If you could live anywhere, Where would that be? To help you decide, we present the second annual T+L Golf report on America’s best golf communities.
- Alabama/Arizona
- California/Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia/Hawaii
- Massachusetts/Missouri/Montana
- Nevada/New Mexico/North Carolina/Oregon
- South Carolina
- Texas/Utah/Vermont
- Washington/West Virginia/Wyoming
The question of where to invest is daunting. Top-tier communities have proliferated to meet the demand of the many well-heeled baby boom retirees. Caddie programs, multi-season recreation options for all ages and upgraded dining and spa amenities are practically essential. "Pronghorn just hired Fabrice Beaudoin, who trained under Alain Ducasse and Michel Rostang," says David Lott, publisher of GolfCourseHome.net. "Ten years ago no one knew who a golf community’s chef was." Also, a softer housing market makes it hard to buy land in a golf community with the idea of "flipping" the lot, so a property buyer in 2007 should feel a stronger commitment to the development. (Getting in early, when the development is still being defined, can offer the homeowner a more integral role in the community.) So this year we’ve added more information about developers and their visions and track records.
Overall, the list looks similar to last year’s, with a few new additions to the top twenty-five, including Spring Island in South Carolina, Stock Farm in Montana and Three Creek Ranch in Wyoming—the latter two being part of a major trend, that of the golf-home boom taking place in Big Sky Country. Bottom line: All one hundred of these offer the best golf-community living in the country and are fine-looking investments, but the ones claiming the top spots are winning the modern-amenities war.
Plus
ALABAMA
GREYSTONE Birmingham This former Champions Tour site features grand estates and a genteel atmosphere, plus a top practice facility. Developed by the Daniel Corporation and home to some of its principals. Due for equity conversion in 2010. Golf: 36 holes (Bob Cupp, Rees Jones). Recent Home Listings: $300,000 to $1.2 million. Contact: 205-986-5120 or greystonecc.com.
SHOAL CREEK Shoal Creek Nearing its thirtieth year, there are still some unbuilt lots here, but having hosted PGA Championships, Shoal Creeks golf legacy is secure. Extensive equestrian facilities. Golf: 27 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $595,000 to $5.3 million. Contact: 205-991-4653 or shoal-creek.com.
ARIZONA
BLACKSTONE CC AT VISTANCIA Peoria Home to the golf course many consider the jewel of the West Valley. Poolside cabanas and private-resort feel add luxury. A joint venture of Sunbelt Holdings and Shea Homes, the largest privately held home builder in the United States. Golf: 18 holes (Jim Engh). Recent Home Listings: $700,000 to $2 million. Contact: 800-617-5301 or blackstonecountryclub.com.
DC RANCH Scottsdale Panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains combine with first-class management by DMB Associates. Active community is centered on $20 million clubhouse. Homeowners association (HOA) will be established in 2007-08. Golf: 18 holes (Scott Miller, redesigned in 2002 by Tom Lehman/John Fought). Recent Home Listings: $750,000 to $4.9 million. Contact: 480-502-2725 or dcranch.com.
DESERT HIGHLANDS Scottsdale Famed 850-acre community that merged the Jack Nicklaus and Lyle Anderson brand names. Fitness center, manicured gardens and desert-style architecture. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $995,000 to $11 million. Contact: 480-585-7444 or deserthighlandsscottsdale.com.
DESERT MOUNTAIN Scottsdale This vast Lyle Anderson community borders a national forest and includes six golf courses, nine miles of hiking trails, a spa and concierge services. Golf: 108 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $600,000 to $7.9 million. Contact: 800-255-5519 or desertmountain.com.
ESTANCIA Scottsdale Plenty of elbow room between homes, plus luxury amenities including a wine cellar, a fitness center with massage rooms and an ornate clubhouse. Developed by Discovery Land Company, the community is now member-owned. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $1.8 million to $7.6 million. Contact: 480-473-4405 or estanciaclub.com.
FOREST HIGHLANDS Flagstaff Bentgrass greens helped attract the 2006 USGA Mid-Amateur. Two superior courses in addition to an eighteen-hole putting course, plus fishing and hiking. Member-owned. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Weiskopf/Jay Morrish; Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $695,000 to $2.9 million. Contact: 928-556-8606 or dmbrealty.com.
THE GALLERY Marana The MacMillan family owns and dotes on this Tucson hideaway that will host the WGC Match Play Championship in 2007. Golf: 36 holes (John Fought/Tom Lehman, Fought). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $400,000 to $1 million. Contact: 888-437-4800 or gallerygolf.com.
