Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

PGA NATIONAL
A GOLF RESORT LIKE NO OTHER
by Rochelle Smith

Golfer’s can expect to have their golfing experience exceeded when they visit the PGA National Resort and Spa. Nestled in a state that is known for its golf courses, the PGA National Resort is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida standing out as one of the premier golfing resort destinations.

The resort can not only boast at having the PGA of America located on property, but also at having being host to both the Honda Classic and the Ryder Cup. Arguably so, since this resort is home to five tournament-level championship courses including signature courses by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. You have your choice between playing on The Haig, The Champion, The Squire, “he Palmer, or The Estate. Each course is designed to put the best golfers to the test.

For the bravest golfer, play the Champion. Designed in 1981 by Tom Fazio and redesigned by Jack Nicklaus in 1990, this course will definitely pose a challenge to any golfer. Stretching over 7,022 yards and including 107 sand bunkers with 16 of the 18 holes having water hazards, you will want to choose your club wisely before teeing off on each hole. And, just when you thought the course could not get any more difficult, you enter “The Bear Trap”. The 15th, 16th and 17th holes are said to be some of the most difficult in the sport. Filled with deep bunkers and water you will find yourself holding your breath before and after you take your shot.

For the golfers who prefer to relax and enjoy their surroundings more leisurely, try the Palmer course. Its unique foliage design will leave you captivated, and the fairways are very forgiving. Which ever course you choose you are sure to have a wonderful experience. If you seek to upgrade your skills, one of the resorts professional golf instructors will gladly and patiently give you one-on-one help.

After your round, enjoy lunch at the resort’s European style spa. The 40,000 sq. ft. of space includes an outdoor healing mineral pool with salts imported from around the globe. Your body will be left feeling smooth and rejuvenated.

Onsite at the Racquet Club you can participate in yoga or pilates classes, play indoor racquet ball, outdoor tennis or sweat it out in the weight room with a personal trainer. To take the stress off the body, try the water aerobics class that they offer.

To wind down you can retire to one of the 339 newly renovated guestrooms, later have a drink at the lobby bar and contemplate having dinner at one of the seven restaurants available onsite.

Once you experience the PGA Resort, you’ll wonder why should you ever golf anywhere else. Contact: PGA National Resort & Spa at www.pgaresort.com; (877) PGA.NATL (877-742-6285).