Anonymous

As Florida increases in appeal to those searching for warmer weather year-round, housing in and around many of the major cities is getting harder and harder to find. And when you do find something, there’s a good chance it will be priced out of your budget. Traffic is in a league all its own; just make sure you leave yourself enough time to get anywhere. Amenities in the Sunshine State such as golf are getting expensive too; it’s not uncommon for a so-so course to command daily greens fees in the triple digits. That severely limits many people – especially seniors – on how many times they can play each week. And for many, that may have been one of the state’s big attractions.

One way to overcome these obstacles is to find a home in a community that offers golf as an amenity. Finding a home in one of these can be a tricky process though; some have ‘mandatory memberships,” meaning that when you buy a home, you must become a member at some level.

Plantation Bay is not your stereotypical golf community. It’s located just west of I-95 in Ormond Beach and while it is an exclusive, gated golf community with 45 holes of championship golf, membership is not required to live there. And once you pay a small initiation fee and become a member, there are no more golf fees, unless you choose to have one of the friendly and competent members of the golf staff help you improve your golf game. But to me, the biggest upside of this prestigious golf community is the traffic, or lack thereof.

The Plantation Bay community is large, even by golf community standards. According to General Manager Sean Lutwin, the distance from the front gate to the rear gate is almost 4 miles. This 3,600-acre community has been beautifully landscaped with majestic oaks, date palm trees, and native tropical plants. Almost every type of floor plan is available including golf villas, single-family homes, and custom luxury estate homes. If you're looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle you may want to consider a Plantation Bay townhome. With no age requirement at Plantation Bay, there is considerable diversity among the residents. You’ll find recent retirees who are searching for the 'good life' at retirement as well as young families who are looking to escape the big city.

Golf is the main attraction at Plantation Bay. They offer 45 holes of championship golf and some incredible practice facilities. Over the years, these golf courses have received their fair share of awards. The Founders North Course - formerly the Club de Bonmont - has been named one of the “Top 50 Florida Golf Courses” and among the “50 Most Distinctive Courses in the Southeast U.S.” As you play your way around the course you’ll encounter both natural and man-made hazards - bunkers, trees, and water – as well as undulating greens that will test your putting skills, Odds are that by the time you’re finished, you will have used every club in the bag. The 10th hole may be the prettiest and most challenging hole on the property. It’s a dogleg right, par 5 that plays 480 yards from the White Tees. There’s water down the entire right side and fairway bunkers that come into play at the dogleg and continue up the right side. Favoring the left side of the fairway off the tee will take the water out of play and set up your next shot. Again, favoring the left side will yield the best results. Two good shots thus far will leave an approach shot over the lake into a two-tiered green with bunkers on either side.

Florida golf communities always seem to have impressive practice facilities and Plantation Bay is no exception. Their full-length driving range with private instructional tees allows you to work on every type of shot imaginable and hit every club in the bag. There’s a PGA Tour-caliber short game area with several elevation changes and a large practice putting green. There’s also an aqua range over at the Founders South golf course.

In early 2018, the Plantation Bay Golf Instructional Center opened and continues to help golfers of all abilities improve their golf game. The Center uses state-of-the-art technology including Trackman, Boditrack, K-Motion 3D, and V1 High-Speed Video to help members get the most out of their golf game and enjoy the game more. The pro shop carries the entire line of Callaway golf equipment and custom club fitting is free to members. Their prices on equipment and accessories are competitive with big box and online retailers.

One of the many things that set Plantation Bay apart from other golf communities in the area is the new 40,500-square-foot clubhouse, one of two on the property. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating, a new golf pro shop, two bars, and enough meeting and event space for 600 people. The ground level is used for golf cart storage while the event, social, main dining room, and Tavern are located on the main level. Should you find yourself there for lunch, my recommendation for lunch would be either the Fire-Roasted Chicken Wings or the Founders Burger, with crisp bacon, sauteed onions and mushrooms, and all the fixings.

Besides golf, there is a lot to do at Plantation Bay, especially if you want to stay active. Their state-of-the-art fitness center has everything you will ever need to get your heart rate up and increase your endurance, including various Life Fitness strength and cardio equipment, free weights, treadmills, elliptical uprights, and recumbent cycles. If you prefer racquet sports, there’s tennis and pickleball. There are also bocce courts and a zero-entry free-form pool.

Plantation Bay is now accepting new members and, as a resident, it is completely optional. A variety of membership programs are available including Full Membership, Young Executive Golf, a Sports Membership, Clubhouse (Social) Membership, and a Fitness Membership.

With 45 holes of golf and a lot of recreational amenities, a fantastic new clubhouse, and a location that’s a little off the beaten path, Plantation Bay is a great place to call home. So, if you’re tired of the big city hustle and bustle, state income taxes, and a high cost of living, schedule a visit and see all that this community offers.

As Florida increases in appeal to those searching for warmer weather year-round, housing in and around many of the major cities is getting harder and harder to find. And when you do find something, there’s a good chance it will be priced out of your budget. Traffic is in a league all its own; just make sure you leave yourself enough time to get anywhere. Amenities in the Sunshine State such as golf are getting expensive too; it’s not uncommon for a so-so course to command daily greens fees in the triple digits. That severely limits many people – especially seniors – on how many times they can play each week. And for many, that may have been one of the state’s big attractions.

One way to overcome these obstacles is to find a home in a community that offers golf as an amenity. Finding a home in one of these can be a tricky process though; some have ‘mandatory memberships,” meaning that when you buy a home, you must become a member at some level.

Plantation Bay is not your stereotypical golf community. It’s located just west of I-95 in Ormond Beach and while it is an exclusive, gated golf community with 45 holes of championship golf, membership is not required to live there. And once you pay a small initiation fee and become a member, there are no more golf fees, unless you choose to have one of the friendly and competent members of the golf staff help you improve your golf game. But to me, the biggest upside of this prestigious golf community is the traffic, or lack thereof.

The Plantation Bay community is large, even by golf community standards. According to General Manager Sean Lutwin, the distance from the front gate to the rear gate is almost 4 miles. This 3,600-acre community has been beautifully landscaped with majestic oaks, date palm trees, and native tropical plants. Almost every type of floor plan is available including golf villas, single-family homes, and custom luxury estate homes. If you're looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle you may want to consider a Plantation Bay townhome. With no age requirement at Plantation Bay, there is considerable diversity among the residents. You’ll find recent retirees who are searching for the 'good life' at retirement as well as young families who are looking to escape the big city.

Golf is the main attraction at Plantation Bay. They offer 45 holes of championship golf and some incredible practice facilities. Over the years, these golf courses have received their fair share of awards. The Founders North Course - formerly the Club de Bonmont - has been named one of the “Top 50 Florida Golf Courses” and among the “50 Most Distinctive Courses in the Southeast U.S.”

Prestwick Golf Club plays 6,484 yards from the back tees to a par of 71 with a course rating of 137. The course winds its way through 150 acres of pristine forests and is a shotmaker’s dream. Shotmaking starts with your tee shot at the dogleg left, par 5, 1st hole. There’s water on the left and more water – and sand – on the right, so you’ll need to be accurate. It doesn’t get any easier on your layup shot, so be sure to take enough club to clear the fairway bunker on the left. Success thus far will leave a short pitch shot into an angled green protected by a lone bunker front left. Thinking your way around the golf course will yield the best results.

Florida golf communities always seem to have impressive practice facilities and Plantation Bay is no exception. Their full-length driving range with private instructional tees allows you to work on every type of shot imaginable and hit every club in the bag. There’s a PGA Tour-caliber short game area with several elevation changes and a large practice putting green. There’s also an aqua range over at the Founders South golf course.

In early 2018, the Plantation Bay Golf Instructional Center opened and continues to help golfers of all abilities improve their golf game. The Center uses state-of-the-art technology including Trackman, Boditrack, K-Motion 3D, and V1 High-Speed Video to help members get the most out of their golf game and enjoy the game more. The pro shop carries the entire line of Callaway golf equipment and custom club fitting is free to members. Their prices on equipment and accessories are competitive with big box and online retailers.

One of the many things that set Plantation Bay apart from other golf communities in the area is the new 40,500-square-foot clubhouse, one of two on the property. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating, a new golf pro shop, two bars, and enough meeting and event space for 600 people. The ground level is used for golf cart storage while the event, social, main dining room, and Tavern are located on the main level. Should you find yourself there for lunch, my recommendation for lunch would be either the Fire-Roasted Chicken Wings or the Founders Burger, with crisp bacon, sauteed onions and mushrooms, and all the fixings.

Besides golf, there is a lot to do at Plantation Bay, especially if you want to stay active. Their state-of-the-art fitness center has everything you will ever need to get your heart rate up and increase your endurance, including various Life Fitness strength and cardio equipment, free weights, treadmills, elliptical uprights, and recumbent cycles. If you prefer racquet sports, there’s tennis and pickleball. There are also bocce courts and a zero-entry free-form pool.

Plantation Bay is now accepting new members and, as a resident, it is completely optional. A variety of membership programs are available including Full Membership, Young Executive Golf, a Sports Membership, Clubhouse (Social) Membership, and a Fitness Membership.

With 45 holes of golf and a lot of recreational amenities, a fantastic new clubhouse, and a location that’s a little off the beaten path, Plantation Bay is a great place to call home. So, if you’re tired of the big city hustle and bustle, state income taxes, and a high cost of living, schedule a visit and see all that this community offers.

Over the past 15 years, The Golfin’ Guy’s travels have taken us to over 400 golf clubs including more than 100 private clubs. Each of these private clubs has something that makes them special in their own right; maybe it’s the practice facility, the practice area, or dining. Maybe it’s a memorable hole. There’s one particular club in Monroe, LA that seems to do everything right, especially listening to their members.

In a town best known for Delta Airlines and the Biedenharn Candy Company, the first bottlers of Coca-Cola and Delta, Bayou DeSiard, a private country club in Monroe, Louisiana is often overlooked by prospective members because of its location. But don’t tell that to the organizers of the Cotton State Invitational, who have played their annual golf tournament there since 1951.

Most golf scholars will tell you that the years between the creation of the National Golf Links of America on Long Island in 1911 ushered in the "Golden Age" of golf course architecture. Many of the world's most acclaimed golf courses were built during this time including Pine Valley, Augusta National, and Cypress Point. Several golf course architects focused on “strategic course design,” making courses more fun and less punishing. The likes of Charles Blair MacDonald, Alister MacKenzie, Donald Ross, A.W. Tillinghast, and Seth Raynor continue to influence golf course architecture to this day. One of those who was seemingly forgotten was Perry Maxwell.

