Discovering the Fairways: The Best Golf Courses in Nashville

When it comes to golf courses, Nashville has a variety of options for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, several courses in and around the city offer challenging layouts, stunning scenery, and top-notch amenities.

But what makes a golf course stand out as the best? In this article, we will explore the top qualities that make a golf course worthy of being called the best and highlight the top golf courses in Nashville.

First and foremost, a golf course’s design and layout play a crucial role in determining its ranking. The course should have a balanced mix of challenging and easier holes, with a variety of hazards and obstacles to test the players’ skills. In addition, the course’s conditions and maintenance are vital to providing a smooth and enjoyable game.

Lush green fairways, well-manicured greens, and proper drainage are all factors that contribute to a top-rated golf course. Scenery and views are also essential, as golfers enjoy playing in a beautiful and tranquil environment. Finally, the amenities and services offered at the course, such as a well-stocked pro shop, dining options, and quality customer service, can make a significant impact on a player’s overall experience.

With these criteria in mind, here are the top 5 best golf courses in Nashville:

1. Gaylord Springs Golf Links – Known for its stunning views of the Cumberland River, this challenging course offers a unique mix of Scottish links-style holes and traditional tree-lined fairways.
2. Hermitage Golf Course – With two 18-hole courses, this golf club offers a variety of challenges and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
3. The Governors Club – This private club boasts a Jack Nicklaus-designed course with impeccable conditions and breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Tennessee.
4. The Golf Club of Tennessee – Located just outside of Nashville, this championship course has hosted multiple PGA events and offers a challenging yet scenic playing experience.
5. Vanderbilt Legends Club – Designed by Tom Kite and Bob Cupp, this course features impressive waterfalls, stunning views of the nearby lake, and challenging holes.

Other notable golf courses in Nashville that offer unique and enjoyable experiences include Belle Meade Country Club, McCabe Golf Course, Richland Country Club, Harpeth Hills Golf Course, and Percy Warner Golf Course. With its diverse and exceptional golf courses, Nashville is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.

Points clés à retenir:

• Be sure to consider course design, conditions, views, and amenities when looking for the best golf courses in Nashville.
• The top 5 best golf courses in Nashville are Gaylord Springs Golf Links, Hermitage Golf Course, The Governors Club, The Golf Club of Tennessee, and Vanderbilt Legends Club.
• Other notable golf courses in Nashville include Belle Meade Country Club, McCabe Golf Course, Richland Country Club, Harpeth Hills Golf Course, and Percy Warner Golf Course.

The Top 5 Best Golf Courses in Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee may be known for its music scene, but it is also home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country. If you’re planning a trip to Nashville and want to hit the links, look no further.

In this section, we’ll highlight the top 5 best golf courses in the city, each offering its own unique features and challenges. From the stunning views at Gaylord Springs Golf Links to the championship layout at Vanderbilt Legends Club, there’s something for every golfer in this list. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off at the best golf courses in Nashville.

Golfdigest is another useful source of information.

1. Gaylord Springs Golf Links

Overview: Designed by Larry Nelson, Gaylord Springs Golf Links is a Scottish links-style course that offers 18 holes of championship golf. With limestone bluffs, protected wetlands, and stunningly manicured greens, this course is both beautiful and demanding.

Key Features:

• Scottish links-style layout.
• GPS-equipped golf carts.
• A 43,000-square-foot antebellum-style clubhouse.

Best For: Players seeking a challenging yet rewarding links experience. The course’s design requires strategic thinking and precision, making it perfect for more experienced golfers.

Gaylord Springs Golf Links is a premier golf course located in Nashville that offers a top-notch golfing experience. Here are some key features that make it stand out:

1. Scenic Beauty: The course is set against a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery, providing a visually stunning experience.
2. Challenging Layout: Designed by U.S. Open champion Larry Nelson, Gaylord Springs offers a challenging layout with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens.
3. Impeccable Maintenance: The course is meticulously maintained, ensuring pristine fairways and greens that enhance playability.
4. World-Class Amenities: Golfers can enjoy top-notch amenities, including a pro shop, practice facilities, and a clubhouse with dining options.
5. Professional Services: The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide exceptional service, making every visit to Gaylord Springs Golf Links memorable.

The Hermitage Golf Course, for when you want to feel like a hermit in the wilderness, but still have access to a perfectly manicured green.

2. Hermitage Golf Course

Overview: Nestled along the Cumberland River, Hermitage Golf Course offers two 18-hole layouts – the General’s Retreat and President’s Reserve. Known for its beautiful natural setting, wildlife, and challenging play, it’s a must-visit for any golfer in Nashville.

Key Features:

• Two distinct 18-hole courses.
• Stunning riverfront views and natural wildlife.
• Award-winning course with a rich history.

