112 - Bom Sucesso

Location: near Peniche (better known for its surfing)

Rating: 7.6

So I learned that Bom Sucesso started development in 2008 and then the developers went bankrupt during the crisis, since then I assume it has changed ownership but still not been fully developed as many of the houses are under construction and the course is excellent in some parts but also needing some tender, loving care in others.

The design of the course is pretty cool, weaves through the resort and finishes off with two very cool downhill holes, the 17th a par 5, dog-legging to the left finishes with a terrific view of the surrounding area and a steep drop to the green and the 18th, another dog-legging hole but par 4 this time has a steep drop to the fairway and then a tricky approach to the green with a stream running in front.

Generally I found it a very nice round. I wouldn’t say it’s a hidden gem as they’ve had European level events here but with a bit of work on the maintenance and some investment it could be very good!

The fairways for the most part were lush but some areas were brown and a bit under treated. Likewise the greens were generally very good, some of them felt like tour level greens where you can chip on one side of the green and it rolls of the other yet you hit an approach and they were soft enough to get some bite but then on some other holes they were a bit bare.

Ultimately, I don’t think I would pay €120 to play here especially with West Cliffs and Royal Obidos just down the road at half the price but with a bit of reassessment and some investment I think it could be a great addition to those courses in the area.

I would like to say how nice and friendly everyone at the club was though, from Patricia helping me to book to the Henrique on reception and the caddie master who was kindly giving rides to people from the 18th green up to the clubhouse which was quite a walk. The hospitality was great!