Checking in with: The Club at Savannah Harbor

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, is one of those charming small Southern cities that’s just a true pleasure to visit. Home to 22 park-like squares, which are idyllic spots to sit and enjoy the myriad oak trees draped in Spanish moss, Savannah offers a naturally relaxed setting. When it comes to putting a peg in the grass and enjoying a game of golf, The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa on Hutchinson Island is the place to stay.

Here, the Old World and the New perfectly interact. Known as “the South’s Downtown Resort,” this gem of Southern hospitality is uniquely situated a stone’s throw from historic River Street (and those charming squares) across the Savannah River, offering optimal serenity along with quick access to downtown via the five-minute complimentary ferry.

For golfers, the resort features The Club at Savannah Harbor, ranked among the top courses in the state by Golfweek. It has also been recognized as Facility of the Year by Troon, which opened the facility in 1999 and remains in place, ensuring the pinnacle in guest service and course conditions.

The 18-hole layout was created and designed by architect Robert Cupp in conjunction with the legendary “Slammin’ Sammy” Snead. Sited between the banks of the Savannah and Back rivers of the splendid Georgia Lowcountry, the course enjoys the peacefulness of coastal tidal marshes and abundant wildlife. Savannah Harbor’s renown was such that it served as home for The PGA Champions Tour Liberty Mutual Insurance Legends of Golf Championship from 2003 through 2013.

When you play here, you will immediately understand why the Champions Tour selected this venue, as the design utilizes a spectacular natural setting that creates a premium on shot-making and course management. Unique green complexes with Tour-quality putting surfaces, including the 17,000-square-foot 12th green, challenge golfers’ skills for successful scoring in this pristine environment.

Players enjoy wonderful views of historic downtown Savannah while they wend their way around the layout, as well the remarkable Talmadge Memorial Bridge. According to PGA Head Golf Professional Chris Thompson, “The course is in very good condition right now. It continues to be very popular with locals and tourists alike. We have been fortunate enough to remain busy during this difficult year, and I do not see any slow down.”

After golf, Thompson suggests a visit to Legends Grill in the golf clubhouse, where the menu includes tasty hamburgers, grilled chicken salads/sandwiches, club sandwiches and, of course, good cold beer.

For culinary adventures, the hotel’s main dining room is renowned for its Sunday brunch and array of fine wines and boutique champagnes. In addition, the Johnny Mercer-inspired Midnight Sun lounge provides a highly conducive atmosphere in which to partake of signature crafted cocktails and lighter fare.

While the resort offers world class golf, spa, and culinary options, a trek across the river to downtown is always a treat. Now don’t you think you deserve to visit more often?

Be sure to check out the UNLIMTED GOLF PACKAGES AT THE WESTIN SAVANNAH HARBOR which includes accommodations, unlimited golf and complimentary Callaway Golf rentals starting at $130 pp/nt through February 2021!