The GolfCourseHome Life

Lakewood Ranch Welcomes New Builders, Heritage Wake Forest Holds Teen Event

Pauma Valley Country Club, CA is a private getaway.

Pauma Valley Country Club, CA, located one hour NE of San Diego, is having a 1960s Social Terrace Dinner tonight. Members promise they will wear their grooviest clothes, sandals, even flowers in their hair as a tribute to the 40th anniversary of Woodstock held in August 1969. Bell bottoms, anyone? Click here for more information about Pauma Valley CC!

Heritage Wake Forest NC held its first-ever Teens Only Dive-in Movie at its flagship pool last Saturday. “Twilight” was the main feature, beginning at sunset. Attendees received glow bracelets and plastic costume fangs upon entry. Prizes such as movie posters, copies of the book, t-shirts and other themed items were awarded. The club also hosts Family Dive-In Movies throughout the pool season. Click here for more information about Heritage Wake Forest!

Champion Hills, NC, announces its 2nd round of beginner ballroom dance classes, beginning August 31st. Classes last an hour and will be held for six consecutive weeks. Lisa Puckett, from the Asheville School of Dance will teach the Rumba, Fox Trot, Swing and Waltz. The cost per person is $43 for the six-week course. Click here for more information about Champion Hills!

Frenchman's Creek Beach & Country Club, FL earns membership into The Platinum Club of America for 2009. Club Every three years Leaders Forum conducts a nationwide survey ranking private clubs across the country to determine “the best of the best.” Congrats to Frenchman's Creek! Click here for more information about Frenchman's Creek!

Hammock Dunes, FL, a private oceanfront community, announces that flying your private aircraft to the area's Flagler County Airport on Florida's Palm Coast has just gotten easier. The airport is celebrating the opening of its new Tower which will allow more Corporate Owned aircraft at the facility. Click here for more information about Hammock Dunes!

Lakewood Ranch, FL welcomes two new homebuilders; Minto Communities and Paradise Homes of Sarasota. Both companies will be constructing model homes in neighborhoods in Country Club East, a private, gated community around lakes, nature preserves and a championship golf course. Click here for more information about Lakewood Ranch!

Reynolds Plantation Releases Angel Pond Homesites: Views, Walking Trails & More

Reynolds Plantation, GA is a lakeside community.

Reynolds Plantation, GA, announces a new release of a limited number of premium homesites, some maintenance-free, at Angel Pond.  The release includes a selection of lakefront, pond view and golf view homesites. The neighborhood is close to The Creek Club golf course, The Lake Club health and wellness center and the community’s extensive system of scenic walking trails. Click here for more information about Reynolds Plantation!

Nine New Golf and Waterview Communities Join Network - New Website Makes 43

Las Gardenias at Cabo Real is on the Sea of Cortez.

The summer of 2009 goes into the books as an active period. In addition to nine new golf and waterview communities joining the Network, personal visits were made to four western North Carolina communities, plus a unique visit by sail to Bay Club, MA. We also launched the 43rd Network Member Website www.GolfCourseProperty.net

Here's the summer list, which includes two communities in Mexico and seven in 6 U.S. states:

MEXICO
=> Las Gardenias at Cabo Real, Cabo San Lucas
Along Sea of Cortez beaches, R.T. Jones II golf, Cabo Real amenities, final phase of 12 villas from $483,000

=> Las Villas de Mexico at Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas
Luxury villas within Club Campestre, Nicklaus Design golf, ocean views, from $375,000

CALIFORNIA
=> Tehama, Carmel
Championship golf, tennis, fitness center, pool, community center, estate lots from $2.5 million

GEORGIA
=> Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain
Vast botanical gardens, PGA Tour-tested golf, resort-quality spa, real estate from $140,000s

RHODE ISLAND
=> Carnegie Abbey, Portsmouth
Narragansett Bay views, championship golf, deluxe spa, equestrian center, homes from $799,000

SOUTH CAROLINA
=> Hilton Head Lakes, Hardeeville
Lowcountry lifestyle, lakes, 22 miles of shoreline, nature preserve, clubhouse, docks, homesites from the $90,000s

=> Wild Wing Plantation, Myrtle Beach
27-hole golf complex, 180 acres of freshwater lakes, resort pool complex, lots from $90,000

TEXAS
=> Dancing Bear Ranch, Mico
2,565 acres, clubhouse, , resort-style pool, private boat ramp, 25-acre lakeside park, estate homesites from 2 to 6 acres

VIRGINIA
=> Viniterra at New Kent Vineyards, New Kent
Rees Jones golf course, The Club at Viniterra, New Kent Vineyards winery, golf homesites from $250,000

Viniterra Offers Vineyard Ambience, Equestrian Facilities, Golf Sites from $250K

Viniterra, VA is set at New Kent Vineyards.

We are pleased to announce the addition of Viniterra to GolfCourseHome. Viniterra is an emerging neighborhood of estate homes built around a Rees Jones championship golf course and located within the innovative community of New Kent Vineyards. The Club at Viniterra will feature its own clubhouse with extensive amenities, including full-service restaurants, men’s and ladies locker rooms and a golf teaching studio.

Set in an historic, bucolic region, Viniterra is well served by interstate highways and state roads. It lies within easy reach of airports, urban amenities, Colonial Williamsburg and Virginia’s myriad attractions.

One of the unique features of the community is the New Kent Winery which is equipped with state-of-the-art, wine-making equipment from around the world, covers more than 17,000 square feet and is built with reclaimed materials including 40-foot heart pine trusses and pre-Civil War brick.

