Haviksoord Golf Club

Overview: Haviksoord is a compact par-70 woodland course in Leende, built around a mix of former heathland, planted production woods and open ground. The holes do not rely on a single dramatic landform; instead, the character comes from the contrast between tight tree-lined sections, small changes of level and the lake created by earlier earth extraction. At 6,120 yards it asks for thoughtful positioning and reliable approaches. Its scale and informal atmosphere give the round a distinctly local, self-contained character.

History: The idea for a course began with Ken Jackson and Nico Zwaneveld on New Year’s Day 1975. The first nine holes were laid out in 1976 and were in play in 1977, with Jan Stevens involved as professional and course designer. In 2006 the facility expanded to 18 holes, with Tony Jackson responsible for the additional layout. Both stages were designed around the existing landscape rather than flattening it into a uniform parkland course.

Did You Know? Haviksoord takes its name from an aircraft factory that once stood on the site, roughly where the putting green is today. The lake also predates the full course: it was excavated around 1970 for earth used in road and viaduct construction, and the spoil was shaped into the surrounding rises.