Southerndown GC

This 6449-yard beauty overlooks the Bristol Channel, Porthcawl and North Somerset and breathtaking doesn't even come close as you prepare to make contact with your opening tee-shot. Bracken and gorse punish the more wayward shots and it's not too difficult to drift off the undulating fairways due to the stiff coastal 'breezes'.

Four challenging par 4s send you in at the deep end before the first and most memorable of the short holes, the fifth, which is played over a huge ravine. Indeed registering a three on any of the short holes is a job well done while your best chance of any birdies will come at the par 5s which are in range if the wind is at your back. There is very little let-up as you head for the clubhouse and the closing four holes, usually played into the wind, provide a memorable finish. The 18th is particularly intimidating with a split-level fairway before a long-iron second to a vast green.

Rest assured you'll receive a friendly welcome in the clubhouse and a chance to win a few quid back in the snooker room which has a few interesting knick-knacks knocking about.

Best Hole: The final hole requires a decent drive and a well struck long iron if you want to finish off a good round in style.

Green Fees: £40 weekdays, £60 weekends

Location: Ewenny, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan, CF32 0QP

Tel: 01656 880476

Web: www.southerndowngolfclub.com