The winery opened in May 2008 after eight years of planning, planting and building and now offers six different wines, including Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Norton--a grape native to Virginia. If you come to see Viniterra, you have to visit the winery as well.

It Takes a Village: Shops, restaurants, a bed-and-breakfast, and even equestrian amenities are all features of this imaginative plan. Within the neo-traditional Village will be commercial, retail and residential components anchored by a pedestrian mall and Farmers Market.

Real Estate: Viniterra, VA

* 1+ acre homesites
      o On the golf course, prices from $250,000 to $550,000
      o Select builders for your custom home
* Custom homes priced from the low-$700,000s
* Click here for more information about Viniterra at New Kent Vineyards!

Dancing Bear Ranch, TX Offers Medinah Lake Activities, Custom Estate Homes

Dancing Bear Ranch, TX offers access to Medinah Lake.

We are pleased to welcome Dancing Beach Ranch, a private gated community located 20 minutes from San Antonio, TX.

Dancing Bear Ranch is a private gated community on 2,565 rolling acres, featuring Texas Hill Country estates and custom homes with private access on Medinah Lake. A short ride away is San Antonio—one of America’s most affordable and fastest-growing cities.

The community's infrastructure is already completed, including a private water system, paved roads and underground utilities. In addition to these necessities, many luxury amenities are also open and ready for use, including resort-style zero-edge pool and hot tub, Fitness Center, 25-acre Lakeside Park, private boat ramp, fishing dock and much more.

Lakeside Sports: Covering 5,246 acres, Medinah Lake is a clear Texas Hill Country reservoir which was created 1913 to provide irrigation water for surrounding ranches and farms. Today, Medinah Lake is better known for boating, water sports and scuba diving.

Real Estate: Dancing Bear Ranch, TX

• Estate homesites from one to five acres

• Scaled for custom-designed residences with open floor plans and natural landscaping

• Lots with dramatic elevation changes and panoramic lake views
  
• Prices from the $60,000s
  
  
• Medinah Lake Preferred Home Builders
  
• Click here for more information about Dancing Bear Ranch!

Barton Creek Labor Day Package Is All-Ages Fun, With Golf, Hiking, Wine Reception

Barton Creek, TX is a golf and spa resort.

Barton Creek, TX has an outstanding Labor Day Weekend Stay Package now available, plus a full schedule of family-fun activities. Stay Friday and Saturday nights and extend your stay over Sunday or Monday for a discounted rate, with rooms starting at $99 (plus tax and resort charge). Events include the Labor Day Kids Camp, poolside cookouts, the Taste of America wine reception, a “beat the pro” putting contest, guided hikes, scavenger hunts and golf promotional rates. Click here for more information about Barton Creek!

Press Release: The Ultimate Sales Call--Sailing from Martha's Vineyard to Bay Club

Vineyard Haven Yacht Club: Early morning departure for a sales call by water.

Here is an excerpt of this morning's press release. To see complete release, click here.

VINEYARD HAVEN, MA--(Marketwire - August 26, 2009) -While a good part of the media world was converging on the island of Martha's Vineyard last week in preparation for President Obama's vacation, GolfCourseHome® Network Publisher David Lott was prepping to leave.

Lott and fiancé Elise Ryan sailed their pocket cruising yacht, a Cape Dory 270, from Martha's Vineyard to The Bay Club, a luxury golf community set on the edge of Buzzard's Bay.

"It was the ultimate sales call," said Lott. "No traffic, no cars, no hassle. Plus you had the beauty of the sail itself and the wonderful hospitality offered by The Bay Club."

The Bay Club is a Featured Community on the GolfCourseHome Network which provides detailed information about more than 150 master-planned golf and waterview communities for second home, retirement and vacation homebuyers.

Lott and Ryan sailed from Vineyard Haven Harbor through Vineyard Sound, navigated through the often treacherous swirling currents at Wood's Hole and turned right on Buzzard's Bay to sail up to Mattapoisett where The Bay Club's Marketing Director Dave Andrews met them at the Mattapoisett Boatyard.

Lott and Ryan toured the club, the Brad Faxon-Brad Booth championship golf course and many of the fine homes for sale. Lunch was served by the swimming pool and dinner at The Golf House.

"It was a perfect day," said Lott, "and it was great fun to see The Bay Club up close. Kids and their families were in the pool, tennis lessons were going on and a member golf event was being held in the late afternoon. The Bay Club is clearly a fun and active place to be."

To see complete release, click here.

Tennessee National Hosts Championship, Reynolds Plantation Center Wins Award

Tennessee National, TN is set in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Tennessee National, TN is preparing to host this year’s Tennessee Golf Association Senior Amateur Championship. The state’s top amateur event for seniors will take place on the community’s Greg Norman Signature course Tuesday through Thursday, Sept. 1-3. Admission for spectators is free. Click here for more information about Tennessee National!

Carolina Country Club, SC, just held its first-ever all inclusive, Championship Weekend this past weekend. All club championships were put into one exciting weekend, followed by a championship dinner on Sunday evening for all participants. Click here for more information about Carolina Country Club!

Huntsman Springs, ID was featured as the cover story in the July issue of Golf Idaho, the official magazine of the Idaho Golf Association. The article stated: “While many golf developments are on hold, Huntsman Springs in eastern Idaho’s Teton Valley is moving forward with plans to unveil its world-class course late this fall” and added that “The Huntsman family name isn’t attached to any project unless it is done right and benefits the local community.” Click here for more information about Huntsman Springs!

