I've played Linville and Elk River - both incredible tracks. How did those compare to Hounds Ears and Grandfather?
they are all incredible. we played them as part of a ACC media & coaches outing that's been going on for decades. the clubs have been really generous with the association, so i want to be a little careful in how i talk/type about them.
clubhouse wise, I think i was most comfortable at Linville. It was the most laid back & seemed to be the most about the actual golf.
Elk River is just ridiculously luxurious & it looked like they were expanding it further. The facilities were downright incredible. It was very similar (but a bit bigger) to the rooms/design elements @ Hounds Ears. Hounds Ears does just about everything right, in my book. Its very playable & the staff is wildly friendly & accommodating.
Grandfather is just so soaked in tradition, its the most similar atmosphere i've experienced to ANGC. they were tremendous hosts & the dining/reception experience was a highlight. The course kicked my ass.
I shot 84 at Linville, followed by a 106 at Grandfather. I parred 7 straight @ one point, on a longer/faster Linville course, and then parred exactly 0 holes the next day.
I was playing with some intimidating company @ grandfather but won't use that as an excuse. we all struggled.
Linville's greens were rolling slicker than grandfather's, but keep in mind, most courses up there are on their first or second week of the season.
The grass @ Hound's Ears is so lush its unbelievable. It's the first week of May in Boone, NC & their grass is considerably denser/greener than any other course i've been on. Elk River really isn't far behind... & will probably be comparable in the next couple of days as things thicken up.