Aphrodite Hills

Five years in the making and opened in 2002, the course is routed over two relatively level landforms, separated by a deep canyon which Robinson has incorporated into the design to fashion two spectacular holes (3rd and 7th) on the front nine. Indigenous carob and olive trees on the property were supplemented with additional planting to complete a mature Mediterranean landscape.

If typical Robinson design traits like horseshoe greens, cross bunkers, ponds (at holes 10 and 18) and doglegs were not enough, the architect even included an 18th century kiln and an old olive press in the middle of the fairways on holes 1 and 8 to add further character to the course.

Cabell Robinson commented as follows: “If you can carry 200 metres with your driver, you should try the back tee on the 3rd. It looks forever over the gorge, but it is only that far to reach safety. It is a thrill of a lifetime shot if you succeed. The 7th deep within the bowels of the canyon is another dramatic shot, while fantastic sea views are to be had at the 8th and 15th… reaching for the back pin position on the 12th needs the most courage, while the 16th is my pick for the toughest par-4, and the 18th is a reachable and wonderful par-5.”

The European Tour notched up a half-century of countries visited in October 2020 when Aphrodite Hills staged the inaugural Cyprus Open. Englishman Callum Shinkwin claimed the title (his maiden European Tour victory) after defeating Finland’s Kalle Samooja in a play-off.