Among Maxwell's signature design trademarks were his undulating greens which are typically large and well-contoured with swells and his ability to use the existing topography of the land to design challenging holes. As one sports writer, wrote in 1933, "His genius came from recognizing Mother Nature's design, his courses only slightly carved out of the existing landscape". Maxwell’s favorite design feature was to include naturally occurring geological cliffs and play both uphill and downhill. Maxwell, along with his partner Alister MacKenzie, designed Augusta National and several other well-known layouts but is best known for his prolific renovation of golf courses like Pine Valley Golf Club and Augusta National.

On Labor Day of 1948, Bayou DeSiard Country Club opened its doors as a 9-hole golf course on land donated by the Biedenharn family. Several of Bayou DeSiard’s charter members donated their time, equipment, and materials at cost to construct the golf course. In 1950, more land was acquired, and renowned golf course architect Perry Maxwell was brought in to design a second 9-hole layout and touch up the original nine. In 1951, Bayou DeSiard Country Club opened all 18 holes. Over the years the layout was touched up here and there and in 1988-89, course architect Ron Pritchard was hired to renovate the golf course and return it to its original design. Bayou DeSiard has been ranked one of the top courses in Louisiana ever since.

At Bayou DeSiard there’s a yardage for anyone that plays the game. Although the course plays 7,234 yards from the Championship tees (74.5/131), don’t let that alarm you. There are 6 tee boxes with yardages that range upwards from 4,340 yards, and two "blended" tees (Black/Blue and Blue/Gold) for a total of 7 yardages. You’re sure to find one that suits your game.

As you make your way around the golf course at Bayou DeSiard Country Club, you’ll find beautifully manicured golf holes with tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water on 10 holes. Lush 419 Bermuda grass fairways lead to challenging mini Verdi greens. Fairways tend to be wide open and off the tee and the greens are well-undulated. The golf course is easy to walk; Director of Golf Nick Ellison estimates that about 85% of their winter rounds are golfers who walk the course.

A great golf course should offer comparable practice facilities and Bayou DeSiard does not disappoint. The club was well known for having the best short game facility in the area. “The Triangle,” consisted of three practice greens that could be used for target shots up to 170 yards, with bunkers all around the greens. But what was missing was a chipping green. Bayou DeSiard hired well-known golf architect Nathan Crace to give the practice area a facelift. One of the greens was converted to a 6,000 sq ft chipping green. There is also a full-length driving range where you can hit every club in your bag as well as a practice putting green. The practice area is one of the biggest selling points of the club.

If you prefer the courts over the course, Bayou DeSiard has some impressive tennis facilities with 7 lighted courts - 2 HydroCourts and 5 hard courts. The HydroCourt system is the most advanced clay court watering system available for Har-Tru tennis courts. Several of the tennis hard courts double as pickleball courts. The tennis staff can help you with new equipment, apparel, and lessons to get the most out of those new purchases!

Bayou DeSiard prides itself on being a private “family-oriented club.” Nowhere is this more evident than at the swimming pool. Parents come here to relax and recharge while the kids are content just splashing about or participating in courtyard activities or the playground. There are lifeguards on duty at all times, plenty of lounge chairs, and the fully stocked and staffed Courtyard bar and grill will help satisfy your hunger and thirst. The area around the pool is also available for weddings and special events. Events are a large part of DeSiard's social calendar, and they offer a bevy of catering options and a stunning array of menu items for all occasions. One of their many dining areas is the perfect spot for your weddings, private dinner parties, or business events.

Many members of private clubs place a huge emphasis on dining, second only to golf. After all, what’s better than wowing your friends and business associates with a fabulous meal after a round of golf on a spectacular golf course? Bayou DeSiard has been pampering members and their guests with an incredible variety of dining options since the 1940s. The Mixed Grill and 19th hole offer a casual, relaxed atmosphere, and is the club’s daily dining room. This newly renovated room has a modern feel and provides diners with stunning views of the golf course.

The 19th Hole has the vibes of a Scottish pub and is a great place to grab a bite before or after your round. They offer a very unique menu between lunch and dinner. Both venues offer the same menu for lunch and dinner and if it’s available, I highly recommend the Southern Fried Chicken buffet, with greens, mashed potatoes, and sweet tea. You won’t leave hungry.

With exquisite views of the glistening Bayou DeSiard, The Main Dining Room and Fireside are exactly what you would expect from a country club – quietly elegant. They play host to all of the club’s formal and semi-formal events with great views of the golf course! Bayou DeSiard’s world-class chef and culinary staff use locally sourced ingredients to create tantalizing dishes that will excite your palette. Members and their guests are required to wear jackets or formal attire when dining in these areas.

Bayou DeSiard Country Club is currently accepting new members to their private, member-owned club. Each membership also includes the member’s spouse and children under the age of 24. There are several levels of membership available; just ask one of the friendly staff members.

This is just an overview of what makes Bayou DeSiard the best “private club value” in North Louisiana. Don’t pass up an opportunity to visit the club and play the course. Director of Golf Nick Ellison and the entire staff have created a club that is family-friendly and affordable.

In 1991, the owners of Talamore Golf Club handpicked Rees Jones to design the golf course. They were looking for a one-of-a-kind golf course in the Sandhills, and Jones solidly delivered!

Talamore features over 150 ft. of elevation change, lakes, wetlands, massive bunkers including waste bunkers, and towering longleaf pine trees. Jones created Talamore to be more of a thinking man’s golf course, one which requires position and control over brute strength. You’ll have to manufacture shots if you want to score well.

In 2017, Talamore made some monumental changes to the green complexes. They were restored to their original 1991 dimensions and the putting surface was changed from Bentgrass to Champion Bermuda. They now have a truer roll and a lot more speed. In addition, 5-foot TifEagle Bermuda green collars were also added around each green. Many bunkers were removed, and several areas were re-contoured to blend in with the surrounding terrain, providing more forgiveness in the landing zones and around the greens.

Talamore is also home to the only sod wall bunkers in the Sandhills area. Talamore worked with Ecobunkers USA to create these wonderful sand traps because they are a lot easier to maintain. On average, 3-5% of any well-designed golf course is occupied by bunkers, yet they typically eat up 25-35% of the maintenance budget. Ecobunkers used layer upon layer of recycled AstroTurf to create the sod-wall effect - as many as 5,200 pieces – per bunker. This eliminates soil erosion, edging, plugged lies, and burrowing animals and makes maintenance of each bunker a lot less time-consuming.

Talamore starts with a classic golf hole. It’s a long par 5 that plays 564 yards from the White Tees. Longball hitters need to be aware of the marshy area on the right side that can come into play off the tee if you don't keep it far enough left. You’ll get some extra distance off the tee as the fairway plays downhill, Play your layup out to the left to get around the bend. Your approach shot plays uphill onto a large green with a bunker that sits about 5 feet below it. Be sure to take enough club on your approach to compensate for the uphill.

The 2nd hole is a 164-yard par three that for many golfers, will be their first introduction to sod-walled bunkers. There are two of them that sit directly between the tee and green; they also sit about 6 feet below the putting surface. Get up against them and you might have to chip out sideways or backward to hit your next shot. Fly your tee shot onto the green for best results; bump-and-run is not advised!

When packaged together, the Mid South Club and Talamore are a formidable pair that will rival any two-course combination in the area. Throw in a few other local courses and you’ve got a golf vacation that will produce lifelong memories.

When most golfers think of golf in Mississippi, they are probably thinking of the Gulf Coast and the Biloxi area. But if you want to experience the best golf in the state, you’ll need to head about four hours north, past Jackson and Hattiesburg, to the little town of West Point, MS. That’s where you’ll find Old Waverly and Mossy Oak, two of the best golf course layouts in the state.

West Point, MS isn’t near any large city – Memphis is the closest and it’s 2 ½ hours away – so it provides a great sense of tranquility and solitude. However, it’s also a convenient location - most major southern cities can be reached by car in less than 4 hours, so you can drive over in the morning and get in an afternoon round.

Mossy Oak is one of the newest courses in the State of Mississippi and was built in conjunction with Toxey Haas, founder of the Mossy Oak brand. The course was designed by Gil Hanse, the world’s top minimalist golf course architect. In true Hanse style, not much dirt was moved to build the course; according to Co-Founder George Bryan, the work could have “been done with a mule and a plow.” However, the dirt that was moved helped to create the ponds you see as you make your way around the layout.

Mossy Oak is built on 180 acres of what used to be the Knob Hill Dairy Farm, complete with rolling terrain and significant elevation changes. One feature I found quite helpful was the guideposts that helped steer you toward the fairway on several blind tee shots. Elevated greens with tightly mowed surrounds make for challenging up and downs if you miss the green.

Two of the course’s more memorable holes are Numbers 3 and 4. Number 3 is a very short par 4 that plays 253 from the White Tees. Long ball hitters can have a go at the green; it plays uphill, so you’ll need to carry the ball about 275 yards off the tee. Whether you go for it off the tee or not, the deep, cavernous bunkers on either side of the fairway are an intimidating sight. Number 3 requires a very accurate approach shot; the green is its plateau. Anything not on the green will either drop off the grid behind the hole or find one of the bunkers. It’s a short but demanding hole!

Number 4 is Mossy Oak’s signature par 3. The hole plays 162 yards from the White Tees and is fronted by a massive bunker that sits well below the putting surface. You’ll need to carry the ball onto the green from the tee to avoid the false front. Find one of the two bunkers in front of the green and par just became a lot tougher!

Another challenging par 3 is the 11th hole. From the White Tees, the hole plays 224 yards and is all carry over water. The green is shallow and finding one of the two pot bunkers in the back can make for an intimidating sand shot with the lake looming in the background. Take a par and run!

Both Old Waverly and Mossy Oak offer accommodations. At Mossy Oak, guests stay in spacious cottages and villas directly on the golf course. Four-bedroom “cottages” give way to a large, spacious common area, each equipped with a giant flat-screen TV, tables for take-out dining, and comfortable furniture, as well as all the amenities you’d find at a first-class hotel.

Old Waverly and Mossy Oak offer some tremendous packages that allow you to play both courses and experience everything they have to offer.

