Introduction
In our sun-kissed oasis of Palm Desert, elite golf communities offer more than just a game; they promise a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury and leisure. Having spent years exploring the best our golfing paradise has to offer, I'm very excited to share with you the official “Molly Hobin Williams”, handpicked list of the top five golf communities. From the lush landscapes of Marrakesh Country Club to the tranquil vistas of Ironwood, we’re about to uncover the crème de la crème of luxury living in our beloved desert!
#5 Eldorado Country Club
Eldorado Country Club opens our list at #5, nestled in Indian Wells, California, against the serene backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. While it may be the entry point into our top selections, Eldorado embodies a blend of tradition and golfing prestige. It's not just a club; it's a gateway to a history-rich and community-focused lifestyle, offering a glimpse into a distinguished way of living that's both unique and inviting.
- Location: Nestled in Indian Wells, framed by the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains. Here, the desert landscape meets lush greenery in a stunning display of natural beauty.
- Golf: With a golfing heritage that includes hosting the 1959 Ryder Cup, Eldorado boasts a course designed by Lawrence Hughes, later perfected by Tom Fazio in 2003. It's a golfer’s paradise where history and modern strategy intertwine on the fairways.
- Sports & Fitness: While details on the full range of facilities are as exclusive as the club itself, Eldorado’s reputation suggests a commitment to excellence, whether it’s in maintaining its historic golf course or hosting events that celebrate the community.
- Dining: Culinary experiences at Eldorado reflect its overall ethos—exclusive, refined, and always memorable. Whether it’s a casual brunch or a formal dinner, the flavors here are as spectacular as the views.
- Social Life: The club is a vibrant tapestry of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including notable statesmen and leaders, creating a rich, inclusive community fabric woven with stories of understated friendships and meaningful connections.
- Homes: Living in Eldorado means surrounding yourself with beauty and privacy. It’s where every home is a retreat, offering serene views and an ambiance of quiet luxury.
- Average Cost of Homes: $450,000-$2,000,000
- Unique Features: The history of hosting the 1959 Ryder Cup adds a layer of prestige, while the club’s commitment to privacy, respect, and fostering a close-knit community speaks volumes about its unique charm.
At Eldorado Country Club, every day you can wake up and indulge in a lifestyle where golf is more than a game—it’s a way of life. Here, amidst the dramatic desert and mountain landscapes, members find not just a home but a sanctuary where history, community, and the pursuit of excellence converge in harmony.
#4 Ironwood Country Club
Ironwood Country Club secures a coveted spot on our list with its exceptional blend of natural beauty, luxury amenities, and vibrant community life. Ironwood offers a prestigious golfing and living experience that's both enriching and exclusive. I personally love that Ironwood is conveniently centered in the Valley giving shoppers and diners easy access to boutiques and restaurants.
- Location: Centrally located in Palm Desert, offering stunning valley vistas and a unique charm within its gated confines.
- Golf: The club is home to two championship golf courses, designed to offer both beauty and a challenge to golfers at all levels.
- Sports & Fitness: Facilities including 12 tennis courts, 4 pickleball courts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with personal training and spa services.
- Dining: A selection of dining venues provides members with a range of culinary experiences, from casual bites to fine dining, all set against the picturesque desert backdrop.
- Homes: Ironwood boasts a vibrant real estate market with a diverse array of properties, from cozy condos to luxurious single-family homes, catering to various tastes and lifestyles.
- Average Cost of Homes: $300,000- $10,000,000
- Unique Features: The community is distinguished by its Clubs Within The Club, offering a plethora of social and recreational activities that foster a close-knit and engaging environment for all residents.
Ironwood Country Club represents more than just a place to live; it embodies a lifestyle of comfort, community, and continuous engagement with the beauty and activities of Palm Desert. It stands out as a premier choice for those seeking a blend of leisure and luxury in their daily lives.
The Vintage Club
Just shy of the top on our list, The Vintage Club makes a bold statement as a bastion of golfing perfection and luxury living. Located in the heart of golf paradise, it's where members and guests, including PGA pros and U.S. presidents, have honed their skills on two Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole championship courses. The absence of tee times and a robust golf instruction program ensures that the game is always within reach, offering a seamless blend of challenge and enjoyment.
- Location: Immersed in the golfing heaven with the serene Santa Rosa Mountains as its backdrop, offering a tranquil yet vibrant setting.
- Golf: Home to two acclaimed Tom Fazio-designed courses—the Mountain Course and the Desert Course—each offering its distinct challenges and breathtaking vistas. The Mountain Course is celebrated for its "Fazio" bunkering and lush landscapes, while the Desert Course presents a beautiful contrast with its natural desert beauty.
