We know you’ve seen it. The fall leaf report is out and it looks like peak color in our area is mid October. So if you haven’t yet, it’s time to start booking your dates to Western North Carolina. Of course, it’s also a great excuse to get out and explore Lake Lure and the surrounding areas.

Shane Sharp, an award-winning golf writer, gives us a quick run down on Lake Lure’s Rumbling Bald Resort and its two golf courses.

By Shane Sharp

Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful regions on earth. The Piedmont converges with the Blue Ridge Mountains to create a tapestry of purple mountains, deep forests, crystal clear lakes and (for you golfers) green fairways.

At its eastern edge along the shores of Lake Lure is Rumbling Bald Resort. Just two hours from Charlotte and less than an hour from Asheville, Rumbling Bald is the ideal basecamp for exploring first and second home opportunities in this beguiling swath of the Old North State.

The resort’s Apple Valley and Bald Mountain courses are an appealing one-two punch for golfers who appreciate straight-forward design principles, decidedly different layouts, excellent conditions and overall value.

Apple Valley is truly one of Western North Carolina’s hidden gems. With a 74 rating and 144 slope it plays longer (and harder) than its 6,755 yards lets on. There is ample room for driver off the tee on most par 4s and 5s, yet approach shots require laser-like precision in order to score.

The downhill, par-3 eighth, featuring a carry over a pond and fountain, is one of the most beautiful one-shot holes in the area. The back nine is big, broad and dynamic, including a brute of a closing hole, the par-5, 562-yard 18th.

Bald Mountain is the resort’s original course, designed by W.B. Lewis and opened in 1968. It is uniquely routed with five par 3s and par 5s. Golfers in search of a traditional, North Carolina mountain golf experience will appreciate Bald Mountain. Lewis’ handiwork is highlighted by narrow landing areas, tight driving corridors and small greens, all draped over dramatic elevation changes and staggering views. 

In addition to its “hidden gem” golf resort reputation, Rumbling Bald is also a sprawling, 3,000-acre residential community offering both resale and home lot options. Discovery Packages are available for those who’d like to sample the lifestyle, including lodging and a scenic cruise on Lake Lure.

Shane Sharp is a freelance writer. He lives in Greenville, SC, and has covered golf for such publications as Golf Magazine, AAA Go Magazine, Golf Tips, Club Management, Golf Inc.