Emporda continues as a source of pride....



#8 on the "Links Course"

I came across this article (below) about Emporda and was happy to see the photo of the 4th green (on the fourth nine). We completed the first 27 holes in 1990 and returned to complete the final 9 holes in 2003. The 4th -nine holes was shaped by Gus Grantham and it was another opportunity to work with Xavier Millet and Canellas (contractor). The construction of the fourth nine was truly fun as it brought together a team that we had worked with on various projects. Probably most gratifying was the opportunity to work with Bruno Figueras, son of one of the original founders of Emporda.


Although this nine holes was part of the original 36 hole masterplan, there had been some changes and houses added. So, we re-routed this nine on the available land and attempted to build nine holes that would compliment the existing course. But, we also wanted to advance some ideas and tactical strategies. I am proud of the result, which was accomplished on-time and on-budget.



Anyway, that green "the citadel" is an imposing final target for the par 4 - fourth hole. Portions of the green do slope away from the player - but not as significantly as the photo tends to show. It is a great green and Gus was proud of it - as long as he's not reminded that he layed his dozer on it's side while shaping the side of the green complex....

A sad footnote for me; Mr. von Hagge never got to see the last (4th) nine holes a Emporda.  I'm sure he would have liked them, even if they are a slight departure from the original 27 holes.  These holes possess the visual strength and tactical challenge he relished.  Sadly, by the time we were working these holes, Robert had really curtailed his international travel.   

So, here's the article by David Brice:

Emporda Golf Club ranks alongside the best on the Spanish Costa Brava

Leading this small but very distinguished course grouping is the Emporda Golf Resort, a haven for the game's true connoisseurs, with a pair of layouts good enough to tempt even the most jaded golf traveler. Emporda's Links and Forest Courses showcase Spanish golf in the grandest of style.



Both courses are the handiwork of Texas born architect, Robert von Hagge, a maestro at squeezing the most (and then some) from any site. Doral's Blue Monster and TPC Woodlands in Houston are just two outstanding examples of von Hagge's more than 100 US creations, but it's on the international golf scene where the man has really excelled. His creations are to be found in Australia, Japan, Mexico, the Caribbean and in France, where 3 of the country's top 10 courses, Seignosse, Les Bordes and Paris National, all bear his signature. Robert von Hagge's well-earned reputation for building handsome, tough, yet thoroughly playable layouts followed him to Spain, as evidenced at Emporda.

The two courses complement each other magnificently, making it difficult to have a preference for either -- so there really is no alternative but to play both and try to decide for yourself -- things could be far worse!

Emporda's cathedral-like stands of umbrella pines
The Forest Course is filled with a majestic drama as its narrow fairways wind their way through a veritable jungle of tall, umbrella pines, at times creating an almost cathedral-like feeling - and when was the last time you played golf in a cathedral? Water has been used in moderation, but it's effective, subtly adding complexity to the test, which at a very respectable 6,750 yards from the back tees, is stern and far from a simple walk in the park.

This is a layout for the thinking golfer, where accuracy, accompanied by correct club selection and a healthy dose of strategy are all rewarded well. The bunkering is bold, at times almost audaciously so and these are not the kind of mild mannered, token bunkers that you may be accustomed to on your home course.

Emporda's water hazards are plentiful

The Links Course, although not a true links, does contain many links-like elements. The rippling fairways are wide, filled with sometimes wild undulations and open to a wind that can gust and play its own games. Von Hagge has added dune-like hazards to be contended with and the rough is as close to that found on a Royal Dornoch or a Carnoustie, as you're ever likely to encounter -- deep, thick and with an insatiable appetite, it's to be avoided at all costs.

Any big hitter who lacks accuracy, but feels they must spread their shoulders and let it rip, is likely heading for trouble - this links demands respect from all and makes no exceptions.

Unlike a true links, there's an abundance of water with 8 lakes scattered around the course and Von Hagge has used them with a cunning tenacity. He brings the wet stuff into play on more than half the holes, compounding the need for careful thought before every shot.



Adding to the pleasure of playing at Emporda are the beautiful Costa Brava surroundings and immaculate maintenance that keeps both courses in tip-top condition, including the greens which must be among the very best to be found in Europe.

© 2007 David Brice / Golf International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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