During a recent visit to Cider Ridge, I was told by several golfers that over the past few years, the previous management company had let the conditioning of the golf course decline dramatically. The club was recently sold to Zotan, LLC, a company led by PGA member Cory Etter that also owns Pine Hill Golf Course in nearby Anniston, AL.

Etter and his staff have stepped up to the plate and are in the process of making Cider Ridge better than it has ever been. Many golfers I spoke with commented on the improved conditioning of the course and how it has become much more playable than in recent years. The greens have been recently renovated with new TifEagle Bermuda grass and several tee boxes have been redone.

The Club gets its name from an apple orchard. Over 100 years ago, the property was part of the Melon Apple Orchard which produced 11,000 bushels of apples each year. At its peak, the Melon Apple Orchard produced more than 20,000 gallons of apple cider and you can still find remnants of the working mills and rock reservoirs on the property today.

Cider Ridge Golf Club was designed by Alabama-based Bill Bergin. The course borders the Talladega National Forest and the Talladega Mountains and is situated at the base of Alabama’s tallest mountain – Mt. Cheaha (elevation 2,410’). In building the golf course, Bergin was able to incorporate much of the central Alabama terrain into the design.

When you visit Cider Ridge you’ll discover that it’s not your typical Alabama golf course. Over the past 10 years, it has become widely known as one of Alabama’s best daily fee golf courses and has received numerous accolades from GolfAdvisor.com including Top 10 Courses in Alabama 2015 – 2019, the #1 Course in Calhoun County, and the #2 public course in Alabama.

Cider Ridge is best described as a “tale of two courses.” The front nine is similar to a traditional parkland-style course, with fairways lined with century-old oak trees and streams running through several holes. You don’t see much in the way of changing elevation until you hit the 6th hole and from then on, it becomes more mountain golf. Once you hit the back nine, the terrain changes quickly! You’ll find thick hardwood forests, rolling hills, and dramatic elevation changes on just about every hole. You’ll be treated to enchanting mountain views and several water features that include Little Hillabee Creek and a natural waterfall on Number 12 – Cider Ridge’s signature hole.

Remember, this is mountain golf so there’s a lot of roll and undulation in the fairways, leaving many uneven lies. Mature trees guard many fairways, and it can be hard to hit under, over, or around them. Many of the greens are well-elevated so if you don’t take enough club you’ll come short of the putting surface. In some cases, if you fail to hit your putt hard enough, it will roll back down to your feet.

The golf course offers five sets of tees and can be enjoyed from 6,976 yards for low handicappers to 4,507 yards, which is great for juniors, women, and seniors. The scorecard also shows a “combo” yardage which combines two sets of tees to create a yardage of 6,164 yards, which was perfect for me!

Cider Ridge is not without its fair share of memorable holes. The short 306-yard 7th hole is also one you won’t soon forget. Your tee shot plays considerably downhill; all you can see from the Blue Tees are the two fairway bunkers at the bottom of the hill on the left side as well as a little piece of fairway. Woods on either side keep you honest off the tee and the large slope on the right can help funnel balls back into play. Find the fairway successfully and you’ll be facing an uphill pitch shot into a large green that is angled and slopes front right to back left.

The first and last holes on the back nine are quite memorable: after 3 months I can still picture each shot I hit. If you look up target golf in the dictionary, you may just find a picture of Cider Ridge’s 10th hole. It plays 397 yards and requires a tee shot that finds the landing area at the top of the hill. That will leave you about 150 yards slightly downhill to a green protected in front by a bunker and in back by trees. Miss the green and you may just lose your golf ball!

Number 18 is a great finishing hole and a good test of golf. It’s a par 5 that plays 518 yards with water running down the entire left side and then wrapping behind the green to catch anything hit long. The right side is no bargain either; it’s lined with trees and out of bounds beyond that and a bunker in the landing area off the tee. Favoring the left side off the tee will leave a clear shot into the green and if you hit your drive well you may have a chance to get home in two. A large bunker guards the front right of the green. No matter how you do it, par is a great score here!

Before your round, be sure to check out the practice area. It’s quite impressive and includes a full-length driving range, putting green, and chipping green area. It’s not unusual to see players there just to practice various aspects of their game. Cider Ridge also believes that growing the game of golf starts at the junior level and offers summer golf camps every June and July. Contact the pro shop for more information

Inside the clubhouse, you’ll find a fully stocked golf shop with all of your golfing necessities as well as logoed apparel, hats, and golf clubs. You’ll find the Cider Ridge Grill which is open to the public. and serves freshly made sandwiches, burgers, salads, soft drinks, cold beer, and other beverages.

If you live in the area or nearby and thoroughly enjoy playing the golf course, maybe it’s time to consider becoming a member. Cider Ridge’s Annual Pass includes unlimited greens fees, 50% off range balls, ability to participate in Club Tournaments including the Club Championship, Oxford City Championship, and Match Play. You’ll also receive a 15% discount on pro shop merchandise (shirts, hats, golf balls, accessories, gloves & more). Individual, senior, and family memberships are available.

If you’re planning a trip to the area, you’ll find Cider Ridge midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, just off Interstate 20 and minutes from Anniston and the renowned Talladega Race Track.

When a golf course melds seamlessly with its surroundings, that’s Nature’s Golf. When environmental preservation and forward-thinking course design come together, that’s Nature’s Golf. When you play Old Waverly and Mossy Oak Golf Clubs in West Point, MS, that’s Nature’s Golf. It’s Southern Golf at its finest.

When most golfers think of golf in Mississippi, they are probably thinking of the Gulf Coast and the Biloxi area. But if you want to experience the best golf in the state, you’ll need to head about four hours north, past Jackson and Hattiesburg, to the little town of West Point, MS. That’s where you’ll find Old Waverly and Mossy Oak, two of the best golf course layouts in the state.

The George and Marcia Bryan family has an ownership stake in both courses and, if the Bryans have any say in it, West Point, MS will become one of the country’s most popular golf destinations. There aren’t many places you can go and play two Top 100 golf courses within a driver of each other. West Point, MS isn’t near any large city – Memphis is the closest and it’s 2 ½ hours away – so it provides a great sense of tranquility and solitude. However, it’s also a convenient location - most major southern cities can be reached by car in less than 4 hours, so you can drive over in the morning and get in an afternoon round.

Old Waverly across the street is not without its share of accolades. Old Waverly was designed by U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate and Bob Cupp and has hosted many significant tournaments including the 1999 U.S. Women's Open and 2019 U.S. Women's Amateur.

Old Waverly Golf Club captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands. It is routed around numerous lakes, the largest being Lake Waverly which you’ll encounter on the 18th hole. The course is highlighted by holes that place a premium on accuracy and shot making as well as a host of risk/reward shots, all while navigating through some of the most scenic views the Mississippi Black Prairie has to offer. You’ll find many deep and well-defined pot bunkers in the landing areas off the tees as well as greenside.

Number 7 at Old Waverly is aptly named Palmer Falls for the waterfalls and brook that trickle down the fairway on this uphill par 3. From the White Tees, this demanding par 3 plays 170 yards. Trees line the right side and there’s a pot bunker about 50 yards short of the green and a large, deep bunker on the right. Left of the green is a lot of mounding that can make for a tricky up and down.

Number 15 is a pretty par 5 that plays 447 yards from the White Tees. A creek meanders down the middle of the fairway in front of the tee and then continues down the left side. Play your drive down the right side and you’ll take the creek out of play. There’s a lake to the left of the green that needs to be avoided on your approach shot as do the two front left bunkers. Three good shots can yield a par…or better!

Number 18 plays 342 yards from the White Tees and is Old Waverly’s #1 handicapped hole. The lake creates a dogleg left and sets up a risk/reward opportunity off the tee. The more of the lake you carry off the tee, the shorter your approach shot is. The lone fairway bunker on the right side has seen its fair share of balls hit through the fairway by players avoiding the water. A good drive will leave a mid to short iron into a slightly elevated green protected by the water on the left and sand in every other direction. Par is a great way to end a memorable round!

Both Old Waverly and Mossy Oak offer accommodations. At Mossy Oak, guests stay in spacious cottages and villas directly on the golf course. Four-bedroom “cottages” give way to a large, spacious common area, each equipped with a giant flat-screen TV, tables for take-out dining, and comfortable furniture, as well as all the amenities you’d find at a first-class hotel.

Old Waverly offers several different options for your stay including two and three-bedroom condos with fully equipped kitchens. It’s like being at home, only you’re at a world-class golf facility.

When it comes to dining, guests have several options. All are located on the grounds of Old Waverly. Murphy's is located on the lower level of the Clubhouse and is a great place to eat a casual lunch, watch the big game, play darts, or just relax with friends.

Cameron's is the perfect place to relax and celebrate the end of the day or the beginning of the evening, depending on how you look at it. Cameron’s is reminiscent of a Scottish landowner's library with its rich warmth complemented by a wide selection of fine cigars and wines as well as your favorite libations.
In the event your tastes are a little more discerning and you desire something a little more elegant, The Magnolia Room welcomes dinner guests with a panoramic view of Lake Waverly and the golf course.

The English Garden at Old Waverly provides the perfect setting for afternoon tea, an outdoor cocktail party, or a hearty barbecue feast. The highlight of the garden is the original smokehouse, where superb meats are prepared for even the most discriminating of tastes.

Old Waverly and Mossy Oak offer some tremendous packages that allow you to play both courses and experience everything they have to offer.

Legend Oaks Golf Club in Summerville, SC is much more than your typical daily fee facility. Although the golf course receives much of the spotlight, its tennis program is one of the best in the area, and its restaurant, Bistro One18, receives a lot of business from locals and other non-golfers. I think it’s safe to say that Legend Oaks is truly a hidden gem!

Legend Oaks offers golfers five sets of tees with yardages that stretch from 6,809 to a manageable 4,957 for the ladies, juniors, and seniors. I found the Blue Tees (6,063/70.5/124) provided a substantial challenge for someone playing the course for the first time, and still, let me leave with a little dignity!

Legend Oaks is built on the site of an antebellum rice plantation and has plenty of water hazards, sand traps, and wetland areas with deep, thick underbrush. Remember those centuries-old live oaks you saw on the way in? You’ll find plenty more of them as you make your way around the layout only these are not there for aesthetics! You’ll also see towering pines and a whole host of Lowcountry wildlife.

