Houstonian Golf & Country Club

After all these years, weekend visitors to The Houstonian Hotel, Spa, and Club can now enjoy the new Rees Jones-designed Houstonian Golf Club. Designed to be free from the dreaded course-lining housing developments, the course tips out at around 7,100 yards and offers several sets of tees for the average golfer. Twelve holes feature water, and elevated tees offer great views of the pecan-lined fairways below.

The back side is the better of the two, highlighted by the picturesque No. 14-a short 350-yarder that overlooks three lakes and involves a testy approach into a green surrounded by wet stuff.

No. 15 is a nice par 3 with water right, but only plays 167 yards. No. 17 is a bit more challenging with no room for error, playing 207 yards into an elevated green.

The ender plays into the wind at 464 yards, and is unfortunately listed as a par 4. The highlight on No. 18 is the 150-yard bunker that lines the right side of the hole.

First-timers should consider hiring one of the club's caddies. Outfitted in full white garb, they'll make you feel like you're in the thick of it at August National.

The facility is also the home of the Dick Harmon School of Golf, so there's plenty to do when you make a weekend of it here. The hunting-themed lodge, highlighted by game mounts and a fireplace, creates a great setting for relaxation. The Grille and Bar is available for post-round revelry as well. Package the trip with luxury accommodations at The Houstonian Hotel, which comes with access to the exclusive Houstonian Fitness Club and Spa, as well as shuttle service to and from the course.

First class pro shop

Getting there : Take I-10 to Hwy. 6 and head south toward Westheimer. Turn right on Westheimer (west), then left on FM 1464. The club is 5.6 miles down the road on the right.