Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/78601
USA GETAWAYS BY LISA "LONGBALL" VLOOSWYK A Pilgrimage To Bandon Dunes For years I have heard the buzz about Bandon Dunes across all golf circles. I heard that it was situated in the "middle of no-where" on the Oregon coast. It had been compared to the great links courses of Europe and (gasp) what seemed like Blasphemy to me…to the Home of Golf, St. Andrews. That is a pretty big billing to live up to. I was told tales of sideways rain and blowing winds that would send most players running to the rain shelter…but not those who appreciate that the elements are part of this great game. So, to say the least I was intrigued. I decided I needed to make the pilgrimage. My husband Anton and I flew into Portland and made the 5 hour trek south. Alternately you spectacular views of the coastline did not disappoint coupled with my road trip staples…a play list of pump- up tunes on my ipod, fresh long red Nibs and cold Diet Coke. can take a regional flight from Portland or San Francisco to North Bend only 25 miles/40 km North of Bandon Dunes, but I wanted to make this journey authentic. The OREGON As we arrived at Bandon we could see several large structures and were guided to The Inn, located just south of the 18th green on Bandon Dunes course and one of five accommodations options on site which range from single rooms to suited cottages. It was a short walk to the pub but a shuttle bus was there waiting. Professional athlete? Yup, that's right I opted for the ride. McKee's Pub for dinner and I was delighted by the reasonable prices on the menu for both food and beverages. They could gouge you being the only available option for We went to miles around but they don't. I highly recommend Grandma's Meatloaf, the hand crafted pizzas and Coos County Clam Chowder, and no...I didn't eat that all in one sitting. The next morning our wake up call rang at 6:00 am sharp and as I groggily picked up the phone and was ready to hang it back up immediately, I paused as I faintly heard a Scottish voice. I put the phone back to my ear and I was greeted by the most delightful good morning and wake up from Bandon Dunes course architect David McLay Kidd talking about the grand day ahead. What a fabulous touch. With that I sprung out of bed and couldn't wait to get to the course. We hit the scrumptious brunch every morning held in The Lodge and were finally off to the range. The practice facility is outstanding and sits on 30 acres of land. There are two ranges facing in opposite directions separated by a massive undulating putting green re-creating many of the daunting 40-footers you will likely face on the courses. We kick started our day on the newest track Old Macdonald opened in June of 2010 designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina. We met our caddy on the first hole. At Bandon Dunes there are no carts. Players walk and may use a pull cart or alternately caddies are available. Since it was my first time and I wanted to make it a memorable experience I opted for a caddie. Caddies carry up to two bags and average $80-$100 per bag. There are dozens of caddies that make a full time living looping at Bandon Dunes as it is open year round. I received a recommendation from a good friend who had played Bandon Dunes several times to get Minnesota Mike. He was everything I hoped our caddie would be and more. His laid back nature was well suited to my high energy level and my husband's calm demeanour. He was easy to talk to, incredibly knowledgeable about the courses and after two holes had us pegged for carry distances and ability level of every club in our bag. His help with where Continued On Next Page 161 ALL IMAGES CREDIT ANTON VLOOSWYK / COURTESY LISA LONGBALL