The front nine has a little bit of “target golf” to it and demands more control off the tee whereas the back nine is more wide open. The Diamond Zoysia greens were installed in 2014 and not only hold well-hit approach shots nicely they also provide a noticeably smooth putting surface.

As you play the course, you may get a Pete Dye or Jack Nicklaus vibe. That’s because course architect Scott Pool worked for Dye for 10 years and did a lot of course shaping for Jack Nicklaus as well. Unlike Dye who liked to hide pot bunkers and other hazards whenever he could, Pool is upfront about the challenges you’ll encounter. It’s more of a brains-over-brawn philosophy at Legend Oaks or, as former owner Jim Chickarello used to say, “It’s a shotmaker’s course.”

The golf course has several memorable holes; for me, they were Numbers 1, 6, 10,16, and 18.

The opening hole is a 362-yard par 4, dogleg left. If you can fly your tee shot over the fairway bunker on the left, you’ll have a much shorter approach shot. Longball hitters should take note of the water just past the fairway bunker on the right. Success off the tee will leave a mid to short-iron approach shot that plays slightly downhill onto a large green. Although there are no bunkers around the green, the subtle undulations may get you. Nothing wrong with starting with a par!

Number 6 is a 480-yard par 5 that many players will be able to reach in two. Your layup and approach shots play significantly downhill and if you can hit your layup shot over the fairway bunker on the left, you may just catch the slope and roll all the way to the green. The green is small and is protected by water on the right and in the back if you fly it long. Although there are no bunkers around the green, there is a lot of mounding which can make for some interesting lies.

If you’ve never played the golf course before, the 10th hole can be notoriously intimidating. At 322 yards, length isn’t the main concern although longball hitters should take note of the pond in front of the green. Playing your tee shot left of the water will leave a longer approach shot into the green but may save a golf ball or two. The green is very large and angled front left to back right. The right side is protected by a bunker in front as well as water and a marsh area. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, Legend Oaks does something interesting and flips the nines, so this will be your first hole of the day.

Number 16 is a long par 4 that plays 400 yards from the Blue Tees. The hole doglegs around a lake however it’s more like a right turn than a dogleg! Longball hitters may be able to carry the lake off the tee, but for the rest of us, playing your tee shot left of the water will avoid the wet stuff but still leave a hybrid or long iron into the green.

The finishing hole is a straight-away par 5 with some interesting twists. Although it’s only 451 yards from the Blue Tees, it plays longer and requires accuracy on your first two shots. The fairway opens up to the right of the fairway bunker, but your next shot may be blocked out by trees. Anything left of that bunker spells big trouble. If you can hit a straight drive over the bunker on the left you’ll have the best angle into the green. It’s clear sailing from about 140 yards out, once you get past the trees that line either side. The long, narrow green is probably the best-protected green on the golf course with bunkers in front and on either side.

Before your round, be sure to hit a few balls on the full-length driving range where you can swing away with every club in your bag. The practice green is mowed daily and will give you a feel for what you’re about to encounter.

Legend Oaks is a semi-private golf and tennis facility. Everyone is welcome to play the golf course and enjoy a meal at Bistro One18. It’s a great place to relax and unwind after a round or entertain business clients and associates. Bistro One18 isn’t what you’d expect at a public golf course. Of course, they offer all of the traditional clubhouse foods – wings, sandwiches, and burgers - but they also offer some pretty impressive entrees. Choose from Chicken Marsala, Chicken Alfredo, Fish and Chips, and my favorite, Steak Frites. It’s all good and you won’t leave hungry!

What’s better than a private golf club membership? How about a membership that includes two separate and distinctly different clubs?

For years, the Lake Mary area was home to two private country clubs located just a couple of miles apart, Heathrow Country Club and The Legacy Club at Alaqua Lakes. The clubs competed against each other for membership and special events and the competition was pretty fierce. With only a limited number of golfers and potential new members in the area, both clubs started to flounder.

Enter Concert Golf Partners, one of the fastest-growing private club ownership companies in the US whose specialty is turning around floundering private clubs. Typically, it involves a much-needed infusion of capital to get the “turnaround” process started and their success rate is amazing. Concert has over 30 properties in its portfolio, spanning 16 states from Massachusetts to Texas. As a member of one club, you become a member of all of them, so you can play a round of golf or tennis, swim, or dine at other Concert Golf properties during your travels. It’s always something to consider when planning a vacation.

Concert purchased Heathrow out of foreclosure in July 2011. The Legacy at Alaqua Lakes had been under the threat of foreclosure and was purchased in October 2013. Over the past 10+ years, conditions at both clubs have improved significantly, and on a recent visit, it appears both clubs are once again thriving.

A little history. The Legacy Club at Alaqua Lakes opened in 1998 and features an 18-hole, Tom Fazio championship golf course. To this day, Tom Fazio considers The Legacy Club one of his best pieces of work. The course winds its way through a dense forest of mature trees and the slopes, rises, and knolls in the topography of the land are unique to this part of Florida. The course is certified as an Audubon International Signature Certified Sanctuary golf course and with its state-of-the-art meeting facilities, Legacy Club is a great place to host a special event.

Either golf course will challenge golfers of every level. Both facilities offer a clubhouse with a golf shop and restaurant, a driving range, a putting green, and a short game area. Heathrow Legacy’s staff of golf professionals want you to get the most out of your game but more importantly, enjoy yourself. They oversee programs for all golfers and see to it that you make the most of Heathrow Legacy's golf amenities. Lessons are available for all members regardless of skill level, and the staff can also help with individual club fitting for any club in the bag. The Golf Shop stocks the latest in equipment and their selection of logoed apparel will help you look your best.

The Legacy Club has six sets of tees to choose from as well as a hybrid Blue/White yardage listed on the scorecard. The golf course has several memorable par 5s; three of which are handicapped 1, 2, and 4! The 4th hole is the course’s #1 handicap and plays 499 yards from the White Tees. This dogleg left starts with a forced carry over water into a narrow landing area with a bunker on the left. From the corner of the dogleg in, trees line both sides of the fairway and for most, it’s a three-shot hole. Trees on the left and sand on the right create a narrow landing area for your layup shot, and sand pretty much surrounds the green. Par is a great score here! Number 15 is the #2 handicap and plays 493 yards with water on the left and trees lining the right. A tree on the right side about 140 yards from the green wreaks havoc with many golfers who do their best to avoid it and end up finding either the water on the left or one of several bunkers in the landing area.

Should you prefer the courts over the course, the club offers a world-class tennis facility that has hosted two ATP events in 1990 and 1991. The tennis program has been run by one of Central Florida’s most respected Tennis Directors, Barry Myers, since its inception almost 30 years ago. World-renowned tennis professionals Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras, and Billie Jean King have all played on Heathrow Athletic Club’s sunken stadium court. The racquet club features 11 fast clay courts and 2 hard courts. Whether you’re new to the game or an accomplished player, the tennis staff will see to it that you are paired up with players of the same ability and skills.

Club members typically take a lot of pride in the culinary aspects of their club; I’ve spoken with members in the past whose decision on which club to join came down to which one had the best food! Heathrow Legacy offers the same menu at both properties with dinner entrees such as Artichoke and Spinach Stuffed Chicken, A Pan Seared Ribeye Steak, and Seared Ahi Tuna. Both locations serve breakfast lunch, and dinner Tuesday – Sunday.

If you’re relocating to the North Orlando area and are looking for a club with a lot of recreational options and the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, you should consider a membership at Heathrow Legacy. They offer several membership plans including a Champions Business Asset Membership, Champions Golf Membership, Tennis, and Social Memberships. And, if you would like to keep your weekends free but still enjoy everything both clubs have to offer, look into their Weekday Membership which includes unlimited access to both golf facilities Tuesday-Friday as well as all amenities at both facilities, and member privileges at all Concert Golf properties.

What’s better than a private golf club membership? How about a membership that includes two separate and distinctly different clubs?

For years, the Lake Mary area was home to two private country clubs located just a couple of miles apart, Heathrow Country Club and The Legacy Club at Alaqua Lakes. The clubs competed against each other for membership and special events and the competition was pretty fierce. With only a limited number of golfers and potential new members in the area, both clubs started to flounder.

Enter Concert Golf Partners, one of the fastest-growing private club ownership companies in the US whose specialty is turning around floundering private clubs. Typically, it involves a much-needed infusion of capital to get the “turnaround” process started and their success rate is amazing. Concert has over 30 properties in its portfolio, spanning 16 states from Massachusetts to Texas. As a member of one club, you become a member of all of them, so you can play a round of golf or tennis, swim, or dine at other Concert Golf properties during your travels. It’s always something to consider when planning a vacation.

Concert purchased Heathrow out of foreclosure in July 2011. The Legacy at Alaqua Lakes had been under the threat of foreclosure and was purchased in October 2013. Over the past 10+ years, conditions at both clubs have improved significantly, and on a recent visit, it appears both clubs are once again thriving.

A little history. Heathrow Country Club was established in 1983 and for years was considered the leading private country club and social hub in North Orlando. Heathrow features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Lakeland, Florida native Ron Garl. Over the years, Heathrow has played host to nine US Open Qualifiers and its members have included PGA TOUR players Chris DiMarco, Fulton Allem, Jim Thorpe, and others. The 15,000-square-foot clubhouse offers full dining and banquet facilities, and the adjacent 9,000-square-foot Racquet Club consists of a 13-court tennis complex with a stadium center court and one of the premier aquatic facilities in Central Florida. The tennis complex has a history all its own!

Either golf course will challenge golfers of every level. Both facilities offer a clubhouse with a golf shop and restaurant, a driving range, a putting green, and a short game area. Heathrow Legacy’s staff of golf professionals want you to get the most out of your game but more importantly, enjoy yourself. They oversee programs for all golfers and see to it that you make the most of Heathrow Legacy's golf amenities. Lessons are available for all members regardless of skill level, and the staff can also help with individual club fitting for any club in the bag. The Golf Shop stocks the latest in equipment and their selection of logoed apparel will help you look your best.

Heathrow offers golfers six tee boxes with the scorecard showing a seventh yardage (White Tees), which combines the Blue and Gold Tees. Yardages range from 6,888 yards for accomplished players to 4,951 yards for juniors, seniors, and ladies. Pick the tees that best suit your game and you’re sure to have a good time. That said, you better be able to hit accurate approach shots into small greens if you want to score well.

