My vote for best course in central VA

[Brandonink2001]

Poplar Grove in Amherst, VA. Every hole presented a different challenge. Conditioning was so superior to everything else in this area right now, it was almost like I had left the state and arrived at a resort course somewhere down south. Keswick in C'ville might be the only fair comparison from what I have heard, but as a disclaimer, I admit I have never played there.

Split fairways on two holes, amazing greens that were lightning fast despite being watered, lots of elevation changes, GPS on the cart and no two holes replicated. This is one tough challenge, but it was SO fun I didn't even get mad as my score just blew through the roof. There's more water than I expected, but it works wonderfully.

Downsides: extensive work on the 18th hole rendered it unplayable in my opinion, but the club says its playable. They let us replay the first and second holes in exchange, so great service attitude made up for construction; no hospitality cart at all the Friday we played; right now there are not many homes on the course, but with the views and caliber of this course, plus aggressive marketing of the homesites and community, that will change within a few years. Play this one before it gets overdeveloped. The clubhouse is also quite small and under-stocked in my opinion. Do any of the downsides matter in the balance of the equation: NO! I would bring my own snacks, forego fancy merchandise and posh club features for the golf.

Its the GOLF, ladies and gentlemen, and on that count, this place rocks.

Bring a couple extra balls, a snack, your patience, and bring your camera. And for $55 you can't beat that with a stick.

If you live in, or are passing through the Charlottesville-Lynchburg, or even Richmond area, make time to play this course if you can. I know I can't wait to get back, and luckily its in my back yard.

[doublesuited77]

definitely like the course. My parents live at Glenmore is Keswick so I have played most of the courses around there. I do think Keswick Club is a step above, just due to conditioning.

I think there are lots of designed holes at Poplar and forces you to make some tough decision. My only complaint when I played (about a year ago) was that I areas around the tees and greens were a bit rough around the edges. Also, while I liked some of the hole designed (especially the short dogleg), I didn't really feel like all of the holes belonged on the same golf course.

[useless149149]

Another great course in that area is Kinderton Country Club. Not in great condition, but for a Donald Ross course it is a great value and it is very well laid out.