Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village: A 2025 Guide


For those seeking a premier golfing experience, the Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village stands as a testament to classic design and natural beauty, offering a round that is as challenging as it is breathtaking. This isn’t just another course; it’s a journey through the rolling hills and pine-forested shores of western South Carolina. The experience here is defined by its masterful Tom Clark design, which leverages the dramatic landscape to create a true championship layout. Situated along the pristine shores of Lake Thurmond, the course provides a serene escape where every hole presents a unique strategic question, demanding thoughtful shot-making and rewarding precision.

What Are Golfers Saying About Their Experience?

Talk to anyone who has had the pleasure of walking these fairways, and a consistent theme emerges: appreciation for the sheer quality and thoughtful maintenance of the course. Visitors frequently comment on the welcoming atmosphere, which starts the moment you arrive. The staff, from the pro shop to the starters, are often described as friendly and genuinely passionate about golf, creating an environment that feels both exclusive and incredibly inviting. The pace of play is another commonly praised aspect, with well-managed tee times ensuring that a round at Monticello feels like a relaxing escape rather than a rushed affair. Golfers often leave with a lasting impression of the course’s pristine condition, remarking on the true-rolling greens and perfectly manicured fairways that make every shot a pleasure. It’s this combination of a world-class layout and meticulous attention to detail that keeps players coming back time and time again.

Unpacking the Genius of the Tom Clark Design

The Monticello course is a living showcase of Tom Clark’s design philosophy, which emphasizes working with the natural contours of the land rather than against them. Completed in 2000, the course feels mature beyond its years, as if it were carved from the landscape centuries ago. Clark skillfully integrated the dramatic elevation changes, mature forests, and sparkling waters of Lake Thurmond into the fabric of the course. This results in a layout where no two holes are alike, and each one requires a different approach. The routing takes you on a captivating journey, with holes that play downhill towards the water, then climb back up into the dense pines. The bunkering is strategic, not penal, designed to frame the holes and challenge the thinking golfer to choose the right line of attack. It’s a design that rewards creativity and course management over sheer power.

“Tom Clark had a unique gift for letting the land dictate the flow of a course,” says Julian Abernathy, a seasoned golf course architect. “At Monticello, you don’t feel like the course was forced upon the landscape; you feel like it was discovered within it. The routing around the coves of Lake Thurmond is a masterclass in using natural hazards to create strategic challenges.”

Signature Holes That Will Test Your Mettle

While every hole at Monticello has its own character, several stand out and remain etched in a golfer’s memory long after the round is over. The par-4 5th hole, for example, is a classic risk-reward challenge. A dogleg left, it tempts long hitters to cut the corner over a cluster of formidable bunkers, but a miscalculation can lead to a difficult recovery. The safer play to the wide part of the fairway leaves a longer, but more straightforward, approach shot to a well-guarded green.

Perhaps the most talked-about stretch is the series of holes along the lake. The par-3 14th is a stunning hole that plays downhill with Lake Thurmond providing a panoramic backdrop. The green is nestled into a cove, making club selection paramount as the wind swirling off the water can play tricks on your ball flight. It’s as beautiful as it is intimidating and represents the pinnacle of the Monticello experience.

Navigating the Greens: Speed, Slopes, and Strategy

The greens at Monticello are widely considered to be some of the best in the region. They are large, undulating, and kept in immaculate condition, typically running fast and true. The challenge here isn’t just hitting the green in regulation; it’s about placing your approach shot on the correct tier or section of the green to leave yourself an uphill putt. A downhill putt on these surfaces can be treacherous, often rolling out much farther than anticipated. Reading the subtle breaks, which are influenced by the surrounding terrain and the pull of the nearby lake, is a skill that develops with experience on the course. Success at Monticello often comes down to who can master the art of lag putting and avoid the dreaded three-putt on these complex and challenging putting surfaces.

The Immaculate Conditions of Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village

One of the defining features that elevates the golfing experience here is the unwavering commitment to course maintenance. The grounds crew at the Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village deserves immense credit for presenting a tour-quality playing surface day in and day out. This dedication is evident from the moment you step onto the first tee. The course is a vibrant tapestry of greens and golds, with lush Bermuda fairways providing a perfect lie and pure A1/A4 bentgrass greens that roll as smoothly as a billiard table. This level of quality is not just reserved for weekends or special events; it’s the standard. This consistency ensures that whether you play in the spring when the dogwoods are blooming or in the fall when the leaves are turning, you are guaranteed an exceptional playing surface.