The first hole is a picturesque par 4, dogleg left that plays 377 yards with bunkers that frame the landing area. Your approach shot is uphill to a large, well-undulated green. Once you hit the second tee, water takes center stage and comes into play on 16 of the final 17 holes. No Ron Garl design is complete without an Island green, and the 12th hole is the piece de resistance in this water jigsaw puzzle. The hole plays 117 yards with a pot bunker on the left side of the green. On the 17th hole, Garl uses the water to create an island fairway. Anything left or right off the tee will most likely find the water; hit it too far straight and it’s either sand or water. Find the fairway off the tee and you’ll still have to cross over the water on your approach. It’s handicapped the 2nd most challenging hole on the course.

Should you prefer the courts over the course, the club offers a world-class tennis facility that has hosted two ATP events in 1990 and 1991. The tennis program has been run by one of Central Florida’s most respected Tennis Directors, Barry Myers, since its inception almost 30 years ago. World-renowned tennis professionals Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras, and Billie Jean King have all played on Heathrow Athletic Club’s sunken stadium court. The racquet club features 11 fast clay courts and 2 hard courts. Whether you’re new to the game or an accomplished player, the tennis staff will see to it that you are paired up with players of the same ability and skills.

Club members typically take a lot of pride in the culinary aspects of their club; I’ve spoken with members in the past whose decision on which club to join came down to which one had the best food! Heathrow Legacy offers the same menu at both properties with dinner entrees such as Artichoke and Spinach Stuffed Chicken, A Pan Seared Ribeye Steak, and Seared Ahi Tuna. Both locations serve breakfast lunch, and dinner Tuesday – Sunday.

If you’re relocating to the North Orlando area and are looking for a club with a lot of recreational options and the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, you should consider a membership at Heathrow Legacy. They offer several membership plans including a Champions Business Asset Membership, Champions Golf Membership, Tennis, and Social Memberships. And, if you would like to keep your weekends free but still enjoy everything both clubs have to offer, look into their Weekday Membership which includes unlimited access to both golf facilities Tuesday-Friday as well as all amenities at both facilities, and member privileges at all Concert Golf properties. For

Heritage Golf Group – the fastest-growing golf course ownership company in the country – acquired Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club on Hilton Head Island in 2022. For Heritage Golf Group’s President and CEO Mark Burnett, the decision to purchase Palmetto Hall was easy. “With the resurgence in golf travel and the number of choices golfers have for golf getaways, it’s crucial that we promote our region’s amazing golf, lodging, and culinary assets,” Burnett said. He added, “We are thrilled with the recent addition of Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club to our portfolio and excited for its inclusion in Hilton Head Golf Island alongside Oyster Reef, Port Royal, and Shipyard.”

Immediately after the acquisition, Heritage Golf Group committed to a multi-million-dollar golf course improvement project. A complete renovation of the Arthur Hills course was completed in the fall. The renovation included new Tiff Eagle Bermuda greens, renovation of all the bunkers and installation of the Better Billy Bunker system, the best drainage system in golf, and extensive tree work.

Palmetto Hall features two golf courses designed by two iconic golf course architects: Arthur Hills and Robert Cupp. Together, these courses have long been considered among the best layouts in the Lowcountry; Heritage Golf Group’s goal is to return them to their former glory. The courses present a compelling contrast – the computer-designed Robert Cupp Course with its ultra-modern shaping and geometric bunkers and the Arthur Hills Course with its traditional look and feel.

The Cupp Course is unique because it was one of the first courses to be designed using a computer and a CAD program. As a result, you’ll find a lot of geometric shapes throughout the course. Some of these geometric figures have dissipated over time, but many are still noticeable. Straight lines and defined angles are the norms for many of the hazards; perfectly round greens, rectangular greens, square bunkers, and mounds that look like pyramids can be seen as you make your way around the layout. As a result, the Robert Cupp Course has shown up on its fair share of “Unusual Golf Course” lists, yet it will test low handicappers and is extremely playable for novices.

When the course opened in 1993 it had a 152 slope rating - the highest slope rating of any course in the state at the time. The course has mellowed slightly and now carries a slope rating of 149. Move up to the White Tees which play 6,042 yards and the slope drops to 124, a little on the high side but still manageable. The Forward (Green) Tees play 5,230 yards and offer only a slight reprieve in difficulty with a course rating of 70.6 and a slope of 123. Pick the tees that best suit your game and you’re sure to have an enjoyable round.

Even with this difficult rating from the tips, the course still draws high praise for its impeccable year-round conditioning, sound shot values, and flexibility. The course will challenge you as you wind your way through and around vast sawgrass marshes and dense forests of oak and pine.

The 11th hole may be your best shot at birdie. It’s a short par 4 and plays 290 yards from the White Tees. Hit’s advisable to hit something less than a driver off the tee, short of the triangular bunker. That will leave a short pitch shot into a green where the pin is probably blocked out by a large mound. The green’s not very deep so distance control is at a premium. A good pitch shot can result in a good score!

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club offers a variety of membership categories. It is a bundled community, so if you live in the Palmetto Hall community you must purchase at least a social membership.

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club has joined three other classic golf courses on Hilton Head Island - Port Royal, Oyster Reef, and Shipyard Golf Club -and is now part of Heritage Golf Group’s Hilton Head Collection. Visit them online to book your next round or golf vacation package.

Heritage Golf Group – the fastest-growing golf course ownership company in the country – acquired Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club on Hilton Head Island in 2022. For Heritage Golf Group’s President and CEO Mark Burnett, the decision to purchase Palmetto Hall was easy. “With the resurgence in golf travel and the number of choices golfers have for golf getaways, it’s crucial that we promote our region’s amazing golf, lodging, and culinary assets,” Burnett said. He added, “We are thrilled with the recent addition of Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club to our portfolio and excited for its inclusion in Hilton Head Golf Island alongside Oyster Reef, Port Royal, and Shipyard.”

Immediately after the acquisition, Heritage Golf Group committed to a multi-million-dollar golf course improvement project. A complete renovation of the Arthur Hills course was completed in the fall. The renovation included new Tiff Eagle Bermuda greens, renovation of all the bunkers and installation of the Better Billy Bunker system, the best drainage system in golf, and extensive tree work.

Palmetto Hall features two golf courses designed by two iconic golf course architects: Arthur Hills and Robert Cupp. Together, these courses have long been considered among the best layouts in the Lowcountry; Heritage Golf Group’s goal is to return them to their former glory. The courses present a compelling contrast – the computer-designed Robert Cupp Course with its ultra-modern shaping and geometric bunkers and the Arthur Hills Course with its traditional look and feel.

The Cupp Course is unique because it was one of the first courses to be designed using a computer and a CAD program. As a result, you’ll find a lot of geometric shapes throughout the course. Some of these geometric figures have dissipated over time, but many are still noticeable. Straight lines and defined angles are the norms for many of the hazards; perfectly round greens, rectangular greens, square bunkers, and mounds that look like pyramids can be seen as you make your way around the layout. As a result, the Robert Cupp Course has shown up on its fair share of “Unusual Golf Course” lists, yet it will test low handicappers and is extremely playable for novices.

When the course opened in 1993 it had a 152 slope rating - the highest slope rating of any course in the state at the time. The course has mellowed slightly and now carries a slope rating of 149. Move up to the White Tees which play 6,042 yards and the slope drops to 124, a little on the high side but still manageable. The Forward (Green) Tees play 5,230 yards and offer only a slight reprieve in difficulty with a course rating of 70.6 and a slope of 123. Pick the tees that best suit your game and you’re sure to have an enjoyable round.

Even with this difficult rating from the tips, the course still draws high praise for its impeccable year-round conditioning, sound shot values, and flexibility. The course will challenge you as you wind your way through and around vast sawgrass marshes and dense forests of oak and pine.

The 11th hole may be your best shot at birdie. It’s a short par 4 and plays 290 yards from the White Tees. Hit’s advisable to hit something less than a driver off the tee, short of the triangular bunker. That will leave a short pitch shot into a green where the pin is probably blocked out by a large mound. The green’s not very deep so distance control is at a premium. A good pitch shot can result in a good score!

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club offers a variety of membership categories. It is a bundled community, so if you live in the Palmetto Hall community you must purchase at least a social membership.

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club has joined three other classic golf courses on Hilton Head Island - Port Royal, Oyster Reef, and Shipyard Golf Club -and is now part of Heritage Golf Group’s Hilton Head Collection. Visit them online to book your next round or golf vacation package.

Heritage Golf Group – the fastest-growing golf course ownership company in the country – acquired Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club on Hilton Head Island in 2022. For Heritage Golf Group’s President and CEO Mark Burnett, the decision to purchase Palmetto Hall was easy. “With the resurgence in golf travel and the number of choices golfers have for golf getaways, it’s crucial that we promote our region’s amazing golf, lodging, and culinary assets,” Burnett said. He added, “We are thrilled with the recent addition of Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club to our portfolio and excited for its inclusion in Hilton Head Golf Island alongside Oyster Reef, Port Royal, and Shipyard.”

Immediately after the acquisition, Heritage Golf Group committed to a multi-million-dollar golf course improvement project. A complete renovation of the Arthur Hills course was completed in the fall. The renovation included new Tiff Eagle Bermuda greens, renovation of all the bunkers and installation of the Better Billy Bunker system, the best drainage system in golf, and extensive tree work.

Palmetto Hall features two golf courses designed by two iconic golf course architects: Arthur Hills and Robert Cupp. Together, these courses have long been considered among the best layouts in the Lowcountry; Heritage Golf Group’s goal is to return them to their former glory. The courses present a compelling contrast – the computer-designed Robert Cupp Course with its ultra-modern shaping and geometric bunkers and the Arthur Hills Course with its traditional look and feel.

The Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Hall opened in 1991 to rave reviews and that same year was named to Golf Digest’s list as one of America’s Top 10 New Courses. Over the years the magazine has awarded the course 4-stars as one of its “Best Places to Play.” The Arthur Hills course plays 6,918 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 73.8 and a slope of 139. At 6,257 yards (70.6/128), the White Tees will prove to be a formidable foe for most golfers, while ladies will find the course enjoyable from the Red Tees (5,006/70.3/119).

Hills’ signature style is on full display with undulating fairways and a lot of mounding as the course winds its way through heavily wooded forests of moss-draped oaks and towering pines that frame the fairways of many holes. Palmetto Hall’s lush fairways and crystalline lakes give way to large greens that are protected by strategically placed bunkers.

