Sugarloaf Mountain is best course in Florida PERIOD! So what makes me an expert in rating a golf course? Twenty-four years in the state, more than 100 courses played among them World Woods, Bay Hill, Isleworth, Lake Nona and a few other top-rated in the Sunshine State. The beguiling, mesmerizing and meditative state inducing Sugarloaf Mountain has no equal. Located in the rolling hills of Minneola, North West of Orlando, it is definitely worth the time, effort and drive to ascend to Sugarloaf Mountain. The temporary clubhouse and the tent covering the carts, gives you the feeling that you are beating the throngs of people for a sneak preview.
Where do I start? The driving range gives you a view like no other ... seeing your ball flying downhill gives you the feeling you are hitting it at least a club longer! Head Professional and General Manager Jim Houston is a gracious host and gave me a personal tour of the golf equivalent of a master painter's work of art. The first tee is located on the highest part of the property and the gentle Ben dogleg left is a solid opening hole. Space does not permit me to elaborate on all the wonderful details, but the orange jasmine is one of my favorite natural accompaniments. The shaping of the bunkers is so natural; it appears they have always been there. Take a look at the attached photo gallery.
The front nine is a wonderfully balanced test of length and precision. The back nine is where the true test unfolds. The vistas are absolutely breathtaking, take time to enjoy them! The 13th hole is the most gorgeous hole with an elevation change of 88 feet. If you stand on the tee and you have not seen the hole before, it is daunting! The blind tee shot into the valley requires a gentle Ben draw, to take advantage of the slope and leaves a long, mid or short iron in, depending on length and direction. The view from the fairway is unprecedented ... downtown Orlando can be seen from the best vantage point on the course! The downhill flight of the ball on the second shot is such an awe inspiring experience, because there are very few golf shots in the world with THAT much elevation change ... WOW!
I have to make special mention of the 17th ... a monster par 3! Two hundred fifty-seven yards from the tips into the most picturesque framed scene on the course. The natural sand framing of the holes, non paved cart paths ... you gotta walk this links track to truly experience the nuances ... and the top of the world location make this a must for every golf aficionado in the country!
A very limited amount of non-member play is offered for a limited time until the membership reaches full capacity and will make it the finest private club experience in Central Florida! For information go to www.themountain.cc ... this opportunity will not last very long ... don't miss it!
1 comment:
I think harder or easier courses may have longer or shorter distances, respectively. Terrain can also be a factor, where a long downhill hole might be rated a par four, but a shorter uphill or treacherous hole might be rated a par five
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