Orlando Golf - Course, Resort and Package Information

The resort, nestled in an expansive, hilly countryside of pine, oak and cypress tree hammocks, actually captures the seclusion of a 625-acre, private estate. Because of its surroundings and attention to detail, Mission Inn has received numerous awards including the Mobil Four-Star Resort award 17 years in a row.

Winding throughout the property are two 18-hole, championship golf courses: the venerable El Campeon, built in 1926 by Charles E. Clarke of Troon, Scotland, and the more forgiving Las Colinas, added in 1992 by former PGA Tour Player, Gary Koch. Both courses, like the resort, have garnered numerous national and international awards.

By far, El Campeon, Florida's third oldest course, is what most players seek and the one that leaves the most lasting memory. At 6,923 yards -- mostly up hill and down -- its 85-foot elevation changes require demanding tee shots and daring approaches to often double and triple-tiered greens. Options abound with numerous lakes and several island greens providing the kind of scenery that's sure to impress.

Particularly striking is Devil's Delight, the 538-yard, par 5 signature hole at number 17 with its double dogleg, right then left. It requires a strategically placed tee shot leaving your second to face El Diablo himself, a sprawling, fiend of an oak tree blocking your view of a green cut-off by a beachfront bunker and water canal. Here, prayers are often followed by swears.

Redemption, if any, can be found on Las Colinas, the 6,822-yard, par 71 course that's been honored as "Top Fairways" by Golf for Women Magazine and as one of the 100 most "women-friendly" courses nationwide. It's main feature? Water on 16 of its 18 holes. Also there's home construction in and around the course that's favorably altered a hole or two, like the new par 4 number 3 with a shorter distance and added features to the green.

Alligator Alley, the number 12, par 5 signature hole at 493 yards, is also short - just enough to tease you into using your woods all the way home for that rare eagle opportunity. But be warned - while Las Colinas as a whole is considered more forgiving, number 12 is the exception to the rule.

Your complete golf experience includes a fully stocked pro shop, a Bill Skelley School of Golf and a practice range. But if that's not enough, perhaps a private lesson with John Viera, Jr., the resort's veteran 15-year head pro and director of golf, is in order. Or, you might just want to sit back and enjoy Nicker's, the resort's clubhouse restaurant for lunch or dinner.

On the outside chance that you might prefer a different sport, head over to the tennis garden where there are six Har-Tru (clay) courts, and in a separate area, two Laykold (hard) courts. Here you'll find Cesar Villarroel, one of Bolivia's superstars and former Davis Cup players, offering group and private lessons.