Nestled in the peaceful, beautiful valley of Laguna Niguel, CA, El Niguel Country Club is already one of the “best kept secrets” in Orange County. Never satisfied to just be “good”, the Club is embarking on a major golf course renovation led by Todd Eckenrode – Origins Golf Design and his talented team.
“This is a dream project for us, as we’ve always felt there is great potential in the golf course at El Niguel that has been untapped. The membership has been committed to executing our Long Range Master Plan, beginning with the turf reduction landscaping as the first phase, and now some really significant improvements to the golf course features that are sure to elevate the course to another level”, said Todd Eckenrode.
The renovation will preserve the existing character of the golf course and its gently rolling hills. Elements of the plan include a full bunker renovation, including adding and removing bunkers to improve strategy, variety and accessibility. The addition of short-cut green surrounds will bring great variety to the shot-making around and on the approach to the greens. There will also be three new greens, meant to be highlights of the round and improve variety.
Some fairway realignments and widening will not only improve playability and strategic options but also better integrate the natural features of the land. Minor re-routing and removal of cart paths will help naturalize the golfing experience, and showcase the recent drought-tolerant landscape work that has matured beautifully.