The Estancia Club

There are some truly amazing golf courses in America. But, the magic happens when the club that envelopes great pieces of property matches it. From the moment you enter the gate, you sense The Estancia Club is a special place.

Well-traveled players who have logged many more rounds than myself proclaim Estancia as firmly in the conversation for best desert golf course in the United States. That is a marvel considering some knock the Faz’s work by lamenting that he is all sizzle and no steak.

The aforementioned architect’s best asset is his ability to make a course visually pop. And does it! The starkness of the lush fairways against the rugged desert is a feast for the senses. The kicker is that Estancia has strategic interest to boot.

Holes on the front nine rim the base of Pinnacle Peak, while the inward nine climbs into the higher ground, which gives way to 30-40-mile panoramic views of the valley laid out below. Surprisingly wide corridors off the tee lead to supremely interesting green complexes, which resemble billiard tables in both smoothness and speed.

The homeward nine shines, thanks in part to the opening two holes: a short par-4 playing increasingly uphill to a tiered green, and the sublime par-3 11th, which sits in a 270-degree amphitheater ringed with giant boulders.

Irrespective of the desert environment that pinches the green surrounds, surgical accuracy goes a long way here. Many pin locations can be tough to access without local knowledge of the feeder slopes and swales. Others are housed within punchbowls that seduce you to eyeball approach shots longer than normal with anticipation as your ball creeps closer and closer to the cup.

Finally, before every putt, always remember to ask yourself: which way is the valley. It matters.

I got the pleasure to play this course, the best views in Arizona overlooking the valley. Course was in great shape, very green, smooth bunkers and quick greens even after it just rained. Hope to get the pleasure to play again!

and still a great vista course with great shot values. greens had been punched recently ( would have given it 5 stars) but they

still rolled nice. lots of memorable holes. terrific practice facilities and very nice clubhouse, which is being renovated with new spaces- sure to take it to the next level. half way huts were mini cottages, stocked with everything you would want - very nice.

Fazio was definately an artist in painting this track in amongst the rolling rocks - superb !

oh ya- the staff - very friendly and professional.

play this course, if given the chance.

One of the most pristine and well maintained golf courses you will ever play. The layout uses the natural topography of the desert and the routing is interesting and unique. Loved the entire experience of this private enclave.