Copper Mill Golf Club

Copper Mill Golf Club: Although part of a well-developed residential community, Copper Mill exudes a predominantly natural feel, based on its quiet location, excellently crafted holes and Scottish-influenced linksy character. The two nine-hole loops each comprise three par-3s, three 4s and three 5s.

The layout attractively weaves its way past the housing (always set well back), while much of the course is routed through open fields of native grasses, where it passes many centuries-old live oaks. Generally retaining an linksy-openness, the dune-like mounding, stretches of quite penal rough and stylish pot bunkering really capture the spirit of Scottish links golf.

The golfing landscape is also home to several small lakes and ponds, ensuring water is in play on at least half the holes. At the par-4 5th, 60 yards before the green, Cypress Bayou slices across the fairway, and then threatens again as it crosses and meanders up the side and around the green of the tough par-4 17th.

Careful attention to aesthetics and visual detail is clear to see, whether looking at the high-end villas, the eclectic mix of New Orleans French Quarter style dwellings, or the golf course itself. Even the "old ruin" found alongside the 17th looks thoroughly authentic (perhaps it is!). This is a fun and wonderfully varied layout, full of character and plenty of golfing challenge.