From Fairway to Rough: A Year-Round Perspective

The choice of turfgrasses at Monticello is key to its year-round playability. The Bermuda fairways are robust and thrive in the South Carolina summer heat, providing excellent lies and definition. As the seasons change, the course transitions beautifully. The club’s maintenance program ensures that even in the cooler months, the course remains in fantastic shape. The bentgrass greens are a particular highlight, as they can be maintained at a high standard throughout the year, offering a smooth and consistent putting surface that golfers adore. The rough is kept at a length that is challenging but fair; it will penalize an errant shot without making it impossible to find your ball, thus maintaining a good pace of play. This thoughtful agronomy means there is truly no bad time to experience golf at Montico.

Beyond the 18th Hole: What Amenities Can You Expect?

The experience at Monticello extends well beyond the final putt. The facilities are designed to complement the quality of the golf course, providing everything a player needs for a perfect day. The entire complex is geared towards creating a complete and satisfying golf outing, whether you’re a local member or a first-time visitor.

The Clubhouse and Dining Experience

The clubhouse at Monticello serves as the heart of the club’s social life. It’s a welcoming and comfortable space where you can relax before or after your round. Inside, you’ll find a fully-stocked pro shop with the latest apparel and equipment, staffed by knowledgeable professionals who are happy to offer advice or book your next tee time.

After your round, the club’s restaurant and bar provide the perfect setting to settle your bets and relive the highlights of the day. With stunning views overlooking the course, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink. The menu offers a range of options, from casual post-round snacks to more substantial meals, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every appetite.

Perfecting Your Swing: Practice Facilities

For those looking to warm up or fine-tune their game, Monticello offers comprehensive practice facilities. The driving range is spacious, with plenty of targets to aim for, allowing you to work through every club in your bag. There is also a dedicated short-game area, complete with a chipping green and practice bunker, which is perfect for honing your touch around the greens. The large putting green is kept in the same pristine condition as the greens on the course, so you can accurately practice your speed and break before you head to the first tee.

Monticello vs. Tara: Which Savannah Lakes Course is for You?

One of the unique aspects of Savannah Lakes Village is that it is home to two championship golf courses. While Monticello is a Tom Clark masterpiece, the Tara Golf Club is a highly-regarded course in its own right. Many visitors wonder how the two compare. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference, as each offers a distinct style of play.

FeatureMonticello Golf ClubTara Golf Club
DesignerTom ClarkTom Clark
Year Opened20001989
Layout StyleMore dramatic elevation changes, classic parkland feelMore traditional, flatter terrain, classic tree-lined fairways
Key ChallengeStrategic bunkering, undulating greens, elevationWater hazards, tree-lined doglegs, shot placement
ScenerySweeping views of Lake Thurmond on several holesMore intimate, wooded setting
Best ForGolfers who enjoy elevation changes and creative shot-makingGolfers who prefer a more classic, strategic test of golf

While both were designed by Tom Clark, they showcase different facets of his architectural genius. Tara, being the older of the two, has a more traditional, classic feel with tree-lined fairways that demand accuracy off the tee. Monticello, on the other hand, uses the more dramatic landscape to create a bolder, more varied test. Playing both is the best way to truly appreciate what makes golf at Savannah Lakes Village so special.

“The key to scoring well at Monticello is respecting the elevation changes,” advises Eleanor Vance, a PGA teaching professional. “A shot that looks pin-high might be playing a full club uphill. Trust your yardage device, but also trust your eyes. Managing the approach shots is where you’ll save strokes.”

How Do I Plan a Trip to Monticello Golf Club?

Planning your visit to Monticello is a straightforward process. The club is semi-private, meaning it is open to public play, which is great news for visitors to the area. A little bit of advance planning will ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Booking Tee Times and Understanding Green Fees

The easiest way to book a tee time is to call the pro shop directly or check the Savannah Lakes Village website for their online booking portal. It’s always advisable to book in advance, especially if you plan to play on a weekend or during peak season (spring and fall). Green fees are dynamic and can vary based on the time of day and the season, but they are generally considered to be excellent value for the quality of the course. The fees typically include a golf cart, which is recommended given the significant elevation changes and distances between some greens and tees.

