For travelling golf enthusiasts who dream of playing the world's top 100 golf courses, Augusta National Golf Club represents the ultimate bucket list destination. While millions watch The Masters tournament each April, few will ever experience what lies beyond the famous gates on Washington Road. This insider guide reveals the authentic Augusta National experience that television cameras never capture.
Despite hosting golf's most prestigious tournament, Augusta National's entrance remains remarkably understated. Located on busy Washington Road in Augusta, Georgia, many first-time visitors drive past the discreet gates multiple times before finding their way. Unlike other famous golf courses with prominent signage, Augusta National relies on its reputation rather than obvious markers.
The exclusive nature of the club becomes immediately apparent—guests must arrive with a member host, as no visitors are permitted without member accompaniment. Security measures include mechanical barriers and police officers who verify names before granting access to Magnolia Lane.
Once inside, the legendary service begins. Mysteriously, every staff member addresses guests by name from the moment of arrival. "Mr. Lewis, it's lovely to have you," they'll say to first-time visitors who haven't yet introduced themselves, recalls Connor T. Lewis, who has been fortunate enough to play Augusta multiple times. This attentive hospitality creates an immediate sense of belonging that distinguishes Augusta National from other top-ranked golf destinations.
The Augusta National clubhouse represents a fascinating piece of American architectural history. As the oldest poured concrete building in the United States (dating to the 1800s), it offers a surprising contrast to the grand southern mansions typical of prestigious golf clubs. Originally slated for demolition when the club was founded, financial constraints preserved what would become one of golf's most iconic structures.
Inside, golf history surrounds you. The Trophy Room features oil paintings of founders Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in their green jackets, alongside President Eisenhower. Most impressive are Bobby Jones' actual clubs used to win the Grand Slam, displayed in the left corner—a must-see for golf history enthusiasts.
The clubhouse ambience remains refreshingly understated despite its prestige. "You think that everything's gonna be super fancy? And it's very understated. It's very relaxed," observes Connor T. Lewis, reflecting on his first impressions of the club. This understated elegance extends to the on-site accommodations, where guests stay in cabins named after golf legends, complete with Augusta National-branded amenities and panoramic views of the famous first hole.
While playing Augusta National ranks among golf's greatest thrills, the most magical moments often occur after sunset. After dinner in the clubhouse, knowledgeable guests participate in a special tradition—a moonlit walk to Amen Corner.
"If you told me for the rest of my life that I could only go to Augusta National, not to play, but just to take that walk, I would accept that with pure happiness," confesses Connor T. Lewis about the moonlit tradition he now shares with other guests whenever possible. Under full moonlight, the fairways glow with an ethereal blue hue as guests make their way toward golf's most famous three-hole stretch.
What few know is that Augusta National illuminates the 12th and 13th holes at night with special lighting. These spotlights transform Golden Bell and Azalea into theatrical stages, creating one of golf's most sublime spectacles. Many visitors report feeling the presence of golf legends like Hogan, Snead, and Jones during these nocturnal pilgrimages—a spiritual dimension to Augusta that television audiences never witness.
Television coverage flattens Augusta National's dramatic topography. In reality, walking the course involves elevation changes equivalent to climbing approximately 20 stories throughout 18 holes. By the 18th fairway, even fit players feel the burn in their legs—a physical challenge entirely invisible to viewers.
The optical illusions throughout Augusta National demonstrate designer Alister MacKenzie's genius. Having worked in military camouflage during World War II, MacKenzie created greens that deceive the eye. Putts that appear to break dramatically left often move right, making Augusta's legendary caddies invaluable guides through this visual trickery.
Even accomplished golfers face psychological challenges at Augusta. Connor T. Lewis, a single-digit handicapper, recounts snap-hooking his first three drives at Augusta despite normally being consistent off the tee. "I go to the second hole, par five, and snap-hook another drive. Now on two, there are a lot of options. Snap-hook is not one of them," he jokes about his nerve-wracking start. The intimidation factor of playing where Palmer, Nicklaus, and Woods made history can transform good swings into momentary disasters.
Among the most challenging shots at Augusta National:
The most valuable advice from Augusta National veterans transcends technique: forget your score. "You miss the point of Augusta National if you're trying to shoot your best round or break 80," advises Lewis. "Just take the time to float on the clouds for a little bit."
