Golf Courses and Driving Ranges Throughout the Lakes Region
Province Lake Golf Course
By Mike Moore
With the sunny, warmer days upon us, the lush, green landscape spanning as far as the eye can see is a terrific upside to enduring the gloom and rain of the early spring in the Lakes Region. Golf courses in the area are one of the biggest beneficiaries of this. Whether up visiting for summer vacation and looking to get in a round or two, or seeking out that perfect country club to become a life-long member, golf enthusiasts of any skill level in New Hampshire can expect some of the best weather, scenic views, and a wide variety of highly rated, beautiful courses. From the challenging PGA graded greens and majestic tree-lined fairways, to the breathtaking views of the local lakes and mountains, there is as much fun and enjoyment to be had out of the water during the summers in New Hampshire as there is on the lakes.
While several of the private golf courses throughout the Lakes Region continually receive rave reviews both regionally and nationally, many of the courses open to the public also have stellar reputations in their own right. Kingswood Golf Club, a highly rated course in Wolfeboro, is open to the public and also offers a variety of different membership types, including a college student membership at a discounted rate. The course has a driving range, putting greens, and includes a private practice hole for members only. There is a full-service restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options as well. Kingswood does have a more formal dress code, with collared shirts and non-denim pants or shorts required. Many of the courses in the region adhere to this more old-fashioned golfing guideline out of tradition. Their rates for membership and for single rounds are competitive with courses in neighboring towns, and for those looking to squeeze in 9 holes after work, they offer discounted green fees for start times after 3 pm.
Up in the North Conway area, the Mount Washington Resort and Golf Course in Bretton Woods was recently recognized as the number one public course in New Hampshire for its perfect view of the Presidential Mountain range and tricky course terrain. Additionally, the resort offers a separate 9-hole course called Mount Pleasant, which gives duffers the chance to test their skills with a challenging course layout that requires a creative and strategic approach to master. The course at Bretton Woods isn’t just for the vacationers, though. With a club membership, one can expect priority for tee times, exclusive resort perks, and access to league competitions. Their staff is available for private instruction on the course, on the practice greens, or on the range. Resort guests are given discounted rates, and for those who are just looking to play, the cost for 18 holes is comparable to similar premier courses throughout New England.
Along the north side of the lake in the Center Harbor and Moultonborough area are two great golf options, Waukewan Golf Club and Birch Hill Country Club. Waukewan has been a mainstay in the Center Harbor area for almost a century. The course was built on old farmland and doubles as a wedding and special event venue. Just down the road in Moultonborough, Birch Hill is starting its second season in operation, but the course has been a popular destination under previous ownership as the Ridgewood Country Club for over 20 years. Just east of Lake Winnipesaukee is Indian Mound Golf Course, situated in a dense, woodsy section of nearby Ossipee Lake. Indian Mound welcomes the public to come visit for a round or to join as a member at their stunning 18-hole course, complete with a pro shop, restaurant, and picturesque, tree-lined fairways. Along the Maine border is another great option, Province Lake Golf Course. This resort is located in Parsonsfield, offers dining and lodging in addition to golf, and has become a premier vacation destination due to its reputation as a warm and welcoming community that has entertainment options to keep the whole family happy.
On the southern and western side of the lake, there are a multitude of beautiful courses open to the public throughout the summer. In Gilford, there is Pheasant Ridge Country Club, which is best known for the demanding terrain and fast, tricky greens. Gilford also has a less formal golf course option for the folks who want to swing the sticks without having to keep their shirts tucked. At Bolduc Park, in addition to the par three nine-hole course, there is a separate disc golf course, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. Golfers in Tilton have enjoyed teeing it up at the Lochmere Country Club for over 30 years at the course known for being the “country club for blue-collar people”. Lakeview Golf Club in Belmont is a great option for those folks wanting to get a quick round in at the 9-hole, par 35 course. Another smaller course with the same spectacular views and immaculate course design is the Mystic Meadows in Laconia. This golfing spot has a 9-hole course, as well as dining and shopping options.
With so much to do during the summer in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, residents and visitors might not have the time to dedicate an entire day to the golf course. Fortunately, each of the public courses around the area offers duffers a chance to hit a quick bucket at their driving ranges. Along Route 16 in Ossipee is a great stand-alone driving range at Bucket of Balls and Axe One. In the few years since new ownership took over, this range has been completely remodeled and is quickly becoming an entertainment destination with the addition of their axe-throwing area, their state-of-the-art virtual golfing bay, along with a variety of food and spirit options.
When the rains get in the way of your plans to spend the day at the links, or you’re a year-round resident wanting to keep your swing sharp throughout the colder weather months, there are several virtual golf options throughout the Lakes Region. TK’s Cigar Bar and Golf Sim in Ossipee, Studio 18 Golf in Wolfeboro, White Mountain Indoor Golf up in Intervale, The Tee Box in Belmont, and Ready Golf Teaching in Laconia are some of the indoor golf options available.
Legendary sports writer John Feinstein wrote a golf book called “A Good Walk Spoiled” in reference to the never-to-be-perfected sport. There are few golf courses in the country with more beautiful views or immaculate design to try and keep that good walk unspoiled than here in New England. With a variety of affordable options for all skill levels, golf has been and continues to be one of the more popular entertainment options in the Lakes Region.