The completely remodeled Arthur Hills course at Palmetto Hall starts you off with the most challenging hole on the course and ends with the Number 2 handicap. The first hole is a 405-yard par 4 (White Tees) that is relatively flat with marshlands on the left side and trees tight on the right. The green has a large false front and sits at an odd angle to the fairway. It’s protected all down the right side by a sand bunker. Did I mention the greens are very quick?

The 8th hole is a challenging par 4 that plays 354 yards from the White Tees. The water on the left side can be carried with a good tee shot, leaving a much shorter approach shot into the green. However, if you push your tee shot right, you could easily find the woods that line the fairway. There are two fairway bunkers in the landing area on the right side that also see a lot of play. Par is a good score here!

Number 18 is the #2 handicapped hole on the golf course and plays 389 yards from the White Tees. It’s a dogleg left par 4 with water all down the left side that most players are going to have to cross twice. Push your drive right and the trees will get you. A good drive will leave a mid-iron into a green with water on the left that comes right up against the green and two traps on the right. It’s one of Hilton Head’s best finishing holes!

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club offers a variety of membership categories. It is a bundled community, so if you live in the Palmetto Hall community you must purchase at least a social membership.

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club has joined three other classic golf courses on Hilton Head Island - Port Royal, Oyster Reef, and Shipyard Golf Club -and is now part of Heritage Golf Group’s Hilton Head Collection. Visit them online to book your next round or golf vacation package.

Heritage Golf Group – the fastest-growing golf course ownership company in the country – acquired Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club on Hilton Head Island in 2022. For Heritage Golf Group’s President and CEO Mark Burnett, the decision to purchase Palmetto Hall was easy. “With the resurgence in golf travel and the number of choices golfers have for golf getaways, it’s crucial that we promote our region’s amazing golf, lodging, and culinary assets,” Burnett said. He added, “We are thrilled with the recent addition of Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club to our portfolio and excited for its inclusion in Hilton Head Golf Island alongside Oyster Reef, Port Royal, and Shipyard.”

Immediately after the acquisition, Heritage Golf Group committed to a multi-million-dollar golf course improvement project. A complete renovation of the Arthur Hills course was completed in the fall. The renovation included new Tiff Eagle Bermuda greens, renovation of all the bunkers and installation of the Better Billy Bunker system, the best drainage system in golf, and extensive tree work.

Palmetto Hall features two golf courses designed by two iconic golf course architects: Arthur Hills and Robert Cupp. Together, these courses have long been considered among the best layouts in the Lowcountry; Heritage Golf Group’s goal is to return them to their former glory. The courses present a compelling contrast – the computer-designed Robert Cupp Course with its ultra-modern shaping and geometric bunkers and the Arthur Hills Course with its traditional look and feel.

The Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Hall opened in 1991 to rave reviews and that same year was named to Golf Digest’s list as one of America’s Top 10 New Courses. Over the years the magazine has awarded the course 4-stars as one of its “Best Places to Play.” The Arthur Hills course plays 6,918 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 73.8 and a slope of 139. At 6,257 yards (70.6/128), the White Tees will prove to be a formidable foe for most golfers, while ladies will find the course enjoyable from the Red Tees (5,006/70.3/119).

Hills’ signature style is on full display with undulating fairways and a lot of mounding as the course winds its way through heavily wooded forests of moss-draped oaks and towering pines that frame the fairways of many holes. Palmetto Hall’s lush fairways and crystalline lakes give way to large greens that are protected by strategically placed bunkers.

The completely remodeled Arthur Hills course at Palmetto Hall starts you off with the most challenging hole on the course and ends with the Number 2 handicap. The first hole is a 405-yard par 4 (White Tees) that is relatively flat with marshlands on the left side and trees tight on the right. The green has a large false front and sits at an odd angle to the fairway. It’s protected all down the right side by a sand bunker. Did I mention the greens are very quick?

The 8th hole is a challenging par 4 that plays 354 yards from the White Tees. The water on the left side can be carried with a good tee shot, leaving a much shorter approach shot into the green. However, if you push your tee shot right, you could easily find the woods that line the fairway. There are two fairway bunkers in the landing area on the right side that also see a lot of play. Par is a good score here!

Number 18 is the #2 handicapped hole on the golf course and plays 389 yards from the White Tees. It’s a dogleg left par 4 with water all down the left side that most players are going to have to cross twice. Push your drive right and the trees will get you. A good drive will leave a mid-iron into a green with water on the left that comes right up against the green and two traps on the right. It’s one of Hilton Head’s best finishing holes!

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club offers a variety of membership categories. It is a bundled community, so if you live in the Palmetto Hall community you must purchase at least a social membership.

Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club has joined three other classic golf courses on Hilton Head Island - Port Royal, Oyster Reef, and Shipyard Golf Club -and is now part of Heritage Golf Group’s Hilton Head Collection. Visit them online to book your next round or golf vacation package.

During my 10 years of living in SW Florida, I was always under the impression that Rotonda Golf & Country Club was a private club. It wasn’t until my sister moved there that I discovered that the public was welcome to play it, too. In the few times I’ve played it since then, I’ve always had a great time. The courses are always in good condition, they are challenging, and priced right, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The Rotonda West community is located in southwest Charlotte County, Florida, less than a mile from the Gulf of Mexico, and Englewood Beach. It is a deed-restricted community that is home to over 15,000 residents. The community has an interesting shape to it when looked at from an aerial view; it’s perfectly round, with 7 pie-shaped wedges cut into it. Each wedge is a separate community - Oakland Hills, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Long Meadow, White Marsh, and Pine Valley. The eighth wedge is wetlands and preserves which is helpful for irrigation of all the courses. Each community has a golf course running through it, so if you live there, you’re never too far from the golf course! All of the homes and home sites front either a golf course, greenbelt, or body of water.

The Rotonda Golf & Country Club features 99 holes of golf across its five courses, designed by 5 renowned architects: Pete Dye, Ted McAnlis, John LaFoy, D.J. DeVictor, and Jim Petrides. Long Marsh has 27 holes and is considered Rotonda’s premier course; it’s also rated its toughest. Long Marsh was designed by Ted McAnlis. Rotonda Golf & Country Club has been awarded a “Beginner Friendly Certification” from the National Golf Course Owners Association and numerous accolades from the Charlotte Sun Herald.

The Long Marsh Golf Course is the centerpiece of all five golf courses at Rotonda Golf & Country Club. It was designed by Ted McAnlis and the original 18 holes – Long Meadow and White Marsh - opened for play in 1999. The 9 holes at Pine Valley were added in 2007. The course winds through 450 acres of natural Florida scrub and each of Long Marsh’s 27 holes has a distinctive character, making it unlike any other course in the area. Gently rolling fairways are framed by native pine, oak, and palm trees with natural waste bunkers, lakes, and marshes that add to the intrigue. What you see is what you get; there are no blind shots or hidden hazards. Four sets of tee boxes provide distances ranging from 5,257 from the forward tee yards to 7,120 yards from the back tees.

Number 6 on the Pine Valley nine is probably the most interesting hole of all 99. From the White Tees it plays 350 yards and doglegs around a small lake; fairway bunkers dot the landscape in the landing area. Longball hitters can take their tee shot over the water straight at the green. Anything left of the green will most likely not be seen again. Bunkers front both sides of the green which slopes gently from back to front. It’s a good risk-reward hole.

Golfers and residents alike flock to the Rotonda Hills Restaurant; the public is invited on Wednesdays and Fridays for dinner and on Sundays for breakfast. Their specialty is made-from-scratch dishes with new food and drink specials each week, You can see their menu online.

Should you find yourself playing at Rotonda more and more because of the great golf and friendly staff, you may want to consider becoming a member. A membership at Rotonda gives you access to all 99 holes of golf, free range balls, advanced tee time booking, and a 10% discount on pro shop merchandise. There are never any assessments or food and beverage minimums, and they even throw in handicap indexing through the USGA at no charge! Memberships are available for singles and families and can be purchased for one or two years. Each membership plan requires a small initiation fee. Best of all, you don’t have to live in the community to become a member!

During my 10 years of living in SW Florida, I was always under the impression that Rotonda Golf & Country Club was a private club. It wasn’t until my sister moved there that I discovered that the public was welcome to play it, too. In the few times I’ve played it since then, I’ve always had a great time. The courses are always in good condition, they are challenging, and priced right, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The Rotonda West community is located in southwest Charlotte County, Florida, less than a mile from the Gulf of Mexico, and Englewood Beach. It is a deed-restricted community that is home to over 15,000 residents. The community has an interesting shape to it when looked at from an aerial view; it’s perfectly round, with 7 pie-shaped wedges cut into it. Each wedge is a separate community - Oakland Hills, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Long Meadow, White Marsh, and Pine Valley. The eighth wedge is wetlands and preserves which is helpful for irrigation of all the courses. Each community has a golf course running through it, so if you live there, you’re never too far from the golf course! All of the homes and home sites front either a golf course, greenbelt, or body of water.

The Rotonda Golf & Country Club features 99 holes of golf across its five courses, designed by 5 renowned architects: Pete Dye, Ted McAnlis, John LaFoy, D.J. DeVictor, and Jim Petrides. Long Marsh has 27 holes and is considered Rotonda’s premier course; it’s also rated its toughest. Long Marsh was designed by Ted McAnlis. Rotonda Golf & Country Club has been awarded a “Beginner Friendly Certification” from the National Golf Course Owners Association and numerous accolades from the Charlotte Sun Herald.

The Long Marsh Golf Course is the centerpiece of all five golf courses at Rotonda Golf & Country Club. It was designed by Ted McAnlis and the original 18 holes – Long Meadow and White Marsh - opened for play in 1999. The 9 holes at Pine Valley were added in 2007. The course winds through 450 acres of natural Florida scrub and each of Long Marsh’s 27 holes has a distinctive character, making it unlike any other course in the area. Gently rolling fairways are framed by native pine, oak, and palm trees with natural waste bunkers, lakes, and marshes that add to the intrigue. What you see is what you get; there are no blind shots or hidden hazards. Four sets of tee boxes provide distances ranging from 5,257 from the forward tee yards to 7,120 yards from the back tees.

Number 6 on the Pine Valley nine is probably the most interesting hole of all 99. From the White Tees it plays 350 yards and doglegs around a small lake; fairway bunkers dot the landscape in the landing area. Longball hitters can take their tee shot over the water straight at the green. Anything left of the green will most likely not be seen again. Bunkers front both sides of the green which slopes gently from back to front. It’s a good risk-reward hole.

