Since 1983, Golf Digest has been at the forefront of new course ratings. Full Cry joins several classic Dye designs making the coveted list including major championship venues Blackwolf Run G.C. (Kohler, Wis.) and The Ocean Course (Kiawah Island, S.C.) as well as acclaimed PGA West G.C. (La Quinta, Calif.).
“There is no question the Hunt Country of Virginia is the perfect terrain for an exceptional golf course and that’s exactly what we have with Full Cry,” says Dye. “The layout is as good as any I’ve ever done.”
Full Cry – a hunting term describing the call of hounds that have found the scent and are in hot pursuit of their mark – is the signature amenity to Keswick Hall’s 48-room mansion inn and club. Resting at the foot of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the superb 18 negotiates the rolling terrain below the inn’s perch on the property’s high ground.
When stepping on the first tee, the layout’s beauty and clarity of the challenge waiting are displayed magnificently. Dye has done a masterful job of using “old world” architectural traits found at the classic courses of Scotland and Ireland. With the exception of one hole, the greens have open fronts and are approachable by low “links-style” run-up shots or through the air allowing for multiple shot maker options.
The last three holes on the back nine may be the finest finish to any course in Virginia. The Redan-style par-3 No. 16 is modeled after the famous 15th at Scotland’s North Berwick. With train tracks running parallel the entire length of the right side, the superlative par-5 17th is called the “Railroad Hole.” The tee-box of the demanding par-4 No. 18 provides the crescendo of the layout with a panoramic view of the beautiful Hunt Country, serene mountains off on the horizon and majestic inn above.
“Having just opened in September, we’re honored that Full Cry has been awarded this prominent course acclaim from Golf Digest so quickly,” says Greg Sligh, President and Managing Director of Keswick Hall. “Our goal was to create an ‘instant classic’ layout for our members and guests and Pete Dye’s genius has provided exactly what we wanted.”
Keswick Hall offers two stay-and-play packages. The Full Cry starts at $299 (single occupancy) and includes one round of golf with cart and a night’s stay in a superior room. A guest may be added for $80. The Hunt begins at $409 (single occupancy). It features 18 holes upon arrival, one-night of lodging (superior room), and breakfast and an additional round on Full Cry the next morning. Add a guest for $130.
The region is home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the University of Virginia and numerous outdoor pursuits, drawing history buffs, wine lovers, sports enthusiasts and nature seekers year-round. Keswick Hall features newly refreshed upscale accommodations, spa services, fine dining at Fossett’s, and myriad amenities. Highly decorated, it has attained Condé Nast Traveler “gold” status, and is one of Travel + Leisure’s 500 “World’s Best Hotels.”
For more information on Keswick Hall visit www.keswick.com or call 434.979.344.
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