This article was originally published in The Reunion Resort Villas Journal by lead travel correspondent, Elena Vance.
For the discerning golfer, the quest for the perfect "stay and play" often leads to a compromise between the quality of the greens and the caliber of the accommodations. However, nestled within the rolling foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Village has emerged as a premier destination that refuses to settle. As the largest gated community in North America, it offers a sprawling sanctuary of nine championship courses, but for those on a 72-hour timeline, a curated approach is essential.
The following itinerary explores a refined selection of the best golf courses in Arkansas, offering a seamless transition from scenic vistas to world-class challenges, all while anchored by the upscale comfort of The Reunion Resort Villas.
Day 1: The Visual Masterpiece : Granada Golf Club
Upon arriving in the Village, the journey begins at Granada Golf Club. Consistently ranked by Golf Digest as one of the top ten courses in the state, Granada is frequently cited as the most beautiful course in the region. It serves as the perfect introduction to the architectural philosophy of Hot Springs Village: a harmonious blend of rugged nature and precision engineering.
Designed by Ault, Clark & Associates, Granada is a visual feast defined by its dramatic elevation changes and meticulously carved fairways. The hallmark of the course is undoubtedly the signature waterfall that meanders alongside the fairway of the 18th hole, providing a tranquil yet exhilarating conclusion to the round.
- The Experience: Beyond the aesthetics, Granada demands a strategic approach, featuring a mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s that test both distance and accuracy.
- The Midday Refuel: After completing the back nine, a visit to the Granada Grill is a prerequisite. The casual yet refined atmosphere allows groups to recount the day’s highlights over gourmet burgers and local craft beers.
- The Evening Retreat: After the first 18, guests return to their private villa. Utilizing the high-end amenities, many choose to utilize the full gourmet kitchens for a private dinner or simply unwind in the contemporary-designed living areas that offer sweeping views of the surrounding pine forests.
Day 2: The Premier Challenge : Diamante Country Club
If Day 1 was about beauty, Day 2 is about the ultimate test of skill. Diamante Country Club is the only private membership club in Hot Springs Village, and for most travelers, it remains an elusive peak. However, through exclusive golf stay and play packages in Arkansas provided by The Reunion Resort Villas, guests enjoy premier access to this prestigious course.
Diamante is not merely a golf course; it is a sprawling 7,560-yard gauntlet that has been ranked as the 38th most difficult course in the nation by Golf Digest. Its layout is often described as "six courses in one," owing to its six sets of tees that allow for vastly different playing experiences.
- The Challenge: The course is characterized by its expansive fairways and daunting bunkering. It requires a level of focus and precision that appeals to the most competitive players.
- Exclusive Logistics: While private, The Reunion provides a simplified process for Diamante golf course rentals, ensuring that villa guests experience the "member for a day" treatment without the long-term commitment.
- Upscale Dining: The Diamante Clubhouse offers an elevated dining experience. A post-round meal here provides a sense of exclusivity and refinement, featuring a menu that rivals the best steakhouses in the region.
Day 3: The Graceful Finish : Balboa Golf Course
After the rigorous demands of Diamante, the final day of the 72-hour escape calls for a more relaxed, "walker-friendly" pace. Balboa Golf Course is the ideal choice for a concluding round. While still offering the water hazards and bunkers necessary to keep the game interesting, Balboa is known for its wider fairways and fewer elevation changes compared to its counterparts.
Previously highlighted as a favorite for those who enjoy the "stroll" of the game, Balboa allows golfers to soak in the natural serenity of the Village one last time.
- The Layout: Designed to be accessible yet engaging, Balboa features a comprehensive practice facility, including a driving range and short-game area, perfect for those looking to sharpen their skills before the journey home.
- The Atmosphere: There is a distinct sense of calm at Balboa. It is where the competitive fire of the previous days transitions into a shared appreciation for the landscape and the company of friends.
Beyond the Links: The Reunion Lifestyle
While the golf is the primary draw, the "lifestyle" aspect of a stay at The Reunion Resort Villas is what transforms a simple trip into a meaningful upgrade in vacation standards. One of the most sought-after perks is the inclusion of brand-new electric golf carts with every villa.
In addition to being used on the courses, these carts are the primary mode of transportation for exploring the 26,000-plus acres of the gated community. Guests can seamlessly travel from their villa to the tennis courts, the fitness center, or one of the 11 recreational lakes.
The evenings at The Reunion are defined by tranquility. The private terraces, many featuring stone fireplaces and comfortable lounge seating, provide the perfect setting for "apres-golf" relaxation. It is here, under the canopy of stars and the soft glow of the fire, that the true value of the resort becomes clear: it is a place designed to facilitate connection and rest.
Final Thoughts
A 72-hour escape to Hot Springs Village is more than just a series of tee times; it is a curated journey through some of the most diverse and challenging terrain in the South. By combining the visual splendor of Granada, the elite challenge of Diamante, and the refined ease of Balboa, golfers can experience the full spectrum of what makes this region a "new standard" in luxury travel.
With the added benefit of stay and play packages that include luxury villas and personal golf carts, The Reunion Resort Villas ensures that every moment off the course is just as memorable as the time spent on the greens. Whether you are a group of friends, a couple seeking a quiet retreat, or a corporate group looking to build camaraderie, this three-course itinerary offers a seamless, sophisticated, and utterly unforgettable experience.