This wisdom extends to any top 100 golf course experience. The greatest tragedy would be visiting golf's cathedral and remembering only your frustration over missed putts. "You never know when it's your last," explains Lewis. "Lightning could hit you tomorrow, and that might be the last opportunity you get to walk those storied links."
For golfers lucky enough to receive an invitation to Augusta National—or any prestigious course—the ultimate advice from Connor T. Lewis distills to: "Don't let your golf game get in the way of playing golf."
Augusta National exists in two realities: the immaculate tournament venue millions see on television, and the spiritual experience few will ever know—where fairways glow under moonlight, where history whispers from century-old walls, and where playing becomes a pilgrimage.
While most golfers won't receive an invitation to Augusta National, this perspective applies to all bucket-list golf courses. Whether playing St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Pine Valley, or Royal County Down, the scorecard matters less than absorbing the experience.
As you plan your next golf adventure to top-ranked courses, remember that scores fade but experiences endure. Float on those clouds while you can, for you never know when such an opportunity might come again.
Mastering the Menu: A Taste of The Masters The Masters Tournament is not only a showcase of golfing excellence but also a culinary tradition, with its concession stand fare becoming almost as iconic as the golf played on the greens of Augusta National. Among these, the Pimento Cheese Sandwich stands out as a fan favourite, a simple yet delicious testament to Southern comfort food. Here's a fun look at The Masters' famous concession food, including a recipe for you to recreate the iconic Pimento Cheese Sandwich at home. Pimento Cheese Sandwich The Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a staple of The Masters, beloved for its creamy, tangy flavour wrapped in soft white bread. Here’s how you can make it at home: Ingredients: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup of mayonnaise 1 (4 oz.) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon of finely grated onion 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper A pinch of salt Slices of white bread Instructions: Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, black pepper, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese mixture for at least an hour to allow the flavours to meld together. Prepare the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the pimento cheese mixture onto a slice of white bread, then top with another slice to form a sandwich. Serve: Cut the sandwiches into halves or quarters, plate, and serve. Enjoy a taste of The Masters at home! Egg Salad Sandwich Another crowd-pleaser at Augusta National is the Egg Salad Sandwich, known for its creamy texture and simple seasoning. Ingredients: 8 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped. 1/2 cup of mayonnaise 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard Salt and pepper to taste Slices of white bread Instructions: Combine Eggs and Mayo: In a mixing bowl, gently mix the chopped hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill: Refrigerate the egg salad mixture to cool. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the egg salad on a slice of white bread, then cover with another slice. Serve: Cut into halves or quarters and serve chilled. Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich For something sweet, the Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich is a delightful treat that celebrates the state's famous fruit. Ingredients: Vanilla ice cream Fresh peach slices Sugar cookies or shortbread cookies Instructions: Prepare the Ice Cream: Soften the vanilla ice cream slightly and mix in finely chopped fresh peach slices. Assemble: Scoop the peach ice cream onto a sugar cookie, then top with another cookie to make a sandwich. Freeze: Place the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer until firm. Serve: Enjoy a cool, sweet taste of Georgia at home! Recreating these Masters' favourites allows fans to bring a piece of Augusta National into their homes, celebrating the tournament's culinary traditions alongside the golfing action. Whether it's the tangy zest of the Pimento Cheese Sandwich, the creamy goodness of the Egg Salad Sandwich, or the sweet delight of the Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich, these recipes offer a taste of The Masters any time of year. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
Beyond the Green: The Masters’ Impact on Golf and Community The Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club transcends its status as one of golf's four major championships, transcending even its iconic Green Jacket and legendary greens of Augusta to create lasting change to both golf itself, its surrounding community and philanthropy. Not only has The Masters played an enormous part in shaping careers of its participants but it has also fostered an unmatched sense of community between fans, players and patrons while raising countless charitable dollars through various initiatives. The Masters has played a vital role in popularising golf around the globe. Its broadcasts to over 200 countries serve to inspire newcomers to pick up the game while watching its best players compete at its highest levels. Innovation and Broadcasting Augusta National has long been at the forefront of broadcasting innovations, being among the first golf tournaments to broadcast in HD quality. They also embraced digital platforms extensively online coverage to reach younger global audiences more effectively. Championing Amateur Golf Each year, The Masters celebrates