Door County's Horseshoe Bay an Instant Classic - Wisconsin Classic

The northeastern tip that gives Wisconsin its character is aptly named Door County. The 45 mile long thin peninsula is an open door to excitement and relaxation. No property better exemplifies the tranquility of Door County than Horseshoe Bay in Egg Harbor. The 200 acre wooded wonder has been a private club since 2004, but the public has an incredible opportunity to take full advantage of all membership amenities by renting one their seven townhouses just off the 10th hole. "As a private club we are unique in that we also have a small 'resort' side to our business. We manage eight condominium units known as The Club Cottages at Horseshoe Bay," stated Ken McIntyre, Horseshoe Bay's General Manager since 2004. "Staying in the cottages grants you access to all of our facilities including golf and we encourage our guests to use the club as if they were a member. In fact, our aim is to treat you like a 'Member for a Day'. This is an ideal embraced by all Troon Golf facilities." [Horseshoe Bay is managed by Troon Golf.]

If you are as impressed as I was during my stay you'll always want to inquire about Horseshoe Bay's membership opportunities. Ken McIntyre explains the bevy of options for this Door County Dreamland. "Horseshoe Bay Golf Club offers three levels of membership that will suit anyone's needs. Our 'Gold' membership is a traditional membership designed for those who are in Door County full time or those who just want to have a traditional golf membership. The 'Silver' membership is designed for those who are not full time residents of the county or who may not play frequently," explained McIntyre. "We also offer a Social membership for those who may just want access to our facilities and excellent dining options. We estimate an 'effective' membership at any given time in Door County of around 200. This greatly reduces the pressure for tee times and dining reservations plus allows for a more relaxed atmosphere at the club."

The surreal setting that is Horseshoe Bay can be attributed to their Tour caliber conditioning and commitment to first class service. Brian Baus, who has been their Head Pro since 2005, offers these thoughts. "Horseshoe Bay represents one of the most challenging and yet entertaining golf courses I have ever had the privilege to experience. Every hole presents a challenge as soon as you step on the tee but provides opportunities to score and make low numbers for golfers of any level. Every time you tee it up, you know you will be getting the best possible roll on the ball on the greens and a good lie in the fairway. Just make sure you keep it there as the fescue grass and environmentally sensitive areas will add strokes to your score quickly," said Brian Baus.

If you only had 20 minutes at Horseshoe Bay yet wanted to understand its power, I would send you to the 18th tee box. Brian Baus strongly agrees. "This hole epitomizes what Horseshoe Bay is all about. A 601 yard par-5 from the black tees, it requires three good shots to get on the green, but also gives players at all levels the opportunity to finish their round on a good note, as birdies can be prevalent. Combine this with the stunning view of Green Bay as you come down the hill, there is no question as to why this is our signature hole," stated Brian Baus.

Brian is right on with his assessment. The 18th hole is one of the finest finishing holes in the Midwest, let alone anywhere. An incomparable collection of birch trees frame the putting surface that leads to an epic view of Green Bay below. It's extremely rare that a perfect parcel of land meets a scenic drop off to form a place you'll never want to leave. When the 18th is combined with three other amazing par-5's at Horseshoe Bay you'll truly appreciate the design acumen of Rick Robbins. While playing The Bay, make sure you pay attention to the exquisite double fairway found at both the par-5 8th and the par-5 13th. It is subtle design features such as these that build the foundation by which Horseshoe Bay stands alone.

Another reason for Horseshoe Bay's high standing is their world-class amenities. "Since its inception Horseshoe Bay has been best known for its great golf course and outstanding service. That still holds true, but we also offer world class dining, massage services, a pool and surrounding space for the family to have fun as well as a gym with access to tennis and basketball," stated Ken McIntyre. "The non-golf portion of our business is very important to us as we recognize the changing dynamic of family time and the need to offer other activities that can bring in non-golfers. This summer we started a daily fitness class that is going very strong and has us believing we can expand the number of classes in 2009. We are constantly looking for new ideas and continue to work to provide entertainment for everyone in a family."

What Ken didn't mention is always my second-most important amenity next to free tees -- the quality of the food. Lead by Head Chef Dave Patton, a trip to HSBF is not complete unless you try their succulent cuisine. I was fortunate enough to have a superlative sampling of black bean soup, crab cakes, and one of the finest bacon cheeseburgers I've ever had. And if outdoor dining trips your trigger, wait until you see their patio that overlooks the aforementioned Green Bay.

Once you play and experience Horseshoe Bay for a long weekend, you may not want to be a member for only a day, but for the rest of your life. To that end, HSBF offers numerous real estates options. "With the golf course as the centerpiece to this great community, there are pricing options from the mid 300's to well over a million dollars. Not only are there homes ready for occupancy, there are still some vacant lots for those looking to build their dream Door County getaway," said Ken McIntyre. For more information on home site opportunities, log on to www.horseshoebaygolfclub.com/realestate.

If you're looking for even more confirmation and why Horseshoe Bay is the definition of a distinctive destination, check out www.horseshoebayfarms.net and click on their home page on the tab labeled "Top 10 Reasons to Join Horseshoe Bay." I've got a good feeling you won't make it to the bottom of the page before you get excited about being part of Horseshoe Bay's future.