MIRABEL Scottsdale Stacked-stone interiors and cantilevered overhangs lend a Frank Lloyd Wright sophistication here. An award-winning spa and fitness center. A Discovery Land Company property, awaiting turnover to members. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $1.5 million to $4.3 million. Contact: 866-647-2235 or mirabel.com.
THE RIM GOLF CLUB Payson Wind-sculpted pines line the fairways of the Rims lauded golf course. This 555-acre village has 326 homesites and a small-town atmosphere. A Crescent Resources development, ninety minutes from Scotts- dale. Golf: 18 holes (Jay Morrish/Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $2.7 million. Contact: 800-311-5370 or therimgolfclub.com.
SEVEN CANYONS Sedona A visually astounding landscape surrounds developer David Cavans foray into the golf-community niche. His daughter oversaw interior design of the villas, with stunning results. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $2.5 million to $3.5 million. Contact: 866-367-8844 or sevencanyons.com.
SILVERLEAF Scottsdale An exclusive enclave within fellow Top 100 community DC Ranch. Panoramic vistas, desert sunsets and a superb spa. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $1.5 million to $10 million. Contact: 480-502-6902 or silverleaf.com.
STONE CANYON Oro Valley Swarming with saguaro, wellness is the central theme here, with a staff of fitness trainers and therapists. Developed by a team led by the Wolfswinkel family. Golf: 18 holes (Jay Morrish). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $4 million. Contact: 877-219-9100 or stonecanyon.com.
SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN Phoenix A Lyle Anderson community and host to LPGA Tour and Champions Tour events. Its sports club offers spa treatments and a resort-size pool. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $599,000 to $2.5 million. Contact: 877-983-3300 or superstitionmountain.com.
CALIFORNIA
BIGHORN Palm Desert A desert mecca with high-profile events. Perks to residents include private jet service and a doctor-in-residence. Originally developed by Westinghouse. Golf: 36 holes (Arthur Hills, Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $1.9 million to $7.9 million. Contact: 888-551-5577 or bighorngolf.com.
THE BRIDGES AT RANCHO SANTA FE Rancho Santa Fe Set on 540 acres, this community offers a top-notch concierge and spa services. There’s even a community property in Cabo San Lucas available for rent. Golf: 18 holes (Robert Trent Jones Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $2 million to $7 million. Contact: 858-756-8700 or thebridgesrsf.com.
THE CROSBY AT RANCHO SANTA FE Rancho Santa Fe Planned for 443 residences, all tucked behind a magnificent entrance featuring a 340-foot bridge over the San Dieguito River. Golf: 18 holes (Fred Couples/Schmidt-Curley). Recent Home Listings: $1.2 million to $5 million. Contact: 858-759-7220 or thecrosby.com.
THE HIDEAWAY La Quinta Two fine desert courses here serve a Discovery Land Company community of fewer than five hundred homes. A massive clubhouse with full-service spa, fitness center, dining and a roster of activities. Golf: 36 holes (Clive Clark, Pete Dye). Recent Home Listings: $1.7 million to $4.2 million. Contact: 760-777-7400 or hideawaygolfclub.com.
LAHONTAN Truckee Famed trout-fishing grounds and high-country golf in North Lake Tahoe. Developed by DBM/Highlands Group. Golf: 27 holes (Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $1.6 million to $4.7 million. Contact: 800-582-9919 or lahontanrealty.com.
MAYACAMA Santa Rosa Golf purism (a walking-only course) and upscale oenophilia (wine collections in a club-managed cellar) set this Sonoma County community apart. The developer and principal owner is industry veteran David Wilhelm. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $1 million to $1.5 million. Contact: 866-393-1818 or mayacama.com.
OLD GREENWOOD Truckee Possibilities for home design and size of investment are manifold, with fractional and full-ownership options available. Villa ownership offers low-maintenance luxury as well as membership in Tahoe Mountain Club. Developed by East-West Partners. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $1.2 million to $3.3 million. Contact: 800-754-3070 or oldgreenwood.com.
THE QUARRY La Quinta Villas and Estates alike sidle up to the ten-hole add-on course, crafted in the same visual style Fazio used for the first eighteen. Golf: 28 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $2.1 million to $4.7 million. Contact: 760-777-1100 or quarryinfo.com.
SANTA LUCIA PRESERVE Carmel As environmentally ambitious as a golf development could be, with vast conservation easements, one hundred miles of hiking and horse trails, an eighteen-acre lake and superior culinary experiences. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $3.7 million to $5.5 million. Contact: 877-626-8200 or santaluciapreserve.com.
