Durham Lakes Golf course is recommended for golfers who relish a slightly hazardous challenge

If you like challenging courses, also check out Ashton Hills Golf Club

Price Range: $20-$25

Par: 37 – 35 – 72

Location: South of Atlanta, just off I-85

Directions: Take I-85 South to Exit 61 Fairburn. At bottom of ramp, take right onto Hwy 74 and proceed 2 1/2 miles to Durham Lakes Sub-Division. Take left into Sub-Division and follow signs to course

Durham Lakes Golf Course Review

One of the most interesting layouts to debut in the Atlanta area in recent years, Durham Lakes lives up to its name with a sizeable number of water holes, especially on the shorter but potentially perilous back nine. The course has been rated as one of the most challenging daily fee courses in the metro area, and with a fairly sizeable gap between most tees, selecting the right set to play from is a key to how much of a test you’ll face.

Durham Lakes has some length from its two back sets of tees, with the whites still having plenty of bite at just under 6,200 yards thanks to the number of hazards in play and some reasonably difficult greens complexes. With an exception or two, the course is on the generous side off the tee, but most of the challenge is found on the approach shots, as the greens are well-guarded by sand and water.

There is a considerable contrast between the two nines, with the front consisting of three par 5s and two long and demanding par 4s (one a virtual par 5 for many players). The ninth is likely to take its place among the area’s toughest holes, and the third not too far behind. The three par 5s are all relatively short and offer some scoring opportunities, but two large and craftily designed greens and one of the most difficult tee shots on the course place some obstacles in your path to birdies or pars.

The incoming nine features five straight holes with water seriously in play (13-17), including a trio of mid-length par 4s, two of which feature hazards just off the putting surface. The most memorable hole, however, is the 15th, which bigger hitters will be able to reach from the tee, provided they have the nerve to take the shorter but watery route to the green. Durham Lakes is in excellent condition for a new course, and will be an area favorite with its convenient location to I-85 and a quality layout that strikes a nice balance between challenge and playability. Just make sure to play from the tees that best fit your game.

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