Dominion Country Club

Bill Johnston designed this difficult course, which opened in 1984 and rolls through the lush Hill Country setting near Leon Creek.

Ancient oaks squeeze the fairways, Leon Creek winds through the layout, and the fast, sloping greens make this one tough mother. The back nine is considered more difficult, but the front has its share of challenging holes.

No. 2 requires a layup off the tee of about 180 yards for the average golfer, since only a 300-yard drive could carry the creek. The creek is also in play on the par 5 No. 7, which features a deceptive fairway that slopes towards the water. No. 9 is another difficult par 5 highlighted by a drainage ditch on the left and green-side pond.

Two holes stand out on the back. No. 16 plays 440 yards into the wind, with water on the right and trees on the left. The length of the hole inevitably leaves you with a monstrous approach shot, which might be over the water if you're too far right off the tee.

The genius design on 18 makes it a great finishing hole. Playing well over 500 yards from the tips, it goes uphill left into the dogleg and generally requires three full shots, with the last one hazardous because of the water left and behind the green.

Other notes: The homes of George Strait and NBA superstar David Robinson grace the fairways of Dominion. The club hosted the Senior PGA Tour's SBC tournament for years. Ralph Bender had $17 million at his disposal when he built the clubhouse, which is considered one of the finest in the state.

Getting there : Take I-10 west past Loop 1604, and exit Camp Bullis. Stay on the access road, and look for the Dominion entrance on the right side of the road.