According to the Head Golf Pro, the three courses at Geneva National account for a combined 60,000 annual rounds. In their estimation, half of those rounds are played on "The Player." If you played all three, as we did, you'd understand why.

It all begins on the panoramic 1st tee. Our favorite hole on the course, both scenically and competitively, is also among the most inconvenient of starting holes you can imagine at a course. It is a two-shot hole. And yet no successive group can play their tee shot until you're pretty much on the green. Think Par 3 backups on a Par 4 hole. But like I said, we loved it, and once you clear that green you're off on an incredible adventure across one of the most picturesque golf designs in the state. And if you're playing from the correct tees, you'll enjoy the resulting score.

Among the creative hole designs is the Risk/Reward 5th. A true test to your self-confidence, the split fairway of this 300-yard Par 4 offers a lay-up option to the right, or the opportunity to hit into the teeth on the left. The 10th is also magnificent, but you really can't stay left enough on the entire hole. The back is loaded with gems, including an awesome 5 hole stretch that goes Par 3, Par 5, Par 3, Par 5, Par 3. The only perceivable flaw in the entire design is the 11th hole. "Hate" isn't a strong enough word for that hole. But then, "love" isn't a strong enough word for the rest of the course. No question, if one round here is all you can afford, play the Player.

The Geneva National clubhouse is southern Wisconsin's version of Versailles. It is a palace. The pro shop is fully stocked with everything you'd want and the food at the grill, indoor or outdoor, is fantastic. This entire facility is run as any great establishment should be, with professionalism, courtesy, hard work and a transparent passion for the game as its cornerstones.

Latest Update: 11/10/2010