Reynolds Plantation, GA reports that its Lake Club Tennis Center is the winner of the 2009 USTA Outstanding Facility Awards, as chosen by the United States Tennis Association (USTA).  Nominees were judged based on overall layout; excellence of court surface and lights; ease of maintenance; player and spectator accommodations; seating, landscaping and activity programming. Click here for more information about Reynolds Plantation!

River Landing, NC announced that a community resident, Thad Toomer, had received an important award for child advocacy volunteer work. The Guardian ad Litem Award cited Mr. Toomey’s efforts in recruiting new volunteers into the child-advocacy organization. Guardian ad Litem works to protect children’s interests in two counties, representing abused and neglected children in the courts. Click here for more information about River Landing!

Our Visit to Bay Club, Part 2, Features Golf, Fine Homes and 'A Perfect Cheese'

Our Visit to The Bay Club, Part 2. This is the second installment of our August visit to The Bay Club in Mattapoisett, MA. One of the best parts of the trip was that we sailed to Mattapoisett thru Vineyard Sound, Wood's Hole and Buzzard's Bay on our Cape Cory 270. No traffic, no cars, no hassle. We were picked up at Mattapoisett Boatyard by Marketing Director Dave Andrews and then treated like royalty on what was a perfect day. To see Part 1, click here.

The Bay Club, MA: just a short distance from Buzzard's Bay.

The second half of our visit to The Bay Club was a tour of the golf course and some of the fine homes overlooking The Bay Club golf course. Designed by Brad Faxon and Brad Booth, the par-71 golf course plays to 7,068 yards from the championship tees.

A push-up green guarded by bunkers.

The course is best described as a classic parkland layout with old-fashioned square tee boxes, push-up greens and strategic bunkering. It features close to 100 bunkers and at least four sets of tees on each hole.

What we found most enjoyable about the course was the calm and peaceful atmosphere. With only a couple of parallel fairways, each hole seems secluded and in its own little world.

The view from the living room puts you right on the tee.

There are many fine homes overlooking the course which spread out and away from windows and decks in a lush green panorama.

Imagine sitting on this deck and watching the world (and golfers) go by.

The house (see above) had everything, including a basement putting green.

Homes begin at $749,000 and go up to nearly $2 million. Check for listing prices.

One home we particularly liked was L-shaped with four pairs of columns supporting the roof which extended out over the garage. The effect created a strong sense that we were looking at a stable and not a garage. Too often when you drive up to a house, a wall of garage doors confronts you. The subtle concealment of the doors gave the home an extra classy feel.

Columns on this home tucked the garage away and created a stable-effect.

Besides custom homes, The Bay Club also offers something a little unusual--condominium-style single-family homes. Built by Abbott Homes, you'll find them in a neighborhood called the Preserve.

It's unusual in that they are single-family homes, but are maintained like a condo, which means they are maintenance-free homes. As a bonus, they include a full social membership to the Bay Club; prices start at $649,900.

After our golf and home tour, Dave brought us to the Golf House for dinner where we sat down a little early to get ahead of the golfers coming in from an afternoon event.

The Golf House: informal and intimate.

Since it was early in the week it was a pub menu and we were intrigued by an item called 'A Perfect Cheese.' We had to try it and it was--blue cheese, with sesame crackers, balsamic vinegar and a grilled peach which was fabulous. A nice white wine and baked cod rounded out the menu.

'A Perfect Cheese" which included a grilled peach was, in fact, perfect.

After dinner, we rushed back to the boatyard to catch the last launch, just in time, at 1 minute before 8 p.m. We said our good-byes to Dave and rode the launch back to our boat and looked forward to a restful sleep on the gentle waves of the harbor.

Early the next morning we eased out of the harbor in order to catch the slack tide at Wood's Hole. We acknowledged Ned's Point Lighthouse and then headed out into Buzzard's Bay.

Ned's Point Lighthouse shows the way back to Buzzard's Bay.

To see  Part 1 of our visit, click here.

Reynolds Plantation Earns Landscaping Award, Mariner Sands in Media Spotlight

Daniel Island, SC offers 23 miles of rivers and creeks.

Daniel Island, SC alerts visitors to a pair of first-class events on its pop music performance calendar at the Family Circle Tennis Center. On August 22, Charleston favorite O.A.R. returns to the Family Circle Tennis Center for fourth consecutive year as part of the second leg of their "This Town Tour". On September 1st, Daniel Island will come alive with the multiple Grammy-winning rock sound of The Wallflowers as they perform on the Tennis Center’s Veranda stage. Tickets are $20. Click here for more information about Daniel Island!

Reynolds Plantation, GA was honored with an amenity-design award by the American Society of Landscape Architects. The South Carolina chapter of the Society bestowed its Merit Award on the Wood & Partners design for the Reynolds Plantation Lake Club Pool and Amenity Center’s Phase II. Cascading over a six-foot waterfall, the lower plunge pool and terrace of this complex are designed to create a more intimate and informal grotto-like environment, without disrupting upper level views. Click here for more information about Reynolds Plantation!

Mariner Sands, FL was featured in two media outlets over one July weekend. The cover story of Luminaries, the Stuart News supplement, reported that over $3.8 million dollars had been donated in recent years to charities thanks to the efforts of Mariner Sands members. In addition, an area television station featured the cemetery of the infamous bank-robbing Ashley family which is located on Mariner Sands property. Click here for more information about Mariner Sands!

Top Ten Most-Visited Communities Offer a Winning Combination of Golf and Water

Amelia Island Plantation is on Florida's east coast.

