Links Magazine | The Best Of Golf | Desert Willow Golf Resort

Two of the best premium courses you can play out West without a membership can be found at Desert Willow Golf Resort.

Surrounded by the Santa Rosa Mountains, the setting here is spectacular. And the courses, designed by Michael Hardpan and Dana Fry, are up to the challenge of matching the natural beauty. Of the two, the Firecliff Course at 7,056 yards is the truer representation of pure desert golf. With over 100 bunkers, plenty of water and extensive natural areas, it will give your shot-making skills a test. You’ll find the 6,913-yard Mountain View Course a bit more forgiving but no less satisfying. If you play both courses, take advantage of their “Double Eagle” program to save money.

What will surprise you most about this golf resort is that it is public. The staff takes pride in making all guests feel like they are members of a private club. The resort is known throughout the Palm Springs area for having some of the best course conditions in the valley year round.

If you are visiting from out of town, Desert Willow has partnered with high-end hotels, all within a 10-minute drive, for attractive stay-and-play packages. In Palm Desert for the season? Look into a Platinum Membership that offers reduced rates, lets you book advance tee times, and extends your rate to your foursome.

If you are planning to stay a few days, check out the Palm Desert Golf Academy. They offer both full-swing and short-game clinics. If you are a beginner, they also offer a Learn to Golf program for adults.

Summer Travel Specials:
Beat the Heat
Unlimited play for the day, $99 per person
• Souvenir hat, clip and ball marker set
• $10 gift card
Valid June 15 – August 30, 2009

Double Eagle
2 rounds of golf within 7 day period, $115 per person
• Includes $10 Gift Card
Valid June 15 – August 30, 2009

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Desert Willow Golf Resort

Palm Desert, California