8.28

The Virginian Golf Club

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
1993
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Bristol

Score

8.28
Design
40%
8.3
Conditions
25%
8.8
Desirability
15%
7.9
Scenery
10%
8.3
Fun
5%
8.0
Uniqueness
5%
7.1

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 137

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The Virginian Golf Club was one of Tom Fazio's acclaimed early projects in the Mid-Atlantic and is considered a key example of his ability to integrate dramatic natural scenery into his course designs.

About

The Virginian Golf Club is a Tom Fazio-designed private course set in the scenic highlands of southwest Virginia. Opened in 1993, the course features Zoysia fairways and Pennlinks Bentgrass greens, with a challenging and strategic layout highlighted by dramatic elevation changes and spectacular mountain vistas. It serves as the focal point for a sophisticated golf and lifestyle community.

Caddie Tip

Approach shots often play longer or shorter than expected due to elevation changes, and the greens tend to be fast with subtle breaks. Play for the center of the greens, especially on approach shots, and take note of wind direction—mountain breezes can be deceptive across the open valleys.

The Main Challenge

The main challenge at The Virginian comes from the thoughtful use of elevation changes, narrow landing areas off the tee, and fast, sloping greens. The strategic layout rewards precision and good decision-making, especially on approach shots to protected greens framed by bunkers and natural hazards.

The Good

Golfers rave about the immaculate course conditions—Zoysia fairways and slick Bentgrass greens—combined with the mountain scenery, offering a secluded, peaceful round. The Tom Fazio design brings constant variety and visual appeal, creating a memorable golf experience both for its playability and dramatic vistas.

The Not So Good

Some members and guests note that the mountain terrain results in significant elevation changes, which can be challenging to walk and result in uneven lies. Others wish for enhanced practice areas or expanded tee options for shorter hitters.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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The 18th hole at The Virginian Golf Club is a par 4 playing toward the stately clubhouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ridges and mountains. This finishing hole features a dramatic approach over hazards and strategic bunkering, testing both precision and nerve as golfers close out their round on one of the club’s most picturesque settings.

Clubhouse

The clubhouse features classic architecture with dining facilities, locker rooms, and event spaces. Members can access a fitness center, tennis courts, swimming pool, and enjoy several dining options—including fine and casual fare—making it a hub for both golf and social events.

Practice Facilities

The Virginian offers a full-service practice range with multiple bunkers and short game areas. Golfers can practice chipping, putting, and approach shots, and instructional programs are available for members. Facilities are maintained to complement the course’s conditioning.

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.

Virginia
U.S.A.