SANTALUZ San Diego Secluded homesites with large homes, yet the golf course, clubhouse, spa and village green draw residents together. DMB Associates teamed with the U.K.’s Taylor Woodrow. Golf: 18 holes (Rees Jones). Recent Home Listings: $1.2 million to $9 million. Contact: 858-759-3109 or santaluz.com.
SHERWOOD Thousand Oaks Founded by billionaire David Murdock, the layout is impressive, with a championship course plus a new par-three course. Golf: 27 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $3.6 million to $15 million. Contact: 805-373-5992 or sherwoodcc.com.
TEHAMA Carmel Nature-loving abounds at Clint Eastwood’s development in the Carmel uplands with majestic views and just eighty-eight homesites. Golf: 18 holes (Jay Morrish). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $2.4 million to $5 million. Contact: 831-625-2075 or tehamagolfclub.com.
TRADITION La Quinta Eucalyptus trees and ridgelines cosset the place Arnold Palmer makes his Western home. No resort-style amenities or commotion, just golf and good fellowship. Golf: 27 holes (Arnold Palmer). Recent Home Listings: $1.9 million to $6.8 million. Contact: 760-564-3355 or traditiongolfclub.net.
THE VINTAGE CLUB Indian Wells A late-’70s stalwart meticulously managed by its residents, with no tee times and no unaccompanied guests allowed on its two golf courses. There’s also a stadium tennis court. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $895,000 to $26 million. Contact: 760-346-5566 or vintageclubsales.com.
COLORADO
CASTLE PINES Castle Rock Two private golf clubs anchor this luxurious hamlet at seven thousand feet, convenient to downtown Denver. Home of the only Stableford-scored tour event, the International. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $500,000 to $5 million. Contact: 303-688-6000 or castlepinesvillage.com.
RED SKY RANCH Wolcott A former sheep ranch, this Vail-area community is private but does permit outside play from area hotel guests, plus pilgrimages to its David Leadbetter Academy. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio, Greg Norman). Recent Home Listings: $2.8 million to $6 million. Contact: 877-973-3759 or redskyranch.com.
ROARING FORK CLUB Basalt The residences are cabins and suites available as rentals, one-quarter or one-sixth shares. Like at all Chaffin/Light and Associates communities, the environmentally conscious will approve of the golf and trout fishing. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $2.2 million to $2.6 million. Contact: 970-927-9000 or roaringforkclub.com.
REDLANDS MESA Grand Junction Views of the Bookcliff Mountains add to Jim Engh’s bold course—and to the attractive mountain architecture. Developed by Ron Austin, Dave Slemon and C. L. Werner, who is now the sole owner. Golf: 18 holes (Jim Engh), public. Recent Home Listings: $600,000 to $3 million. Contact: 877-501-6372 or redlandsmesa.com.
FLORIDA
AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION Amelia Island The resort-community experience with resort-size amenities—twenty-three pools. Homeowners can obtain membership to the Amelia Island Club for a more country-club atmosphere. Golf: 72 holes (Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Tom Jackson, Bobby Weed). Recent Home Listings: $650,000 to $3 million. Contact: 888-261-6161 or aipfl.com.
BAY HILL Orlando Arnold Palmer’s Florida course and host of the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Resort amenities include a seventy-room lodge, marina, spa, salon, fitness and tennis. Golf: 27 holes (Dick Wilson, redesigned in 1989 by Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay). Recent Home Listings: $500,000 to $3.5 million. Contact: 888-422-9445 or bayhill.com.
THE BEAR’S CLUB Jupiter Secluded on four hundred lush acres, there are sixty-eight estate-size residences plus a few dozen handsome golf villas and cottages. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $2.5 million to $7.5 million. Contact: 561-626-2327 or thebearsclub.com.
BONITA BAY Bonita Springs Luxury megaplex with five championship courses, three waterfront parks, a private beach park, tennis center, fitness center and marina with Gulf of Mexico access. Golf: 90 holes (Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills). Recent Home Listings: $800,000 to $3.1 million. Contact: 800-277-4119 or bonitabay.com.
THE CONCESSION GC & RESIDENCES Bradenton Tony Jacklin’s daily presence lends gravitas to the course he co-designed with Jack Nicklaus. Traditional caddie program is in place, and renowned restaurateur Sean Murphy has signed on. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $2.5 million to $4 million. Contact: 866-951-6484 or theconcession.com.
THE ESTATES AT BAY COLONY GC Naples Located in North Naples, homeowners receive membership in the attractive Bay Colony beach and tennis club with a private two-mile beach. Developer is NYSE-listed WCI Communities. Golf: 18 holes (Robert von Hagge). Recent Home Listings: $3.3 million to $7 million. Contact: 239-592-9515 or theestatesatbaycolonygolfclub.com.
