Omni Barton Creek Resort - Palmer Lakeside Course

The former Hidden Hills Country Club opened in 1986, but was taken over by Barton Creek in 1989 and actually resides 25 miles west of the resort itself. The Arnold Palmer-designed course overlooks Lake Travis, with plenty of panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

While Palmer’s design is surprisingly flat considering the terrain, No. 1 is an anomaly as it drops over 70 feet down to a tree-lined fairway. The remainder of the front is dominated by holes that require forced carries, including holes 2-4 that all force shots over water hazards. No. 3 plays 162 yards over water, and No. 4 doglegs downhill over water off the tee. Hole 6 is 565 yards, but No. 7 is the toughest hole, playing 403 yards, doglegging right into a canyon off the tee, and forcing a lay-up. The longish approach must carry the canyon to a green surrounded by trees.

The forced carries continue on the back, highlighted by the popular 201-yard No. 11, considered one of the most beautiful holes in Texas with its scenic tee shot over a pond and creek-lined fairway. The view on No. 14 is nice as well, and you’ll have the added bonus of being able to choose which green to hit into (the one on the right is shorter but the target is smaller).

The 17th is the last of Palmer’s five par 3s, and carries 163 yards over water. The 18th is interesting because of the blind approach shot.

For excursions to Barton Creek, don’t forget about Lakeside. If you’ve been tortured by being holed up at the resort for a few days, it’s worthwhile to make the road trip into Spicewood for the day.