One good thing about not being a member of a particular country club or golf course is that you get to play lots of different courses – and we have some really nice venues in Central Virginia. One of the best is just a few miles outside Charlottesville – Lake Monticello. The course is challenging, beautiful, and is kept in top condition. The famous golf architect, Buddy Loving, thoughtfully designed the layout.
Kevin Mann and I teed it up at the Lake last week and had a great round. The course is in excellent condition, even after the onslaught of heavy rains. The tee boxes, greens and fairways were a lush green and should hold up well, even into the dog days of summer.
Tees and fairways, by the way, are predominantly Bermuda grass with bent grass greens. The fairways are generally open, but out-of-bounds markers, woods, sand bunkers and/or water are all abundant.
Lake Monticello’s golf program operates under the care and leadership of PGA Professional, Mark Marshall. Mark has been a Class “A” PGA Professional since 1990 and is one of only a few PGA golf professionals in Virginia and one of about 120 nationwide who have attained the designation of Certified Professional in Instruction, which he earned in April 2006. Mark is thoroughly knowledgeable about all aspects of golf operations and emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining outstanding customer service. Mark believes in the importance of youth and family-oriented golf programs and supports regular opportunities for direct interaction between golfers and the Pro to elevate their skills and enjoyment of the game.
New at Lake Monticello is a clubhouse and beautiful grill with scenic outdoor dining. It is really a first-class facility.
Lake Monticello welcomes public play and they accept VSGA cards under certain conditions. Golf club membership and/or community residency is not required.
Lake Monticello is most convenient, only 25 minutes from Charlottesville. Those who wish to play may access the course through the Main Gate at Ashlawn Boulevard on Rt. 618 or from the Falcon Hills Gate on Turkeysag Trail, just off Rt. 53. For detailed directions or tee times, call the Pro Shop at 434-589-3075. For more information on one of the best values in golf in Central Virginia, go to www.lakemonticellogolf.org.