Austin is the official seat of Travis County, Texas as well as the state capital, with a population of more than 750,000 people (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). Situated along the Colorado River, the area is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, and is also known for housing a diverse artistic community and a prosperous high-tech sector. However, the Austin area also plays home to several of the country's top golf courses, including a few designed by legendary golf trailblazer Arnold Palmer.
Barton Creek Lakeside
Part of the award-winning Barton Creek Resort, this stunning 18-hole, par 71 Palmer course was rated by The Dallas Morning News as one of the best in Texas. Golfers will enjoy 6,663 yards of rolling green terrain, lush foliage, lakes and waterfalls along with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. In fact, every hole on the course offers a view of the serene Lake Travis. The signature hole is the 11th, a delightful par 3 with a cascading waterfall as the backdrop. The property also features a pro shop with top quality gear and practice facilities including a driving range and putting green. Greens fees are substantially cheaper for members and their guests than for non-members, and nine-hole rates are also available.
1800 Clubhouse Hill Dr.
Spicewood, TX 78669
(800) 693-5253
bartoncreek.com
Lakecliff Country Club
This secluded Palmer course, which opened in 2003, is nestled inside the private, gated community of Lakecliff on Lake Travis, just minutes from downtown Austin. A challenge for any serious golfer, this 18-hole par 71 tour-de-force features fast-running Bermuda greens over 6,750 yards of play from the black tees. Club members can play any time of day and tee times are not required, although proper attire such as collared shirts and Bermuda length shorts always is. The pro shop offers merchandise from top brands, and a wide range of lessons taught by PGA professionals, from private one-on-ones to group clinics, are available for members and their guests.
1700 Kahala Sunset Dr.
Spicewood, TX 78669
(830) 798-0695
lakecliff.net
La Cantera Resort
Other than Barton Creek and Lakecliff, the next closest Palmer course to Austin is this breathtaking par 71, which is part of the highly decorated La Cantera Westin resort and home of the PGA Tour's Valero Texas Open. For many, the one hour and 15 minute drive from Austin's downtown will prove worth it, as golfers of all levels will enjoy playing 6,926 yards of velvet green fairways, oak groves and limestone outcroppings--a truly unique experience. Signature holes include #4 and #18, with breathtaking views of a waterfall-fed lake and the clubhouse. In addition to offering private lessons, the course can be rented for corporate outings, charity events and private, customized tournaments as well.
16641 La Cantera Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78256
(210) 558-4653
lacanteragolfclub.com
About The Author
Mark Heidelberger has been writing for more than 17 years, with recent articles appearing on websites such as eHow, Trails and GolfLink. He has also written, rewritten, and developed dozens of feature film screenplays and manages a number of film and television writers. He holds a master's degree from UCLA in film and television producing.
