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By Carl Michelson
Michigan’s Magnificent Ten Anchors America’s Summer Golf Capital
The Quarry #3
The first time I traveled to Northern Michigan, I knew I’d be back. Seduced by gorgeous Lake Michigan panoramas along rapturous shorelines, “frozen in a golden era” small towns anywhere, and breathtaking nature, it was wild to process that anywhere this idyllic still exists today. Meticulous conditioning, memorable scenery, shot values and unmatched variety were BOYNE Golf’s selling points and its signature properties really delivered. Laying eyes on the iconic Victorianstyle Inn at Bay Harbor along the beaming shoreline of Lake Michigan and Little Traverse Bay, it was immediately clear why many call this “The Pebble Beach of the Midwest.” The Inn at Bay Harbor features 116 guest rooms and suites and 35 twoand three-bedroom cottages at the Lakeside Cottages and Cottages at Crooked Tree. All provide views of the renowned Million Dollar Sunsets. First on the hit list was the region’s premier golfing experience, Bay Harbor Golf Club and its three nines that are combined into unique 18-hole layouts. The terrain, variety and the views are unmatched. There are moments when 10
you’re playing along the coastline and glance to the water, and you’ll swear you’re on an ocean. The Quarry nine (built on the site of a former working quarry) is an eye-popping thrill ride with each hole daring you to play hero shots. The Preserve is a parkland routing that plays well and compliments the lofty standards of the Links and Quarry. Across the street, scenic 18-hole Crooked Tree Golf Club deliv-
ers stellar panoramic views and an underrated stretch of quality, finelymaintained golf holes.
Boyne Highlands Resort Resembling a Scottish country estate, Boyne Highlands is a cozy escape just 20 minutes north of Bay Harbor. With four different courses, Boyne Highlands makes for an ideal one-stop buddies trip. The timeless, strategic parkland al-
The Monument #18 Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 5
