One of North Carolina’s Most Exclusive Golf Experiences: Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Tucked beneath the towering Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina, Grandfather Golf & Country Club offers one of the most exclusive and awe-inspiring rounds in the Southeast. Private, refined, and perched nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, this is mountain golf at its finest.
A Private Gem in the High Country
Founded in 1968 and designed by Ellis Maples, a Donald Ross disciple, Grandfather combines classic shot-making architecture with jaw-dropping scenery. It’s not just a golf course—it’s an alpine sanctuary reserved for members and guests.
Highlights from My Round
I played the course yesterday, and a few holes deserve special mention:
Hole 6 – Mile High Bridge Views (Par 4)
From the elevated tee box, you're treated to a clear view of the Mile High Swinging Bridge, suspended high above Grandfather Mountain. The hole itself is a left-turning par 4 lined with dense forest, requiring accuracy and restraint off the tee. But it’s hard to focus when you’re staring at one of North Carolina’s most iconic landmarks.
Hole 4 – Creekside Calm (Par 3)
A short downhill one-shotter that plays over a pristine creek. It’s a quiet, almost meditative hole—until the wind shifts and you’re second-guessing your club.
Hole 18 – The Grand Finale (Par 5)
This finishing hole delivers on every level: drama, strategy, and postcard-worthy views. The fairway bends around a sparkling lake peppered with stone-lined islands, adding both beauty and risk. Go for the green in two, and you’ll need to clear the water and land softly on the elevated green. The closing shot, with the mountains reflected in the lake, is unforgettable.
Why Grandfather Stands Out
Private Access Only – No tee times for the public. Membership is only with real estate within the property, 450 maximum members.
Mountain Setting – Cool air, fast greens, and long views.
Impeccable Conditions – From tee boxes to green complexes, it’s championship quality. Not a blemish.
Iconic Views – Including that surreal sightline to the Mile High Bridge.
