Discover Tranquility and Prestige at The Golf Club of Tennessee

Photo: Ryan Montgomery | The Golf Club of Tennessee

A Hidden Gem Just Beyond the Bustle of Nashville

The Golf Club of Tennessee is more than just a country club; it's a sanctuary for those who appreciate community, golf, and the beauty of nature. Whether visiting for lunch or playing nine holes, I've always cherished my time at this peaceful retreat.

Three decades ago, renowned course designer Tom Fazio and his trusted associate Tom Marzolf were tasked with a challenge: “Design the very best golf course you are capable of.” Rising to the occasion, they sculpted a masterpiece just west of Nashville in Kingston Springs. Spanning 317 acres of dense forests, rocky ridges, and serene river valleys, The Golf Club of Tennessee offers an exceptional golfing experience, free from the constraints of tee times and distractions.

From its inception, The Golf Club of Tennessee has garnered prestigious accolades. In its first year, Golf Digest recognized it as the runner-up for the Best New Private Course in America. Consistently ranked among the top courses in Tennessee, it has also been celebrated by Golf Week as one of America’s 100 Best Modern Courses. Since 2017, it has been ranked in the Second 100 Greatest, currently holding the 167th position for 2023-24. The club has proudly hosted numerous notable events, including The Vinny Pro-Celebrity-Am, The DICK’S Sporting Goods Collegiate Challenge Cup, and the 2018 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship.

The Course: A Testament to Design Excellence

Tom Fazio’s design philosophy shines through in every aspect of the 7,184-yard course. With Zoysia fairways, Bermuda roughs, and A1 bent grass greens, the course spans almost twice the acreage of a traditional 18-hole layout. Each hole presents strategic challenges, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape to create a thrilling and unforgettable golfing experience.

Course Highlights:

  • The first two holes meander along the flat valley of Brush Creek.

  • The par-4 third hole climbs uphill through dense trees to a green perched on a bluff.

  • The challenging par-3 fourth hole requires a carry over a dramatic chasm.

  • The par-3 eighth hole plays directly over the river, while the par-4 ninth follows its rocky edge.

  • The back nine features the picturesque par-3 16th over Brush Creek and the dual-fairway par-5 17th.

Photos: Ryan Montgomery | The Golf Club of Tennessee

The Clubhouse & Lodging

Crowning the course is the stunning 31,000-square-foot clubhouse, designed in an antebellum style. It houses a golf shop, locker rooms, dining areas, and four guest suites. The clubhouse exudes a distinctive yet comfortable ambiance, with large porches overlooking the 10th and 18th holes.

In 2012, the Ingram Cabin was added, offering a luxurious lodging option. This three-building complex includes two sleeping cabins and a great room cabin, all connected by a covered porch with views of the practice facility. Guests at the Ingram Cabin enjoy access to a 6-acre lighted short-game area with two Bermuda practice greens.

A New Era

The Golf Club of Tennessee is continually evolving under the visionary leadership of David Ingram, the club's president and son of co-founder Bronson Ingram. In 2018, David took a significant step to protect the club's serene environment by purchasing 560 acres of land to develop a second 18-hole course designed by the renowned Gil Hanse. This new addition, called “The Upper,” is set to open this year, aiming to preserve the club's natural beauty and attract high-profile amateur golf events.

David Ingram's passion for golf, inherited from his late father, drives the club’s recent developments. His dedication and substantial investments ensure that The Golf Club of Tennessee remains a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.

The Golf Club of Tennessee is more than just a place to play golf. It's a vibrant community and a serene retreat that honors the timeless beauty of the game. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a newcomer, the club provides a unique mix of challenges and stunning scenery. Come and experience golf as it was meant to be played, in a setting that allows you to truly unwind.

Paul Gravette