What is the Dress Code and On-Course Etiquette?

Monticello maintains a standard golf dress code to ensure a respectful and traditional atmosphere on the course. This means collared shirts are required for men, and appropriate golf attire is expected for all players. Denim, t-shirts, and athletic shorts are not permitted. In terms of etiquette, players are expected to repair their divots, fix their ball marks on the greens, and maintain a reasonable pace of play to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone on the course.

Finding Your Way: Location and Directions

The Monticello Golf Club is located within the Savannah Lakes Village community in McCormick, South Carolina. The best way to get there is by car. The club is easily accessible from major nearby cities like Augusta, Georgia, and Greenville, South Carolina. Simply enter “Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village” into your GPS, and it will guide you directly to the entrance. The scenic drive into the community sets the stage for the beautiful landscape you’re about to experience.

Ultimately, a round at this premier course is more than just a game; it is an immersion in a spectacular natural environment. The combination of a world-class Tom Clark design, immaculate year-round conditions, and the stunning backdrop of Lake Thurmond makes it a must-play destination for any serious golfer. From the strategic challenges presented on every hole to the top-tier amenities and welcoming atmosphere, the Monticello Golf Club at Savannah Lakes Village delivers an unforgettable and rewarding golf experience that stands out as one of the best in the Southeast.


Comments

David Chen
5/5 stars
Played here in early October 2024 and was blown away. The course conditions were absolutely perfect. The bentgrass greens were the purest I’ve putted on all year. The fall colors with Lake Thurmond in the background on the back nine were just breathtaking. Worth every penny.

Sarah Jenkins
4/5 stars
A beautiful and challenging course. The elevation changes are no joke, so be prepared to hit some uneven lies. My only small critique was the pace of play slowed down a bit on the last few holes, but it was a busy Saturday afternoon. The staff was incredibly friendly.

Marcus Thorne
5/5 stars
I’m a member at Savannah Lakes Village and play Monticello twice a week. It never gets old. Tom Clark is a genius. The course drains incredibly well; we were playing 24 hours after a huge rainstorm in August 2024 and the fairways were still firm. A true championship test.

Brenda Miller
5/5 stars
My husband and I played here on a golf trip in May 2024. This course was the highlight of our trip. The layout is fantastic, and the views are spectacular. The par-3 14th is a postcard hole. We had lunch at the clubhouse afterward, and the service was excellent.

Frank Costello
4/5 stars
A very solid test of golf. The bunkers are strategically placed and will definitely catch an errant shot. The greens have a lot of slope, so you need to be on the right side of the hole. I preferred it slightly over Tara, but both are great courses. Will be back for sure.

Olivia Rodriguez
5/5 stars
As a mid-handicapper, I found the course challenging but very fair. The forward tees are well-placed, making it enjoyable for all skill levels. The practice facilities are top-notch. I spent an hour at the short game area before my round on September 15, 2024, and it really helped.

Liam O’Connell
5/5 stars
Traveled from Georgia to play here with a group of friends in June 2024. We were all incredibly impressed. The conditions were resort-level, but the atmosphere was relaxed and unpretentious. The pro shop staff gave us some great tips before we teed off.

Grace Williams
4/5 stars
Stunningly beautiful course. You’ll want to take pictures on almost every hole. It’s a tough walk if you choose to do so! The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is that the beverage cart only came around once during our round. Otherwise, a perfect day.

Henry Baker
5/5 stars
Played in a local tournament here last month (November 2024). The course was in phenomenal shape for late fall. The greens were rolling fast and true despite the cooler temperatures. It’s a layout that makes you think on every single shot. A true golfer’s golf course.

Jessica Nguyen
5/5 stars
We were visiting family in the area for Thanksgiving 2024 and managed to get a tee time. What a treat! The course was quiet and in amazing condition. The staff made us feel right at home. The views of the lake are worth the green fee alone. Can’t wait to come back.

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