The combination of golf and waterfront makes an impact in the Top 10 Most Visited Communities rankings this month--half of the Top 10 offer this pairing.

Top 10 Most Visited Communities on GolfCourseHome® Network

1. Amelia Island Plantation, Amelia Island, Florida
2. Sea Pines Plantation, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
3. Del Webb's Sun City Peachtreee, Georgia
4. Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, Ocala, Florida
5. Treasure Lake, Dubois, Pennsylvania

6. Stone Creek, Ocala, Florida
7. The Cliffs at High Carolina, Asheville, North Carolina
8. Stonehouse, Toano, Virginia
9. The Resort on Eagle Mountain Lake, Ft. Worth, Texas
10. Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, Stuart, Florida

No. 1 Most Visited Network Website (not including GolfCourseHome.net)

1. SeniorGolfCommmunities.net

Sea Pines Offers the Ultimate Golf Value, Club Discount Spurs Sales at Quail Ridge

Sea Pines, SC is a golf and boating community.

Sea Pines, SC reminds visitors that the current period, Aug. 15 to Sept. 20, features the lowest pricing all year for its Ultimate Golf Value package. The package is designed for four golfers spending three nights in a two-bedroom golf villa. It is currently priced at $126 p/p, p/n, a discount of $22 per night over the highest-priced period. Includes three rounds of golf on three different championship courses. Click here for more information about Sea Pines!

Quail Ridge, FL, where real estate sales for the year already exceed 2008, has a new Membership Incentive Program now in effect for any new members prior to Sept. 30. The new buyer/member must by under contract by that date and may close on the purchase afterward. The incentive, which has been well received, provides savings of 25 percent on club entry fees. Condos and custom homes—in all sizes and price ranges—are available.  Click here for more information about Quail Ridge!

Las Villas de Mexico at Los Cabos: Nicklaus Golf, Ocean Views from Luxury Villas

Las Villas de Mexico at Los Cabos is on the ocean.

We are pleased to announce the addition of Las Villas de Mexico at Los Cabos, Mexico to WaterViewHome. Las Villas de Mexico is a new concept in resort real estate and travel. This first of 22 Las Villas de Mexico destinations offers an exciting opportunity for those who enjoy full ownership, plus rental and travel benefits. On offer now are 26 luxury villas in Los Cabos within the gated Club Campestre,on lots bordering a Nicklaus Design golf course, with prime ocean views.

Like the Los Cabos community, all 22 Las Villas de Mexico locations will offer amenities and service on par with traditional five-star resorts. Here in Los Cabos, Las Villas residences are set within the master-planned golf community of Club Campestre.

A limited number of luxury villas in Club Campestre are currently offered. These ocean-view properties border a Nicklaus Design golf course. They are priced starting in the high-$300,000s, price points not seen in the region for a decade.

On the Beach: The Club Campestre amenity package also includes a Social & Beach Club, jogging trails and excellent dining in a wide array of restaurants. Part of the community's future value will be its Commercial Center, home to a rich roster of top-name luxury retailers.

The service culture at Las Villas de Mexico is embodied by its Si! Lifestyle Concierge Services. These include dog-walking, airport shuttle, yacht chartering, in-home chef and wait staff for parties, and other special-request compliance.

A bonus for owners will be the ability to rent their homes to other owners throughout the 22 Las Villas locations. This provides rental income and the opportunity to visit any of the other locations.

Real Estate: Las Villas de Mexico, Los Cabos, Mexico

* Luxury villas in Los Cabos within the gated Club Campestre
* Bordering a Nicklaus Design golf course, with ocean views
      o Priced from $375,000
      o Only 26 units on offer
* Option to rent out villa to fellow Las Villas owners
* Option to rent a villa at other Las Villas locations
* Complete maintenance service on-site
* Homes constructed within 60 days
* Visitation tours available in mini-vacation packages
* Click here for more information about Las Villas de Mexico at Los Cabos!

Daniel Island Instructor Recognized by Golf Digest, Landings Hires New Events Director

Daniel Island, SC offers 23 miles of rivers and creeks.

Daniel Island, SC congratulates its director of golf instruction, Ron Cerrudo, for his recent ranking among the Top Ten Golf Instructors in South Carolina by Golf Digest. The influential magazine’s most recent ranking of the country’s best golf instructors by state is out, and Cerrudo, in his sixth season of teaching at Daniel Island, has landed in the Top Ten for his state, ranked at No. 5. Click here for more information about Daniel Island!

The Landings at Skidaway Island, GA hired Miranda Johnson is its new head of Special Events and Catering. Johnson has been a director of catering and conference services for The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas, USVI, and for the El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa in Puerto Rico. On the dinner menu, The Landings has brought back a Friday night favorite, Lobster Night. It features a steamed Maine lobster with all the trimmings for $24.95 per person. Click here for more information about The Landings!

Champion Hills Schedules Dance Classes; Reynolds Stages Golf Championship

Champion Hills, NC is just a few miles from Asheville.

Champion Hills, NC has two stimulating and enjoyable member activities now on its schedule. Wednesday and Friday mornings, Denise Alexander, a certified water aerobics instructor, conducts a water aerobics class. Equipment needed is a foam "noodle" and six-inch water dumbbells. Also, intermediate ballroom dancing classes are scheduled to start on August 31. The instructor is Lisa Puckett, from the Asheville School of Dance. Cost per person is $43 for the six-week course. Click here for more information about Champion Hills!

