Does your diet consist of a “lot of greens?” Are your favorite sayings “Tee it high and let it fly” or “Mistakes are proof that I’m trying?” Hmmm, sounds like you might be… a golfer! Well, if you’re a golf fanatic then you must also know that North Carolina is one of America’s leading golf meccas. You may also know that one of the game’s legends, Donald Ross, designed 40+ public and private courses between Wilmington and Asheville alone; in fact, Ross’s name is practically synonymous with golf in North Carolina. But did you know that Western North Carolina offers plenty of high-caliber public courses within minutes of Asheville and Wildberry Lodge, including the courses highlighted below?
1. Omni Grove Park Golf Course, Asheville
(18 holes, 6,400 yd par 70)
Part of the Omni Park Inn Resort. Originated in 1899, redesigned by Donald Ross in 1926. This championship course has been rated #20 on Golf Advisor’s Top 100 Courses in North Carolina (2018), and was a regular PGA Tour stop from 1933 through 1951. PGA stars Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan and Jack Nicklaus have teed it up at Omni, as well as President Obama in 2018. The tree-lined fairways feature stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. Asheville Municipal Golf Course, Asheville
(18 holes, 6,420 yd par 72)
Built in 1927, designed by Donald Ross. One of the oldest courses in Western North Carolina, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This classically-designed course is both challenging and fun. While you can get away with a driver on most of the front nine, accuracy rules the day on the back nine.
3. Reems Creek Golf Club
(18 holes, 6,426 yd par 72)
Set in a scenic valley with rolling hills and mountain views, this British-links-style course was designed by Hawtree & Son and offers a mix of open fairways and tighter, tree-lined holes. Elevation changes add character, and the back nine brings more challenge. It is just 15 minutes from downtown Asheville.
4. Broadmoor Golf Links
(18 holes, 7,140 yd par 72)
Designed by Karl Litten and set in the French Broad River Valley, this flat, open course offers generous fairways, smooth greens, and plenty of sunshine. Water hazards come into play on several holes, but it’s approachable for all skill levels. Located just south of Asheville, near the airport.
5. Crooked Creek Golf Course
(18 holes, 6,271 yd, par 71)
Crooked Creek Golf Club in Hendersonville keeps things simple, but in the best way. You’ll play through tall pines and hit shots over a few water hazards here and there. The greens roll pretty well, though some spots might be rough around the edges. The clubhouse is no-frills — nothing fancy, just what you need to start your round. It’s an easygoing course that welcomes everyone, whether you’re out to practice or just have fun.
20th Hole at Wildberry Lodge
After your round of golf and trip to the 19th hole, begin your 20th hole at Wildberry Lodge with libations on our spacious deck overlooking the mountains and valley. Our comfortable beds will have you feeling rested and relaxed, ready to begin the day anew with breakfast in your room.
Check out our specials, book online or call us at 828-683-2525.
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