Tom Fazio's masterful design unfolds across 800 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country, where championship golf meets Discovery Land Company's luxury amenities. This family-friendly private club experience features rolling terrain, towering oaks, and innovative comfort stations just 39km southwest of Austin.
Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club
Tom Fazio's masterful design unfolds across 800 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country, where championship golf meets Discovery Land Company's luxury amenities. This family-friendly private club experience features rolling terrain, towering oaks, and innovative comfort stations just 39km southwest of Austin.
Driftwood Golf Club represents Tom Fazio's thoughtful integration with the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country, where his design creates spacious fairways that feel part of the rugged landscape while accommodating holes punctuated by large specimen oaks. This Discovery Land Company collaboration opened in 2022, establishing itself as Austin's newest premier private golf destination.
Construction began in January 2019 as part of a $250-million development project, transforming 800 acres of rolling hills and native limestone terrain into one of Texas's most distinctive golf communities. Eric Puls, director of agronomy, explains that "the project is two 400-acre parcels: one parcel is for the golf course and the other for Discovery's outdoor pursuits programmes".
The development reflects Discovery Land Company's commitment to environmental stewardship. The entire site was sandcapped the Rain Bird irrigation was installed. This careful approach preserves the Hill Country's essential character whilst delivering championship golf standards.
Fazio's routing showcases his mastery of environmental harmony. Seven holes on the back nine include water features, from winding natural creeks to large lakes, creating strategic variety that builds throughout the round. The course plays up to 7,200 yards whilst maintaining accessibility for all skill levels.
The layout emphasises comfort and social interaction through its signature comfort stations. These unique facilities feature barbecue pits, full-service bars, and family entertainment areas, transforming the traditional golf experience into something more akin to a social club atmosphere.
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Zeon Zoysia grass covers tees, fairways, rough and green surrounds, whilst putting surfaces feature 007 bentgrass. David Doguet of Bladerunner Farms notes the practical benefits: "Less water, less chemicals, less fertiliser and less mowing, while still providing a premium playing surface".
Fazio designed an exceptional short game area with a stream running between its three greens. The architect's confidence in the facility's quality is evident in his assessment: "The top players may never leave the practice facilities because they're the best they'll ever see".
Driftwood Golf Club anchors one of America's premier golf regions, positioned 39km (24 miles) southwest of Austin, requiring approximately 35 minutes driving time.
Within 30km (19 miles): Austin Country Club offers Pete Dye's distinctive design philosophy, whilst various Hill Country layouts provide different architectural perspectives.
30-60km (19-37 miles): Barton Creek Country Club features four championship courses including Tom Fazio and Ben Crenshaw designs.
Natural Combinations: Austin's compact geography enables multi-course itineraries sampling diverse design philosophies from renowned architects.
Base: Austin accommodation provides access to the city's renowned dining and entertainment scene whilst maintaining proximity to Hill Country golf experiences.
Driftwood operates as a private club within Discovery Land Company's exclusive network. Access requires membership or invitation, reflecting the community's emphasis on family-friendly luxury and personalised service.
The club's unique downtown Austin facility at 319 Colorado Street provides members with urban amenities, creating a complete city-country lifestyle experience.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: 45km (28 miles), approximately 40-45 minutes via Highway 71 and local roads
Public Transport: Limited Hill Country service; private vehicle or arranged transport recommended
Car Rental: Essential for regional golf exploration and multi-course itineraries
Parking: Comprehensive facilities including covered areas during events
Spring: Ideal conditions with wildflower displays and moderate temperatures perfect for walking
Summer: Peak season requiring early morning or late afternoon tee times; comfort stations provide essential respite
Autumn: Excellent playing conditions with reduced crowds and spectacular Hill Country foliage
Winter: Mild Texas climate allows year-round play; occasional cold fronts may affect scheduling
Tom Fazio's Hill Country creation succeeds through its thoughtful environmental integration and innovative social amenities. The comfort stations distinguish Driftwood from traditional private clubs, creating a relaxed family atmosphere that reflects Austin's distinctive character. Whilst the course provides championship challenge, its true appeal lies in combining exceptional golf with Discovery Land Company's commitment to luxury hospitality and community building.
Overall rating
4.5
Overall rating
4.5
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