Dahlonega, Georgia, is best known for its rich history, picturesque wineries, and the beautiful landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, golf enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that Dahlonega also boasts some of the best golf courses in North Georgia. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a weekend golfer, Dahlonega’s courses offer a combination of challenging play and stunning views that make every round memorable. In this guide, we’ll explore the top golf courses in and around Dahlonega, with a special focus on the renowned Achasta Golf Club.
1. Achasta Golf Club: A Jack Nicklaus Signature Design
At the top of the list is the Achasta Golf Club, a world-class golf course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. This 18-hole, par-72 course winds along the Chestatee River and offers both beauty and a challenging layout. Achasta is known for its lush fairways, pristine greens, and a layout that complements the natural terrain of Dahlonega’s rolling hills.
Key Features:
- Jack Nicklaus Signature Design: A course designed by one of golf’s greatest legends.
- Riverfront Holes: Several holes run along the Chestatee River, creating a serene and scenic golfing experience.
- Golf Community: Achasta is more than just a golf course; it’s part of a luxury residential community, offering residents exclusive access to the course and clubhouse.
Achasta is a must-play for any golfer visiting Dahlonega and is open to both residents and the public. Whether you’re looking to challenge your skills or simply enjoy a peaceful day on the greens, Achasta delivers an unforgettable golfing experience.
How to Book Tee Times at Achasta Golf Club
Booking tee times at Achasta is easy. Simply visit the Achasta Golf Course website or call the Pro Shop to reserve your spot.
2. Chestatee Golf Club
Just a short drive from Dahlonega, the Chestatee Golf Club in Dawsonville offers another exceptional golf experience. This semi-private course features an 18-hole, par-71 layout with a mix of challenging fairways, water hazards, and well-placed bunkers. The course meanders through rolling hills and offers views of nearby Lake Lanier.
Course Highlights:
- Designed by Denis Griffiths, Chestatee features a thoughtful layout that tests your accuracy and strategy.
- The course is well-maintained year-round, ensuring excellent playing conditions.
- After your round, relax at the Chestatee Clubhouse, where you can enjoy dining and drinks with stunning views of the course.
Chestatee Golf Club is a favorite among both locals and visitors, providing an excellent alternative for golfers seeking a challenge just outside of Dahlonega.
3. Innsbruck Golf Club (Helen, GA)
Located about 30 minutes from Dahlonega in the charming town of Helen, Innsbruck Golf Club is another North Georgia favorite. This 18-hole, par-72 course is set against the backdrop of the Chattahoochee National Forest, providing golfers with breathtaking mountain views at every turn. Innsbruck offers a more rugged and natural setting than some of the other courses in the area, making it a unique experience for golfers who love a challenge.
Why Play Innsbruck:
- The course offers a blend of mountain and valley holes, creating a variety of elevation changes and shot types.
- The scenery is unparalleled, with forest-lined fairways and panoramic views of the North Georgia mountains.
- The town of Helen is a destination in itself, offering visitors the chance to explore Alpine-inspired architecture and local attractions.
Innsbruck Golf Club is a great option for golfers looking to explore a new course while visiting Dahlonega and the surrounding areas.
4. Old Union Golf Course (Blairsville, GA)
For those willing to venture a bit further from Dahlonega, Old Union Golf Course in Blairsville is a hidden gem in North Georgia. Designed by Denis Griffiths, this 18-hole course offers wide fairways, strategic bunkers, and challenging greens. The layout is both forgiving for beginners and challenging for more experienced golfers.
What Sets Old Union Apart:
- Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Old Union is perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
- The course offers a peaceful setting with few distractions, making it an excellent place to focus on your game.
- Old Union’s practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, are top-notch and ideal for warming up before a round.
Old Union is a great addition to your golf itinerary, offering a relaxed and enjoyable experience just an hour from Dahlonega.
5. The Golf Club at Lanier Islands (Buford, GA)
About an hour south of Dahlonega, The Golf Club at Lanier Islands is a resort-style course located on the shores of Lake Lanier. This 18-hole course is known for its scenic lake views and challenging water hazards. The course offers a mix of tree-lined fairways and open holes, providing golfers with a diverse and exciting round.
Course Highlights:
- Several holes are located directly on the lake, providing stunning water views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- The course is part of the Lanier Islands Resort, offering golfers the option to enjoy resort amenities such as dining, boating, and accommodations.
- The Legacy on Lanier Golf Club, the course’s official name, hosts several tournaments and events throughout the year, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Lanier Islands is an excellent option for golfers looking for a lakeside golfing experience near Dahlonega.
Why Dahlonega is a Top Golfing Destination in North Georgia
Dahlonega is more than just a historic town; it’s also becoming a favorite destination for golfers across the region. With Achasta Golf Club leading the way, the area offers a diverse range of courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful round of golf along a river, a mountain course with stunning views, or a lakeside challenge, Dahlonega has it all.
Why Golfers Love Dahlonega:
- Proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Lanier, offering unbeatable scenery.
- A variety of courses that provide unique experiences, from championship designs to more laid-back, family-friendly layouts.
- Mild weather year-round, allowing for play in every season.
- Dahlonega’s proximity to Atlanta makes it an easy day trip for city dwellers looking to escape to the mountains.
Ready to experience some of the best golf in North Georgia? Plan your next golf trip to Dahlonega and discover why this area is becoming a go-to destination for golfers. Be sure to book your tee time at Achasta Golf Club and explore the other top courses in the region. For more information on real estate in the Achasta Golf Community or to learn about living in Dahlonega, contact Gold Peach Realty today!
1. What is the best golf course in Dahlonega, GA?
The best golf course in Dahlonega is Achasta Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course known for its scenic views and challenging play.
2. Can I book a tee time at Achasta Golf Club if I’m not a resident?
Yes, Achasta Golf Club is open to the public, and tee times can be booked online or by calling the Pro Shop.
3. What other golf courses are near Dahlonega?
Other notable golf courses near Dahlonega include Chestatee Golf Club, Innsbruck Golf Club in Helen, and Old Union Golf Course in Blairsville.
4. How far is Achasta Golf Club from Atlanta?
Achasta Golf Club is about an hour’s drive from Atlanta, making it a convenient golf getaway for city residents.
5. Are there any golf resorts near Dahlonega?
Yes, The Golf Club at Lanier Islands is a resort-style course located about an hour south of Dahlonega, offering lakeside views and resort amenities.
6. Can I join a golf club in Dahlonega?
Yes, you can become a member of Achasta Golf Club, which offers exclusive access to events, tee times, and amenities.
7. Is there a golf community in Dahlonega?
Yes, the Achasta Golf Community offers luxury homes with access to the golf course and other amenities, making it a premier place to live for golf enthusiasts.
8. Are there beginner-friendly golf courses near Dahlonega?
Yes, courses like Old Union offer forgiving fairways and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners, while still providing challenges for experienced players.
9. Can I play golf in Dahlonega year-round?
Yes, Dahlonega’s mild weather makes it possible to golf throughout the year, with peak seasons in spring and fall.
10. What is the most scenic golf course near Dahlonega?
Achasta Golf Club offers stunning views of the Chestatee River and the surrounding North Georgia mountains, making it one
