In just over a decade, the Williamsburg area has become a northern rival of golfing mecca Myrtle Beach, S.C. with the addition of several new courses and the upgrade of some older layouts. The area can now boast over 20 public and private courses, including several among Golf Digest’s “Ten Best in Virginia.”
A prime destination for both local and visiting golfers is Ford’s Colony. This community of upscale homes and amenities offers 54 holes of championship golf. The Dan Maples designed courses are the highest ranked in Virginia, having been awarded four-and-a-half stars by Golf Digest’s Places to Play.
Each of the courses – Blackheath, Marsh Hawk and Blue Heron – presents different challenges with distinct layouts. All play through beautifully wooded areas with numerous water hazards. The Marsh Hawk, a par 72, is the oldest of the courses but underwent renovation in 2002. It wears a necklace of sand traps and water hazards and the last four holes are some of the best closing holes to be found anywhere. It has hosted the Virginia State Open and qualifying for the Michelob Championship for 12 years.
The Blackheath, opened in 1999, is a par 71 that features an island tee on the par-3 third hole and a daunting island green on the 18th. Water defends on 13 holes. The Blue Heron is the newest of the courses, opening in 2000 after nine new holes were added to nine existing holes. Water features flank many of its fairways and greens, particularly the course’s signature 17th hole.
Other superior courses helping to make the Williamsburg area a golf-rich community are: Colonial Williamsburg’s Golden Horseshoe (three courses); Kingsmill (three courses and home of the LPGA’s Michelob Ultra Open); Kisiack Golf Club; Brickshire; Colonial and Royal New Kent. |
