Tee Off at the Best Golf Resorts in Virginia

Sep 9

Virginia is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, offering some of the most picturesque and challenging golf resorts in the country. With a landscape that spans from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, the state provides a diverse array of settings for an unforgettable golfing experience. Whether you're seeking a relaxing mountain retreat, a historic course, or a riverside challenge, Virginia’s top golf resorts have something for every player.

Tee Off at the Best Golf Resorts in Virginia

These resorts are not just about golf; they combine world-class courses with luxurious accommodations, top-notch dining, and a variety of outdoor activities. From historic landmarks like The Omni Homestead Resort to the secluded beauty of Primland, each resort provides a unique blend of luxury and sport. Many of these courses have been designed by legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Pete Dye, ensuring a challenging round for golfers of all skill levels.

In addition to outstanding golf, Virginia’s resorts offer a range of amenities that make them perfect for vacations, weddings, and corporate retreats. Visitors can enjoy spa treatments, wine tastings, hiking, and historical tours, all while surrounded by the state’s natural beauty. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Virginia’s golf resorts provide the perfect setting for relaxation, recreation, and refinement.

Virginia is home to several outstanding golf resorts, offering scenic views, luxury accommodations, and world-class courses. Here are some of the best golf resorts in the state: Grab your clubs and get ready for a round of golf at the best golf resorts that Virginia has to offer. Make a tee time ASAP and lets get the rounds of golf going in Virginia!

Here’s a more detailed overview of each golf resort:

1. The Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs, Virginia)

The Omni Homestead Resort is a historic property and luxurious destination nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia, renowned for its elegant accommodations, spa facilities, and, notably, its exceptional golf courses. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, the resort offers a golfing experience that combines challenging courses with breathtaking scenery of the breathtaking Allegheny mountains. The Omni Homestead Resort offers some of the country's most challenging and historic fairways in Hot Springs, VA. Consistently ranked among the best golf courses in Virginia, the championship courses allow you to perfect your golf game while being surrounded by the overwhelming natural beauty of the Allegheny mountains. This historic resort has been a premier golf destination since the early 1900s. It features two classic courses: the Cascades Course, designed by William S. Flynn in 1923, and the Old Course, which dates back to 1892 and boasts the oldest first tee in continuous use in the U.S. You cannot go wrong with a choice of the following courses.

The Cascades Course is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning mountain views, often cited as one of the top mountain courses in the U.S. The Old Course offers a more traditional experience with historical significance, making it a favorite among golf history enthusiasts. Designed by the legendary William Flynn in 1923, The Cascades Course is a timeless masterpiece. It has consistently been ranked among the finest golf courses in the country, providing golfers with a challenging yet rewarding experience. Sam Snead launched his career on this fabled Virginia mountain golf course, which has the honor of being ranked among "America's 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses" by Golf Digest.

Dating back to 1892, The Old Course is a historic gem, offering players a journey through the roots of American golf. With its traditional layout and stunning vistas, this course provides a classic golfing experience. Tee off on the Old Course, home of the nation's oldest first tee in continuous use. The course, which debuted in 1892 as a 6-hole course, boasts updates by William S. Flynn and Donald Ross. Both courses provide a blend of scenic beauty and strategic play. Hands down the most beautiful 18 holes of golf I have ever played.

Other Amenities: The Omni Homestead offers a luxurious spa, hot springs, fine dining options, and a variety of outdoor activities such as horseback riding and skiing. The resort’s historic charm and comprehensive amenities make it an ideal destination for both golf and relaxation. The main hotel is stunning, making it a great destination for golf lovers and beyond.

