The Homestead – Old Course & The Cascades
Our visit in Sept 2023 to the two courses at The Omni Homestead Resort – The Old Course and The Cascades Course was spectacular. Though they are pricy, these are two nationally ranked courses that should be on your bucket list. The Omni is investing millions in renovations and upgrades at The Homestead to make an even better experience. The Old Course: Built in 1892, with six holes, the first tee remains as the oldest first tee in continuous use in America. It’s unique design of 6 par 3s, 6 par 4s and 6 par 5s is unusual, but presents a great experience. From the tips it only plays 6,099 yards – not easy – but it’s walkable. The iconic hotel structure is visible from several tee boxes on this course, especially on Hole 14 tee. Favorite Holes: Par 4 8, Par 3 9, Par 5 13 and Par 4 17.
The Cascades Course: Built in 1923, this is undoubtedly one of the finest mountain courses in the country. It’s national treasure. Sam Snead was once the head pro at The Cascades. From the tips the course is 6,909 yards, And, plays longer, but it’s also walkable, even more than The Old Course. Challenging holes: Par 4, No 2 – side hill; Par 5, No 5 – a winding uphill, downhill fairway; Par 4, No 7 – elevated tee and elevated green with a big valley between; finishing holes: 16-18; two par 5s and a par 3 to finish the round. All for an excellent experience. Make sure you learn to know the starter, Lee Perry, he’s got a lot of great stories.
