The Sedgewood Golf Club, Carmel, NY

This course is a treat. It is a 9 hole, par 35 private course hidden away in the hills of Putnam County. Stunning views from the tee boxes on holes 4 and 6. For men there are 18 tees, some which make the hole drastically different the second time around. The terrain is hilly - flat lies are a rarity here. Most greens are significantly sloped -- it is very, very easy to 3 putt or more these puppies. If I had to pick a signature hole, it would be the 6th, a short, downhill, risk-reward par 4 that apparently used to be a ski slope back in the day. The 7th hole, a long, uphill Par 4, may be the hardest hole in Putnam County (and many other counties!) -- especially from the back tee.

So if you live in the area, make friends with a member and try out this course, or consider joining yourself. My wife and I have been members for a couple of years now. It has been well worth it. The guests we bring, high and low handicappers alike -- all are impressed with the course. Membership is affordable -- especially if you play quite a bit like us -- and the course is rarely crowded. Crowded here means there is someone three holes away! Tee times are never necessary - just show up and play. There is not much in the way of amenities - no restaurant or locker room (and much to my dismay, no cute golf course young ladies in carts selling drinks -- ouch, my wife just slapped me!) -- but the staff and the golf both are fantastic. And a jump in the nearby lake after a round of golf is really refreshing and a great way to cap off a round.