Reynolds Plantation, GA, in partnership with the Georgia High School Association, recently announced that it will stage the 2010 5-A State Golf Championship at Reynolds Plantation and Reynolds Landing. The championship has been conducted at Jekyll Island for the past 25 years. The tournament is scheduled for Monday, May 3, 2010. This 18-hole event will be hosted at Reynolds Landing Golf Club for the boys and The Plantation Course for the girls. Click here for more information about Reynolds Plantation!

Our Visit to Bay Club, MA, Begins with a Sail Through Wood's Hole & Buzzard's Bay

This entry is Part 1 of a two-part article on our recent visit to The Bay Club. Click here for Part 2.

Sail On: Instead of taking the regular route by ferry and car, we set sail for The Bay Club from the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club and a route up Buzzard's Bay.

On what has to be the hottest day of the summer here on Martha's Vineyard, Elise and I sailed on our Cape Dory 270 from Vineyard Haven Harbor this morning to Mattapoisett, MA. Our 4-hour sail took us through the often dangerous and swirling currents in Woods Hole and across Buzzard's Bay.

Classic Boat: Cutting through the morning mist along with us was this gem.

Our objectives: To spend our first overnight on the boat, to venture out past our own backyard in Vineyard Haven and to see the wonderful Bay Club, just about a mile, as the crow flies, from the Bay.

The Maze: After successfully navigating through Wood's Hole, we looked back at the maze of buoys. It is slack tide. It can be very dangerous when the tide is against you.

We moored at Mattapoisett Boatyard and were met at the marina office by Dave Andrews, the personable Director of Sales and Marketing for The Bay Club, who gave us a quick tour of the stunning waterfront homes that look out to the harbor. Massive homes clad in silver cedar shingles looked much as they did in Mattapoisett's heyday 200 years ago when it was noted for its shipbuilding and the whaling captains who lived there.

Stylish Homes: Architecture inside the gates at Bay Club echoed the many fine homes from previous centuries that overlook the harbor. Good design never goes out of style.

We drove past the Kinsale Inn as we motored through town. The Inn was built in 1799 and is the oldest seaside Inn in the nation, still operating as an Inn and in it’s original structure.

Over the years, the Inn has been a blacksmith shop, a general store, two separate dwellings, a tavern, a ship chandlers, a storehouse for the China Tea Trade, a speakeasy and, of course, an Inn. It looks out at the harbor and the harborside area called Shipyard Park, which was where the shipyard was located.

We watched Head Pro Chris Shannon give a lesson on the Har-Tru courts. Two paddle courts add to what is a racket's player's delight.

Dave then took us to the club where we met General Manager Craig Fleming and had a relaxing lunch by the pool under a cooling awning. The pool was active with children and grandchildren (who can stay with grandpa and have membership privileges) and families. It was great to see the club filled with activity. The club now has more than 200 full members and 16 Social Members. The club will stay small and intimate with full memberships being held to 300.

An excellent tennis program keeps members such as Julia Woodard and Dr. Alan Solomon (right) coming to the courts at every opportunity.

Took a quick tour through the activity center and saw the kid's play areas, locker rooms, demonstration kitchen for visit chefs to show their stuff and members can take cooking classes and conference room where I am writing this entry. Love the air conditioning, wood paneling and wireless internet!

Good dining is a important focus at Bay Club where Chef Jim Mercer provides memorable and creative dishes. Last week was a Julia Child night which members were still oohing and ahhing about as they reminisced about the French delicacies they downed.

This entry is Part 1 of a two-part article on our recent visit to The Bay Club. Click here for Part 2.

Hilton Head Lakes Offers Privacy, 22 Miles of Shoreline, Miles of Walking Trails, More

Hilton Head Lakes, SC is a gated lakefront community.

We are pleased to announce the addition of Hilton Head Lakes located in Hardeeville, SC, just 15 miles from Hilton Head Island to WaterViewHome. A Lowcountry enclave located close to shopping, dining, schools and Interstate 95, Hilton Head Lakes offers 22 miles of lake shoreline, full amenities, seven miles of walking trails, 155 acres of navigable lakes, private clubhouse and more.

Hilton Head Lakes is a private, gated, lakefront community set in the South Carolina Lowcountry, ideally located close to shopping, dining, schools and Interstate 95.

A quiet enclave offering some 22 miles of lake shoreline and sophisticated amenities, the community features nearly seven miles of walking trails and 155 acres of navigable lakes. With the ocean close by, sporting pursuits on the water are available in freshwater calm or out on the open Atlantic.

Within the Owner's Activity Complex is a private clubhouse with a private pool complex outfitted with multiple swimming pools, a Splash Zone, plus a Water Slide & Lazy River. The complex will also house a modern fitness center, plus tennis and basketball courts. And lakeside will be a playground, sandy beach, community boat ramp and day docks.

Lakeside Sanctuary: More than 452 acres of nature preserve will be maintained in perpetuity in which neighbors can stroll past egrets and herons, then return home just long enough to grab a fishing pole.

Real Estate: Hilton Head Lakes, SC

* Waterfront homesites from the mid-$100,000s
* Preserve homesites from the $90,000s
* 90 percent financing available
* Cottage Homes from the low-$300,000s
* Click here for more information about Hilton Head Lakes!

St. James Plantation Home Features Intracoastal Views, Porch, 5 1/2 Baths

St. James Plantation, SC: Custom home on the ICW.