THE FOUNDERS CLUB Sarasota Just 262 homes are planned for this 700-acre site. Amenities include tennis courts, a fitness facility, outdoor recreation center, massage-therapy rooms and formal and informal dining in the 24,000-square-foot Golf Hall clubhouse. Developer is U.S. Assets Group and the Starling Companies. Golf: 18 holes (Robert Trent Jones Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $1.2 million to $5.8 million. Contact: 941-378-0900 or thefoundersclub.com.
FRENCHMAN’S RESERVE Palm Beach Gardens Along with the golf course and clubhouse, amenities at this Toll Brothers community include a spa and fitness center, multiple dining options, swimming and tennis centers. On-property guest suites are available for visitors. Golf: 18 holes (Arnold Palmer). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $5 million. Contact: 561-799-5660 or frenchmansreserve.com.
GREY OAKS Naples Nurtured along by original owner Juliet Collier Sproul, custom homes surround three pleasant courses. The plantings alone are worth a visit. Golf: 54 holes (Bob Cupp, Lloyd Clifton/Ken Ezell/George Clifton). Recent Home Listings: $895,000 to $5 million. Contact: 800-294-2426 or greyoaks.com.
ISLEWORTH Orlando Luxuries abound, including an 82,000-square-foot clubhouse and wellness center, in-home massage services and exhibitions by Sotheby’s. Owned by Tavistock Group. Golf: 18 holes (Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay, redesigned in 2003 by Steve Smyers). Recent Home Listings: $2 million to $12 million. Contact: 407-876-0111 or isleworth.com.
JOHN’S ISLAND Vero Beach Old-school yet undeniably still exquisite. Two waterside Dye courses plus Fazio’s super West course inland. Managed by the property owners. Golf: 54 holes (Pete Dye, Pete Dye, Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $259,000 to $13 million. Contact: 772-231-0900 or johnsislandrealestate.com.
LAKE NONA Orlando Built around more than a thousand acres of lakes, boating and fishing are dominant; however, a full fitness facility and a championship course also command respect. Owned by the Tavistock Group and home to some Tour players. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $900,000 to $8 million. Contact: 407-851-9091 or lakenona.com.
THE LOXAHATCHEE CLUB Jupiter Made a stirring debut in the 1980s. Setting is 340 acres with seventy-plus acres of freshwater lakes. Currently member-owned and -managed. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $535,000 to $3 million. Contact: 561-747-5990 or loxahatcheeclubrealty.com.
THE MEDALIST GOLF CLUB Hobe Sound The course is an award-winning 1995 collaboration of Greg Norman and Pete Dye. Norman, a part-time Medalist resident, later crafted a par-three course. Residences are large-lot custom estates—just 109 of them. Golf: 30 holes (Pete Dye/Greg Norman, Greg Norman). Recent Home Listings: $1.9 million to $4.2 million. Contact: 772-545-9700 or medalistgolfclub.org.
MEDITERRA Naples Along with the golf, amenities consist of a 25,000-square-foot clubhouse, private beach clubs, formal and casual dining, plus a sports club and a lakeside performance pavilion. Developer is Bonita Bay Group. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $600,000 to $7.8 million. Contact: 877-949-8989 or mediterra-naples.com.
MIRASOL Palm Beach Gardens Large-scale development with the golf and fitness facilities to match. Former host of the PGA Tour’s annual Honda Classic. Taylor Woodrow, a U.K. home-building giant, is the developer. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills). Recent Home Listings: $800,000 to more than $4 million. Contact: 800-578-4544 or mirasolclub.com.
OLD MARSH Palm Beach Gardens A true golf-centric enclave where Pete Dye’s routing is still celebrated and the greens roll slick and true. One of the first to emphasize environmental stewardship. Not yet converted to homeowners association. Golf: 18 holes (Pete Dye). Recent Home Listings: $995,000 to $3.7 million. Contact: 561-627-4605 or oldmarshgolf.com.
OLD PALM GOLF CLUB Palm Beach Gardens Home base for Raymond Floyd, course designer and community ambassador. Anchored by an ornate, 43,000-square-foot clubhouse and a thirty-three-acre golf studio with state-of-the-art technology. Golf: 22 holes (Raymond Floyd). Recent Home Listings: $1.7 million to $8 million. Contact: 866-499-6742 or oldpalmgolf.com.
