Golfers looking for a great round of golf in Lake Geneva will find plenty of options to choose from. From private country clubs to public courses, there is something for everyone. Here is our list of the 10 best golf courses in Lake Geneva 2023!
Geneva National Club
Geneva National Resort & Club is the hidden gem nestled within the rolling wooded slopes and tranquil shores of Lake Como. With 54 holes of golf and on-course lodging at Cottages & Suites at Geneva National, this semi-private resort offers a premier must-visit destination. The courses, designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino, have become a golfing paradise for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Palmer Course
Holes 18 is a semi-private/resort golf course that boasts a challenging game for all levels of golfers. The Palmer Course is the most difficult of the three courses but the Player Course comes in at a close second. Although there is less water on this course, it still plays a prominent role throughout. The course begins with a tricky water hole, a par 3 that is crossed by a meandering stream. Additionally, the 17th hole plays right along the beautiful lake, making it a memorable experience. Despite a few homes lining a few of the fairways, golfers can expect to be surrounded by stunning scenery throughout the course. If you’re looking for a challenging yet picturesque experience, Holes 18 is definitely worth a visit.
The Gary Player Course
The Gary Player Course is a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned golfer. With no weak moments on this 7,008-yard course, every stroke counts. However, if maximum drama is what you seek, be sure to play the 18th hole from the tips. This course boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery around, with Lake Como providing a stunning backdrop. One unique feature of this course is its combination of three par 3s and three par 5s on the back nine, providing ample opportunity to go low on the scorecard. But don’t let this fool you – water hazards come into play on 12 holes, including the unforgettable par-3 16th with its island-green feel. Overall, the Gary Player Course is a perfect blend of beauty and challenge, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
The Lee Trevino Course
If you are up for a challenge, the Lee Trevino Course at Geneva National Golf Club is the place to test your skills. Although it may not offer the stunning vistas like the other two courses, it does have an irresistible appeal that will keep you coming back for more. For one, the nine holes that dogleg right demand that you master Trevino’s trademark fade to navigate them smoothly. Secondly, the strategically placed bunkers will keep you on your toes, and if that isn’t enough, the memorable appearance of the stream that cuts across the par-3 fifth hole will leave you with an unforgettable experience. So, if you want to test your mettle and trim your handicap, the Trevino Course at Geneva National Golf Club is where you need to be.
Choosing a course can be daunting, but rest assured that no matter your decision, you won’t feel regret at Geneva National Resort. Thanks to its convenient location, just a short drive from metropolitan Chicago and Milwaukee, why don’t you give it a shot?
Address: 1221 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
Hawk’s View Golf Club
If you’re looking for something more tranquil, Hawk’s View Golf Club is the perfect choice. Located on top of a hill surrounded by rolling farmlands and acres of pine trees, this course offers an idyllic backdrop for a peaceful round of golf. Players will be greeted with lush fairways and manicured greens that roll true and offer plenty of chances to attack pins. The course is also home to two 18-hole championship courses, offering plenty of variation and challenge for every skill level.
Como Crossings Golf Course
Como Crossings is the crown jewel of Hawk’s View Golf Club, the only five-star rated course in Lake Geneva. Designed by renowned architect Craig Schreiner in 2001, this 18-hole championship course stretches over 7074 yards of rolling hills covered with mature vegetation and woodlands. Its landscape is peppered with lakes, wetlands, and strategically placed bunkers that challenge golfers of all skill levels to bring their A-game. The front nine is more open, while the back nine becomes more wooded and hilly, offering a range of playing experiences. One particular challenge awaits players on the 17th hole, which is known for its especially tricky par 3. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, Como Crossings promises an unforgettable round of golf amid stunning natural scenery.
Barn Hollow Golf Course
This award-winning course, rated as the #2 Short Course in America in 2016 and consistently placed in the top 10, offers players an opportunity to sharpen their short game skills. The par-3 course extends up to 2708 yards and features holes that range from 67 to 222 yards, making it ideal for all players of varying skill levels. With water features coming into play on seven holes, it challenges low handicappers while also being gentle enough for beginners and junior players. One can walk the entire course in less than three hours, making it a great option for those looking to squeeze in a round before or after work or whenever they have a spare moment.
