Machynys Resort (Monk's Island Course)

Across Machynys' Two Contrasting Loops

The Monk's Island course at Machynys Resort opened in 2005 on coastal ground beside the Millennium Coastal Park and the wetlands at Penclacwydd. Gary Nicklaus led the design work for Nicklaus Design, creating Wales' first course from the company and a layout suited to both everyday play and serious competition.

The routing forms two loops with a marked change of character. The outward nine crosses greener, more sheltered ground, while the inward half feels more exposed beside the sea. Lakes and wetland edges influence several decisions, but up to five teeing areas on each hole allow the challenge to be adjusted for different abilities.

The 16th is Gary Nicklaus' favourite hole, a long par four played across a lake near the clubhouse. Its green opens views over the bay, and the water demands a committed line late in the round. The course has hosted 16 championships, including four R&A events and four editions of the Wales LET Championship of Europe, a notable record for a course of its age.