2. Primland Resort (Meadows of Dan, Virginia)

Primland Resort, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers one of Virginia’s most luxurious and scenic golfing experiences. The resort spans 12,000 acres of pristine wilderness, providing a secluded and tranquil environment for golfers and vacationers alike. Primland's blend of luxury and nature makes it a top-tier destination for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with upscale relaxation. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland features the Highland Course, designed by Donald Steel. This luxurious resort is celebrated for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

The Highland Course is known for its dramatic elevation changes, stunning vistas, and strategic layout. It is one of the most acclaimed courses in Virginia and offers a unique golfing experience with its mountainous terrain. Designed by renowned British architect Donald Steel. This 18-hole championship course is carved into the natural landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing stunning panoramic views and challenging play. The course is highly regarded for its dramatic elevation changes, with holes set against the backdrop of rolling mountains, forests, and valleys.

The Highland Course is consistently ranked among the best mountain courses in the U.S. and offers wide fairways that cater to both casual and experienced golfers. Its elevation changes add a unique challenge, especially with swirling mountain winds that can test even the most seasoned players. The greens are meticulously maintained, and water hazards, bunkers, and natural obstacles ensure a strategic round of golf. Each hole on the Highland Course offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, and during the fall, the changing leaves create a vibrant and colorful backdrop. The course design seamlessly integrates with the natural beauty, making a round of golf here as much about the experience as it is about the sport.

Primland offers a range of high-end accommodations to suit every guest's preferences. Options include elegant rooms and suites in The Lodge, private cottages, and treehouses perched high in the trees, each offering spectacular views of the mountains or the Dan River Gorge. The accommodations are designed to provide luxury, comfort, and a connection to the surrounding natural beauty.

Other Amenities: Primland offers five-star accommodations, a world-class spa, a stargazing observatory, and a range of outdoor activities including fly-fishing, hunting, and hiking. The resort’s commitment to luxury and nature makes it a perfect destination for an immersive mountain retreat.

3. Boar’s Head Resort (Charlottesville, Virginia)

Boar’s Head Resort is a historic and luxurious retreat located just minutes from downtown Charlottesville. Set across 600 acres of the Virginia countryside, the resort offers a perfect blend of Southern hospitality, modern amenities, and a rich heritage. Boar's Head, owned and operated by the University of Virginia Foundation, is known for its beautiful setting and high-quality service, making it a favorite destination for both leisure travelers and golfers alike.

Boar’s Head Resort offers a premier golf experience with its Birdwood Golf Course, which underwent a significant renovation in 2020, led by renowned course designer Davis Love III and his firm, Love Golf Design. The redesigned course offers a championship-level experience and is the home course for the University of Virginia’s golf teams. The new layout of the 18-hole Birdwood Course integrates the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including rolling hills, woodlands, and water features. Each hole offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels, including strategic bunkering, water hazards, and elevation changes. The course emphasizes sustainability, with native grass areas and a commitment to environmentally friendly maintenance practices making Boars Head a great golf destination.

In addition to the main course, Birdwood features a 6-hole par-3 short course and a putting course called “The Ridges.” The par-3 course is ideal for golfers looking for a quicker, more casual round or for families and beginners. The putting course provides a fun challenge for all ages and adds an extra dimension to the golf experience at Boar’s Head. Birdwood also boasts an expansive practice facility, including a double-sided driving range, short-game area, and a putting green, perfect for golfers looking to hone their skills. The Osprey Course is known for its challenging layout that incorporates natural hazards and strategic design elements. The course offers a mix of open fairways and wooded areas, providing a varied golfing experience.

Other Amenities: Boar’s Head Resort provides a full range of amenities including a luxury spa, multiple dining options, tennis courts, and a fitness center. Its location near Charlottesville adds access to historical sites, downtown Charlottesville restaurants and local wineries.

4. Kingsmill Resort (Williamsburg, Virginia)

Kingsmill Resort is a luxury waterfront destination that blends history, relaxation, and world-class amenities. Situated on the banks of the James River in Williamsburg, the resort is steeped in colonial history while offering modern luxury and comfort. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and Jamestown. With over 400 rooms, condos, and cottages, Kingsmill caters to families, couples, and business travelers alike. The resort's peaceful ambiance, combined with its commitment to top-notch service, ensures a memorable stay for all visitors. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous getaway, a golf-centric vacation, or a tranquil escape, Kingsmill offers a perfect mix of activities and relaxation.

