Matt WardThe philosophy of opening holes can be quite varied. Some favor a gentle opener whereby players stretch the muscles with little difficulty. On the flip side, a starting hole provide the kind of jumpstart that can both propel and repel players depending upon the respective execution demonstrated.
Set in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, the 1st at The Highland Course at Primland Resort can provide valuable momentum with solid play. Conversely, those failing to execute can place themselves in a more difficult position with the bulk of the holes to follow.
Brian Alley, Director of Outdoor Activities, outlines the challenges faced with this picturesque and challenging hole.
“Golf at Primland gets off to an exciting start with a unique par-5. The safe play is to favor the left side of the fairway and avoid the fairway bunkers and steep slope that looms right. The brave take on the bunkers and the rock outcropping that help define this hole. The second and or third shots play significantly downhill which in turns makes this a reachable par five for the longer players.
Once you reach the rock outcropping which was created by the use of dynamite, you are provided one of the best views you will find on any golf course. Behind the 1st green is the Pinnacles of the Dan River and the surrounding Gorge. The hole is fun to play, forgiving for most, and breathtaking to all.”
The Highland Course at Primland was designed by Englishman Donald Steel. Golf, Golfweek, and Golf Digest all rank it in the top one-third of their “Top 100” U.S. resort or public course lists (32 or better).
Located in southwest Virginia near the North Carolina border, Primland is a boutique luxury resort situated gloriously amid 12,000 acres of Blue Ridge Mountains land.
Photo attribution: Courtesy The Highland Course at Primland.
Schematic rendering: Courtesy: Best Approach.
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