McLemore Resort Golf Course Offers Strategic Challenges and Scenic Vistas, According to Recent Reviews
The McLemore Resort golf course, located in Tennessee, features a layout designed to test players with wide fairways and strategic green complexes, according to a 2023 review by Golf Digest. The course, which opened in 2015, is praised for its natural terrain and panoramic views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
Design and Layout: Balancing Accessibility and Difficulty
Designed by architect Tom Fazio, the McLemore Resort golf course spans 7,200 yards from the championship tees, offering multiple set-ups to accommodate players of all skill levels. The course’s wide-open tee shots, as noted in a resort press release, are balanced by undulating greens and strategically placed bunkers. “The fairways are forgiving, but the greens demand precision,” said PGA Tour player Jordan Spieth during a 2022 visit, per Golf Channel.
Player Feedback: A Mix of Praise and Constructive Criticism
Recent reviews highlight the course’s aesthetic appeal and playability. Golf Digest’s 2023 evaluation gave the course a 4.5/5 rating, citing its “seamless integration with the landscape” and “challenging yet fair” hole design. However, some players, including a 2023 Golf Magazine contributor, noted that the course’s slower pace of play and limited practice facilities could detract from the experience.
Scenery and Amenities: A Key Selling Point
The course’s most distinctive feature is its “miles-long views” of the Smoky Mountains, as described in a Tennessee Tourism Board promotional piece. Players often pause between holes to take in the vistas, which are amplified by the course’s elevation changes. The resort also offers a 19th-hole restaurant and clubhouse, with a 2023 Yelp review calling the dining area “a perfect spot to unwind after a round.”
What Makes It Unique: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Unlike many modern courses that prioritize length, McLemore Resort emphasizes strategic play and natural beauty. This approach aligns with a broader trend in golf course design, as noted in a 2022 Golf Today article. “It’s a course that rewards course management over brute strength,” said Fazio in a 2018 interview with Golf Week. The course’s use of native grasses and conservation efforts further distinguishes it from more traditional layouts.
Accessibility and Availability
The McLemore Resort golf course is open to the public, with rates starting at $120 per round during peak season. The resort offers lodging options, including cabins and hotel rooms, with a 2023 Booking.com listing noting “exceptional service” and “well-maintained facilities.” Players are encouraged to book tee times in advance, as availability can be limited during weekends and holidays.