Walt Disney World Golf, Palm Course — in the footsteps of PGA legends

Orlando is the mecca of amusement parks for many, but for golfers, there is a completely different highlight behind the gates of Walt Disney World. Under the slogan “The Happiest Place on Turf”, the team from Arnold Palmer Golf Management operates several first-class facilities. While the more well-known Magnolia Course is often in the limelight, Disney's Palm Course is considered the resort's strategic gem — a course that offers a perfect symbiosis of Disney magic and challenging championship golf.

The Palm Course has a proud tradition of hosting numerous PGA tournaments. The current change in appearance is interesting: The classic boards on tournament history are gradually being replaced by new story elements with quotes from Walt Disney and Arnold Palmer. With a maximum length of 6,870 yards, the par 72 course is slightly shorter than its “big brother”, but should not be underestimated.

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Front Nine: Mystical Tranquility and Strategic Greens

The early start times are particularly recommended: When the ground fog still hangs over the fairways, an almost mystical atmosphere is created. From the sixth runway on, you dive into a wonderful peace and quiet that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the parks.

The round starts with a strategic par 5. A dogleg on the left demands a decision right from the tee: Anyone who wants to attack the significantly raised green with the second shot must precisely bend around the fairway bunker. Since the green is defended by massive bunkers, controlled presentation is often the smarter choice.

Back Nine: Water and a Furious Finale

A recurring theme on the Palm Course is water, which creates a dramatic build up of tension on the Back Nine. Lane 16 requires real nerve strength: In order to reach the green, a carry across the water is essential. The supposedly safer detour via the fairway zone on the right almost always costs an additional fee.

After a sharp 90-degree dogleg on track 17, the crowning finale follows. The 18, a long par-4, has a pitfall that is barely discernible from the tee: a good 120 yards from the green, a water hazard divides the course. The approach must come over the left side of the offset green — a final check of the length control before going to the clubhouse.

Precision and first-class service

Disney's Palm Course proves that management more than lives up to the high expectations placed on the name Arnold Palmer. The combination of excellent care, historic flair and special Disney service makes the square a must for every Orlando visitor. Anyone who values precision over pure length will have one of their happiest days on the green here.