We began with the Highlands course, considered by most the easier of the two (except from the tips). It was originally designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus and then improved in 1996 by Bob Cupp and later by Bob Lohmann in 2006. Yes, improved. Ask anyone. And now, this course literally appeals to everyone. It was so friendly from the forward tees we all wanted to play from them. But it was awesome from the other three sets as well. The course tumbles brilliantly through glacier carved hills, presenting hole after hole of scoring opportunities and remarkable scenery.

This place packs it all in. The elaborate practice areas were extraordinary. Brand new carts with equally new GPS systems only enhanced the already awesome experience. Before even hitting the course we were blown away. There are numerous memorable layouts here. The easy birdie opps at #2, 8 and 10. (Make sure your tee shot is left on #3) The beauty of the 4th. The humbling 9th. The awesome 10th, wild 12th, and picturesque 14th. There's a crazy road splitting #16, and a "harder than it looks" 17th... hopefully you get the idea. "Signature" here is a word representing the course, more than it does a single hole. Perhaps our only complaint was not being able to pass the clubhouse at the turn and grab one of their fantastic "lunch box" deals. It's hard to argue though with the serenity, the setting and the accommodations provided at Grand Geneva. So we won't.

The phrase "you get what you pay for" is typically associated with someone getting ripped off. Here it's the opposite, a compliment to Grand Geneva, and something worthy of every searching golfer's consideration. Yes you'll pay a lot. But you likely couldn't get more for it.

Latest Update: 11/10/2010