Address: 7377 Krueger Rd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
The Brute Golf Course
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa takes pride in its ranking as one of the top golf resorts in the northern U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler. The 7,085-yard Brute Course, which is one of two courses located at the resort, is considered the region’s best play. The layout of the course incorporates a variety of elevation changes that range from subtle to dramatic, making it an exciting challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
However, this course lives up to its name, as it bullies players with its 68 curvaceous bunkers and uneven lies. These strategically placed obstacles will relentlessly test your skills, making it one of the toughest golf courses in the Midwest. It’s certainly more challenging than its brother, a links course designed by Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. Golf enthusiasts looking for an exciting and challenging round of golf will not be disappointed with the Brute Course at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa.
Address: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
The Highlands Golf Course
The other course at Grand Geneva Resort is the Highlands Course, a true testament to the variety of hands that have contributed to its design over the years. Originally routed by Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye, the course took on a new life when Bob Cupp transformed it into a Scottish links-themed layout in 1996. Subsequently, Bob Lohmann altered several holes in 2006. The result is a course that can feel a bit disjointed at times, yet presents a more player-friendly layout compared to its formidable counterpart, the Brute Course.
The Highlands Course is a traditional links-style layout that tumbles across glacier-carved hills and valleys. Its undulating greens flanked with bunkers perfectly mimic the feel of courses found in the British Isles. Although the course is playable for all skill levels, low handicappers craving a challenge might want to head over to the Brute.
Address: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
Lake Geneva Country Club
Lake Geneva Country Club stands as one of the most revered 18-hole courses in America, with a history that dates back to 1895. This private course boasts a well-groomed landscape that presents a fair yet challenging game for golfers of all abilities. The clubhouse was reconstructed using stone and concrete after a fire damaged the original wooden structure in 1915; visitors can witness the building’s captivating front that faces the course as a reminder of the club’s purpose.
Lake Geneva Country Club has a special tradition for Independence Day as they put on an unforgettable fireworks show that attracts visitors from all over the area. If you’re looking for an exceptional golf experience that also features stunning views, Lake Geneva Country Club is not to be missed.
Address: W3398 S Lake Shore Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
Country Club Estates Golf Course
Country Club Estates Golf Course in Fontana boasts a scenic nine-hole layout spread out over gently rolling hills. The course offers wide open views of the Lake Geneva area and is designed to be player-friendly, making it a great choice for beginners. Even for the more advanced golfer, the course provides a quick round of golf that can be played in two hours or less.
The key to success on this course is proper club selection, rather than relying on length. Golfers may encounter a handful of blind approaches and bunkers, but nothing too challenging. One particularly picturesque hole, number three, runs alongside a river where glimpses of local wildlife, like deer and heron, can often be spotted. Designed by Tom Bendelow in 1929, Country Club Estates’ beautiful course is a perfect place to enjoy a round of golf in the Fontana area.
Address: 365 E Pottawatomi Dr, Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, WI 53125, United States
Lake Lawn Resort
Lake Lawn Resort, established in 1878, is one of Wisconsin’s oldest leisure destinations. Situated on two miles of shoreline along Delavan Lake, the resort boasts a captivating scenic beauty that is hard to match. Given its proximity to both Chicago and Milwaukee, it has become a popular destination for leisure-seekers, who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. One of the most notable features of the resort is its championship golf course. Built-in 1921, it is one of the oldest in Wisconsin. The traditional layout of the course was revamped in 1990, while keeping the original character intact.
The course is famous for the abundant stately oaks that frame the holes, demanding accuracy as well as creative shot-making from golfers. Deep sand bunkers are strategically placed along the greensides, adding to the challenge. With 18 holes, a par of 70, and a length of 6201 yards, the course promises a memorable golfing experience for enthusiasts. The course was designed by the renowned architect Dick Nugent and updated by Tom Bendelow in 1928 and Brad Bartell in later years, it is a testament to the resort’s commitment to excellence. Precision and skill are a must to navigate the tricky and varied greens, making the course a favorite amongst golfers.
