Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage

Played early morning with my wife as we were staying in property. The range allowed for warmup before the round. The putting green is closer to the 1st tee on the opposite side of the range which was nice. No starter on the Valley Course so we checked in with the Palm Course starter. Several groups at the 1st tee figuring out who was up first.

Course conditions were fine. Tee boxes and fairways were good with only a few bare areas. Greens were smooth, but fairly slow. Likely due to the severe undulations and mostly resort golfers. Bunkers were inconsistent and could use a bit more attention. There are some pretty holes including the 18th, but no real signature to remember. Several of the holes border busy streets so passing traffic takes away from some of the environment. Not terrible, but after playing PGA West the day before, it was noticeable.

Pace of play was good early in the morning and we saw the beverage cart at least twice in each nine.

Value was ok and the convenience was nice considering we were staying on property.

The course at JW is simply gorgeous. Stunning views. Challenging holes. Awesome amenities. We have nothing but good things to say about the course.

I have played the JW Marriotts courses a number of times and the course this year is not in good condition.

can't believe I'm the only one to notice this, but the bees are back, just off the green on hole #17 on the valley course....has been a problem in the past....luckily- they were not in "attack mode"

Valley course has a fair bit of undulation which makes it a bit more challenging. Greens are small and fairways have lots of uneven lies. Not overly long from tips. Unfortunately, day we played greens were quite slow (8.5-9). Had minimal interaction in pro shop checking in....minimal. Pro hardly said anything! Starter was phenomenal, super friendly! Backshop guys likewise. #16 island green is an interesting hole. Beware of #18, blind 2nd shot to tough green protected by water/lake! Overall, ok to play once, but not sure I would go back again, especially for the price.

Patchy tee boxes and fairways. Greens were patchy rough and shaggy.

Neighbouring courses in far better condition.

Greens were bumpy. Any putt outside 4 feet hopped back and forth