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Course info
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Course Report
Gávea Golf and Country Club is the most central course in Rio, a few meters from São Conrado beach and bisected by the busy Lagoa-Barra Highway, with holes offering both mountain rainforest and seaside views.
About
Gávea Golf and Country Club, designed by Arthur Morgan Davidson in 1926, is nestled between the iconic Pedra da Gávea and Tijuca Forest, offering a striking blend of rainforest, hills, and vibrant Rio scenery. Its tree-lined parkland layout features undulating terrain, demanding strategic play and physical fitness, with memorable ocean and mountain vistas.
Caddie Tip
Many holes require precise club selection and careful ball placement due to undulating terrain and strategic bunkering. Rely on your caddie for reading break on tricky greens, and pay extra attention to club advice when teeing off in the hilly front nine. Walking is challenging; pace yourself and enjoy the rainforest outlooks.
The Main Challenge
Hilly terrain on the front nine severely tests stamina and club choice, with narrow, tree-lined fairways requiring careful shot management. The mountain-to-beach routing adds variety, but key holes force precision approaches and expose players to changing winds near the coast, making greens in regulation tough to achieve.
The Good
Golfers love the dramatic contrast between mountain rainforest and beach-side terrain, along with outstanding views of Rio's coastline and hills. The challenging but fair design reveals a variety of shot-making and strategic tests, with a true sense of exclusivity and historic club ambiance.
The Not So Good
Common complaints include rain interruptions and wet course conditions, as Rio’s climate can bring heavy precipitation which affects playability. Some visitors mention that the rental club selection is mixed quality, and the short overall yardage may disappoint those seeking extra length.
Signature Hole:
#
18
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Clubhouse
The clubhouse features a restaurant, bar, locker rooms, club and trolley rental, pro shop, sauna, pool, and security. The social atmosphere blends tradition with high comfort, known as one of Rio’s most elegant golf clubs.
Practice Facilities
Players enjoy a driving range, putting green, and chipping green; caddie service is always available. Club rental, electric carts, pro shop, locker rooms, sauna, bar, and restaurant are provided for members and guests during open days.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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