When it comes to panoramic vistas on a Central Virginia golf course, all others come in no better than second when compared to the Swannanoa Country Club on Afton Mountain. From several vantage points, a player can scan the horizon and see the Blue Ridge, the Southwest and the Allegheny Mountains – all at the same time.
And right now, the leaves are just beginning to change.
As I have written in the past, Swannanoa is not a great golf course, but it has great scenery and it’s a fun course to play. You don’t have to be a long hitter to enjoy the game and have a good round, and the course plays very quickly. I don’t recall ever having to wait for players ahead to clear the way. Folks play fast at Swannanoa, which adds to the enjoyment of your round.
The course also has a little history to it. Calvin Coolidge played here, and probably lost a ball or two on the second hole where, no matter where you hit it, it goes down the hill to the right.
Swannanoa is inexpensive, just $35 on a Saturday morning with a cart. But bring a check or some cash, they don’t accept credit cards.
Tee times are never required here, just show up, tee off, and pause from time to time to admire God’s handiwork.