Best For: Golfers looking for a scenic yet challenging round of golf. The President’s Reserve is particularly noted for its environmental preservation and natural beauty.

Hermitage Golf Course is renowned as one of the top golf courses in Nashville, praised for its exceptional design, well-maintained conditions, beautiful scenery, and excellent amenities. The course boasts 36 holes spread across two courses: The General’s Retreat et The President’s Reserve, both offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.

Additionally, the Hermitage Golf Course offers state-of-the-art practice facilities, a pro shop, and various dining options. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Nashville, playing a round at the Hermitage Golf Course is an absolute must for any golf enthusiast.

Fun Fact: The Hermitage Golf Course has hosted numerous prestigious golf events, including the LPGA Sara Lee Classic.

3. The Governors Club

Le Governors Club in Nashville offers a top-notch golfing experience. Here are some key factors that make it one of the best golf courses in the city:

• Stunning Course Design: The Governors Club boasts a meticulously designed course layout that challenges players of all skill levels.
• Impeccable Maintenance: The course is known for its pristine conditions, with well-manicured fairways, greens, and bunkers.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Golfers at The Governors Club enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush landscapes, and serene surroundings.
• Luxurious Amenities: The club offers a range of amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, dining options, and practice facilities.
• Exceptional Service: Guests are treated to exceptional service, with friendly staff members who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience.

The Golf Club of Tennessee – where the only sand traps are the ones you bring in your shoes from the beach.

4. The Golf Club of Tennessee

Le Golf Club of Tennessee is a renowned golf course in Nashville that stands out for its exceptional features.

• Course Design and Layout: The Golf Club of Tennessee offers a challenging and well-designed layout that caters to golfers of all skill levels.
• Course Conditions and Maintenance: The course is meticulously maintained, ensuring pristine fairways, greens, and bunkers.
• Scenery and Views: Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and stunning views, playing at the Golf Club of Tennessee is a visual delight.
• Amenities and Services: The club provides top-notch amenities such as a clubhouse, practice facilities, and professional staff to enhance the overall golfing experience.

Overall, the Golf Club of Tennessee is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a high-quality and enjoyable round of golf.

You don’t need a degree from Vanderbilt to appreciate the legendary golf course at the Vanderbilt Legends Club, but it helps if you can afford the membership fees.

5. Vanderbilt Legends Club

Le Vanderbilt Legends Club is one of the best golf courses in Nashville, offering a top-notch golfing experience. Here are the steps to enjoy this exceptional course:

1. Book your tee time in advance to secure your spot at the renowned Vanderbilt Legends Club.
2. Arrive early to warm up at the practice facilities.
3. Experience the challenging yet scenic holes as you play the course at the Vanderbilt Legends Club.
4. Take advantage of the outstanding amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, and dining options at the Vanderbilt Legends Club.
5. Enjoy the welcoming and professional service from the staff throughout your visit to the Vanderbilt Legends Club.

The Vanderbilt Legends Club has hosted professional tournaments and is known for its beautifully manicured fairways and greens.

These courses may not have made the top 5, but they still have enough holes to keep you out of trouble with your spouse.

Useful links to make your bookings.

Other Notable Golf Courses in Nashville

While the previously mentioned golf courses are undoubtedly some of the best in Nashville, there are several other notable options for golf enthusiasts to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the other top golf courses in Nashville that offer unique experiences and challenges for players. From the prestigious Belle Meade Country Club to the scenic Percy Warner Golf Course, each of these courses offers something special for golfers of all skill levels to enjoy.

1. Belle Meade Country Club

Le Belle Meade Country Club in Nashville is renowned for its exceptional golfing experience. Here are some key features that make it stand out:

• Challenging Course: The well-designed layout of the Belle Meade course provides a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
• Beautiful Scenery: With its lush green fairways, manicured greens, and picturesque surroundings, Belle Meade offers stunning views that enhance the overall golfing experience.
• Top-notch Facilities: The club provides excellent amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, practice facilities, and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for members and guests.
• Historic Legacy: Belle Meade has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, adding a unique charm and sense of tradition to the golfing experience at Belle Meade Country Club.

If you’re looking for a challenging course with more hills than a rollercoaster, McCabe Golf Course will have you saying ‘fore’ more than you thought possible.

2. McCabe Golf Course

Overview: McCabe Golf Course, located in the Sylvan Park neighborhood, is a 27-hole golf course that is beloved by locals. With its recent renovations, McCabe offers a modern golfing experience while retaining its historic charm.

Key Features:

• Three 9-hole courses that can be played in combinations.
• Night golfing available on select evenings.
• A fully equipped pro shop and a comprehensive learning center.

Best For: Golfers of all skill levels, especially those looking for a casual round or to improve their game. Its central location also makes it an easy choice for a quick game in the city.

