Somerset Hills Country Club
A.W. Tillinghast designed Somerset Hills Country Club to be a scenic course with plenty of green space and stunning views. Whether you're looking to play for fun or for business, the layout of this private course is beautiful and challenging. But before you join the club, consider these things:
The course at Somerset Hills has a great layout that is challenging but fair. The front nine is mostly open with few severe bunkers, while the back nine has water on four holes. The course is known for its difficult par threes, with the second hole, "Redan," a tricky par three, that slopes progressively from front-to-back. The front nine's bunkers protect the green from any errant shots, while the back nine's are protected by three bunkers short of the putting surface. Its long, dogleg-like green is also protected by a large hump on the right side of the green.
Somerset Hills has an impressive list of distinguished alumni, including several former US presidents. Former club members include C. Douglas Dillon, Secretary of the Treasury during the Eisenhower Administration, Cyrus R. Vance, Secretary of State under Jimmy Carter, and Nicholas F. Brady, Secretary of the Treasury under George H.W. Bush. The course is also home to the 2017 Women's Amateur Championship and the Mid-Amateur Championship. Somerset Hills is hosting the 39th edition of the championship beginning Wednesday, June 8. Players will have to compete in stroke play to qualify for the match play field.
The course at Somerset Hills is not an easy one, but it is well worth the trip. Somerset Hills has some challenging holes, including the 5th hole, which is a short par four with a dogleg right. While most players will carry the bunker guarding the inside dogleg, there is no place for a driver to pin the green between the mounds. The 6th hole is also a difficult par four. Although the tee shot is short, a long drive will likely result in a bogey shot. Luckily, the downhill approach shot to the green is exhilarating and rewarding if executed correctly.
A short drive from Bernardsville, Somerset Hills Country Club is a wonderful destination for a round of golf. Not only does it offer fantastic views but it is challenging enough to challenge even the most advanced players. The greens are kept meticulously manicured, which makes for a perfect round for all skill levels. Somerset Hills is an ideal golfing destination for residents of the Bernardsville area. There are also several dining options nearby.
The design of Somerset Hills Golf Club is the perfect combination of traditional and modern. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, it is consistently rated among the best in New Jersey and the top 100 in the country. Other amenities at Somerset Hills include grass tennis courts and a charming English clubhouse. The ninth hole is particularly difficult, measuring 530 yards. In the old days, the first hole at Somerset Hills was a par five. Its open green and contours feeding onto the putting surface are genius stuff.