ORCHID ISLAND GOLF & BEACH CLUB Vero Beach The homes and club buildings have a West Indies look, and there is a private beach to go with it. Canadian developer Torwest plans to turn the entire property over to the HOA next year. Golf: 18 holes (Arnold Palmer). Recent Home Listings: $1.1 million to $13 million. Contact: 772-388-2350 or orchidislandgolfandbeachclub.com.
TESORO Port St. Lucie This Ginn Company community is expanding at a good clip, with a Tom Watson-designed course nearly completed and a swim/racquet club set to open. Golf: 18 holes (Arnold Palmer). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $5 million. Contact: 888-297-3339 or tesoroclub.com.
TUSCANY RESERVE Naples Italian cypress trees line the streets at this new community. The 34,000-square-foot clubhouse is set to open in 2008, while residents now enjoy pampering at home with a full-service concierge. Tee-times are not needed at this WCI Communities project. Golf: 18 holes (Pete Dye/Greg Norman). Recent Home Listings: $690,000 to $4 million. Contact: 800-924-4005 or tuscanyreserve.com.
TWINEAGLES Naples This 1,115-acre community is developed by Bonita Bay Group and offers the spectrum from attached coach homes to grand estates. Two golf courses, fitness center and tennis. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player). Recent Home Listings: $380,000 to $6.6 million. Contact: 888-403-0085 or twineagles.com.
WINDSOR Vero Beach Perhaps the most intensely New Urbanist golf community ever built and very upscale thanks to founder Galen Weston. Choice of pursuits for residents includes equestrian sports, a beach club, a gun club, even a community art gallery run by Weston’s daughter. Golf: 18 holes (Robert Trent Jones Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $1.5 million to $16.5 million. Contact: 800-233-7656 or windsorflorida.com.
GEORGIA
THE FORD PLANTATION Richmond Hill Historic significance is paramount at this burned-by-Sherman, rebuilt-by-Henry Ford retreat. An equestrian center, on-property naturalists, a marina, a hunting preserve, fishing grounds, plus a spa and sports complex. Golf: 18 Holes (Pete Dye). Recent Home Listings: $1.2 million to $5.9 million. Contact: 877-735-8367 or fordplantation.com.
HAWKS RIDGE Ball Ground Bob Cupp’s most tournament-worthy course is now host to a Champions Tour event. Privately developed, non-equity club in remote, rural country north of Atlanta. Homesites range up to fourteen acres in size. Golf: 18 holes (Bob Cupp). Recent Home Listings: $1.5 million to $8 million. Contact: 770-205-6889 or hawksridge.com.
REYNOLDS PLANTATION Greensboro The new members-only Creek Club and its Jim Engh course will give this vacation-y property added distinction. Four other fine layouts, a handsome Ritz-Carlton lodge and miles of Oconee shoreline also appeal. Golf: 99 holes (Jim Engh, Bob Cupp, Tom Fazio, Rees Jones, Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $455,000 to $5 million. Contact: 800-800-5250 or reynoldsplantation.com.
SEA ISLAND Sea Island Real estate is big business at this almost eighty-year-old resort complex, but it’s parceled into discrete communities, each with its own environments and motifs, and, as noted, Frederica is at the top of the list. Resident Davis Love III and a nationally acclaimed Learning Center boost the golf prestige. Golf: 54 holes (Tom Fazio, Rees Jones, Davis Love III). Recent Home Listings: $1.8 million to $10.6 million. Contact: 800-732-4752 or seaislandproperties.com.
HAWAII
HUALALAI Kona A highly ranked resort and a first-class residential-service program. The Weiskopf course, clubhouse and canoe club are for members only, while the Four Seasons hotel’s sports club and spa are also accessible. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $3.9 million to $24.9 million. Contact: 808-325-8500 or hualalairesort.com.
KUKI’O Kona A great Hawaiian golf resort without resort guests. Property purchase brings access to a full-service clubhouse, luxurious spa and fitness facilities, dining pavilion, beach bar, a ten-hole Fazio-designed short course and the noted Outdoor Pursuits program offered at all Discovery Land Company communities. Golf: 28 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $3 million to $20 million. Contact: 808-325-4040 or kukio.com.
MASSACHUSETTS
TURNER HILL Ipswich Golf membership is by invitation only at this manorial community. Amenities on the way include a fitness center. Developer is Raymond Properties. Golf: 18 holes (Hurdzan/Fry). Recent Home Listings: $770,000 to $1.6 million. Contact: 978-356-7070 or turnerhill.com.