McCabe Golf Course is renowned as one of the premier golf courses in Nashville, praised for its picturesque scenery, well-maintained conditions, and exceptional amenities. The course layout offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. With its vibrant green fairways, serene water features, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, McCabe Golf Course creates a tranquil and calming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, McCabe Golf Course guarantees an unforgettable golfing experience.

Fun fact: This esteemed course has hosted numerous professional and amateur tournaments, further solidifying its status as a top-rated golf destination in Nashville.

With its scenic views and luxurious amenities, Richland Country Club is the perfect place to lose a few balls and some dignity on the golf course.

3. Richland Country Club

Richland Country Club is renowned as one of the best golf courses in Nashville, offering a challenging and picturesque experience for golf enthusiasts. It is highly regarded for its impeccable course conditions and maintenance, ensuring a top-notch playing surface. The club’s scenic views, with lush green fairways and beautiful landscapes, only add to the overall enjoyment.

Richland Country Club also boasts excellent amenities and services, providing a luxurious and convenient golfing experience. Established in 1901, the club has a rich history of hosting prestigious tournaments and events, drawing golfers from all over. With its exceptional qualities, Richland Country Club truly embodies the essence of a top-tier golfing destination.

With its challenging layout and stunning views, Harpeth Hills Golf Course is the perfect place to practice your swing and contemplate the meaning of life (or just your next shot).

4. Harpeth Hills Golf Course

Harpeth Hills Golf Course is a renowned golf course located in Nashville, specifically in the Bellevue area. It is known for its challenging and picturesque golfing experience. The course boasts rolling fairways, mature trees, and well-maintained greens. With a par of 72, it offers a variety of holes that will put golfers’ skills to the test. The course also provides amenities such as a pro shop, practice facilities, and a clubhouse. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, Harpeth Hills Golf Course guarantees a delightful and top-notch golfing experience in Nashville.

5. Percy Warner Golf Course

Le Percy Warner Golf Course in Nashville offers a fantastic golfing experience with its picturesque setting and well-maintained course.

1. Step 1: Start by booking a tee time at Percy Warner Golf Course.
2. Step 2: Arrive early to warm up at the practice facility, including a driving range and putting green.
3. Step 3: Enjoy the challenging layout of the course, which features narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers.
4. Step 4: Take in the scenic views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery as you play.
5. Step 5: After your round, relax and unwind at the clubhouse, where you can grab a drink or a meal.

Nashboro Golf Club

Overview: Nashboro Golf Club is a classic course known for its wide fairways and large greens. Despite its seemingly forgiving layout, strategic water hazards and bunkers provide a challenge to golfers.

Key Features:

• Mature, tree-lined fairways.
• Well-placed hazards to challenge strategic play.
• Excellent conditioning and a friendly atmosphere.

Best For: Both beginners and seasoned golfers will enjoy Nashboro’s balanced design. It’s particularly suited for those looking to enjoy a relaxed round with friends.

Ted Rhodes Golf Course

Overview: Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, Ted Rhodes Golf Course is famous for its demanding layout and stunning views. It’s a course that requires accuracy and strategy, offering a rewarding experience for those who navigate it successfully.

Key Features:

• Challenging layout with water coming into play on several holes.
• Beautiful river views and lush landscapes.
• Host to numerous local and regional tournaments.

Best For: Advanced golfers looking for a test of their skills. The course’s layout rewards precision and strategic thinking, making it a thrilling challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated golf courses in the Nashville area?

Some of the top-rated golf courses in the Nashville area include Old Hickory, Hillwood Country Club, Gaylord Springs Golf Links, and Belle Meade Country Club.

Which course in Nashville is designed by a three-time major champion?

Gaylord Springs Golf Links, designed by three-time major champion Larry Nelson, offers a links-style layout with water hazards on 10 of the 18 holes.

Are there any public courses near Nashville?

Yes, there are many public golf courses near Nashville, including Ted Rhodes Golf Course, Shelby Golf Course, Two Rivers Golf Course, Gaylord Springs Golf Links, Harpeth Valley Golf Center, McCabe Golf Course, VinnyLinks Golf Course, Nashboro Golf Club, and Harpeth Hills Golf Course.

What type of challenges do courses near Nashville offer?

Courses near Nashville offer a variety of challenges, including risk-reward opportunities, doglegs, and water hazards. Golfers can also expect to encounter undulating terrain and exposed nature on some courses.

Can golfers join a community to rate courses and share their experiences?

Yes, golfers can join the Golf Digest+ community to rate courses and share their experiences. This community is open to anyone and allows for the sharing of helpful course reviews and recommendations.

What is the recommended method for reserving tee times at Nashville’s top golf courses?

It is recommended to reserve tee times in advance, as many of Nashville’s top golf courses, such as Hillwood Country Club and Gaylord Springs Golf Links, can be in high demand. Golfers can also check Golf Digest’s Places to Play course database for tee time information and availability.