Ten Great Courses in and around Boyne
The Inn at Bay Harbor gallantly stands guard on the northern shore of Lake Michigan, somewhat reminiscent of San Diego’s Del Coronado.
A lakefront room rewards senses with surging or lapping ripples against that shore. Poolside squeals of delight mix with sibling tiffs that are quickly squashed as lawn games deliver family fun and hammocks, relaxation.
Floral landscaping is icing on the resort cake that serves as a getaway for all Michiganders and world travelers. Lollipop lamb chops and meaty crab cakes are to die for at the Vintage Chop House where sunset spurs gleeful photographers to rush out the patio door. If not there to take selfies and groupies, peek at the live cam on their website. Sunrises are also glorious with a breakfast buffet in The Sagamore Room.
Besides the Inn at Bay Harbor, Boyne Golf serves up ten championship-caliber courses and two more resorts. The Heather course at Boyne Highlands was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. over 50 years ago. The maintenance crew keeps it fresh as new. Cue the heron to the fountain and pond on the first tee box for a journey’s sendoff through the woods and wetlands. Grab a Chicago dog at the turn, well worth the delicious messiness. Number 18 is a memorable finish, set below the ski slope with a large lake to maneuver front and center.
The Links/Quarry/Preserve 9s are truly a treat at Bay Harbor Golf Club, beginning with four beautiful holes on the Links’ seashore.
No, they just seem like ocean holes, but it is Lake Michigan. Dunes and tall grass feel like Ireland’s Enniscrome.
The Quarry is a course Fred Flintstone would enjoy with Barney Rubble – deep gorges, steep rock walls and swans swimming in a pond. Nine is a grand finale beginning with a blind tee shot to the top of a hill facing Lake Michigan. Cross the ravine down to the green where trees are swaying on the very edge of the lake. Bring it home to the warmth of the elegant clubhouse perched above, adorned by brilliant flowers. This is just a sampling of the Boyne beauties. More