amateurism by inviting winners of notable amateur competitions to the tournament. This tradition not only commemorates its roots but also provides an international platform for amateur champions to display their talents on a global stage. Supporting Education and Community Through Augusta National Golf Club and its Masters Tournament Foundation, The Masters has made significant contributions to educational initiatives and community projects across Georgia. These contributions include scholarships for educational initiatives at local schools as well as support for Augusta University Children's Hospital. Drive, Chip and Putt Championship This youth golf development initiative initiated by the Masters Tournament, USGA and The PGA of America seeks to grow the game by engaging children from across America in a fun yet competitive atmosphere. National finals take place annually at Augusta National for an unforgettable experience for young golfers. Fostering Community Spirit Cultivating Traditions The Masters is steeped in tradition, from its Par 3 Contest and Champions Dinner to creating an atmosphere of belonging among players and fans. These ceremonies form part of its identity while strengthening connections among golfers worldwide. For players and fans alike, The Masters tournament represents more than just another golf tournament; it serves as an annual gathering of golf's finest. Fans have the rare chance of following in the footsteps of their heroes while players get an unparalleled opportunity to etch themselves into golf history. Augusta National's commitment to beauty and sustainability resonates beyond the golf community, setting an exemplary standard of environmental stewardship. Their meticulous care of their flora has not only preserved but enhanced local ecosystems - serving as an exemplar for courses worldwide. The Masters Tournament's influence extends well beyond Augusta National's fairways, from golf instruction and development, philanthropy, community building and traditions preservation to inspiring, challenging, and uniting people through its timeless values and spirit of play. It remains an impressive force of good. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
Welcome to Walt’s World In 1940, Walt Disney released a deranged masterpiece called Fantasia. Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony becomes an Arcadia landscape of pastel colours full of cute fawns, majestic winged horses with sweet little winged foals – and also pretty girls with bare breasts. These then step out of their bathing pool and, in a great cinematic coup, reveal themselves as centaurs. Or perhaps centaurettes. It has always seemed to me that the course at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, where the year’s first major, the Masters, begins on Thursday, is the nearest we’ll ever get to seeing Disney’s lunatic land for real. As the golfers walk through the pastel blooms, you almost expect to see the centaurettes emerging from Ike’s Pond and coyly shaking themselves dry. Every hole is named for a flower: Flowering Peach, Magnolia, Carolina Cherry… I don’t know if any actual fruit has ever been plucked from those trees. The dogwoods and azaleas come in an eye-blinkingly improbable range of colours: a Disneyfication of nature that seems to have taken its inspiration from the Andrex aisle at the supermarket. Even the grass is an impossible shade of green. The place is a combination of heaven and an airport lounge: nothing like a real place, and with the faint threat that you’ll be there for a long time. Everything comes in marinated tradition… though you have to understand that in the US, “traditional” means that it started before the Second World War: The Masters has been going at Augusta for 83 years and we’re supposed to bow down and worship the place for its antiquity: the Boat Race, which took place last Sunday, was first rowed in 1829. The idea of the Masters is that it’s not special, it’s unique. Augusta sees itself as a platonic ideal of a golf club: all the rest are pale shadows. Everything is green here – even your sandwich wrappers and drinks cup. The winner gets a green jacket, eased onto his shoulders by the previous winner. After a year he must return it to Augusta – handy if he wins again. There’s the champions’ dinner; there’s the pre-tournament par-3 competition, and there’s the crazy liberalism of it all: black members were permitted as recently as, er 1990, and they even started to let women in after 2012. Perhaps in a secular era we still need a sacred place. Perhaps modern life has created a reverence vacuum that Augusta can fill. They even call the pivotal part of the course Amen Corner… so, as you watch the sport unfold later this week, be prepared for plenty of reverent remarks from the commentators. Augusta is a place where people wear their holy face. And beneath the Andrex trees, and alongside – occasionally inside – those lapping waterways where the centaurettes may or may not lurk, the sport continues with the quiet desperation that is as much a part of golf as dimples on the ball. And that’s where the fascination, however uneasy, kicks in. The lawns may have been cut with scissors, and probably were, the flowers may have been painted overnight by gardeners working for the Queen of Hearts, but behind the surreal colours of all those polo shirts the hearts of the golfers are pounding with hope and fear, eaten up by the terrors of defeat and the still greater terrors of victory. Above their heads the blue jays scream their joyful screams. By Simon Barnes, published in the Radio Times 1 April 2017 Simon wrote his first piece for The Times in 1982 and became chief sportswriter for the paper in 2002 and continued writing for The Times until July 2014.
