With more than 400 golf courses spread across the state, North Carolina is a true Mecca for golf lovers and is one of the most popular travel destinations among golfers. Countless championships have been played here and many trophies have been won. Especially the Pinehurst No. 2, designed by Donald Ross, is one of the most famous venues and will make history in June 2014, as this is the first time that the U.S. Open and the U.S. Women’s Open will be held together in one place and for two consecutive weeks.
Not only that, but after both tournaments end in the summer of 2014, Pinehurst No. 2 can boast of having hosted all five USGA Championships! And that is definitely a reason to take a closer look at this renowned golf course in North Carolina.
It all began with the construction of the first golf course in 1895, the Linville Golf Club, followed by James Tuft’s Pinehurst in the same year and soon the first golf resort followed. Today Pinehurst No. 2, designed by Donald Ross, is one of the most famous courses – venue of the PGA Tour Championships in 1991 and 1992 and the U.S. Open in 1999 and 2005. The Scottish emigrant was one of the best architects of his time and created more than 50 golf courses between Wilmington and Asheville.
Some of the most famous golf courses in North Carolina, which were also designed by Ross, are among the best known: The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, Pine Needles, Southern Pines Golf Club, Wilmington Municipal Golf Course and Raleigh Country Club. Other public courses include the Asheboro Municipal Golf Course, Black Mountains Golf Course, Lake Lure Golf Club and Monroe Country Club. Of course, not all golf courses are exhausted, because North Carolina offers visitors the opportunity to find something for everyone.
If you are not only a passionate golfer, but also enjoy a glass of wine, you will not be disappointed by North Carolina. The Yadkin Valley Golf & Wine Resort combines golf, comfort and wine in a unique way and leaves nothing to be desired in an environment that is home to more than 35 wineries. Visitors also have the opportunity to participate in wine tastings and wine tours to gain an insight into North Carolina’s wine culture. Popular locations include Cedarbrook Country Club in Elkin, Cross Creek Country Club in Mount Airy, and the Olde Beau Golf Course in Roaring Gap. Not to be missed are the Grassy Creek Vineyard, Old North State Winery and the Round Peak Vineyards.
