ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
This course is the first South American design by the acclaimed Tom Fazio and his son Logan, created exclusively for the owner’s family on a vast, private estate.
About
Santapazienza Golf Club, designed by Tom and Logan Fazio, is a world-ranked, ultra-exclusive private course located in the forested hills of Itatiba. Opened in 2015, it navigates dramatic elevation changes, mature woodland, lakes, and carefully crafted bunkering, offering both beauty and technical challenge. Its reputation for service, exclusivity, and memorable design makes it one of Brazil’s premier golf experiences.
Caddie Tip
Club selection is especially tricky due to the significant elevation changes and swirling valley winds. Pay close attention to approach shots on the back nine, as uphill lies, angled greens, and heavily bunkered approaches can quickly turn a good round south. The finishing holes demand both accuracy and nerve—take an extra moment to study pin positions against the surrounding woods.
The Main Challenge
The chief challenge lies in the relentless elevation changes and strategic hazards—players must calculate uphill and downhill shots precisely. The forested setting pressures accuracy from tee to green, and risk-reward opportunities are ever-present, especially when water and sand threaten on the approach. Mental stamina and club selection are truly tested here.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the spectacular routing through pristine forest, generous elevation changes, strategic water hazards, and sense of isolation. Playing Santapazienza feels like a private journey through the landscape, blending visual drama with a thoughtfully crafted test. The exclusivity and attentive service elevate the overall experience even further.
The Not So Good
Some players note that the secluded, members-only nature of the club limits broader access to what is regarded as one of South America’s finest designs. A few visitors have also mentioned that wet conditions after rains can slow fairway recovery due to the region’s clay soils, occasionally impacting tournament-level conditioning.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th is a steeply downhill par 4 where the tree-lined fairway slopes right from the tee box. Threatened by a lake lurking on the right and a large bunker guarding the left side of the green, golfers must combine precision driving and accurate approach shots to finish a round successfully on this visually striking closing hole.
Clubhouse
The expansive clubhouse features luxurious locker rooms, a well-appointed bar, formal lounge, and gourmet dining. Members benefit from attentive staff, private meeting spaces, and top-tier hospitality, with tranquil views of the estate from the clubhouse terrace.
Practice Facilities
Santapazienza provides a full practice range, chipping area, and putting green, all carefully maintained to match course conditions. The short game facility offers varied lies and bunkers, allowing for complete pre-round preparation.
Dress Code:
Strict
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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