Hole 16 Par 3 at The Mines Golf: A Hidden Hollow Demanding Accuracy

Overview

Nestled within its own secluded amphitheatre of trees, Hole 16 offers a moment of quiet intensity. This mid-length Par 3 plays into a natural bowl with sloped surrounds, offering both a visual feast and a strategic challenge. With its narrow green, deep bunkering, and swirling winds, this hole calls for a blend of composure and precision rather than raw power.

The Tee Shot

Players launch their tee shots from an elevated platform, providing a clear, direct view into the green complex cradled below. At first glance, it appears generous, but don’t be deceived. The green is long but deceptively narrow, and any gust of wind dancing through the trees can make club selection a guessing game. Miss short or right, and you’ll find yourself wrestling with awkward chips. Miss left, and you’re in the clutches of a deep pot bunker.

📝 Pro Tip: Trust your yardage and visual cues. Commit to the line, and be aware of swirling gusts above the treeline. Mid- to high-irons are the norm here, but wind may demand an extra club.

The Approach

Should your tee shot stray or fall short, the sloped surrounds offer a range of recovery options. While the contours can feed the ball back toward the green if struck smartly, misjudging pace or elevation can just as easily leave you with a longer par save than expected. The green complex’s location within a valley adds another dimension; your approach shot must descend cleanly with soft spin.

📝 Pro Tip: When chipping from the front apron, use a bump-and-run to take advantage of the natural downslopes. Lofted chips often get held up by the front fringe.

Hole 16 from the tee box

Hole 16 fairway

Hole 16 approaching the green

Hole 16 green

The Green

Measuring 22 metres in depth but only 14 metres across, the green rewards pinpoint accuracy. Subtle ridges traverse the surface from back to front, with noticeable falloffs near both edges. A front pin brings bunkers into play, while a back pin stretches distance control to its limits, especially if the ground is firm and rolling.

📝 Pro Tip: Uphill putts here are manageable. Downhill breakers, however, can get away from you quickly. Spend time studying your line from multiple angles.

Visual Landmarks

This is one of the more intimate and charming corners of The Mines Golf. Ringed by forest canopy and framed by flowering shrubs, the setting feels enclosed and peaceful. The white villa to the left of the tee deck provides a pleasant contrast to the natural hues, while the slope of the land cradles both sound and sight. This tranquil atmosphere makes it easy to forget the precision demanded by the hole.

Summary

Hole 16 is a study in restraint. Its beauty invites admiration, but its design demands discipline. While birdie is certainly possible for a well-struck tee shot, any lapse in distance control or accuracy will quickly turn this picturesque hole into a scorecard blemish. A thoughtful Par 3 that rewards commitment and punishes hesitation, this is one of the hidden gems on the back nine.