abilities. And, if you think this assortment of short par-3 and par-4 holes is a pushover not worthy of your single-figure handicap, then just wait for the wind to pick up off the sea! The golf course is ideally located on the edge of the atoll – it faces the vast Indian Ocean from the south side and the quiet lagoon from the north.
It’s the country’s first true golf course, developed on seven and a half hectares of untouched land at the southern end of Villingili Island. Spectacular sights await guests as they tackle the six par-3 and three par-4 holes, surrounded by the natural beauty of inhabitant flora and multi-faceted views of the sea. The nine holes average about 110 metres in length. The shortest of the nine holes is the sixth hole – Skipjack Tuna – which measures just 58 metres, whilst the longest holes on the course are the third and ninth holes, at 160 metres. Due to its limited length, the emphasis here is on your short game and just how proficient you are with your wedges.
Club selection can be a bit tricky when the wind picks up, but that is probably the course’s only defence. All in all, it’s a fun nine holes, where you can you put your wedge game to the test and delight in quirky holes with names such as Manta Ray, Lionfish, Dogtooth Tuna, Green Turtle, Giant Moray, Barracuda and Hammerhead Shark. Facilities include a clubhouse offering light snacks and refreshments, and a pro shop, which stocks an assortment of golf apparel, gear and merchandise. Shoe and equipment rental services are also available, and are actually complimentary for hotel guests.
Rates
The golf course is available to hotel guests only and there is no charge. Golf is complimentary.
Directions
From GAN International Airport, hotel guests can take a speed boat to reach the resort, and the trip takes just five minutes.
Contact
Address: Villingili Island, Addu Atoll
Tel: +960 6897 888
Email: reservations.slmd@shangri-la.com
Web: shangri-la.com