Maine, with its picturesque landscapes and serene settings, is home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in the United States. From the lush fairways of Old Marsh Country Club to the challenging terrains of Sugarloaf Golf Club, the state offers a diverse range of courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. In this article, we highlight 5 amazing golf courses in Maine that are sure to provide an unforgettable golfing experience.
Key Takeaways
- Old Marsh Country Club in Wells is a semi-private, 18-hole championship course with a design that pays homage to the golden age of golf.
- Pleasant Hill offers a well-maintained course with a variety of shots and scenic views, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
- Sugarloaf Golf Club is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning mountainous backdrop, providing a test for even the most seasoned golfers.
- Belgrade Lakes Golf Club is celebrated for its pristine conditions and natural beauty, nestled in the heart of Maine’s lake region.
- Sunday River Golf Club delivers an exceptional golfing experience with its well-designed course, professional upkeep, and breathtaking vistas.
1. Old Marsh Country Club
Nestled in Wells, Maine, the Old Marsh Country Club offers a semi-private, 18-hole championship experience that is open to the public. Designed by Brian Silva in 2008, this course pays tribute to the classic designs of C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor. It quickly garnered acclaim, being ranked as one of the "Top 10 Best in America" by GOLF Magazine in its inaugural year.
The course’s layout presents a challenge to players of all skill levels, with a variety of hazards and strategic elements that demand thoughtful play.
Visitors often praise the course for its excellent maintenance and the pleasant experience it provides, despite occasional muddy patches due to weather. The on-site shop is noted for its impressive selection of snacks, adding to the overall enjoyment of the day.
While some find the course’s price point on the higher side, the consensus is that Old Marsh Country Club is a fun and well-maintained course, with fairways and greens that keep golfers coming back.
2. Pleasant Hill
Pleasant Hill offers a very fun course that has been praised for its excellent maintenance and the repurposing of the property. The course is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is considered relatively easy, with many suggesting that some of the par 5’s could be more appropriately classified as par 4’s.
The course’s design provides a variety of shots, although some players note the pars are quite forgiving. The pro shop is highlighted for its impressive disc selection and, despite some mixed reviews about staff communication, the overall experience is deemed pleasant.
Here’s what golfers appreciate about Pleasant Hill:
- Well-maintained grounds
- Forgiving pars and open course design
- A pro shop with a wide selection of discs
- The snack selection is excellent
While the course receives high marks for upkeep and scenery, some golfers suggest that signage could be improved to enhance the experience further.
3. Sugarloaf Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of Maine’s western mountains, Sugarloaf Golf Club offers a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is challenging. Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 18-hole masterpiece is a must-visit for any avid golfer. The course is known for its meticulous maintenance and the natural beauty that surrounds each hole.
| Tee | Par | Length | Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 72 | 6890 yd | 76.1 | 146 |
| Gold | 72 | 6395 yd | 72.9 | 143 |
| Silver | 72 | 5841 yd | 70.1 | 138 |
With a variety of tees to choose from, golfers of all skill levels can find a challenge that is appropriate for their game. The course’s signature hole, a par-3 with a dramatic elevation change, provides a thrilling test of accuracy.
Embrace the serene environment as you navigate through the strategic layout of the course. The combination of natural hazards and cleverly placed bunkers will require thoughtful shot selection and a solid strategy.
The club’s facilities include a full-service pro shop and a comfortable clubhouse where you can relax after your round. With a 99% recommendation rate from golfers, Sugarloaf Golf Club is a premier destination for those looking to explore top golf courses in the region.
4. Belgrade Lakes Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of Maine, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club offers a serene yet challenging golfing experience. The club is renowned for its meticulously maintained courses, which feature a variety of challenging layouts that cater to golfers of all levels. The exceptional facilities complement the natural beauty of the surroundings, ensuring a memorable round of golf.
The essence of golf at Belgrade Lakes is the harmonious blend of nature and strategic play. The course’s design leverages the rolling terrain and natural features to create a series of holes that are as beautiful as they are demanding.
Here’s a quick glance at the course details:
| Tee | Par | Length | Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 72 | 6890 yd | 76.1 | 146 |
| Gold | 72 | 6395 yd | 72.9 | 143 |
| Silver | 72 | 5841 yd | 70.1 | 138 |
Each tee offers a distinct challenge, inviting players to test their skills against the backdrop of Maine’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the Belgrade Lakes Golf Club is a premier destination that should not be missed.
5. Sunday River Golf Club
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Newry, Maine, the Sunday River Golf Club offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty. The course, designed by the renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., is a masterpiece that seamlessly integrates with the natural terrain.
The club is known for its impeccable maintenance and the variety of holes that cater to golfers of all skill levels. The fairways are lined with lush forests, and the greens are meticulously groomed, providing an exceptional golfing experience.
The journey to Sunday River is as breathtaking as the course itself. If you have to drive, the scenery is beautiful. The resort is very nice and becomes a hub of activity during the winter season.
Here’s a quick glance at what Sunday River Golf Club has to offer:
- Championship 18-hole golf course
- Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
- Stunning mountain views
- Diverse terrain to challenge all golfers
- Excellent course maintenance and facilities
Whether you’re looking to test your skills on the greens or simply enjoy a day surrounded by nature, Sunday River is a destination that should not be missed.
Conclusion
Maine’s golf courses offer a diverse range of experiences for golf enthusiasts, from the championship-level design of Old Marsh Country Club in Wells to the scenic views and friendly layouts suitable for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round, a fun day out with friends, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine, these courses provide something for every golfer. While some may find the pars a bit easy and the prices a touch high, the overall maintenance and quality of these courses stand out. Remember to respect the rules and enjoy the unique character each course brings to the game. As you reflect on the amazing golf courses featured in this article, consider planning your next tee time in Maine for an unforgettable golfing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top golf courses to visit in Maine?
The top golf courses in Maine include Old Marsh Country Club, Pleasant Hill, Sugarloaf Golf Club, Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, and Sunday River Golf Club.
Is Old Marsh Country Club open to the public?
Yes, Old Marsh Country Club is a semi-private course that welcomes the public.
Who designed Old Marsh Country Club?
Old Marsh Country Club was designed by Brian Silva and pays homage to the golden age stylings of C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor.
What accolades has Old Marsh Country Club received?
In its first year of operation, Old Marsh Country Club was ranked ‘Top 10 Best in America’ by GOLF Magazine.
Are there any special rules to be aware of when playing at these courses?
Yes, players should respect the course rules such as not entering the water, limiting groups to 5 people, and adhering to pay-to-play policies.
What amenities can be found at these golf courses?
These golf courses offer a variety of amenities including well-maintained fairways and greens, tee areas, pro shops, snack selections, and sometimes cart rentals.