St. James Plantation, SC, announces a new custom-designed Featured Home which showcases the architectural features of a classic Southern home. Set right on the Intracoastal Waterway, the great room, dining room and guest rooms all offer access to a screened porch overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. The homes comes with 4-bedrooms, 5 1/2-baths, 4,700 square feet of space and is listed for $1.6 million. Click here for more information about the St. James Plantation Featured Home!

The Cliffs at Keowee, SC reports that resident Darryl Holland, 42, has lowered his average score by 10 strokes after just 10 hours of lessons with instructor Brett Latchum at The Cliffs' International Institute of Golf. A lawyer in nearby Greenville, Holland had never broken 100 before and now averages about 98 and has a low score of 86. The students of IIG also include former U.S. Open winner Geoff Ogilvy. Click here for more information about The Cliffs at Keowee, SC!

Barton Creek Resort & Spa Golf Package Includes Low Rates, Unlimited Golf

Barton Creek, TX offers four golf courses, a spa and more.

Barton Creek, TX is offering its Unlimited Championship Golf Package Experience in which you can stay and play at Barton Creek Resort & Spa and play on its two of its top-rated golf courses with rates from $170 per person, double occupancy (taxes & 12% daily resort charge not included). Package includes luxurious resort accommodations, unlimited golf per person per night of stay on Crenshaw Cliffside or Palmer Lakeside courses, day of arrival golf at the twilight rate and daily breakfast buffet. Click here more information about Barton Creek Resort & Spa!

Wild Wing Plantation Features 180 Acres of Freshwater Lakes, Award-Winning Golf

Wild Wing Plantation is set on almost 14 acres of shoreline.

We are pleased to announce the addition of Wild Wing Plantation, a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina resort community with award-winning golf, nearly 14 miles of shoreline and multiple clubhouses, dedicated to the complete range of leisure and fitness activities. Extensively renovated and improved since its change of ownership in 2005, Wild Wing Plantation still retains its down-home friendly atmosphere to go with its outstanding amenities.

Wild Wing is a 950-acre custom-home community with 180 acres of freshwater lakes and nearly 14 miles of shoreline. Residents enjoy the 4,000-square-foot Owner’s Clubhouse, tennis courts, boat storage, golf clubhouse and 27 holes of award-winning golf.

Wild Wing golf combines the brawny Avocet course with the beginner-friendly Hummingbird nine-holer. Co-designed by U.S. Open champion Larry Nelson, Avocet is a well-groomed championship layout woven into a landscape of lakes and trees.

The multi-million dollar Owner’s Activity Center is an inspiring setting that unites the community. The center is where members go to enjoy fitness equipment, three pools, a waterslide, sundecks and a spacious clubhouse. There is also a hot tub and a sandy beach.

The Coves at Wild Wing: This new neighborhood provides an easy approach to ownership by offering homesites starting in the $90,000 range and home/lot packages starting from $290,000.

Living along the interconnected lakes is an extremely affordable way to enjoy this desirable waterfront lifestyle. The lakes surrounding this neighborhood make it easy to navigate through the interconnected waters directly to the Amenity Center.  

Real Estate: Wild Wing Plantation, SC

* Choose your own builder
      o No time limit to build
      o Custom Home Program
      o Builder portfolios readily available for easy review
      o Dedicated space for owner-builder meetings
* Lot prices range from $90,000 to $230,000
* The Coves lots are a short walk from Amenity Center
* Click here for more information about Wild Wing Plantation!

Celebrate Labor Day, Kids' Birthdays With Hot Air Balloon Rides, Golf Parties

Reynolds Plantation, GA offers 99 holes of golf.

Reynolds Plantation, GA, in partnership with the Oconee Performing Arts Society, announces the Village Battle of the Bands, to be held Saturday, September 12. Local bands will compete from 5 pm to 9 pm for the title of 2009 Village Band and a contract to perform at the Fall Picnic at Lake Oconee Village on Saturday, October 10th. A total of eight bands will qualify for the competition. Click here for more information about Reynolds Plantation!

Callaway Gardens, GA invites visitors to enjoy a Sky High Hot Air Balloon Package on Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4-6. The festivities will be highlighted by the luminous sight of a balloon glow on Friday evening. There will be morning balloon flights on Saturday and Sunday. Between balloon launches, the days are filled with entertainment, family activities, exhibits, demonstrations, music and more. Click here for more information about Callaway Gardens!

Edgartown Residence Club, MA reminds its fractional owners they have an opportunity to see up-close some of Edgartown's most beautiful and historic homes on the Third Annual  Edgartown House Tour. The tour will be held today from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. In addition to four of Edgartown's finest homes, the tour includes tea and refreshments in the Habitat for Humanity Decorator Show House Gardens and the Captain Thomas Mellen House at the Decorator Show House and Gardens. Click here for more information about Edgartown Residence Club!

The Landings at Skidaway Island, GA has introduced Children's Golf Birthday Parties. Children ages 4 to 17 can now celebrate their birthday with family, friends and The Landings Club Golf Professional Staff. Parties include a 45-minute golf clinic with instruction, games and prizes, plus a golf gift for the birthday child and a golf treat bag for guest children. Loaner golf clubs and equipment are available. Click here for more information about The Landings!

GolfCourseHome Network Adds 43rd Member Website: GolfCourseProperty.net

GolfCourseHome.net and the GolfCourseHome® Network announce the addition of its 43rd Network Member Website—GolfCourseProperty.net.

GolfCourseProperty.net features golf course communities in 29 U.S. states, Mexico and the Caribbean. Each community is presented with information about amenities, real estate products and prices, local weather, community lifestyle, driving directions, location map and more.

