For nine years in a row, Fountaingrove Golf and Athletic Club has been voted Best Golf Course by NorthBay biz readers. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County Wine Country, this award-winning, Ted Robinson-designed golf course is also a family-oriented, private club. With more than 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art athletic facilities, a tennis program and dining and social events, Fountaingrove continually works to improve its programs and offerings to keep members satisfied.
Melissa Jones and her teenage son and daughter moved to the Santa Rosa area two years ago from Silicon Valley. An avid golfer, she was first drawn to the club’s destination golf course but has since found the entire club experience to be the perfect place for her entire family. Jones encourages her teens to play sports, not only for the exercise and competition, but also for social aspects. She says her kids are learning more about golf, including the rules and the ethics of sportsmanship.
The family enjoys being together outdoors and also appreciates the great dining at Fountaingrove. Jones is happy to have found a place where her teens are enthusiastic about spending time with her, and trips to Fountaingrove Golf and Athletic Club have become part of the regular family routine. Jones also notes that the golf course is challenging. “Playing on the course will make you a better golfer,” she adds. Being new to the area, becoming golf and athletic club members really helped the family become part of their community. “It’s been a welcoming place to get to know people,” she says.
Denise Ballaire, membership director, says, “It’s not just the course that people love, it’s the whole atmosphere of the club. We’re family-oriented and offer something for everyone.” Bill Carle, himself a Best Of honoree last year and a member since the late 1980s when the club first started, agrees. “The food is as good as I can get at most restaurants in Sonoma County,” says Carle, who often dines at Bogey’s Bar and Grill after playing a round of golf. “You don’t get bored on this course. If you can play this and play it well, you can play anywhere.” One of the things Carle likes about the course are the elevation changes that make for some great blind shots and also offer a sense of privacy you don’t always get on other courses. Each hole is substantially different, he says, adding, “I find the variety challenging and very enjoyable.” Course Superintendent Andrew Trinkino keeps the property in fantastic shape, something members really appreciate.
So whether you’re looking for challenging golf, a great place to get in shape or social activities for adults and families, Fountaingrove Golf and Athletic Club has it all.
www.fountaingrovegolf.com
