Rangárþing ytra
Strandarvöllur is an 18-hole, par-70 golf course located in Hellu, Iceland, situated on the south coast near the village of Strönd. The layout was originally designed by English golf instructor Barry John Guttridge in 1981, though the final construction was heavily adapted by club members to fit the natural terrain. The course is built on sand-blended, often volcanic soil, which allows it to drain quickly and be ready for play shortly after rain. The total yardage from the white tees is 5,658 meters, with shorter options available at 5,252 meters from the yellow tees, 4,814 meters from the blue tees, and 4,522 meters from the red tees. The course is characterized by its rugged, natural setting, featuring dense bushes, thick rough, and numerous mounds that define the fairways. The first hole, a par-4, runs to the right with large bushes surrounding the green and often presents a dominant crosswind. The third hole, a par-5 known as the "flight fairway," is a long, straight drive lined with bushes, leading to a slightly elevated and fast green. The fourth hole, a par-3 called "frímerkið" (the freebie), features a rectangular green that is long for most players, while the fifth hole, a par-5, is shorter but challenging due to mounds in the middle of the fairway and difficult approach shots guarded by sand bunkers. Significant challenges arise on the back nine, particularly on the 15th hole, which is described as the most difficult on the course. This par-5 features a difficult drive, heavy rough, and numerous mounds, leading to a large, comfortable green protected by a bunker on the right. The 18th hole serves as a demanding finisher, requiring a 180-meter tee shot over a stream to reach the bank, followed by a committed approach shot to a green that slopes significantly. The course also features the 8th hole, a par-3 played over the Strandarsíki stream, where sand bunkers flank the green and often require a club more than the distance suggests. Golfklúbbur Hellu was founded in 1952, with the current 18-hole course officially opening in the early 1980s after a period of redevelopment. The club has a rich history of community involvement, with the course being built largely through volunteer labor. The facility includes a clubhouse originally built as a schoolhouse in 1933, which was later converted for golf use. The course hosts various local tournaments and events throughout the year, including the Strandarmótið, and offers practice facilities including a large grass practice area and a 6-hole practice course for beginners.