Kingsmill Resort offers three exceptional golf courses, each providing a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels. The River Course, designed by Pete Dye, is the resort’s most prestigious course, known for hosting the LPGA Tour and offering stunning views of the James River. This challenging course demands precision, with its narrow fairways, water hazards, and signature hole 17 that overlooks the river. The Plantation Course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, is a more forgiving course that offers wider fairways and scenic views of historical landmarks from the 18th-century plantations. It is perfect for a leisurely round with its shorter length and gentler layout, yet still provides enough challenge to keep golfers engaged. The resort also features the Woods Course, a member-exclusive design by Tom Clark and Curtis Strange, which is set amidst dense woodlands. This course is known for its natural setting and strategic design, offering a more private and serene golfing experience with tight fairways and challenging doglegs. Together, these three courses make Kingsmill Resort one of the premier golf destinations on the East Coast.

For guests not interested in golf, Kingsmill Resort offers a wide array of amenities and activities to enjoy. The resort’s spa provides an oasis of relaxation, offering treatments like massages, facials, and body wraps, all designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The Kingsmill Marina allows visitors to rent kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats for a fun day on the James River. There are also tennis courts, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a fitness center for those looking to stay active. Families will appreciate the resort’s proximity to Busch Gardens and the on-site Kids’ Camp, which offers supervised activities for children. Dining at Kingsmill is an experience in itself, with James Landing Grille offering riverfront views and locally sourced seafood, while Eagles provides a more casual dining experience with views of the golf course. Whether relaxing by the pool, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring the area’s rich history, Kingsmill has something for everyone.

5. Lansdowne Resort and Spa (Leesburg, Virginia)

Lansdowne Resort & Spa is a luxury escape located in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, offering a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and upscale amenities. Spanning 500 acres along the Potomac River, the resort is a peaceful retreat while still being close to Washington, D.C., making it an ideal getaway for both leisure and business travelers. Known for its world-class golf, spa services, and conference facilities, Lansdowne offers something for everyone. The resort’s serene setting, coupled with modern accommodations and exceptional dining, ensures a memorable experience for guests. Whether enjoying the resort’s outdoor activities or exploring the nearby vineyards, Lansdowne provides a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.

Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, Virginia, offers a premier golf experience with its three courses designed by legendary architects Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Greg Norman. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. Course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and views of the Potomac River, providing a challenging yet scenic round. The Greg Norman Course weaves through the resort’s natural woodlands, with a layout that emphasizes shot precision and strategic play. Finally, the Sharkbite Course, also designed by Greg Norman, is a 9-hole short course that’s perfect for beginners, families, or those looking for a quicker, more casual round. Together, these courses provide a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels, set against the stunning backdrop of the Virginia countryside.

For visitors seeking activities beyond golf, Lansdowne Resort offers a wide array of amenities. The Spa Minérale is a luxurious, full-service spa offering treatments like massages, facials, and body therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate. The resort also features multiple pools, including an adults-only pool, a family pool with a water slide, and a heated indoor pool, providing options for all ages. The fitness center offers modern equipment and classes such as yoga and pilates. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lansdowne’s hiking and biking trails wind through the property, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside. Guests can also explore nearby vineyards and breweries or take part in wine tastings arranged by the resort. Dining at Lansdowne is a culinary experience, with restaurants like Coton & Rye offering farm-to-table cuisine and locally inspired dishes. Whether relaxing by the pool, indulging at the spa, or enjoying fine dining, Lansdowne Resort ensures a complete and luxurious experience for all visitors.

6. Keswick Hall (Keswick, Virginia)

Keswick Hall is a luxurious, historic resort that blends classic elegance with modern sophistication. Situated on 600 acres of picturesque Virginia countryside, the resort offers guests an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history, and high-end service. Recently undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation, Keswick Hall now features updated guest rooms, suites, and public spaces that exude modern charm while preserving its historic roots. The resort's proximity to Charlottesville and Monticello makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. Keswick Hall is renowned for its hospitality, refined atmosphere, and top-tier amenities, making it one of Virginia’s premier luxury resorts.