Golfers and residents alike flock to the Rotonda Hills Restaurant; the public is invited on Wednesdays and Fridays for dinner and on Sundays for breakfast. Their specialty is made-from-scratch dishes with new food and drink specials each week, You can see their menu online.

Should you find yourself playing at Rotonda more and more because of the great golf and friendly staff, you may want to consider becoming a member. A membership at Rotonda gives you access to all 99 holes of golf, free range balls, advanced tee time booking, and a 10% discount on pro shop merchandise. There are never any assessments or food and beverage minimums, and they even throw in handicap indexing through the USGA at no charge! Memberships are available for singles and families and can be purchased for one or two years. Each membership plan requires a small initiation fee. Best of all, you don’t have to live in the community to become a member!

During my 10 years of living in SW Florida, I was always under the impression that Rotonda Golf & Country Club was a private club. It wasn’t until my sister moved there that I discovered that the public was welcome to play it, too. In the few times I’ve played it since then, I’ve always had a great time. The courses are always in good condition, they are challenging, and priced right, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The Rotonda West community is located in southwest Charlotte County, Florida, less than a mile from the Gulf of Mexico, and Englewood Beach. It is a deed-restricted community that is home to over 15,000 residents. The community has an interesting shape to it when looked at from an aerial view; it’s perfectly round, with 7 pie-shaped wedges cut into it. Each wedge is a separate community - Oakland Hills, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Long Meadow, White Marsh, and Pine Valley. The eighth wedge is wetlands and preserves which is helpful for irrigation of all the courses. Each community has a golf course running through it, so if you live there, you’re never too far from the golf course! All of the homes and home sites front either a golf course, greenbelt, or body of water.

The Rotonda Golf & Country Club features 99 holes of golf across its five courses, designed by 5 renowned architects: Pete Dye, Ted McAnlis, John LaFoy, D.J. DeVictor, and Jim Petrides. Long Marsh has 27 holes and is considered Rotonda’s premier course; it’s also rated its toughest. Long Marsh was designed by Ted McAnlis. Rotonda Golf & Country Club has been awarded a “Beginner Friendly Certification” from the National Golf Course Owners Association and numerous accolades from the Charlotte Sun Herald.

The Palms was the second golf course built at Rotonda. It was designed by D.J. DeVictor and opened for play in 1980. With five sets of tees, there’s a yardage suitable for every level of golfer. The Palms’ five finishing holes have been astounding golfers ever since. These five holes bring six different water hazards into play and feature several multi-tiered greens. The 15th and 16th holes are considered by many to be two of the most and two of Florida’s most demanding holes in the area. At 404 yards from the Gold Tees, Number 15 is handicapped #2. What makes this hole difficult for most golfers is the water that runs down the right side of the fairway. Try and bail out to the left and you’re bringing the trees into play. Ideally, you want to play your tee shot down the right side close to the water. That will give the least obstructed path into the green. Several trees infringe into the fairway on the left and a large deep bunker guards the right side of the green which slopes back right to front left.

Number 16 is a 492-yard par 5 with more water on the right side off the tee. There’s room to bail out left this time, just before the dogleg. A good drive down the right side may allow you to cut the dogleg and go for the green but beware, there’s more water to the left of the green. A single sand trap sits on the left side between the water and the long, narrow green.

Golfers and residents alike flock to the Rotonda Hills Restaurant; the public is invited on Wednesdays and Fridays for dinner and on Sundays for breakfast. Their specialty is made-from-scratch dishes with new food and drink specials each week, You can see their menu online.

Should you find yourself playing at Rotonda more and more because of the great golf and friendly staff, you may want to consider becoming a member. A membership at Rotonda gives you access to all 99 holes of golf, free range balls, advanced tee time booking, and a 10% discount on pro shop merchandise. There are never any assessments or food and beverage minimums, and they even throw in handicap indexing through the USGA at no charge! Memberships are available for singles and families and can be purchased for one or two years. Each membership plan requires a small initiation fee. Best of all, you don’t have to live in the community to become a member!

Carrollwood Country Club has a very rich and interesting history. The club – originally known as Carrollwood Village Golf & Tennis Club - was founded in 1972. Back then, the Carrollwood area, which is about 10 miles due north of downtown Tampa, was not considered part of “Tampa,” yet the club was very successful, boasting nearly 1,000 golfing members and 600 tennis members. It was the largest Country Club community in the Tampa Bay area.

Fast forward 30 years to the early 2000s and the club is undergoing an ownership and name change. The new Emerald Greens Golf Resort and Country Club is about to embark on an extensive renovation project at the hands of world-renowned golf course architect Dan Maples. Maples will oversee the rebuilding of all 27 holes as well as resurfacing of all greens with Champion UltraDwarf turf, considered to be one of the best putting surfaces in the world. The club continues to flourish.

A little over a decade later times have changed once again. The economy has taken a huge hit, and in 2013, Emerald Greens Golf Resort and Country Club was sold to Concert Golf Partners. Concert Golf Partners CEO, Peter Nanula, a Tampa Jesuit graduate, finds that owning a country club in his hometown is a natural fit. One of the first orders of business is to rename the club and give it a sense of community and Carrollwood Country Club is reborn.

Carrollwood Country Club proudly boasts 27 holes of incredible Dan Maples golf. It may seem cliché but it’s a fact: 27 holes of golf equals three challenging 18-hole golf courses and this is certainly the case at Carrollwood Country Club. Each nine is unique in its own right and exemplifies Dan Maples at his best. A variety of strategically placed bunkers dot the landscape in several landing areas including devilish pot bunkers and large waste bunkers. Water hazards abut several elevated greens which are well-undulated and roll true.

The majestic tree-lined fairways of pine and cypress trees on the Pine Course give it a North Carolina look and feel. Water comes into play on seven of the nine holes and culminates with an island green, albeit on a par 5. A good drive that finds the fairway on this finishing hole may give you the opportunity to go for the green in two but beware, double bogeys are more common than eagles.

The Meadows Course is the most wide-open of all three layouts, which may allow you to spray the ball a bit but won’t help you find the smaller, well-protected greens any easier. The 6th hole is a 390-yard par 4 dogleg right that requires a tee shot down the middle/left side of the fairway; anything to the right and your approach shot will be blocked out by cypress trees. A good tee shot will leave an approach shot of about 160 yards into a green that is well-bunkered and guarded by water up the right side. The seventh hole is considered the best par 3 on any of the three layouts. The hole plays 158 yards hole with a forced carry over water and a bunker to a well-undulated green.

Carrollwood Country Club also boasts some tour-quality practice facility, which includes multiple tees, a short game area, and practice putting greens.

If you prefer the courts over the course, you’ll be glad to know that Carrollwood Country Club has an extremely active tennis membership. They offer eight beautifully surfaced Har-Tru tennis courts equipped with brilliant lighting for nighttime play. CCC’s staff of certified tennis professionals can help you with your tennis game as well as assimilation into leagues, clinics, and an ongoing schedule of social opportunities with fellow tennis players.

The warm Florida weather does have its advantages and being able to keep the sparkling Junior-Olympic swimming pool open year-round is definitely one of them. The centerpiece of the Tennis & Aquatic Center is surrounded by a magnificent deck of pavers, palm trees, cabanas, lounge chairs, and a large natural grass activity area. CCC offers a number of regularly planned fun activities such as Kids Nights, Movie Nights, and Barbecues. There’s a fenced Splash Pad for smaller children and a covered playground, which is also fenced in. Salads, wraps, hotdogs, and burgers are prepared poolside at the Oasis Poolside Grille.

No private club is complete without a state-of-the-art fitness center. The Fitness Center at Carrollwood Country Club is located inside the Tennis & Aquatics Center and features Life Fitness equipment, cardio machines, and free weights. Members can also choose from a number of fitness classes designed to work certain parts of the body or work out at their own pace. No matter what you choose, it’s a great way to feel better and more energized!

Since its founding, Carrollwood Country Club has been a melting pot of family fun and memories. Many of these memories are made with friends and their families; relationships that were made within the club. And there is no better place to make new friends than at one of the club’s social events. Whether it’s attending a Family Movie Night, taking a fitness class, or enjoying each other’s company at Happy Hour, CCC offers an active social calendar. Arrange a visit and see for yourself the family atmosphere that exists within the club.

The best way to take advantage of everything Carrollwood Country Club has to offer is to become a member! As a Full Golf Member, you, your spouse, and children under 24 will have full access to all 27 holes on the Meadow, Pine, and Cypress courses including greens fees and practice facilities for everyone listed on the membership. You’ll also receive full access to the Junior Olympic-size cooled and heated pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and social/dining events is also included. All items including food, guest fees, and carts will be charged to your member account. Each guest may play with you up to 6 times per year at current guest fee rates. A Junior Executive Golf Membership has the same privileges and is designed for members who are under 40 years of age.

Social and Tennis Members have full access to the Junior Olympic-size pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and social/dining events along with indoor and outdoor dining for everyone listed on the membership. You may play golf up to six times per calendar year and have yearly access to the practice range facility at an additional fee. Social Members may also play tennis, up to six times per calendar year at the discretion of the TAC staff; fees apply.

As a member, you’ll also be entitled to Club benefits at other Concert Golf properties. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, your benefits will mirror those of your home club; Full Golf Members receive cart fee-only pricing and regular guest fee rates for guests and each property can be accessed up to 6 times a year.

Carrollwood Country Club has a very rich and interesting history. The club – originally known as Carrollwood Village Golf & Tennis Club - was founded in 1972. Back then, the Carrollwood area, which is about 10 miles due north of downtown Tampa, was not considered part of “Tampa,” yet the club was very successful, boasting nearly 1,000 golfing members and 600 tennis members. It was the largest Country Club community in the Tampa Bay area.

Fast forward 30 years to the early 2000s and the club is undergoing an ownership and name change. The new Emerald Greens Golf Resort and Country Club is about to embark on an extensive renovation project at the hands of world-renowned golf course architect Dan Maples. Maples will oversee the rebuilding of all 27 holes as well as resurfacing of all greens with Champion UltraDwarf turf, considered to be one of the best putting surfaces in the world. The club continues to flourish.