Address: 2400 Geneva St, Delavan, WI 53115, United States
Evergreen Golf Club
Evergreen Golf Club, located in the charming city of Elkhorn, is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after destinations for golf enthusiasts in the area. With its 27 breathtaking holes of championship golf, the club offers three unique 18-hole combinations: South, North and East, that promise both challenge and playability in equal parts. The course is charmingly routed through mature trees and natural wetlands, presenting golfers with an unparalleled experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The South/North Combination Course
As one of the most well-established golf clubs in the region, The South/North combination course is a perennial favorite among avid golfers. With its challenging layout of water hazards, strategically placed bunkers, and a host of other tests, it’s easy to see why this course has garnered a reputation as one of the toughest around. And while there are many holes on the course that can be quite demanding, perhaps none are quite as memorable as the penultimate hole. For big hitters, the opportunity to drive the green and gain an advantageous position is tantalizing, but there’s also plenty of risk involved. With out-of-bounds to the left and bunkers to the right, one errant shot can quickly turn a manageable par 4 into a challenging bogey. Overall, The South/North combination course is a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.
The East/North Combination Course
As golfers make their way through the East/North combination of nines, they will quickly discover that the East nine may be the shortest, but it is no less challenging than its counterparts. With water as a prevalent feature on multiple holes, golfers will need to be precise in their shots to avoid taking a swim. The final hole of the East nine is particularly noteworthy, where a straight and well-struck drive will give you the chance for a good second shot. However, beware of the water on the left and bunkers on the right that can easily swallow up an errant shot. Despite its length, the East nine proves to be a challenging test for golfers of any skill level too.
The East/South Combination Course
The East/South combination at this club offers golfers a unique challenge, combining the shortest nine with the club’s original nine. Golfers can expect to navigate through mature trees lining the fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and plenty of water hazards throughout the course. The third hole on the South nine offers a particularly tough challenge for big hitters. Attempting to hit over the creek requires a precise and long 3 wood shot to reach the slightly elevated green, which is surrounded by well-placed bunkers. Golfers looking for a challenging and interesting course will not be disappointed with the East/South combination.
You not only have options to choose the combination of 2 among 3 courses, but you also can choose only one course to experience. So feel free to come and have fun.
Address: N6246 US-12, Elkhorn, WI 53121, United States
Delbrook Golf Course
Delbrook Golf Course, founded in 1928 as an 18-hole private club, has a rich history and unique design that attracts golfers of all skill levels. After being purchased by the City of Delavan in 1945, the course underwent various changes, including a renovation to become 27 holes in 2001.
Thanks to renowned architects James Foulis, Steven Halberg, and Bob Lohmann, Delbrook offers a combination of traditional and modern design, spread throughout three nine-hole courses – North, South, and Middle. With four sets of tees, the golf course provides a challenge to experienced golfers while still remaining accessible to those new to the sport. Depending on the two nines played, the course ranges from 5956 to 6328 yards with a par at 70. The Middle and South nines, the longest ones, add up to 6642 yards with a slope of 127. As one of the oldest courses in Wisconsin, Delbrook’s prestige as a remarkable golfing destination remains untarnished.
Address: 700 S 2nd St, Delavan, WI 53115, United States
Goldeneye Club
Goldeneye is a distinguished, private golf club that spans over 120 acres of scenic beauty, nestled between Geneva Lake and Twin Lakes near the Bloomfield Wildlife area. The 18-hole, par 71 expertly-maintained course features three sets of tees, a large lake, smaller ponds, and a plethora of bunkers and features making the play both pleasant and enjoyable.
Founded in 2000, the private invitation-only club is a parkland-style course that covers a length of 6380 yards, ensuring that a round of golf here is not only enjoyable but also challenging. The intimate nature of this special club allows for unscheduled tee-times, impromptu play, and an overall cheerful and relaxing experience for the club’s fortunate members and guests.
Address: W1777 N Bloomfield Rd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States
Conclusion
The Lake Geneva area is a golfer’s paradise, with some of the best courses in the Midwest. Whether you are looking for championship-level play or just want to spend some time on the course with friends, this region has something for everyone. From historic courses like Delbrook Golf Course and Evergreen Golf Club to modern designs like Goldeneye Club, these facilities offer golfers a chance to enjoy the great game of golf in some of the most picturesque settings in Wisconsin. So come and experience all that Lake Geneva has to offer, and tee up for an unforgettable round at one of these incredible courses!