Keswick Hall, located just outside Charlottesville, Virginia, is home to Full Cry, a stunning golf course designed by renowned architect Pete Dye. Full Cry offers an exceptional golfing experience, blending traditional and modern design elements. The 18-hole championship course is known for its challenging layout, with Dye’s signature features, such as strategic bunkers, undulating greens, and creative water hazards. Full Cry is meticulously maintained, offering pristine conditions year-round. Set against the backdrop of the rolling hills of Keswick's countryside, the course offers scenic views and a memorable challenge for golfers of all levels. Its combination of playability and beauty has made it one of the top golf destinations in the region.

Keswick Hall offers a variety of luxurious amenities and activities. The resort’s infinity pool, which overlooks the scenic countryside, is perfect for relaxation, offering poolside service and stunning views. The Keswick Spa provides a full range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies, all designed to refresh and rejuvenate guests. Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy the resort’s beautifully maintained tennis courts, while outdoor lovers can explore the surrounding countryside via hiking and biking trails. For dining, Keswick Hall features the renowned restaurant Marigold by Jean-Georges, where guests can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine crafted by a Michelin-starred chef, using locally sourced ingredients. Whether indulging in spa treatments, lounging by the pool, or savoring world-class dining, Keswick Hall ensures a serene and luxurious experience for all its visitors.

7. Wintergreen Resort (Nellysford, Virginia)

Wintergreen Resort is a four-season destination nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a variety of activities for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Spanning 11,000 acres, the resort provides breathtaking views and a serene mountain atmosphere. In addition to its renowned golf courses, Wintergreen offers a variety of seasonal activities, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months. The resort caters to families, couples, and groups with a range of lodging options, from cozy condos to spacious vacation homes. Wintergreen’s combination of mountain scenery, diverse activities, and friendly service makes it a top choice for a mountain retreat.

Wintergreen Resort, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, offers two distinct golf courses that provide stunning mountain views and unique challenges. The Devils Knob Golf Course, situated at 3,850 feet, is the highest golf course in Virginia, known for its cooler temperatures, which make it a favorite in the summer months. Its narrow fairways, significant elevation changes, and fast greens demand accuracy and offer a challenging but rewarding round. The Stoney Creek Golf Course, designed by Rees Jones, offers a more forgiving layout with 27 holes spread across three nines—Shamokin, Tuckahoe, and Monocan. The course meanders through the Rockfish Valley, incorporating natural streams, woodlands, and scenic mountain views. Together, these courses provide a dynamic mountain golf experience that makes Wintergreen a premier golfing destination.

Wintergreen Resort offers a wealth of amenities for non-golfers. In the winter, the resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with over 25 slopes and trails catering to all skill levels, as well as snow tubing and a terrain park. The resort's Discovery Ridge Adventure Center features activities like zip-lining, archery, and mini-golf, making it a great option for families. Wintergreen also boasts a luxurious spa offering a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies, all designed to pamper and rejuvenate guests. Visitors can also enjoy multiple hiking trails that provide stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with guided nature tours and workshops. For dining, the resort features several options, including The Edge for casual fare and Devils Grill for upscale dining, both offering mountain views. Whether enjoying outdoor adventures or unwinding at the spa, Wintergreen offers an array of experiences for visitors beyond golf.

The best time to visit Virginia for golfing largely depends on your preferences for weather and course conditions. I would recommend Wintergreen Resort for group outings for guy trips or for groups looking to save money on the accommodation's vs one of the other resorts on this list.

