If NorthBay biz instituted a Hall of Fame for its Best Of awards, Fountaingrove would be a deserving first-round inductee.
“It’s no secret why we’ve won this award eight times,” says Director of Membership Denise Ballaire, who continues matter-of-factly: “It’s because we really do have the best course. It’s scenic, challenging and beautifully maintained. Avid golfers just love it; they say the course always plays differently—and they can play year-round.
“Credit for that has to go to our golf course superintendent Andy Trinkinoand his team, who maintain the course and surrounding grounds. He keeps things absolutely immaculate, which is another reason we’re so popular.”
“It’s a Ted Robinson-designed course, and Ted’s one of the best known course designers on the West Coast,” adds GM Greg Hoover. “It has a fun, interesting design that changes depending on the wind, weather conditions, time of day and season. It’s challenging every time. You never get bored playing this course.”
Dru Argue, senior vice president at Smith Barney in Santa Rosa, has been a Fountaingrove member since 2001. He thinks there’s a much simpler reason for all the wins: “We all send in our ballots!” he laughs. “Seriously, though, the course is so unique. The views and vistas are beautiful, and it’s much more challenging than courses where the fairways are side-by-side; you can’t be as errant with your shots. Plus, they keep it in such good shape.”
If this all sounds like a golfer’s dream, better move fast; fewer than 15 memberships remain available (the club caps out at 368). Initiation is $30,000, with monthly fees of $575 and a quarterly food and beverage minimum of $225. The course is also open to outside tournaments a few times a year.
Beyond the golf course, Fountaingrove amenities include an athletic center offering yoga, Pilates and cycling; tennis courts (with pros on staff); a swimming pool; and both fine and casual dining facilities, including banquet rooms. A scenic ceremony site is popular for weddings and outside events.
“It’s a complete package,” Argue continues. “Beyond the golf course, my wife and I use the athletic club about three times a week, and our children love the swimming. The food services are terrific, and the staff is excellent—they’re helpful, courteous and know us all by name.
“It’s one thing to have a great round of golf, but if you come in off the course and have rude or otherwise bad service, it can put a damper on your whole experience. That’s not likely to happen at Fountaingrove.”
