Linville Land Harbor Golf Course, a semi-private club open for public play, immerses its players in North Carolina’s verdancy. Each hole is lined with rows of native trees and flowers, which frame the beautiful views of Grandfather Mountain. With the front nine designed by course architect Tom Jackson and the back nine formed by Ernie Hayes, players have the opportunity to witness the drastic differences between their stylistic preferences.

The first several holes are fairly simple, albeit undulations run rife throughout the layout while seven of the holes contain sharp doglegs. There comes a point, however, that the course takes a turn. Hayes’s design is a deceptive rival for everyday players. Often called “Ernie’s Revenge,” it can leave even the most talented players humbled. But, the course offers many rewards: scenery, kind players, and a well-deserved meal at The Patio Grill open-air restaurant.

Before playing, here are five tips and tricks, as well as general information that everyone should know.

A short course yardage does not equate to easy pars

Though the front nine is 1,000 yards longer than the back, don’t expect to have a breather on the latter — the elevation on the back nine makes each hole look like it’s on steroids. (Thanks, Mr. Hayes). This is what allows for short Par 3 yardages to become tricky Par 4’s.

Ever heard of a 112-yard Par 4? Neither had I until I played this course. Only 195 yards from the back tee, hole 18 seems like an easy birdie opportunity, yet the sharp dogleg left leaves no room for error. With a green that is severely sloped left to right, it’s all-too-often that players leave the last hole with a three-putt. Make sure to account for the drastic slope and aim far left of the flag. 

On par with a calculated plan is thinking about your strengths

Before playing Land Harbor, it’s crucial to understand your game and how to use your attributes to your advantage. With hidden water hazards and bunkers lining almost every green, knowing your strengths on the course is a must. Golf-related denial is sure to lead to ugly scores.

For me, laying up is the smartest move because I’m confident in my short game. Now, I’m not advocating for laying up — in fact, I’m typically a lay-up-loather — but after one too many trips to the bunker, I had to put my negative sentiments aside and go for it. In case you’re wondering, my score has thanked me.

Linville Land Harbor rates are affordable

If you have ever played golf in Florida, you’ll know of the scheme that runs throughout the fall and winter months. Right when the snowbirds and spring breakers start to migrate down, local Florida courses send prices through the roof. I’m talking about $80 or more for 18 holes… walking.

At the Land Harbor course, prices don’t go higher than $48 18 holes during the summer months from May 13 to October 16. All other times, it costs $30 per round not including the cart fee. That’s more than 50 percent less at a beautiful, better-kept course. Sign me up!

There are several charming hotels and rental homes available near the course

The wonderful part about this golf course is its centralized location. Just 15 minutes from Sugar Mountain, 20 minutes from Banner Elk, and 30 minutes from Boone and Blowing Rock, the Linville Land Harbor Golf Course has several nearby hotel or rental options.

If you are looking for a more homey, do-it-yourself type of housing, opt for one of the beautiful vacation rentals that look over the course or lake. If you prefer to have hotel accommodations, choose one of the local lodges in the surrounding area such as the Chetola Resort or the Sugar Mountain Resort.

There are multiple attractions surrounding the course

Visiting the Tweetsie Railroad theme park or its adjacent ropes course (called High Gravity Adventures Zip Line and Ariel Park) in Boone is fun for both the family or an adults-only escape. After an early morning round, Tweetsie is the perfect way to stretch your legs and let your kids get their energy out. The theme park has a homemade candy shop (yes, for adults too) located right next to the restaurant. The park’s rides range from relaxing to utterly dizzying. Even if you aren’t a fan of the rides, there is also a petting zoo with goats, ostriches, donkeys, deer, and llamas, among many other animals.

If you like your travels to be filled with action, then ropes courses, ziplining, white water rafting, or hiking might be a great option for you and your family. Who said a golf getaway couldn’t include fun for the family as well?

Sure, Linville Land Harbor Golf Course offers challenges, however with a good plan and understanding of the course, they are merely obstacles on the path to success. Even if a few holes get the best of you, the marvelous views and surrounding amenities are sure to remind you of North Carolina’s charming beauty.