I've been playing golf at Bond Head for years, ever since they first opened and had only one golf course. How come nobody, including me, ever wrote a review before now.
In that opening year, service was definitely at the forefront. They offered valet parking and even the bag drop staff wore long sleeved white dress shirts and ties. It may not have been practical but it set Bond Head apart at the time. The washrooms had cloth hand towels, no paper ones in sight.
A lot has changed since then and even in recent years. ClubLink took over and Bond Head went private. They're now public again, with two 18-hole courses and prices seem to have dropped slightly. There is always some kind of coupon deal. Staff are dressed more casual (practical) and the valet service didn't last long but service has always been good.
Although it's a long way from home, I still manage to play here a couple of times a year. I much prefer the newer North course, with its drastic changes in elevation and scenic views, especially in the fall. This course would be an extremely tough walk! The South course, by comparison, has gentler elevations, and smaller, firmer greens that don't hold as well.
Yesterday's round, on the North Course, was only my second of the year, a day after my first, so I was a bit sore. Two of my playing partners have never played here before and wanted to play from the Gold Tees since it read "only" 6,547 yards. I convinced them to play from the Blues (6,218), even though my sore shoulder was screaming Whites (5,442)!
Standing on the second tee box, looking at a 200 yard carry over fescue, they understood why. There are several, very scenic, holes that are more suited for long hitters who can carry their tee shots a long way. Not me. At least not today.
The course was in decent shape, mostly well groomed, but the greens were slow and bumpy, not typical of Bond Head. Most of the sand traps were lacking sand and looked like they may have been damaged by heavy rain. Quite possible.
The two new guys played well. I did not. Neither did my cart partner. We did, however, enjoy the day and each other's company. I like this course enough to drive over an hour to get here. The other guys, based on today's course conditions (slow greens), maybe not. Unless there's a coupon deal involved. I've seen this course in much better shape so I know that I'll be back.
Rewinding a bit, I came up early enough to have lunch before our 1:48pm tee time. The restaurant is quite spacious, with lots of seating, and comfortable leather chairs. There is also a large patio overlooking the driving range and parts of the South Course. Hmmm, I remember the patio being covered.
I ordered the Deluxe Burger with fries on the side. This monstrous burger has two patties, bacon, cheese, onion rings, lettuce, tomato, and onions. I had to squash it to fit in my mouth! It was a good burger! One of my playing partners joined me as I was about to head to the driving range to practice. He ordered a Reuben sandwich and it looked good. By the time he finished eating and we paid the bill, there was no time to practice. Darn! I'm blaming him for my poor score! read more