Tee Off and Sip: The Best Golf Courses Along the Bourbon Trail
Combining two passions—golfing and savoring the finest spirits—the Bourbon Trail offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to experience the best of both worlds. Kentucky’s beautiful landscape is dotted with world-class golf courses that provide breathtaking views, challenging fairways, and an unforgettable golfing experience. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the top golf courses along the Bourbon Trail, where you can tee off in the morning and raise a glass of bourbon in the evening.
- Valhalla Golf Club (Louisville, Kentucky): Known for hosting major championships and professional tournaments, Valhalla Golf Club is a golfing paradise. This Jack Nicklaus-designed course offers a challenging layout with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and picturesque water features. Immerse yourself in the championship-caliber atmosphere as you navigate the same holes that have tested the skills of golf’s greatest players. After a rewarding round, unwind at a local distillery in Louisville, such as Angel’s Envy, and savor their signature bourbon.
- Kearney Hill Golf Links (Lexington, Kentucky): Located just a short drive from Lexington, Kearney Hill Golf Links is a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region. This 18-hole championship course, designed by Pete and P.B. Dye, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging play. With its tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and stunning views, Kearney Hill promises a memorable golfing experience. After your round, venture to a nearby distillery like Town Branch Distillery and indulge in their bourbon offerings.
- Griffin Gate Golf Club (Lexington, Kentucky): Situated at the Lexington Marriott Griffin Gate Resort, Griffin Gate Golf Club offers a championship golf course that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a challenging layout. Designed by Rees Jones, this 18-hole course features lush fairways, well-guarded greens, and scenic water hazards. Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside as you test your skills on this meticulously maintained course. To complement your golfing adventure, visit the nearby James E. Pepper Distillery and sample their handcrafted bourbons.
- Old Silo Golf Course (Mount Sterling, Kentucky): Nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass region, Old Silo Golf Course offers a scenic and enjoyable golfing experience. This Graham Marsh-designed course boasts rolling terrain, strategic bunkering, and meticulously manicured greens. The layout is known for its playability, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels. After a satisfying round, make your way to the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a short drive away, and explore their historic grounds while enjoying their premium bourbons.
- Boone’s Trace National Golf Club (Richmond, Kentucky): Located just outside Richmond, Kentucky, Boone’s Trace National Golf Club is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with a challenging golf course. Designed by David Pfaff, this course offers panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, lush fairways, and well-placed hazards. The scenic surroundings provide a serene atmosphere for an enjoyable round of golf. Afterward, head to the nearby Four Roses Distillery and discover their range of bourbons, known for their distinct aromas and flavors.
Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail not only showcases the finest bourbon distilleries but also offers an array of world-class golf courses. From the championship-caliber Valhalla Golf Club to the hidden gem of Old Silo Golf Course, each destination combines the thrill of golf with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the bourbon culture that permeates the region. So, plan your golfing getaway along the Bourbon Trail, tee off in picturesque settings, and raise a glass of the finest bourbon as you celebrate a day well spent. Cheers to a perfect blend of golf and bourbon!