Massanutten Resort (Massanutten Resort, Virginia)

Massanutten Resort, located in the Shenandoah Valley, offers two golf courses that provide a picturesque and enjoyable golf experience. The Mountain Greens Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course known for its dramatic elevation changes and challenging layout. Designed for experienced golfers, it offers narrow fairways, well-placed bunkers, and scenic mountain views. The Woodstone Meadows Golf Course is a more forgiving 18-hole course, ideal for beginners and casual players. With wider fairways and fewer hazards, it provides a more relaxed round while still offering beautiful views of the surrounding valley. Both courses are well-maintained and offer unique challenges, making Massanutten a destination for golfers of all levels.

Massanutten Resort is a year-round mountain destination that offers a wide range of activities and accommodations for all ages. Set on 6,000 acres in the Shenandoah Valley, the resort is known for its outdoor recreation and family-friendly atmosphere. Massanutten is a four-season resort offering winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, as well as water activities in the summer at the Massanutten Indoor and Outdoor WaterPark. The resort’s wide range of lodging options, including hotel rooms, condos, and vacation homes, makes it ideal for families, couples, and groups. With its variety of activities and scenic setting, Massanutten is perfect for adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing mountain escape.

Massanutten Resort offers plenty of activities and amenities for non-golfers. The resort is especially known for its Massanutten Indoor and Outdoor WaterPark. , which features waterslides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, making it a favorite for families year-round. In the winter, Massanutten offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing on its well-maintained slopes. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking through the resort’s scenic trails. For relaxation, the Massanutten Spa offers a range of treatments, from massages to facials, providing a perfect retreat after a day of activities. The resort also offers mini-golf, a family adventure park, and tennis courts. Dining options include Base Camp for casual meals and Campfire Grill for a more elevated dining experience. Whether visitors are looking for adventure or relaxation, Massanutten Resort provides a comprehensive range of amenities to suit all interests.

Here's a breakdown of the optimal times for playing at the top golf resorts in Virginia:

Spring (April to June)

Weather: Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it a great time for golf. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F (13-24°C).
Course Conditions: Courses are typically in excellent condition after winter, with lush fairways and greens.
Crowds: Early spring is less crowded compared to peak summer, providing a more relaxed experience.
Highlight: Spring is perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the courses, particularly at resorts like Primland and Wintergreen, where the mountain views are especially striking.

Fall (September to November)

Weather: Fall in Virginia features crisp air and comfortable temperatures, ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18-24°C). It’s an ideal time for golf.
Course Conditions: The courses are usually in great shape, with vibrant fall foliage adding to the scenic beauty. This is particularly true for the Blue Ridge area courses like those at Primland.
Crowds: Fall can be busy but is generally less crowded than summer, especially if you avoid peak vacation periods.
Highlight: The fall foliage makes for stunning views on courses like Devils Knob at Wintergreen and the Highland Course at Primland.

Choosing the right golf resort in Virginia depends on your preferences, skill level, and what kind of experience you’re seeking. If you're looking for challenging, professional-grade courses, resorts like Kingsmill, with its River Course and Plantation Course, or Keswick Hall, home to Pete Dye’s Full Cry, offer some of the best championship-level golfing in the state. For those wanting breathtaking mountain views and cooler temperatures during the summer, Wintergreen Resort and Massanutten Resort provide scenic courses nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, ideal for golfers seeking a balance of challenge and natural beauty. Each resort offers its own unique layout, atmosphere, and golfing conditions, ensuring that there’s a perfect match for every type of player.

Beyond the golf itself, Virginia’s resorts offer a wealth of amenities and activities to enhance your stay. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations, world-class dining, spa experiences, or family-friendly activities, resorts like Lansdowne and Boar's Head cater to diverse tastes. If you’re traveling with non-golfers, or want to mix in other recreational activities, resorts like Wintergreen and Massanutten offer outdoor adventures, water parks, and relaxation options. Ultimately, the right Virginia golf resort for your next visit will depend on what combination of exceptional golfing, scenic beauty, and additional amenities speaks to your ideal getaway. No matter where you choose, you're sure to enjoy a memorable experience on the fairways and beyond.