Tucked along scenic Lake Lure and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald is secluded yet eminently accessible from North Georgia, about a four-hour drive from metro Atlanta. The drive though the surroundings give the visitors a hint about what’s to come.
Rumbling Bald is a 36-hold golf sanctuary on Lake Lure, an hour east of Asheville. There you’ll find two very different layouts – as well as numerous opportunities to unwind during your visit.
Rumbling Bald’s marquee course is Apple Valley. It was designed by hall of famer Dan Maples and stretches to nearly 6,800 yards and features expansive views of Bald Mountain and the surrounding Lake Lure area.
Maples estimated that 75 percent of shots at Apple Valley are either level or downhill, virtually unheard of for a mountain course. Shimmering mountain lakes adorn 12 holes, but water only occasionally comes into play. The front nine is more open and the fairways are tighter on the back.
Appley Valley has hosted many championship events and tournaments. Visitors will find the course to be eminently playable.
Bald Mountain, designed by William Lewis, was the first course built in the area and plays only 6,300 yards from the tips, although the small greens and narrow tree-lined fairways tend to negate any lack of distance. You won’t need to pull driver very often, as the emphasis is on accuracy.
Bald Mountain is renowned for its unique configuration of five par 5s and five par 3s. A protégé of golf course architect George Cobb, Lewis is known for his traditional approach to course design. This philosophy is reflected in Bald Mountain’s playability from tee to green.
Movie buffs appreciate the 16th green, the backdrop of a scene from “Dirty Dancing.” Nobody puts Baby in the corner of the 16th green!
The property’s 115 vacation rental homes, condos and studios are ideal for golf groups of various sizes and feature golf course and mountain views. After the round, golfers can relax at Legends on the Lake, casual dining along the shores of Lake Lure.
Rumbling Bald is rich with amenities and activities, including scenic Lake Lure boat tours, boat rentals, tennis, pickleball, a full-service spa and hiking trails. Families enjoy the Trout Stream Pool and Lazy River, winding its way through the outdoor pool area where guests relax under fan-cooled covered seating. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Winter rates start at $308 per golfer for two nights lodging in a Rumbling Bald vacation rental and two rounds on its Apple Valley and Bald Mountain Golf courses. Three-night, three-round and four-night, four-round options are also available for $452 and $574 per golfer, respectively. Spring rates start at $363 per golfer for two nights and two rounds, $501 for three nights and three rounds and $640 for four nights and four rounds.
Rumbling Bald is again offering its popular weekday specials starting April 1. Rates start at $330 per person for two nights and two rounds, $452 for three nights and three rounds, and $574 four nights and four rounds. Weekday special rates are available for any combination of Sunday through Wednesday nights only. Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (blackout dates apply).
Lodging options geared specifically for golfers include the Apple Valley Studios (across from Apple Valley) and two- and four-bedroom Fairway Villas situated along Bald Mountain just steps from its first tee. Via its wide variety of spacious vacation rentals, Rumbling Bald can accommodate golf groups of all sizes. Luxury vacation homes are also available for extended stays and golf rounds can be added a la carte.
“We can’t wait to welcome golfers to Rumbling Bald in 2023 and showcase all the enhancements we’ve made to the golf courses, practices facilities and amenities,” says Rumbling Bald General Manager Jeff Geisler. “Whether it’s a foursome or large group, we provide a relaxing, fun golf experience that provides an escape from the day-to-day grind.”
Rumbling Bald continues to extend complimentary golf rounds to leaders of groups of 12 or more when booking their first trip to the property. The Large Groups 12+ Comp is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, small tournaments, or large golf buddy trips. The shoulder- and off-seasons are ideal for group play, with ample value and typically a faster pace of play than the peak spring and fall periods.
To learn more about Rumbling Bald’s golf courses and packages, visit www.rumblingbald.com, or email jdoran@rumblingbald.com.
