This 18-hole par-3 golf course lies on the southern slopes of Bermuda’s largest resort hotel, the Fairmont Southampton. It is widely regarded as one of the best short courses in the world. Every March it hosts the Bacardi World Par 3 Championship, the world’s premier par-3 golf tournament, drawing around 200 amateur and professional players from all over the world.
The course was designed by the legendary Theodore Robinson, former president of the American Society of Golf Architects, and one of the first golf course architects to introduce water hazards.
The course is known for its spectacular changes in elevation. The drop on the first two holes alone is around 200 feet. Much of the course overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, but don’t let the scenic views distract your concentration. Wind is a definite factor and there are several water hazards. The course is an excellent test of iron play and provides a good warm up for Bermuda’s longer courses.
Proper golf attire and soft-spiked golf shoes are mandatory. Jeans and cut-offs are not permitted.
Facilities were recently revamped and include one of the best stocked pro shops on the island. It offers brand golf attire and accessories, plus club and shoe rentals, and bag storage. Visitors can also sign up here for lessons with the resident golf professionals. A putting green offers the perfect place to warm up before starting your game. Turtle Hill also offers a snack bar and post-golf dining at the Bacci Italian restaurant.
Frequent visitors and residents can join as a member and enjoy unlimited golf, discounts in the snack bar and restaurants, and lower room rates.
The course is situated at the Fairmont Southampton in Southampton Parish. It’s easy to reach by public transport. Just catch bus number 7 from Hamilton or Royal Naval Dockyard. A complimentary ferry service also runs from the Hamilton Princess.
The course was previously known as the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club. In 2012 it was rebranded as the Turtle Hill Golf Club.
