In a golfing world constantly chasing the next “must-play” destination, few venues have made an impact as immediate and as convincing as Bernardus Golf. Opened in 2018, it may not yet have decades of history — but what it lacks in age, it more than compensates for in vision, execution, and ambition. Often described as one of the most exciting modern courses in continental Europe, Bernardus isn’t just new — it feels like a glimpse into the future of golf.
A “New Course” That Redefines New
Technically, Bernardus features a single 18-hole championship layout rather than multiple courses. But within the context of European golf development, it represents the “new course” concept — a fresh benchmark for how a modern facility should look, play, and operate.
Designed by renowned architect Kyle Phillips, the course was built on former agricultural land in the Dutch province of North Brabant. What makes this particularly impressive is how quickly the landscape has matured. Heathland-style vegetation, rolling sandy terrain, and carefully framed holes create the illusion that the course has existed for generations.
From the outset, Bernardus was never intended to be just another golf club — it was conceived as a full-scale destination, combining championship golf with luxury hospitality and a relaxed, experience-driven philosophy.
Heathland Meets Links: A Hybrid Identity
One of the most fascinating aspects of Bernardus is its identity. While geographically inland, the course plays with the character of a links.
Built on a sandy base, it offers firm, fast-running fairways and excellent drainage — key elements typically associated with coastal golf. At the same time, the presence of heather, subtle elevation changes, and inland vegetation gives it a distinctly heathland feel.
This dual personality defines the experience. Strategic bunkering forces thoughtful shot selection rather than brute power. Large, undulating greens reward imagination and precision. Water hazards, particularly on the closing holes, add tournament-level tension.
The result is a course that doesn’t rely on dramatic natural terrain but instead uses intelligent design to create complexity — a hallmark of Phillips’ work.
Built for the Big Stage
It’s rare for a course this young to step so confidently onto the global stage — but Bernardus has done exactly that.
Within just a few years of opening, it became a regular host of the Dutch Open on the DP World Tour from 2021 to 2023, attracting elite fields and global attention. Even more significantly, it has been selected as the venue for the Solheim Cup 2026, marking the first time the Netherlands will host the prestigious event.
This rapid rise speaks volumes about the course’s infrastructure and design quality. Tournament golf demands not only a challenging layout but also exceptional logistics, practice facilities, and spectator flow — all of which Bernardus delivers at a world-class level.
The Modern Golf Experience, Reimagined
Perhaps what truly sets Bernardus apart from traditional clubs is its philosophy. This isn’t a members-only sanctuary bound by rigid rules. Instead, it embraces a more inclusive, lifestyle-oriented approach.
The concept is simple: golf should be as much about the experience as the scorecard.
Visitors can access a state-of-the-art practice complex widely regarded among the best in the Netherlands, on-site accommodation just steps from the first tee, wellness facilities including sauna, pool, and fitness areas, and a high-end dining experience that elevates the culinary side of a golf trip.
The “member for a day” model reflects a broader shift in golf culture — one where accessibility and enjoyment take precedence over exclusivity.
Sustainability as a Design Principle
In an era where sustainability is becoming essential rather than optional, Bernardus stands out for its forward-thinking approach.
A significant portion of the estate is dedicated to natural habitats, transforming former farmland into a thriving ecosystem. The course is maintained with minimal chemical intervention, focusing instead on soil health and natural balance.
This commitment doesn’t just benefit the environment — it enhances playability. Firmer conditions, healthier turf, and seasonal variation create a more authentic and dynamic golf experience.
Signature Moments on the Course
Every great course has its defining holes, and Bernardus is no exception. The par-3 17th, played over water to a subtly contoured green, has already become one of its most memorable features — especially in tournament settings where it can decide outcomes late in the round.
But the real magic lies in the flow of the routing. The course builds rhythmically, alternating between scoring opportunities and demanding tests, culminating in a closing stretch that feels purpose-built for drama.
Why Bernardus Matters
Bernardus Golf isn’t just another addition to Europe’s golf map — it represents a shift in how courses are conceived and experienced.
It proves that a course doesn’t need centuries of history to feel timeless. With the right design philosophy, attention to detail, and commitment to player experience, a “new” course can immediately compete with the very best.
As the golfing world looks ahead to the Solheim Cup 2026, Bernardus is poised to move from rising star to established icon. And for those who have the chance to play it before the crowds arrive, it offers something rare: the opportunity to experience the future of golf, already fully realised.
