As you approach the Chalet-style clubhouse, take in the sweeping view of the rich farmland of the surrounding hills and valleys. Once inside, you'll find one of the busiest bars of any golf course around. This place was hopping, packed with locals loudly watching golf on the big screen TV. Locally brewed New Glarus beers are available on tap in the bar (although not out on the course) and the smell of the burgers will make you want to linger after your round.

Back outside, the practice facilities are nearby, but are not very inspiring. The range is rather bland while the putting green is slanted at a crazy angle. But then the first hole beckons and you realize why this is considered one of the nicest courses in the area. The place is in great shape. It's immaculately clean and the holes are challenging but fair. Edelweiss's fairways were beautiful and the greens were firm and very fast. Each tee had a bench, shoe scrapers, and ball washers, and many had great views as well. Native areas are extremely well marked and are considered lateral hazards.

The scorecards are very informative, with detailed illustrations, daily pin placements and distances to trouble from the tees marked clearly on the card. On that first elevated tee, you're looking down the hill at a bunker nestled on the left side of the fairway smack between you and the green. Unless you can hit the ball 250 yards, you're not going to clear the sand. Keep it to the right.

The same can be said about the rather short par 4 18th hole, a dogleg left with a large evergreen jutting out at the corner 140 yards from the tee box. Even if you think you can put it over that dang tree, stay away from it. The green is elevated and well protected, requiring an approach from the middle-right of the fairway.

Edelweiss seems to appreciate that golfers have different skill levels. Quite a few of the red tees are 50 yards or more ahead of the white tees. There is also a fourth set of "silver" tees for seniors that play from the same angles as the white tees, but take the edge off the distance.

Latest Update: 4/7/2011