For the perfect golf getaway, head for the Petoskey Area of northern Michigan. Named #2 in the country for its concentrated golf quality by Golf Magazine; not only is the quality of the courses in the area exceptional, but also there are more to choose from than the avid golfer can swing a club at. There are 18 spectacular courses in the area, all within an easy drive of one another.
The topography alone gives courses a character that is simply hard to find anywhere else. Once sculpted by glacial ice sheets, the northern Michigan landscape is now defined by rolling hills up to 600 feet in elevation. Most area courses take full advantage with breathtaking terrain changes.
Lake Michigan combined with the numerous inland lakes in the area, add to the beauty of the courses and offer absolutely stunning vistas. And virtually all the golf holes are separated from each other — no bowling alley back and forth golf! Whether choosing a world-class course or a more economical layout, the beauty of the location will be remembered long after forgetting the score.
Considering the spectacular landscape and the fact that architects such as Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Arthur Hills have designed courses here, it’s no surprise that the Petoskey Area is home to many prestigious tournaments. Renowned courses are just a tee-time away.
The area, which is home to the Donald Ross Memorial and Ross courses at Boyne Highlands, also provide unique opportunities to get around. Boyne Highlands now offers Golf Boarding: a four-wheel drive board that allows the driver to turn by simply transferring body weight in a carving motion akin to snowboarding or surfing. Both of which are recreational activities popular in the Petoskey area, depending on the season.
While the Petoskey Area has long been a golf destination, it is just the start of all there is to do. With a wealth of recreational activities within a short distance, this is a family destination where the non-golfers don’t feel stranded.
The charming lakeside communities (Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne City and Bay Harbor) are full of unique shops, boutiques and galleries. Visitors can hike and bike along the lake or through hardwood forests, cool off in Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark, or experience the excitement of the magnificent casino.
After a round of golf, visit one of the local breweries or wineries or enjoy a meal in one of the exceptional restaurants in the area before calling it a night.
With more than 2,800 rooms in the greater Petoskey area, visitors can rest assured of finding lodging accommodations that are the exact right fit. Choose from quaint country inns, luxurious condominiums or modern full-service hotels; stay on a golf course, on a lakefront, or right in the heart of town; select a place that has an indoor pool or one that allows pets. Whatever the preference, there is an accommodation that will meet—perhaps even exceed—expectations.
The combination of unforgettable golf, beautiful lakeside resort towns and a friendly, unhurried pace are why this area is called a Michigan treasure.
For more information, including lodging assistance, call the Visitors Bureau at 800.845.2828 or visit PetoskeyArea.com.
TGE
Photos courtesy Petoskey Area CVB