Halmstad in Sweden, one of the finest courses in Europe, if not the world, will be the scene of this week’s Skandia PGA Open.
The club, situated midway between Malmo and Gothenburg, was voted second behind Valderrama among the best courses in Continental Europe by Golf World magazine, and 16th in the World by Golf Digest.
With such a pedigree, it is little wonder that the club, formed in 1930, has staged a number of top events, including the European Amateur Championship in 1985. It is also the headquarters of the Swedish PGA.
Although situated just 300 metres from the sea, Halmstad is more parkland than links with every hole being tree-lined. The club has 36 holes but it is the par 72 North Course that will be used for the tournament.
Measuring 6909 yards (6317 metres) it is the work of Rafael Sundblom and Donald Steel. The signature holes are the par four 12th and the short 16th. Both have water features while the green at the latter is bordered at the front and side by a stream.
Last year’s Skandia PGA Open was played at Bokskogens when the title went to Christophe Pottier from France.
He led by four strokes after a third round 64 and completed his maiden Tour victory with a closing 70 for 272, 16 under par.