A little over a decade later times have changed once again. The economy has taken a huge hit, and in 2013, Emerald Greens Golf Resort and Country Club was sold to Concert Golf Partners. Concert Golf Partners CEO, Peter Nanula, a Tampa Jesuit graduate, finds that owning a country club in his hometown is a natural fit. One of the first orders of business is to rename the club and give it a sense of community and Carrollwood Country Club is reborn.

Carrollwood Country Club proudly boasts 27 holes of incredible Dan Maples golf. It may seem cliché but it’s a fact: 27 holes of golf equals three challenging 18-hole golf courses and this is certainly the case at Carrollwood Country Club. Each nine is unique in its own right and exemplifies Dan Maples at his best. A variety of strategically placed bunkers dot the landscape in several landing areas including devilish pot bunkers and large waste bunkers. Water hazards abut several elevated greens which are well-undulated and roll true.

The majestic tree-lined fairways of pine and cypress trees on the Pine Course give it a North Carolina look and feel. Water comes into play on seven of the nine holes and culminates with an island green, albeit on a par 5. A good drive that finds the fairway on this finishing hole may give you the opportunity to go for the green in two but beware, double bogeys are more common than eagles.

The way the courses are typically played, the Cypress Course is the back nine of the championship layout. It is the longest of all three courses and is considered to be the most challenging. Many of the holes are tight and require accuracy off the tee in order to score well. Your journey starts with a tee shot that puts a premium on accuracy as water lines both sides of the fairway. Success off the tee on the first hole will leave an easy approach shot to the elevated green and hopefully set the tone for a good round.

The Meadows Course is the most wide-open of all three layouts, which may allow you to spray the ball a bit but won’t help you find the smaller, well-protected greens any easier. The 6th hole is a 390-yard par 4 dogleg right that requires a tee shot down the middle/left side of the fairway; anything to the right and your approach shot will be blocked out by cypress trees. A good tee shot will leave an approach shot of about 160 yards into a green that is well-bunkered and guarded by water up the right side. The seventh hole is considered the best par 3 on any of the three layouts. The hole plays 158 yards hole with a forced carry over water and a bunker to a well-undulated green.

Carrollwood Country Club also boasts some tour-quality practice facility, which includes multiple tees, a short game area, and practice putting greens.

If you prefer the courts over the course, you’ll be glad to know that Carrollwood Country Club has an extremely active tennis membership. They offer eight beautifully surfaced Har-Tru tennis courts equipped with brilliant lighting for nighttime play. CCC’s staff of certified tennis professionals can help you with your tennis game as well as assimilation into leagues, clinics, and an ongoing schedule of social opportunities with fellow tennis players.

The warm Florida weather does have its advantages and being able to keep the sparkling Junior-Olympic swimming pool open year-round is definitely one of them. The centerpiece of the Tennis & Aquatic Center is surrounded by a magnificent deck of pavers, palm trees, cabanas, lounge chairs, and a large natural grass activity area. CCC offers a number of regularly planned fun activities such as Kids Nights, Movie Nights, and Barbecues. There’s a fenced Splash Pad for smaller children and a covered playground, which is also fenced in. Salads, wraps, hotdogs, and burgers are prepared poolside at the Oasis Poolside Grille.

No private club is complete without a state-of-the-art fitness center. The Fitness Center at Carrollwood Country Club is located inside the Tennis & Aquatics Center and features Life Fitness equipment, cardio machines, and free weights. Members can also choose from a number of fitness classes designed to work certain parts of the body or work out at their own pace. No matter what you choose, it’s a great way to feel better and more energized!

Since its founding, Carrollwood Country Club has been a melting pot of family fun and memories. Many of these memories are made with friends and their families; relationships that were made within the club. And there is no better place to make new friends than at one of the club’s social events. Whether it’s attending a Family Movie Night, taking a fitness class, or enjoying each other’s company at Happy Hour, CCC offers an active social calendar. Arrange a visit and see for yourself the family atmosphere that exists within the club.

The best way to take advantage of everything Carrollwood Country Club has to offer is to become a member! As a Full Golf Member, you, your spouse, and children under 24 will have full access to all 27 holes on the Meadow, Pine, and Cypress courses including greens fees and practice facilities for everyone listed on the membership. You’ll also receive full access to the Junior Olympic-size cooled and heated pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and social/dining events is also included. All items including food, guest fees, and carts will be charged to your member account. Each guest may play with you up to 6 times per year at current guest fee rates. A Junior Executive Golf Membership has the same privileges and is designed for members who are under 40 years of age.

Social and Tennis Members have full access to the Junior Olympic-size pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and social/dining events along with indoor and outdoor dining for everyone listed on the membership. You may play golf up to six times per calendar year and have yearly access to the practice range facility at an additional fee. Social Members may also play tennis, up to six times per calendar year at the discretion of the TAC staff; fees apply.

As a member, you’ll also be entitled to Club benefits at other Concert Golf properties. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, your benefits will mirror those of your home club; Full Golf Members receive cart fee-only pricing and regular guest fee rates for guests and each property can be accessed up to 6 times a year.

There are a couple of qualities that make Bent Pine Golf Club in Vero Beach, Florida truly unique. For starters, there’s the distinctive tree on the 18th fairway that gives the club its name.

Perhaps the nicest feature of this incredible club is its location. With more and more people flocking to the Sunshine State for various reasons – primarily the weather – the better-known parts of the state are becoming overpopulated. Fortunately, this is not the case in and around Vero Beach; in fact, the area is very underpopulated. It’s also very seasonal in this part of the state so year-round residents/members can take advantage of seemingly having the course to themselves.

According to the 2021 census, the population of Vero Beach was 16,707. Nearby towns such as Fort Pierce (47,927), Sebastian (25,703), and Port St. Lucie (217,523) are considerably denser. That doesn’t mean there’s a lack of daily fee golf courses and private clubs in the area. According to Golf Digest, there are 11 public and 21 private golf clubs within 15 miles of Vero Beach.

Bent Pine Golf Club prides itself on the social aspects of the club and making friends here is as easy as signing up for a game with any of the men’s or ladies’ groups. You’ll be mixed into different foursomes each time, so you get to know most of your golfing compadres within a couple of weeks. The golf course isn’t the only place to make new friends, members also enjoy other activities like Bridge, Mahjong, and themed dinners.

Many members put a high value on the cuisine and culinary aspects of their club. After all, if your club has a beautiful golf course and dining that is second to none, it’s an opportunity to show off! Bent Pine Golf Club does not disappoint. Chef Brian and his culinary crew have taken everything from the daily lunch menu to exquisite wine-tasting dinners to a new level. One club tradition that continues is the seafood dinner buffet. Yet, as good as all of these aspects of the club are, it’s the golf course that keeps them coming back.

Bent Pine has the distinction of being the first golf facility to be carved out of the sand ridge in the Vero Beach area. The idea of building Bent Pine Golf Club was conceived in 1975 and at the time it was somewhat of a gamble for the founding fathers who knew they would have to venture away from the barrier island to an undeveloped area inhabited by only a few people. But they also saw the opportunity to create a private club that could be kept uncrowded so that there would be no need for members to book tee times.

The course was designed by legendary golf course architect Joe Lee and opened for play in 1979. Over the years Bent Pine has hosted six U.S. Open qualifiers, a 2017 and 2018 US Woman’s Mid–Amateur Qualifier and a 2016 US Amateur Qualifier. In the last three years, they have hosted the Florida Boys and Girls State Championships. It’s also been home to a few PGA TOUR members: Kenny Perry and Brett Stegmaier. Perry worked at Bent Pine during the 1980s while chasing his dream of being on the PGA TOUR; Stegmaier worked on and off at Bent Pine between 2008 and 2013. Most recently Nick Lindheim called Bent Pine home as a Tour hopeful who practiced and played at the club in between tournaments.

To be a great golf club you have to have a top-tier professional staff and Bent Pine seems to be a breeding ground for club golf professionals. Over the years, thirty-two former members of Bent Pine’s golf operations team have gone on to serve as Directors of Golf or Head Golf Professionals in clubs around the country.

Bent Pine embodies golf as it should be… an impeccably maintained and challenging golf course with no tee times. The course has six sets of tees for all levels of golfers. Low handicappers will be challenged by the Kenny Perry Tees at 7,006 yards while juniors and beginners can play from the forward Silver Tees at 4,998 yards.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a member or visiting Bent Pine as a guest, odds are that you will be amazed by the incredible conditioning of the golf course. Wide-open fairways mowed like plush carpet lay before you and lead to finely manicured Tif-Eagle greens that roll true and fast. Many are surrounded by meticulously maintained bunkers. Water comes into play on at least nine holes, more if you spray it off the tee!

Here are some of the most memorable holes:

The first hole on the golf course eases you into your round at Bent Pine. It’s a 510-yard par 5 with a slight dogleg right. When the wind is blowing off the ocean it can play a lot longer. Longball hitters need to be aware of the water on the right side of the landing area. For the rest of us, it takes three good shots to get on the green. Fairway bunkers on either side in the landing area of your layup shot will keep you honest as the fairway narrows. Three bunkers surround the green which is slightly elevated.

The 5th hole is a picture-worthy par 3 that plays 163 yards from the White Tees. Play your tee shot from an elevated tee box over water into a green protected with sand in front and back left. The green has a lot of slope and undulation and makes for a challenging hole. A back left pin placement will force you to take on both the water and the sand.

The 14th hole is another great-looking par 5 with wide-open fairways off the tee. At 454 yards from the White Tees, it’s a relatively short hole although strategically placed hazards may hinder your efforts. You’ll hit your tee shot from an elevated tee box towards a fairway with bunkers on the right side of the landing area and water making up the left side. The big decision comes on your layup shot, specifically where to layup. There’s more water on the right side and a cluster of bunkers surrounding the green. Should you choose to lay up in front of the water, you’re looking at an approach shot of about 120 yards into a green severely sloped in several areas. This is Bent Pine’s signature hole.

Since its inception, Bent Pine had a no-tee time policy; you simply show up, check in with a member of Bent Pine’s friendly staff and you’re off! As time becomes a valuable commodity and people have tighter schedules, Bent Pine will soon be moving away from this policy. I’m sure that when this change is made, the short wait time to tee off will not change.

If you are thinking of relocating to the area and are looking for a private club that provides tranquility outside of the normal hustle and bustle of Florida, you owe it to yourself to check out Bent Pine Golf Club. They offer several membership plans including Full Golf, Social, and National Memberships. All plans include clubhouse privileges as well as summer reciprocity with other clubs.