WILLOWBEND Mashpee The only community on this list with cranberry-bog views from its formal clubhouse dining rooms. Owners Paul and Phyllis Fireman dote on its multi-address property owners. Besides golf, there is a tennis stadium and a 13,000-square-foot fitness center. Golf: 27 holes (Michael Hurdzan, Bruce Besse Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $895,000 to $2.2 million. Contact: 508-539-5200 or willowbendrealestate.com.
THE PINEHILLS Plymouth Local developers envisioned something prestigious but not pretentious on these three thousand scrub-pine acres. A commercial village at the hub of the community keeps the atmosphere lively for residents who can be on downtown Boston sidewalks or Cape Cod’s dunes in an hour’s time. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus, Rees Jones). Recent Home Listings: $350,000 to $2 million. Contact: 888-209-8880 or pinehills.com.
MISSOURI
THE NATIONAL Parkville Impressive estate homes amid massive shade trees, a community center, a lake for sailing/kayaking and guest accommodations near the clubhouse. Developer-owned, with no conversion scheduled. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Watson). Recent Home Listings: $450,000 to $6 million. Contact: 816-746-0200 or thenationalgolfclub.com.
MONTANA
IRON HORSE Whitefish Frontier-themed luxury with spectacular scenery, Fazio golf, fly-fishing and wilderness adventure. Residential options include member cabins, which also operate as developer-run rentals but with limited access to club amenities. Developed and managed by Discovery Land Company. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $775,000 to $5.8 million. Contact: 800-473-2755 or ironhorsegolfclub.com.
STOCK FARM Hamilton Flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountain ranges with surprisingly mild weather. Owners are Charles Schwab and James Schueler, a Montana broker and developer. The community features an equestrian center, thirty miles of backcountry trails and homes tucked throughout the 2,600-acre property. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $500,000 to $1.5 million. Contact: 406-375-1888 or stockfarm.com.
YELLOWSTONE CLUB Big Sky This golf, skiing and field sports playground keep its wealthy members contented. Architecture is authentic, down to the hand-selected beams used in many residences. Owner-developer Timothy Blixseth is launching a global private-residence club (the Yellowstone Club World). Golf: 18 holes (Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $2.6 million to $15.5 million. Contact: 888-700-7748 or yellowstoneclub.com.
NEVADA
LAKE LAS VEGAS Henderson Residents live in neighborhoods removed from the multiple-hotel resort areas and still have access to the fine dining, marinas and boutiques. A planned fourth course, by Fazio, now won’t open until the middle of ’08. Golf: 54 holes (Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf). Recent Home Listings: $900,000 to $30 million. Contact: 800-564-1603 or lakelasvegas.com.
MONTREUX Reno Host site of the PGA Tour’s Reno-Tahoe Open, this ten-year-old community has a soaring 34,000-square-foot private clubhouse with dining rooms, a wine cellar and locker rooms with comfortable lounges. Developed by the Jaksick group, a regional developer. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $900,000 to $4 million. Contact: 775-849-9444 or montreuxgolf.com.
SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Las Vegas Home to Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s last design with an alluring spa, a network of trails and on-site schools, both public and private. Golf: 18 holes (Robert Trent Jones Sr./Robert Trent Jones Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $350,000 to $5 million. Contact: 877-261-1010 or southernhighlands.com.
NEW MEXICO
LAS CAMPANAS Santa Fe A diverse citizenry of "horse-lovers, artists and collectors" as well as golfers. A Lyle Anderson development with two Nicklaus Signature golf courses, an equestrian center, a spa and tennis complex and a hacienda-style clubhouse. Golf: 36 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $665,000 to $9 million. Contact: 800-992-4250 or lascampanas.com.
NORTH CAROLINA
BALD HEAD ISLAND Bald Head Island Only accessible by boat and divided into seven "environments" (beach, marsh, golf, etc.) along North Carolina’s southernmost barrier island. Developed by the Mitchell family as an upscale but down-to-earth getaway. Golf: 18 holes (George Cobb). Recent Home Listings: $500,000 to $4.2 million. Contact: 800-888-3707 or baldheadisland.com.
JEFFERSON LANDING ON THE NEW RIVER Jefferson A truly slow-paced resort community that still hasn’t converted to member ownership. It’s loaded with galleries and small artist colonies. Hiking, canoeing and fly-fishing rival the golf for popularity. Golf: 18 holes (Larry Nelson). Recent Home Listings: $200,000 to $2.5 million. Contact: 800-292-6274 or jeffersonlandingclub.com.
WADE HAMPTON GC Cashiers Noted Carolina developer W. L. McKee and his sister, Anne McKee Austin took pains to make it first-rate. The resort is a high-camaraderie club in a rustic, understated community. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $4 million. Contact: 828-743-3411 or mckeeproperties.com.
