Welcome, golf lovers and adventure seekers alike! Today, we’re delving into an oasis of beauty and tranquillity nestled within the alluring Ozark Mountains. Our spotlight is on one place: Paynes Valley. But this is no ordinary golf course. It’s the first public-access wonder designed by 82-time PGA TOUR winner, Tiger Woods himself, and his renowned firm, TGR Design. Buckle up; we’re revealing the top 10 most mind-blowing secrets of this haven that you didn’t see coming.
1. A Tribute to the Late Payne Stewart
Hear the echoes of the past as we walk through the hallowed greens of the Paynes Valley golf course. Dedicated to the late Payne Stewart, a local legend from nearby Springfield, Missouri, and a close friend of Woods, this course is much more than a visually engaging tapestry of fairways and greens—it’s a heartfelt homage to a man who touched many lives with his sporting spirit.
2. Not Just Tiger’s Design – It’s His First Public One
Every hole on the course tells a story, a narrative spun by none other than Tiger Woods himself. After refining his skills through 82 accolades in the PGA TOUR, Tiger turned to design, carving out the natural beauty of Paynes Valley. And here’s the kicker: this mesmerising course is Tiger’s first venture into public-access designs. Oh boy, aren’t you lucky!
3. Booking Your Tee Time
Alright, you’re sold on the beauty of Paynes Valley, but how do you book your tee time? The process is as smooth as the course’s bentgrass greens. For those not making their base at the Big Cedar Lodge, tee times can be booked up to 14 days in advance from April 17th to October 29th, and 30 days in advance for tee times between October 30th and April 16th. With a quick click here, golfing paradise awaits.
4. The Incredible 19th Hole, “Lunker Lake”
For those in the know, you don’t have to be an under-seat luggage stashing, american tourister lugging golf enthusiast to appreciate the 19th hole of the course. This serene 140-yard par-3 hole, christened “Lunker Lake,” is encircled by a dazzling waterbody, making it one of the most astounding golf holes on the planet.
5. Up Close and Personal with Nature
In addition to its impeccably manicured landscapes, the course also serves as your gateway to the diverse Ozarks ecosystem. From the velvety greens of the cedar trees to the diverse wildlife, a trip to Paynes Valley allows you to cozy up with nature in all its magnificence.
6. A Stone’s Throw from the Airport
No one loves a long commute, especially if you’re aching to hit the tees. Thankfully, Paynes Valley is just 12 miles away from Branson Airport, which overlooks the Buffalo Ridge, Mountain Top, and Ozarks National golf courses. You’ll be out on the greens faster than you can say clear-purse!
7. Secrets Swirled in Rock Formations
As you navigate the course, you’ll occasionally find yourself in the company of towering Ozarks rock formations. These natural sculptures whisper tales of millennia gone by and stand as testaments to the area’s rich geological history.
8. Not All Golf and No Play
Moored in a picturesque setting, the course offers more than just golf. From hiking to horse riding, fishing to watersports on Table Rock Lake, Paynes Valley is a playground for the adventure-inclined.
9. A Ticket to Birdwatching Bliss
During your round of golf, don’t forget to look up occasionally – you might meet some of the feathered residents of Paynes Valley. This area is teeming with a variety of bird species, making it a true delight for avid birdwatchers.
10. The Grandeur of Big Cedar Lodge
Close your eyes and picture this: stunning views of the towering Ozarks as you unwind in your idyllic lodge. This is the reality at Big Cedar Lodge, just a stone’s throw away from the golf course. The lodge underscores the beauty and adventure that awaits at Paynes Valley, serving as the perfect companion to your golf expedition.
A dream painted green, etched by a legend, and brought to life by your very footsteps, Paynes Valley stands as a testament to the love of golf, an ode to its late namesake, and a warm welcome to all who wish to experience its grandeur. So, get your sambas adidas ready, throw some kut from the kloth items in your suitcase, and keep your delta personal item size dusted off. Adventure awaits at Paynes Valley.
