Tom Fazio’s Vision: A Deep Dive into the Premier Course at Treetops
When golf course architecture and natural beauty collide, magic happens. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Tom Fazio-designed Premier course at Treetops Resort. Let's take a journey through this masterpiece and discover why it's not just a round of golf – it's an experience that will leave you breathless.
The Master's Touch
Tom Fazio, a name that resonates with golf aficionados worldwide, brought his visionary talent to northern Michigan in 1992. The result? A course that doesn't just sit in the landscape – it becomes one with it. The Premier course at Treetops is Fazio's only Michigan design, making it a true gem in the state's golfing crown.
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A Symphony of Golf and Nature
Picture this: You're standing on the first tee, surrounded by the rolling hills and lush forests of Gaylord. The crisp Michigan air fills your lungs as you survey the fairway before you. This isn't just a golf course; it's a 18-hole journey through some of the most stunning terrain the Great Lakes State has to offer.
Fazio's genius lies in his ability to craft holes that seem to have been there forever. Each fairway winds through the natural contours of the land, presenting a unique challenge that feels both formidable and fair. The Premier course doesn't fight nature – it embraces it.
Strategic Mastery
But don't let the beauty fool you. This course is as strategic as it is stunning. Fazio's design philosophy shines through in every hole, demanding thoughtful shot-making and rewarding bold plays.
Take the par-4 8th hole, for instance. A downhill tee shot to a fairway that bends right, followed by an approach to a green guarded by bunkers and a steep fall-off to the left. It's holes like these that separate the good courses from the great ones.
A Test for All
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Premier course is its ability to challenge golfers of all skill levels. From the tips, it stretches to a demanding 6,832 yards, a true test for even the most skilled players. Yet, with multiple tee options, the course remains accessible and enjoyable for those still honing their game.
Fazio's masterful use of elevation changes adds another layer of complexity. Uphill approaches demand extra club, while downhill tee shots tempt you to unleash the driver. It's a course that rewards smart play as much as raw power.
The Signature Hole
While every hole on the Premier is a stunner, the par-3 6th stands out as the signature. Perched atop a hill, this hole offers a panoramic view that'll have you reaching for your camera before your club. The elevated tee shot to a well-protected green is as exhilarating as it is challenging. It's more than just a golf hole – it's a moment you'll remember long after your round is over.
Beyond the Course
The Premier isn't just about the 18 holes. Fazio's design extends to the practice facilities, including a spacious driving range and putting green that allow you to fine-tune your game before taking on the course. And let's not forget the clubhouse – a perfect spot to relax and recount your round, all while soaking in more of those incredible views.
A Lasting Legacy
Since its opening, the Premier course has consistently ranked among Michigan's top public courses. It's a testament to Fazio's vision and the meticulous care taken by the Treetops team to maintain this northern Michigan treasure.
But perhaps the true measure of its success is in the voices of those who play it. Listen closely as groups come off the 18th green, and you'll hear a common refrain: "Wow." It's a simple word that encapsulates the Premier experience – challenging, beautiful, and unforgettable.
The Fazio Effect
Tom Fazio's Premier course didn't just add another great track to Treetops Resort – it elevated Michigan's entire golf scene. It stands as a shining example of how modern course design can work in harmony with natural landscapes to create something truly special.
So, the next time you find yourself in northern Michigan with your clubs in tow, do yourself a favor: Book a round at the Premier. See why Tom Fazio's vision continues to captivate golfers year after year. Trust us, your golf bucket list isn't complete without it.
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