for a relaxed round followed by a drink on Iron & Vine’ s outdoor patio.
NAPA VALLEY
Chardonnay Golf Club This 150-acre semi-private layout in Napa Valley is known for its unique configuration of six par-5s, six par-4s and six par-3s, spread across a beautifully maintained par-72 course. Designed by Algie Pulley and playing just under 7,000 yards from the tips, Chardonnay winds through working vineyards, protected wetlands and sparkling water features. Players praise the quick, true-rolling greens and the quiet serenity of the setting— perfect for a mid-morning tee time followed by a leisurely lunch.
Silverado Resort BELOW: Eagle Vines Golf Club
Eagle Vines Golf Club Just a short drive from Chardonnay, Eagle Vines offers a longer and slightly more challenging experience, with a 7,297-yard layout co-designed by Johnny Miller. The course meanders through vineyards, mature oak trees and olive groves, delivering wide-angle views of nearby mountains and the kind of elevation changes that make club selection interesting. The par-3 14th hole— a water carry to an island green— is the course’ s signature moment, and just one example of how Eagle Vines blends natural beauty with thoughtful design.
Silverado Resort Set on a 1,200-acre estate just outside downtown Napa, Silverado Resort & Spa offers two distinct parkland courses nestled among mature oaks, rolling hills and tucked-away vineyard views. The North Course— originally designed by Ben Harmon and later refined by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Johnny Miller— has hosted multiple PGA TOUR and Champions Tour events. With narrow fairways, elevated greens and tournament-level conditioning, it’ s best suited for experienced players looking for a test. The South Course, meanwhile, offers a more relaxed, scenic round that pairs well with a post-round tasting at the clubhouse or one of Napa’ s nearby wineries.
SONOMA VALLEY
Bennett Valley Golf Course Located in Santa Rosa, Bennet Valley is a public, 6,500-yard, par-72 course set at the base of Bennett Peak. Designed by Ben Harmon, it winds alongside Matanzas Creek through mature oaks, redwoods and pine trees across 175 acres. Known for its approachable yet challenging parkland layout and top-tier conditioning, Bennett Valley offers sweeping vistas and a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere— perfect
The Links at Bodega Harbor This public Scottish-style, par-70 course sits perched above the Sonoma Coast in Bodega Bay, stretching just over 6,200 yards. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course features ocean views on every hole, dramatic elevation changes, pot bunkers and undulating bentgrass greens. Its signature 14th hole requires a precise shot to an island green over water. Following a 2008 renovation that added more than 90 bunkers and rebuilt the greens, the Links at Bodega Harbour consistently ranks among Northern California’ s top coastal layouts.
Sonoma Golf Club Open to guests of the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma Golf club boasts a classic Sam Whiting design from the 1920s. Set on 177 rolling acres framed by oaks, lakes and vineyards, this par-72, roughly 7,100- yard parkland layout offers eight teeing options and stunning views of the Mayacamas. The course balances strategy and tradition, making it a favorite for visitors seeking a historic, serene round in wine country.
SURROUNDING AREA
Blue Rock Springs Situated in Vallejo, Blue Rock Springs boasts two championship 18-hole courses. The par-70 East Course stretches 6,162 yards, featuring four tee options and sweeping views of the North Bay and Mt. Tamalpais. The par-71 West Course plays 6,014 yards through tree-lined fairways suited for golfers of all skill levels, also with four teeing options.
Hiddenbrooke Golf Club Designed by Arnold Palmer, Hiddenbrooke is a par-72 Troon-managed course in Vallejo renowned for its pristine conditions and scenic elevation changes. At 6,619 yards, it offers five tee-box options to accommodate various skill levels. Golf Digest awarded Hiddenbrooke a 4.5‐star rating, making it one of the top public courses in the region.
Paradise Valley Golf Course Also in Fairfield, Paradise Valley offers a walkable, par-72 layout designed by Robert Muir Graves in 1993. The course meanders alongside creeks and water features on five holes, providing both natural beauty and strategic challenges. It has earned the distinction of Best Golf Course in Solano
32 V IRGINIA G OLFER | S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2025 vsga. org