Belmont Hills, Along the Rail Trial
This course, one of the most respected in Bermuda, was originally designed by Scotsman Emmett Devereux in 1923. In 2002, California-based designer Algie M. Pulley, Jr., radically reconfigured its layout as a means of adding a series of golf "features" that brought the standards and allure of this course up to the demands of modern-day golf pros. Since its reopening, amid justifiable brouhaha surrounding the most extensive golf course rebuilding in the history of Bermuda, there has been endless discussion about the peculiar features of this relatively short (6,017 yd.) but challenging course. Despite the fact that some of the undulations in its terrain were flattened during the 2002 overhaul, an interconnected network of caves beneath the turf sometimes cause the ball to roll unpredictably. Another odd feature involves exceptionally narrow fairways. But despite these quirky disadvantages, golf pros recommend the Belmont for beginners as well as seasoned pros. Although the first hole is said to be "confidence building," holes 6 and 12 are both relatively difficult (each with a par of 5). Likewise, the 17th and 18th holes, arguably the most difficult on the course, reward golfers with some of the best ocean views. It's estimated that with a 9 or 10 handicap, golfers will shoot in the 70s at Belmont -- but there aren't any guarantees. With the exception of the above-mentioned 17th and 18th holes, most of the course is inland, so unlike most of the other golf courses in Bermuda, this one provides few views of the Atlantic.