OREGON
PRONGHORN Bend A new Tom Fazio layout, perhaps his most original ever, joins a demanding Nicklaus course, creating a golf mecca in Bend. Owned by Pronghorn Investors Inc., it includes some fractional property mixed in with the full-ownership homes. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $400,000 to $1.8 million. Contact: 800-541-9424 or pronghornclub.com.
SUNRIVER RESORT Sunriver The community that put Bend on the map has a lived-in ease to it, along with stunning views and skiing at nearby Mount Bachelor. Sunny more than 260 days a year. Golf: 54 holes (Bob Cupp, Fred Federspiel, Robert Trent Jones Jr.). Recent Home Listings: $280,000 to $2 million. Contact: 800-737-1054 or sunriver-resort.com.
SOUTH CAROLINA
BELFAIR Bluffton True Lowcountry atmosphere among towering, moss-draped oaks. An annual amateur invitational attracts a top national field to the community. World-class golf practice center. The developers are John Reed and Gary Rowe. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $600,000 to $2 million. Contact: 843-757-0701 or belfair1811.com.
BERKELEY HALL Bluffton A striking layout in its collegiate-looking Red Brick architectural theme, it has two highly playable Fazio courses. The developers are the same local team as Belfair, John Reed and Gary Rowe. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $800,000 to $3.3 million. Contact: 843-815-8423 or berkeleyhallclub.com.
THE CLIFFS COMMUNITIES Travelers Rest A golf community of seven developments in a thirty-mile loop near Greenville, with a devotion to quality, aesthetics and personal service. Wellness and lifelong learning are subthemes to the luxury and the excellent golf. Golf: 72 holes (Tom Fazio, Tom Jackson, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Wright), with another Nicklaus course on the way. Recent Home Listings: $650,000 to more than $3.5 million. Contact: 866-435-5123 or cliffscommunities.com.
COLLETON RIVER PLANTATION Bluffton A stimulating salt-and-pepper combination of course styles. Now member-owned, there is a mix of dignity and merriment, with two clubhouses, a stadium tennis center and Augusta-style cottages. The original developers are John Reed and Gary Rowe. Golf: 45 holes (Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $800,000 to $3.9 million. Contact: 800-673-6456 or colletonriver.com.
DANIEL ISLAND PARK Charleston A recent Rees Jones layout added to the golf complement of this town-size development that’s part real estate venture, part social experiment—all highly successful. Golf: 36 holes (Tom Fazio, Rees Jones). Recent Home Listings: $850,000 to $5.8 million. Contact: 800-958-5635 or danielisland.com.
KIAWAH ISLAND Kiawah Island Twenty-one miles from Charleston but brimming with natural wildlife, not to mention golf history, Kiawah is a clear golfer’s delight. Golf: 126 holes (Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Clyde Johnston, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Tom Watson). Recent Home Listings: $225,000 to $9.8 million. Contact: 888-559-9024 or kiawahisland.com.
LONG COVE CLUB Hilton Head One of the early Hilton Head communities and still one of the most desirable. Along with Pete Dye golf, there are eight tennis courts, a marina with sixty-nine slips and access to the Intracoastal. Golf: 18 holes (Pete Dye). Recent Home Listings: $1.3 million to $5 million. Contact: 843-686-1070 or longcoveclub.org.
PALMETTO BLUFF Bluffton Offsetting its oak-shaded vastness, this Crescent Resources property has two "pedestrian-scale" neighborhoods, including a village center anchored by a swank Auberge inn and spa. A boathouse, equestrian farm and sports campus are under construction. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus). Recent Home Listings: $965,000 to $2.5 million. Contact: 866-316-5262 or palmetto-bluff.com.
THE RESERVE AT LAKE KEOWEE Sunset A 4,000-acre settlement planned for 1,500 homes to be inhabited by devotees of golf, hiking, boating, fishing, waterskiing and swimming. Greenwood Development, longtime Hilton Head developer, owns and manages. Golf: 18 holes (Jack Nicklaus), plus 27 holes by Arnold Palmer in the works. Recent Home Listings: $1.3 million to $3 million. Contact: 888-217-8884 or reserveatlakekeowee.com.
SPRING ISLAND Spring Island Historic and still vibrant maritime community where Chaffin/Light and Associates honed its low-impact, high-toned approach. The Old Tabby course here is one of Palmer’s few true greats. Horseback riding, fishing, nature center, boating and a nearby hunting club. Golf: 18 holes (Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay). Recent Home Listings: $1 million to $4 million. Contact: 843-987-2200 or springisland.com.
