The Vale Lake Course

The Vale Lake Course is the Welsh National's forgiving neighbour. It is intended to suit all handicaps and has 12 holes featuring water hazards (it is the lake course, after all).

While it's shorter than the Welsh National, it still challenges the best; it's hosted the Welsh Amateur Championships for a reason. You might need a few extra balls for this one.

Found on The Vale Resort grounds, accommodation is sorted and it's just a short ride away from Cardiff city centre. Convenient. As well as this, the club boasts a driving range, putting green, and chipping area.

Course

The Lake Course opens with a par-3--a rare start to a round. Take a 5-iron from the tee to attack the 185 yards but avoid the front left bunker.

Prepare to attack an island green; hole 12, a par-4, requires careful strategy. Aim just right of the two trees, avoid the large bunker, and decide whether you want to brave the risk-reward shot.

If you approach from a distance, use an up-and-down shot to find the pin. For high handicaps, be sure to use a layup shot to keep your ball.

To finish, it's time to tackle a harsh right-angle dogleg heading towards the 19th. Use a wood off the tee to clear the dogleg before covering the distance with a mid-iron.

A wedge should do the trick for the approach, as you need to carry the drink to find the dancefloor.

Now, sink the winning putt and grab a victory pint!

Clubhouse

The 19th here is worth a visit for the food alone. From artisan pizzas to massive burgers and steaks, you won't leave this place hungry after dominating the fairways. Seriously.

Add to the mix the TV screens with live sports and a quality choice of beers and you have the ultimate clubhouse (yep, we said it!).