Sanford, N.C.
877-284-3762
Course Finder Profile | tobaccoroadgolf.com
Greens Fee: $59-$74 for non-residents.
SERVICE
The rustic pro shop suggests no frills, and that's what you get, right down to the short, irons-only driving range. But don't fret: the beer cart is omnipresent and you'll often find yourself avoiding driver off the tee anyway.
PACE OF PLAY
Thanks to the many blind shots that start on the first tee and end with the approach to No. 18, things tend to move slowly here. But the rangers are visible and polite. Plus, you can use the extra time to figure out the target line.
QUALITY
If you prefer A-to-Z target golf, this ain't for you, with blind shots and greens with more bumps and false fronts than a Hollywood starlet. If you relish courses that area head-scratching joy to play, you won't find anything better.
VALUE
Apart from weekends in spring, Tobacco Road can be played year-round for less than $100. If you can find anything else this much fun for that price, then it's probably indictable in several states.
VERDICT
Mike Strantz's design here is exhilarating, infuriating and bewildering — but never dull. This immensely entertaining test of patience and self-belief might just be the most underrated course in America.
