Playing golf in the Hill Country is a peaceful diversion from the stresses of modern-day life. Driving the back roads through picturesque small towns and enjoying the scenery while picking which of the local BBQ joints to check out after the round only adds to the enjoyment of teeing it up on these rural waypoints.
One of the best examples of this quintessential Texas experience is Vaaler Creek Golf Club, the centerpiece of the 1,000-acre Rockin’ J Ranch community, located just a few miles south of the historic city of Blanco.
Open to the public, Vaaler Creek was designed by Michael Lowry and was built in two stages. In a bit of a construction twist, the back nine was the first to open in July 2007; the front nine opened for play two years later. Lowry incorporated the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape to create a challenging, yet enjoyable 18-hole course.
“I’m a firm believer that golf is supposed to be fun and relaxing, and that’s what we’re all about,” said Adam Grosch, Vaaler Creek’s Director of Golf. “It shows with the easy-going nature of the staff and even the residents of the Rockin’ J Ranch.”
Good times and great shot values abound at Vaaler Creek. The par-72 layout, which measures about 6,300 yards from the middle tees, features rolling hills, old oak trees, elevation changes, as well as several creeks and lakes throughout to make it a memorable outing for players of all ages and abilities. The course consistently receives high praise for its strategic design and conditioning by such notable publications as The Dallas Morning News, Golf Advisor and Golf Now.
“We are blessed with a great supply of water, so the course is in phenomenal condition year-round, and we are able to fully overseed the tees, fairways and greens each winter,” Grosch said.
In addition to the championship course, Vaaler Creek offers plenty of other first-class amenities, including a well-stocked pro shop, two-acre practice facility with 20 hitting bays and seven target greens, and tasty food and drinks at the Vaaler Creek Grill, which has an expansive outdoor deck perfect for hosting large gatherings and parties. There are also stay-and-play golf packages available at the luxury Tuscany Heights Condominiums, located right next to the 10th tee.
Vaaler Creek will be in the TGA spotlight over the next few months when the club first hosts the Women’s Eclectic from March 14-15, then welcomes the Medalist Hill Country Series from May 7-8. It might not be a totally relaxing getaway for the state’s competitive amateurs – there are bragging rights on the line, after all – but this idyllic destination should provide plenty of smiles, no matter the final score.
For more information about Vaaler Creek Golf Club, click here. For more information about the Women’s Eclectic, click here. For more information about the TGA Medalist Series, click here.