Championship Golf
A mountain round is a different kind of reset. With championship golf nearby and Purple Top Retreat waiting at the end of the day, your stay has room for both a great score and a slower pace.
Golf in the Mountains
Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf getaway or simply want to squeeze in a memorable round during your mountain vacation, Purple Top Retreat is perfectly positioned for golfers. Enjoy exclusive access to Bear Lake Reserve’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, along with several outstanding public courses just a short drive away.
Featured Course
Bear Lake Reserve Golf Club
Jack Nicklaus Signature Course
Location: Inside Bear Lake Reserve • Access: Guests staying at Purple Top Retreat • Drive: Golf cart or approximately 2 minutes
Course Type: Private • Designer: Jack Nicklaus • Layout: 9-hole championship course • Difficulty: Moderate
Why Play Here
Dramatic elevation changes, pristine course conditions, and spectacular mountain views make every round unforgettable. Designed to blend naturally into the surrounding landscape, the course rewards thoughtful shot-making while remaining fun and approachable for golfers of every ability. Start with nine holes before the lake or plan a dedicated golf-focused getaway.
Perfect For
Morning Rounds • Couples • Golf Getaways • Mountain Views • All Skill Levels
Learn More About Bear Lake Golf
Nearby Public Courses
Sequoyah National Golf Club
Drive: Approximately 55 minutes
Designer: Robert Trent Jones II • Course Type: Public
Why Play Here
One of the finest public mountain golf courses in North Carolina, with championship conditions, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic views. Our top recommendation for another exceptional round.
Perfect For
Championship Golf • Scenic Views • Experienced Golfers • Golf Trips
Get Directions
Sapphire National Golf Club
Drive: Approximately 40 minutes
Course Type: Public
Why Play Here
A welcoming mountain course with rolling fairways, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a casual vacation round.
Perfect For
Couples • Vacation Golf • Casual Rounds • Scenic Views
Get Directions
Sky Valley Country Club
Drive: Approximately 60 minutes
Course Type: Public (limited tee times available)
Why Play Here
Georgia’s highest incorporated city offers cool summer temperatures, dramatic elevation changes, and sweeping mountain vistas. Call ahead for tee time availability.
Perfect For
Summer Golf • Mountain Scenery • Experienced Golfers
Get Directions
Smoky Mountain Country Club
Drive: Approximately 60 minutes
Course Type: Public
Why Play Here
Near Bryson City along the Tuckasegee River, this scenic mountain golf experience offers wide fairways and spectacular natural surroundings. An excellent addition to a day exploring Bryson City.
Perfect For
Relaxed Rounds • Couples • Scenic Golf • All Skill Levels
Get Directions
Owner’s Golf Tips
Mountain golf is different than playing at home. Elevation changes can make club selection challenging, and weather often changes throughout the day. Morning tee times usually provide the calmest conditions, cooler temperatures, and some of the best mountain views before afternoon haze develops. If you’re staying several days, play Bear Lake Reserve first, then make time for Sequoyah National if you’re looking for one of the region’s premier public golf experiences. If you have questions about course conditions, tee times, or local golf recommendations, feel free to text me—I’m always happy to help. Oh…and be prepared to lose some golf balls.
Why Purple Top Makes the Perfect Golf Basecamp
Wake up overlooking the mountains, enjoy coffee on the porch, tee it up on a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course just minutes away, then spend the afternoon relaxing at the lake, hiking nearby trails, or exploring one of Western North Carolina’s charming mountain towns. Purple Top Retreat offers a golf getaway unlike anywhere else in the region.