ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The Highland Course is an Audubon-certified sanctuary, reflecting Primland’s commitment to environmental protection and integrating local mountain wildlife habitats throughout the design.
About
The Highland Course at Primland, designed by Donald Steel and opened in 2006, is an acclaimed mountain layout in Virginia with dramatic elevation changes, panoramic Blue Ridge vistas, expansive bentgrass greens, and a strategic, natural routing. It is consistently ranked the top public course in Virginia and offers a luxurious resort experience with world-class amenities.
Caddie Tip
Mountain terrain and subtle elevation changes create unexpected sidehill lies and affect distance judgment. Play for extra break on downhill putts and factor in wind swirling through mountain valleys. The back nine's uphill approach shots often require one more club than you think.
The Main Challenge
Toughest aspects are the frequent elevation changes and forced carries over ravines, which put a premium on thoughtful club selection and accuracy off the tee. Misses can easily roll off fairways into thick native grass or mountain woods, leading to lost balls and tough recoveries.
The Good
Golfers rave about the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain scenery and the sense of seclusion and tranquility. Pristine conditioning, fast true greens, and dramatic elevation changes through a natural mountain landscape make every round memorable, and the integration with the luxury resort adds to the overall experience.
The Not So Good
Some visitors note that the challenging terrain, long cart rides between holes, and a few forced carries can slow down play and make the course difficult for higher-handicap walkers. A handful of golfers also wish for a few more accessible teeing options on certain holes.
Signature Hole:
#
1
The par-5 first hole at The Highland Course plays 536 yards and features a modest tee shot that opens dramatically as the fairway turns downhill between natural rock formations to a striking, lumpy infinity-edge green. Panoramic mountain views and the risk-reward challenge of reaching the green in two set the perfect adventurous tone.
Clubhouse
Primland’s clubhouse offers luxury locker rooms, a well-appointed pro shop, fine dining with panoramic views, casual bar and lounge, plus access to the resort spa, fitness center, and other outdoor activities, from hiking to stargazing at the observatory.
Practice Facilities
The practice area features a full grass driving range, generously sized short game area, practice bunkers, and an expansive putting green. Everything is designed to match the feel and terrain of the main course, with majestic mountain views for warm-up or lessons.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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