September 2010 saw the launch of the world’s first ever pop-up golf course, Golf Mountain on the pretty meadow plateau of Engstligenalp in Adelboden, and such was its success that it’s back this year for a second round.
News of the pop-up golf course spread far and wide last year, resulting in one American tourist – who was on a 10-city, 14-day tour of Europe with his wife – leaving her to do the sights of Frankfurt alone, while he took a 1,000km round trip to Adelboden by taxi, simply so he could experience Golf Mountain for himself.
The Engstligenalp is a beautiful nature reserve with breathtaking views over the village of Adelboden; the Golf Mountain course sits at 1,964 metres and is one of the highest in Europe.
With a full 18 holes ranging from a par 3 to a par 5, Golf Mountain provides even the most skilled golfers with a serious challenge, as well as lots of golfing fun. Golfers have to contend with obstacles such as streams and rocky outcrops, as well as swirling mountain winds and extreme weather conditions – one minute, golfers might be in bright sunshine, the next in dense cloud. As a pop-up course, the only part that is classically laid out is the greens, which are created using artificial lawn.
In addition, Golf Mountain features a driving range and a traditional wooden Alpine hut at the heart of the course that is converted into the clubhouse, complete with pro shop for renting clubs, changing rooms, cosy bar and rustic restaurant, serving local specialities such as fondue and raclette.
Once again, the pop up course will be open for a limited period only, for just five weeks from 9 September to 16 October 2011. So, if you want to secure your chance to play the world’s only natural pop-up golf course, book now.
The Cambrian, Adelboden www.thecambrianadelboden.com