Another magnificent design, the "Woodlands" weaves you through forests, up and down glacially sculpted hillsides and around treacherous ravines. It's scenic in its own right and the perfect complement to its wide open, longer, and much more recognized sibling. It provides a plethora of pleasurable hole designs, including the Scorecard "Signature" 2nd... (Ideal tee shot is 200-220 yards slightly right... hit your 2nd and 3rd shots from there.) ... the dramatic drop off the tees, next to the lake, on the 3rd and the picturesque 6th over and around water... all of which sure makes the front nine go fast. And then there's the incredible 16th, battling for it's own "Signature" space. That's an elevated tee shot (Kodak moment) you're not likely to forget... both for good and bad reasons.

You're less subjected to the elements on "The Woodlands," be they wind, rain or people, but still subjected to the hazards within your own game. There are plenty of crevices, water bodies, baby foxes and trees eager to conceal your ball for you and multiple mulligan opportunities off many a tee. You're never rushed at Lawsonia, on either course. They're all about enjoying the game here and just ask that you complete your round in 4.5 hours. We loved that. It's asserted and understood by all, and made for a spectacular round on both courses.

It's really too bad they gave up on the yardage books they used to provide here. We heard several people mention that and we completely agree. They're not necessary, with the GPS, but many courses recognize their souvenir quality, and they'd be great keepsakes from here.

It's really hard to believe they managed to squeeze this much great golf onto this property, and never make it seem tight or restrictive. The course conditions across both courses were great and consistent and the two completely different golf experiences definitely make for one extraordinary day of golf.

Latest Update: 11/17/2010