The Ritz Carlton Golf Club

While unveiling his first Tucson golf course in 25 years, legendary champion Jack Nicklaus took advantage of the high Sonoran Desert setting to integrate solid strategy, variety and fair shot values into each hole at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain. The result is an elite venue intended to be shared by golfing friends and legends alike.

Crafted by the legendary Golden Bear to test generations of champions, this golf resort outside of Tucson boasts a layout that has received accolades from tour pros who have explored the course during the annual World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship. The event, which showcases the 64 top-ranked players in the game, made its debut at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain in 2009 and will be returning in 2010.

A reflection of the lush, desert mountain terrain (2,300- to 3,000-feet elevation), the original 27 holes of this Jack Nicklaus Signature Design all present unique challenges and distinct character, blended naturally among noble saguaros that stand beneath the surrounding Tortolita Mountain Range.

Throughout this golf resort near Tucson, AZ, there are shots that will require some imagination and creativity.  And some holes are just plain fun.  Among them:

• The par-4 sixth hole on the Tortolita course (the 15th for the Match Play layout) presents a possible double-carry across two natural areas – first from the tee and then where a wash crosses the fairway, 120 yards from the green; but only tee shots of 260 yards or better need apply.

• On the Wild Burro nine (Nicklaus’ personal favorite, although not used for the tournament), the par-4 third hole features a desert-style island green surrounded by a wide, sandy wash; while it’s a spectacular visual, it can turn into disaster island in a heartbeat.

Off the course, the dynamic, 50,000-square foot clubhouse provides panoramic views and includes many intricate elements that allow it to harmonize with its environment. Cayton’s, The Golf Club’s signature restaurant, invites the desert to come inside, with wood-framed glass panels that unfold, opening out to an exterior terrace overlooking this  golf course’s breathtaking terrain.

While the golf courses eventually will be accessible only by resident members and resort guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, open play is now available on a preview basis. From June 1st through September 30th  a round is $85 per player, with a mid-day rate of $55 (after 10 a.m.) and a twilight rate of $45 (after 2 p.m.) The golf club will also offer a nine-hole option for $55, available throughout the day. Fees include golf, cart, access to the practice facilities and clubhouse. Reservations are now being accepted at this exceptional Golf resort moments away from Tucson.

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