“Golf course property is one of the more active search terms for golf real estate,” notes GolfCourseHome Network Publisher David Lott, ”So this new site will give our communities yet another opportunity for good visibility, more traffic and more leads.”

The GolfcourseHome Network was launched with one website, GolfCourseHome.net, in 1999. The WaterViewHome Network, which is a part of the GCH Network, was launched in 2000 with WaterViewHome.net

GolfCourseHome.net and WaterViewHome.net are the core websites of the Golf Course Home® Network which now features 43 Member Websites, a database of more than 500 master-planned communities, and features on 175+ world-class golf and waterview communities in North America and the Caribbean.

GolfCourseHome.net is frequently cited in publications and online, such as The New York Times, Forbes.com, Business Week, Business 2.0 Magazine, Golf Digest and Schwab’s ON INVESTING magazines.

To request information about advertising on the GolfCourseHome®Network, contact David Lott, Founder and Publisher, 1-203-270-9357.

Best Deal? Buy Now, Make No Payments 'til 2011 at Del Webb at Lake Oconee, GA

Webb at Lake Oconee, Ga: Buy now, no payment until 2011.

On top of the affordable pricing (homes from the high-$100,000s) and today's historically low interest rates, Del Webb at Lake Oconee, Ga, is offering a deal that may be too good to pass up. Buy now and make no payments until 2011.

Here's an outline of the deal at the 55-and-up community.

• Purchase by August 31, 2009
• Close on your home by June, 2010
• Make no payments until 2011

Plus, for a limited time, Del Webb Lake Oconee will include its most popular upgrade option free of charge: either a sunroom or screened-in patio--up to a $21,000 value.

In addition to the usual fun, social and active lifetstyle, the community's full-time Lifestyle Director will introduce you to like-minded people with similar interests. The community offers more than $9 million in amenities.

Del Webb at Lake Oconee is located 80 miles east of Atlanta. For more information on this limited-time opportunity call 706-454-5430, or use this information request form

A low-cost way to check out the community is the Vacation Getaway for only $89 a night. Stay includes a two- night minimum and tour of the property.

Note: Georgia homebuyers can receive a $1,800 state tax credit for the purchase of a single-family residence. First-time homebuyers may also qualify for an additional $8,000 federal tax credit.

Wild Wing Plantation Offers 180 Acres of Freshwater Lakes, Miles of Shoreline

Wild Wing Plantation is on 14 miles of shoreline.

We are pleased to announce the addition of Wild Wing Plantation, a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina resort community with award-winning golf, nearly 14 miles of shoreline and multiple clubhouses, dedicated to the complete range of leisure and fitness activities. Extensively renovated and improved since its change of ownership in 2005, Wild Wing Plantation still retains its down-home friendly atmosphere to go with its outstanding amenities.  Click here for more information about Wild Wing Plantation!

Club at Olde Stone Hosts Kentucky Open, While Frenchman's Creek Makes Upgrades

The Club at Olde Stone, KY offers Arthur Hills golf and more.

The Club at Olde Stone, KY will host the Kentucky Open Aug. 11 to 13. This is the premier pro and amateur event in the state of Kentucky. Frank Wycheck, Mark Howard & Kevin Ingram will be doing their show, The Zone, live from the club the morning of August 11 in order to officially kick off the event. Click here for more information about The Club at Olde Stone!

Frenchman’s Creek, FL has made important upgrades to its infrastructure. The community, whose entire clubhouse is equipped with a full system generator, came to an agreement to purchase a direct electrical connection to its local Florida Power & Light substation. Also, Frenchman's is currently resurfacing internal roadways and giving the entry drive an updated look. Tree work is continuing, with damaged old oaks being replaced with elegant royal palms. Click here for more information about Frenchman’s Creek!

Specials Include Free Stay at Callaway Gardens, Discounts at River Landing

Callaway Gardens, GA is in the Appalachian Mountains.

Callaway Gardens, GA has an enticing Summer Special at the Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens. Now through August 31, subject to limited availability, guests can buy one night and get the second night at no additional charge. Room rate for Summer Special is just $199, plus applicable taxes. Click here for more information about Callaway Gardens!

River Landing, NC is celebrating the opening of its elegant new clubhouse by offering a new Southern Hospitality Getaway. This new package, priced at just $139 per couple, includes: Luxurious on-site accommodations; continental breakfast daily; a tour of River Landing; plus “Owner-for-the-Stay” privileges. These include a round of golf, tennis, swimming in the indoor or outdoor pools, exercise and fitness sessions, and a complimentary Gourmet Dining Certificate in the new clubhouse. Click here for more information about River Landing!

Our Visit to Bright's Creek Reveals Hidden Waterfalls, Great Golf & Distant Views

Our recent trip to communities in western North Carolina included visits to Balsam Mountain Preserve, Champion Hills, Cummings Cove, and finally, to Bright's Creek. 

The Tom Fazio course provides striking views.

Set amongst the endless natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bright’s Creek is an emerging 5,000-acre property featuring lofty homesites that offer enthralling views of its Tom Fazio-designed golf course, the surrounding mountains and an amenity-rich mountain lifestyle.

Bright's Creek's Jim Rash (l) with GCH Publisher David Lott.

Our guide through Bright's Creek was the highly personable Marketing Associate Jim Rash whose love for the area and the community was frequently professed and further underscored by his purchase of a lot and construction of a stunning home that is filled with artwork from the local Silver Fox Gallery & Interiors.

Bright's Creek home for sale by Jim Rash.

The interior is filled with artwork.

