Each second week in April, in a reverent homage to their sport and a sure televised match, avid golfers make reservations far forward to play the programs close to Augusta Nationwide. For them, watching the sport isn’t sufficient, and plenty of choose the golf in close by Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina the place a number of programs boast their very own pedigree and status.
Located alongside I-20 between Atlanta and Charleston, simply east of Augusta, Georgia, the rolling topography and gentle local weather make for enjoyable, difficult and year-round play. Within the late nineteenth century, because the railroads pushed farther south, Aiken grew to become the house of the famed Winter Colony the place Vanderbilts, Astors and different Golden Age notables vacationed in elegant resorts and “cottages.” Golf, croquet, polo and different equestrian pursuits grew to become pastimes which can be nonetheless treasured as we speak. Listed below are notes on a few of the programs favored by locals, execs and duffers. Count on increased greens charges in the course of the week-long occasion. Examine the golf equipment’ web sites or name for particulars and availability. Whereas tee instances are a lot simpler to acquire than badges for the hallowed course, they do guide shortly. Whether or not throughout golf’s biggest match or some other time of 12 months, Thoroughbred Nation is prime of thoughts for golfers and their households who’re searching for loads of extra sights.
Designed by Donald Ross and initially inbuilt 1912, this historic course has many ties to golf’s greats, together with early women’ professionals. In depth renovation has led to accolades: it’s rated within the “Prime Three Programs to Play throughout Masters Week” by Golf Channel’s “Morning Drive,” one of many “Finest Programs to Play Close to Augusta Nationwide” by “Golfweek”; and “Finest Saved Secret” and “Most Charming” by different critics. Simply 20 miles east of Augusta Nationwide, this course ideas its hat to Pinehurst in addition to Scottish custom. Charges are elevated in the course of the championship, but it surely’s nonetheless thought of a deal. Reservations required. The Aiken Golf Club, 555 Highland Park Drive, Aiken, South Carolina; 803-649-6029. 18 holes. Par 70. Stroll/cart.
Designed by Arthur Hills, Cedar Creek has been garnering awards nearly since its opening in 1991. The course options lengthy, par 4 holes and sloping fairways that may ship pictures into the tough and elevated, undulating Bermuda greens. Cedar Creek Golf Club, 2475 Membership Drive, Aiken, South Carolina; 803-648-4206. 18 holes. Par 72. Stroll/cart.
Designed by Ellis Maples and inbuilt 1961, Midland Valley options towering pines, vital terrain modifications and enormous, undulating Bermuda greens with loads of up, down and facet hill lies. Midland Valley Country Club, 151 Midland Drive, Graniteville, South Carolina; 803-663-7332. 18 holes. Par 71. Stroll/cart.
Golf course architect Tom Jackson designed the 27 holes to suit completely into a various topography. The three nines present quite a lot of shot values and distinguishing options, but mix collectively to go away the golfer with vivid recollections of an pleasurable expertise. Mount Vintage Golf Club, 375 Mount Classic Plantation Drive, North Augusta, South Carolina; 803-279-5422. 27 holes. Par 72.
Inbuilt 1981 and operated beforehand because the Paw Paw Nation Membership and the Bamberg Golf and Sports activities Membership, River Birch was renovated in 2021 and is beneath new, skilled golf course and restaurant administration. The par 72, 6,683-yard golf course was designed by Russell Breeden, who designed various golf programs within the Myrtle Seaside space. River Birch Golf Course, 128 Paw Paw Highway, Bamberg, South Carolina; 803-245-8432.
Designed by Russell Breeden. Bermuda greens. This design is comparatively benign when it comes to elevation and size, however greater than makes up for that with its water, sand and elevated greens. Sweetwater Country Club, 571 Clubhouse Lane, Barnwell, South Carolina; 803-259-5004. 18 holes. Par 71. Stroll/cart.
This course was designed to supply versatility for each weekend golfers and professionals and hosts many tournaments. A pet-friendly, distinctive 30-room lodge is positioned on the grounds. Company could use any of the Membership’s services. The Inn at Houndslake/Country Club, 897 Houndslake Drive, Aiken, South Carolina; 803-648-9535. 27 holes. Par 36 for every 9.
Designed by Jim Fazio. Bent grass greens. Cart. Constructed as a Hilton Head-style hyperlinks course with largely flat fairways and water on 11 holes. The River Golf Club, 307 Riverside Boulevard, North Augusta, South Carolina; 803-202-0110. 18 holes. Par 71.
For individuals who favor nine-hole programs, attempt Williston Country Club at 15 Fairway Drive, Williston, South Carolina; 803-266-7616. 9 holes. Par 36. Bermuda greens. Stroll/cart.
For a enjoyable, household occasion, South on Whiskey Mini Golf brings on a unusual problem, together with batting cages and an occasion area for rental. 3197 Whiskey Highway, Aiken, South Carolina; 803-643-1715. Wed-Solar.
Thoroughbred Nation meanders via charming small cities with distinctive procuring, historical past and delicious Southern cuisine, creating the right street journey getaway with loads to do for equestrian and energetic outside fans. A number of disc golf places all through the area present ample alternative to attempt the game from a barely totally different angle. Take time to meander North Augusta’s 9.2-mile Greeneway Trail. Don’t miss the hidden gems: a drive-in movie show, the Aiken County Historical Museum, the Savannah River Site Museum, Hopelands Gardens and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. Discover town through the Aiken Trolley Tour or, if it isn’t a Saturday, contact Tailored Tours of Aiken. Close by, the Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary presents alternatives to have interaction with nature up-close whereas Blackville’s God’s Acre Healing Springs is a well-liked website for guests searching for out the storied waters. Go to the Veterans Memorial Trail in Bamberg and the Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site in Ehrhardt to realize perception into the realm’s historical past.
For particulars, pleasant and distinctive lodging, eating and extra, go to www.TBredCountry.org.