Rees Jones, Inc.

Golf Course Design & Architecture

Rees Jones, Inc.
Saddlebrook Resort
Wesley Chapel, Florida
Image: Saddlebrook Resort
Course Types
Resort / Semi-Private
Design Role
Remodel
(Ongoing)
Co-Designer
Bryce Swanson

Client Course Description

The Saddlebrook Resort is home to two of Florida’s most picturesque and playable golf courses, the Palmer Course and the Saddlebrook Course. It is also the home of the renowned Saddlebrook Golf Academy and the Saddlebrook Preparatory School for junior athletes.

The Saddlebrook Course was original designed by Dean Refram in 1976 and remodeled by Arnold Palmer in 1984. The Saddlebrook course is 6,480 yards and a par 70. It features tree lined golf holes and is the flatter of the two courses at the resort. Water is a more prominent feature on this golf course with ponds and lakes coming into play on 14 holes.

In 1982, the Palmer Course opened for play at 6,273 yards, par 71. The golf course features more elevation changes then the Saddlebrook Course. The undulating layout features tight fairways framed with contoured mounding and the occasional water hazard but the most formidable challenge comes from the bunkers strategically placed around the undulating tiered greens.

Designer Notes

Rees Jones and Bryce Swanson are working with the Resort to develop a Master Plan which will relocate the practice facilities and create a new 27 hole golf course experience.

More Information

For more information about Saddlebrook Resort, please visit the course’s website.