TEXAS
BARTON CREEK Austin Known for the luxury spa on-site, this seven-year-old community offers two Fazio courses, one of which is resident-only every other day. Golf: 72 holes (Ben Crenshaw/Bill Coore, Tom Fazio, Arnold Palmer). Recent Home Listings: $500,000 to $9.7 million. Contact: 866-214-3136 or bartoncreek.com.
COMANCHE TRACE Kerrville Jay Morrish and son Carter designed the nine holes being added to Tom Kite’s original eighteen. Locale is a pleasant mix of Hill Country scenery and college-town stimulation. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Kite/Ray Bechtol/Randy Russell). Recent Home Listings: $280,000 to $1.6 million. Contact: 877-467-6282 or comanchetrace.com.
SPANISH OAKS Bee Cave With twelve hundred acres of Texas Hill Country, this Discovery Land Company community boasts 477 homesites and an impressive outdoor concierge program that promises any outdoor excursion you can dream of. Golf: 18 holes (Bobby Weed). Recent Home Listings: $600,000 to $2.5 million. Contact: 877-554-4628 or spanishoaks.com.
VAQUERO Westlake Another Discovery Land Company community that’s well-received by PGA Tour players. Service, golf and cuisine here have all garnered multiple awards. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $1.5 million to $10 million. Contact: 817-430-6600 or vaqueroclub.com.
THE WOODLANDS The Woodlands Consisting of seven-going-on-eight distinct villages with 105 forested parks and 145 miles of hiking and bike trails. Two golf clubs and a long history of PGA and LPGA tournaments. Golf: 99 holes (Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Robert von Hagge/Bruce Devlin). Recent Home Listings: $130,000 to $6 million. Contact: 281-863-1433 or thewoodlandscc.com.
UTAH
GLENWILD Park City The service and facilities here have a resort feel, especially in the massive clubhouse and spa. The Glenwild fitness/treatment facility and extensive hiking trails are key highlights. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Fazio). Recent Home Listings: $2 million to $4.9 million. Contact: 877-924-9453 or glenwild.com.
PROMONTORY Park City Pivotal Group of Phoenix conceived this Deer Valley ski-in, ski-out community with a full-service spa and an award-winning Pete Dye golf course. A Nicklaus-designed course is scheduled to open this summer. Golf: 18 holes (Pete Dye). Recent Home Listings: $1.85 million to $5.2 million. Contact: 888-458-6600 or promontoryclub.com.
VERMONT
QUECHEE LAKES Quechee Down the road from Woodstock with tournament-tested golf, its own ski area, fitness complex, tennis center and summer camp for the kids. Golf: 36 holes (Geoffrey Cornish). Recent Home Listings: $485,000 to $3 million. Contact: 888-592-2224 or quecheelakes.com.
WASHINGTON
TUMBLE CREEK Cle Elum A community within the Suncadia complex, Tumble Creek is 2,600 acres of meadows and brooks. On the edge of the Wenatchee National Forest, it’s a true hiker’s paradise. Plus, there’s a private Tom Doak course and abundant fly-fishing. Golf: 18 holes (Tom Doak). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $400,000 to $1.2 million. Contact: 800-667-1828 or tumblecreek.com.
WEST VIRGINIA
THE GREENBRIER SPORTING CLUB White Sulphur Springs Activities galore with a private lodge, Eastern-inspired spa, equestrian center and full-tilt sports complex. A staff naturalist guides fishing and hiking expeditions. Golf: 72 holes (Tom Fazio, Charles Blair Macdonald/Seth Raynor, Raynor/Jack Nicklaus, Dick Wilson/Bob Cupp). Recent Home Listings: $1.3 million to $6 million. Contact: 888-741-8989 or greenbrier sportingclub.com.
WYOMING
THE POWDER HORN RANCH Sheridan Appropriate footwear here would be cowboy boots with golf spikes and spurs attached. The developer is banker Homer Scott. There’s a restaurant and bar, expansive patio with fire pits, fitness center, pool complex and event space. Golf: 27 holes (Dick Bailey). Recent Home Listings: $400,000 to $2 million. Contact: 800-329-0598 or the powderhorn.com.
THREE CREEK RANCH Jackson Hole Surrounded by five mountain ranges but still just five minutes from Jackson. The golf course has drawn raves, and they’re outfitting for fly-fishing, hardcore fitness facility and even a raptor recovery center. Clubhouse and fitness center to be completed this summer. Golf: 18 holes (Rees Jones). Recent Home Listings (lots only): $1 million to $8 million. Contact: 888-920-9292 or 3creekranch-jh.com.
