Golf

Rio's only public golf course is out in Barra da Tijuca. Golden Green (Av. Conde de Marapendi 2905; tel. 021/2434-0696) is a three-par 6-hole course located inside a private condominium but open to the public without a membership. Golden Green is open Tuesday to Sunday from 7am to 6pm. Greens fees are R$50 (US$21) Tuesday to Friday and R$60 (US$25) on weekends and holidays. One of the city's best courses (18 holes) is the elegant Gávea Golf Club, Estrada da Gávea 800, São Conrado (tel. 021/3332-4141). However, the club -- like virtually every golf course in Brazil -- is private. The Copacabana Palace Hotel and the Sheraton Rio Hotel are a few of the hotels that have an arrangement allowing their guests to tee off. If you are a golf fiend, check first with your hotel of choice for privileges.