With such a gorgeous waterside Appalachian setting, residents and visiting golfers will probably wonder where they can take in the scenery and play a few rounds during their time at Smith Mountain Lake. Luckily, the lake area has several golfing options to offer, rather nice ones at that. And for those willing to make a short drive, there are more fantastic courses in the Roanoke area.
Photo via Flickr
Of the four courses surrounding the lake, two are private, one is public, and one is semi-private. Let this post serve as your guide to the golfing opportunities of Smith Mountain Lake.
Mariner’s Landing
Mariner’s Landing isn’t just a lakeside golfing destination; it’s also a well-established resort and conference center. Golfers can enjoy an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course designed by English course architect Robert Trent Jones, known for having designed or redesigned roughly 500 different courses worldwide.
The Mariner’s Landing course is open to the public, and it offers some of the best views of the lake and its surrounding terrain.
The Westlake
Another 18-hole, par 72 course, The Westlake Golf and Country Club is a full-service attraction, including a pro shop, clubhouse, and restaurant. Set slightly off the lake, the Westlake course provides enjoyable scenery without too many difficult water features. But that’s not to say this course doesn’t present a formidable challenge. Course architect Russell Breeden, well known for his work in Virginia, designed the Westlake course with holes that will test the skills of any player.
Photo via VanCityAllie.com
The Westlake Golf Course and Country Club are semi-private, meaning patrons can join the club for discounts and amenities or play and visit at their leisure as guests.
The Water’s Edge
Living up to its name, this 18-hole PGA Championship course runs right alongside the glimmering waters of Smith Mountain Lake. But with lakeside beauty comes a significant challenge. Island greens and water features abound. Less experienced players should be prepared to take a mulligan!
Unfortunately, this course is private and open only to Water’s Edge development residents and their guests.
The Waterfront
Similar to The Water’s Edge private course, The Waterfront golf course and country club offers the complete package – pro shop, clubhouse, restaurant, and extensive amenities. The championship course spans nearly nine miles of Smith Mountain Lake shoreline and offers gorgeous landscapes and picturesque views.
Photo by Aftab Uzzaman
Thankfully, unlike The Water’s Edge, property ownership is not mandatory for access to the course. Those who wish to play must simply join the club with an annual fee. This makes The Waterfront course a good option for long-term Smith Mountain Lake residents.
Southwest Virginia is a fabulous destination for golfers; these four courses simply represent the offerings near the lake. Golfers seeking more selection can find spectacular options, such as the Ballyhack, Blue Hills, and Ashley Plantation golf courses, within an hour’s drive of the SML area.
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