ROUND HILL COUNTRY CLUB (1960)

 

BAY AREA REGION

Members only - 18 hole

3169 Round Hill Road, Alamo, CA 94507

Tel: (925) 837-7424

 

Designed by Lawrence Hughes. This is a long, relatively open course that plays among upscale housing. It is forgiving off the tee and places a premium on the approaches to the subtle, well-conditioned greens. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. From Walnut Creek (about six miles south to the course): Drive south on I-680. Exit at Stone Valley Road east. About one mile up, turn left onto Round Hill Road.

 

ROYAL LINKS GOLF COURSE (1999)

 

DESERT REGION

Public - 18 hole - cost: $135 - $225

5995 East Vegas Valley Road, Las Vegas, NV 89122

Tel: (702) 450-8123 

 

Designed by Dye Designs. In the land of theme, why should the golf courses be any different? Many of the holes were inspired by famous holes of various British Open courses. The course even offers that traditional blistering heat in summer, so well known at the British Open. The pro shop is a castle. Walking is allowed. From the Las Vegas Airport (about eight miles east to the course): Take I-15 north to US 95 south. Exit at Flamingo Road and turn left. Turn left on Nellis Boulevard and right on Vegas Valley Road. A refreshingly different motif, but with soft turf and Las Vegas as a backdrop, the course may not quite measure up to the hype. If you can't afford Royal Links, you might want to try Angel Park Golf Club instead.