Sedona Golf Resort
A Challenging Golf Course set in Arizona's Red Rock Country
A review of Sedona Golf Resort designed by local architect, Gary Panks
If you are looking to be challenged on a golf course that has functioned as a cowboy movie set, you've come to the right place. Unlike the Robert Trent Jones (Sr.) layout at nearby Oakcreek, the golf course at Sedona Golf Resort is no walk in the park. The high altitude though is a plus as golf balls travel further.
Pros
- Challenging enough to play several times
- Close proximity to other Sedona courses
- Good selection of non golf activities
- $15 fee for non-playing spectators
- Beautiful mountainous setting /climate
Cons
- On site accommodations
- Clubhouse
Description
6,646-yard, par 71• Grasses: fairways and tees: Rye greens: Penncross Ben• Carts are allowed to travel 90 degrees from the cart paths• Callaway Clubs available for rental ($25.00)
Sedona Golf Resort
An early design by local architect Gary Panks, the course at the Sedona Golf Resort is not so concerned with creating a tranquil golfing experience. Panks leaves that to fellow golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones (Sr.) whose course at nearby Oakcreek seeks to create a more leisurely golfing experience.
Panks has done something interesting though, particularly with the holes that are less well endowed by nature. On these holes, that turn away from natural beauty spots, Panks has added man made touches for visual appeal and to up the golfing challenge. Boulders, sandstone walls and/or water are used to liven up these holes.
On holes lined with scenic vistas, he wisely leaves them untouched. The course is designed so that you can play it several times and always feel like you're playing it for the first time, such are the challenges.
The most memorable holes are # 2 and the par 5, #9. The former features a 50 foot drop to the green from the tee and the latter a long uphill climb. Otherwise, the changes in elevation are quite subtle.
There is an excellent golf school on site where PGA and LPGA members correct your golfing problems as you play in the peaceful mountain setting.
The area is awash with spectacular hiking/mountain biking trails for those days when you just want to explore the area, unburdened by thoughts of an errant golf shot.
The modernist monstrosity, pink palace clubhouse, detracts from the golf course's natural beauty, despite the attempt to match the color with the ambient light when it hits the surrounding red rocks. Since the resort functions as a timeshare, it may be advisable to seek accommodations elsewhere to avoid the (at times) heavy duty sales pitch. The Penrose Bed and Breakfast is a good bet and only a few minutes away by car.