Jim gave Elise and me a thorough tour of the golf course in which the mountain views were always present. Holes are scuplted into the thickly treed landscape and jump across burbling streams and riveulets.

Streams lace through the property.

Recognized as one of “Ten Courses to Watch” internationally by Golf Magazine, Bright’s Creek is a host course for the BMW Charity Pro-Am Tournament. 

A lovely par-3.

Bright’s Creek also features an award-winning Equestrian Center and Members’ Lodge with plans for two additional Fazio courses, a swim and tennis center, clubhouse and fitness center, extensive hiking trails and a Rod & Gun Club located on the Green River. 

Inside the spectacular equestrian center.

However, you already can see the club's elegant lifestyle coming into focus and homes completed or under construction.

This newly completed home enjoys vast mountain views.

As Jim took us up higher and higher above the property, the views got longer and the opportunities for building more exciting.

Views that will always stir wonder.

One particular homesite not only came with spectacular views, it also had its own waterfall (see below). Homesites generally range from one half acre to five acres, and are sited on ridgelines, along creeks and within hardwood forests. Homesites prices begin at $175,000 and custom homes start in the $900,000s.

High up in Brights Creek is an unusal homesite backed by its own waterfall. 

Once we came back to earth, Jim gave us directions to historic Hendersonville, NC, which is a short drive away. (Asheville is less than an hour’s drive away.) So we left as the sun was setting behind the Blue Ridge and took the quick hop to Hendersonville, where we found a quaint litte tea shop and sat down to reminisce about what had been a truly memorable visit.

 

Legacy Quest Homes: Green, Modern, Historic and Made to Last Generations

Legacy Quest Outdoors: Homes that are green and authentic.

Imagine you could live in a home whose appearance takes you back to rustic days gone by while providing the latest in appliances, green living and energy efficiency. That's the mission of Legacy Quest Outdoors, a Waynesville, NC, company that specializes in high-end custom home-building using vintage materials with the latest technology.

Legacy Quest Outdoors is also the pioneering inventor of the Second Generation Hybrid Home™--homes that will stand for generations and uses the building materials of structures that have already stood the test of time. 

A modern kitchen with historic comfort.

Cutting-edge green technology is used in constructing  Second Generation Hybrid Homes™including lumber from certified, well-managed, sustainable forests, engineered lumber, sheet goods throughout, lycenyne spray foam insulation, Low-E glass windows, low VOC finishes on all wooden components both interior and exterior and 100 percent recycled wood for all walls, floors, cabinets, trim, ceilings, doors, exterior siding and some roofing.

Homes also have tankless hot water heaters, rainwater collection barrels, natural sunlight tubes, skylights, passive infrared lighting controls that go on and off as you enter and leave the room. Solar power is an option.

This is just a partial list of all that goes into a Second Generation Hybrid Home™. Visit their website for the full list of materials.

GolfCourseHome is working with Legacy Quest Outdoors on an exciting project that will be constructed at Balsam Mountain Preserve. Watch for more news as it develops!

Modern on the inside, antique on the outside.

Champion Hills Members Off to "Ballgame Night" With Luxury Accommodations, More

Champion Hills, NC is close to Asheville.

Champion Hills, NC is set for a member outing to Fluor Field in Greenville this Thursday, Aug. 6 for “Take Me Out to the Ballgame Night.” The Greenville Drive, a Boston Red Sox affiliate, will host the Lexington Legends. Fluor Field, opened in 2006, is modeled after Fenway Park in Boston, down to its own own "Green Monster" wall in left field. Champion Hills members will be in a private luxury suite along the third base line, with an excellent view of the players and the field. Click here for more information about Champion Hills!

Heritage Wake Forest, NC was featured on Raleigh television station NBC-17 on Wed., July 29th  in a special report titled “What’s Selling?” in which the community was used as an example of a property that is responding to demand in the marketplace. Heritage continues to enjoy brisk activity in 2009, reporting 13 sales in July. Click here for more information about Heritage Wake Forest!

Quail Ridge, The Landings and Others Offering Discounts, Free Memberships

Ocean Ridge Plantation, NC has won numerous awards.

Ocean Ridge Plantation, NC is offering to pay for the entire cost of a golf membership at the community, covering play at all five of its championship golf courses. A $25,000 value, the membership is included when you purchase a homesite. Views from currently available homesites include fairway views or views of ponds and preserves. Click here for more information about Ocean Ridge Plantation!

Quail Ridge, FL, located just south of the Palm Beaches, is offering a 25 percent discount on club entry fees. The discount has spurred sales at the community, resulting in 43 sales year to date versus 33 sales in all of 2008. There's still time left to take advantage of the promotion if you put a property under contract prior to Sept. 30. (It don’t have to close, just be under contract to purchase) and you can take the discount. Click here for more information about Quail Ridge!

Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, FL announces new incentives to entice seasonal renters to come to Harbour Ridge for the 2009-2010 season. Renters at Harbour Ridge are issued their own temporary membership number from the club and have full privileges in the Club. Renters pay discounted green fees and can use the new state-of-the-art fitness center or the 10 Har-Tru tennis courts at no charge. Click here for more information about Harbour Ridge!

The Landings on Skidaway Island, GA announces a limited-time offer to prospective members to join the Landings Club at a discount. From Aug. 1, 2009 through April 30, 2010, reduced joining fees will be offered for all three Club membership levels. In order to qualify, you must be a Landings property owner. So now is the time to visit The Landings, purchase your dream home and join the Club. Click here for more information about The Landings!