- Sports & Fitness: Beyond golf, the club boasts nine state-of-the-art tennis courts, including seven hard surface and two clay courts, alongside eight beautiful pickleball courts. The Tennis Center, complete with a 1,000-seat sunken stadium court, caters to all levels of play and hosts exciting seasonal tournaments.
- Dining: The award-winning Clubhouse is the crown jewel of dining at The Vintage Club, featuring the LakeView Grille for world-class dining experiences, the Palm Court for casual poolside meals, and The Vintage Market for lighter fare—all complemented by an award-winning wine cellar.
- Social Life: A vibrant social calendar filled with golf and tennis tournaments, biking and hiking groups, gourmet wine dinners, and more, fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among members.
- Homes: The club surrounds 500 luxury residences, each designed to offer privacy, luxury, and unmatched views of the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains.
- Average Cost of Homes: $1,000,000-$14,000,000
- Unique Features: The club's rich history, including hosting the inaugural Vintage Invitational and its subsequent PGA Senior Tour, adds a layer of prestige. Recent renovations and the redesign of the Mountain Course by Tom Fazio have further cemented The Vintage Club’s status as a premier golfing destination.
At The Vintage Club, life is a blend of luxury, wellness, and community spirit, nestled within a picturesque setting that's breathtaking. It’s heaven for those who live for the game and thrive in the company of fellow enthusiasts, set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Coachella Valley.
#2 Bighorn Golf Club
Just shy of the top on our list lies Bighorn Golf Club, a classic example of luxury and natural splendor. Known for its innovative approach and world-class amenities, Bighorn stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of private golf club communities.
- Location: Near the Santa Rosa Mountains, Bighorn's setting is unparalleled, offering stunning views and a secluded ambiance.
- Golf: Home to two championship courses - the Arthur Hills-designed Mountains Course and the Tom Fazio-designed Canyons Course - each offering legendary gameplay and breathtaking scenery.
- Amenities: Dining options, tennis and pickleball courts, a comprehensive spa & wellness center, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.
- Membership Options: Provides an exclusive membership experience, with options that include full access to golf amenities or a focus on the club's non-golf luxuries.
- Clubhouse: An architectural marvel at 80,000 sq ft, the Clubhouse is not just the heart of the golfing experience but a central hub for dining, entertainment, and socializing, boasting modern amenities and spectacular views.
- Penthouses: The Clubhouse is crowned with four uniquely designed Penthouses by Guy Dreier, offering the epitome of luxury living with expansive patios and bespoke interiors.
- Unique Features: From its high-tech Boardroom and ultra-fast internet to the bespoke art and enhanced security systems, Bighorn merges functionality with luxury, ensuring an unrivaled experience for members.
I truly believe Bighorn Golf Club redefines the private club experience, offering its members not just a place to play golf, but a sanctuary where luxury meets the serene beauty of Palm Desert. With its forward-looking architecture, comprehensive amenities, and a community that values excellence, it’s easy to see why this place is such a great golf community!
#1 Marrakesh Country Club
Topping our list as the premier choice for luxury living in Palm Desert, Marrakesh Country Club is a testament to unique architectural beauty and an exclusive lifestyle. With its distinctive blend of Hollywood Regency and midcentury modern design, this 155-acre gated community doesn't just offer homes; it provides a lavish retreat set against the stunning backdrop of the desert landscape.
- Location: Prestigious South Palm Desert, near the Living Desert Zoo and just minutes from the upscale boutiques and dining of El Paseo.
- Golf: Features an 18-hole executive golf course designed by Ted Robinson, celebrated for its challenging gameplay and immaculate condition.
- Sports & Fitness: Offers tennis courts, croquet lawns, and access to pools and spas for a comprehensive wellness experience.
- Dining: The Moroccan-themed clubhouse provides fine dining experiences, encapsulating the essence of luxury with every meal.
- Homes: The community is home to 364 residences, varying from 1,600 to 2,800 sq ft, with options ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms.
- Average Cost of Homes: Mandatory $40,000 affiliation fee and annual $2,700 for unlimited golf, with HOA and social membership fees at $1,330.75 per month. Additionally, a land encumbrance fee applies until 2042.
- Unique Features: Established in 1967, Marrakesh is known for its Hollywood Regency and mid century modern architecture, fostering a rich historical ambiance alongside modern luxury.
Marrakesh Country Club not only tops our list for its breathtaking scenery and architectural marvels but also for its vibrant community life and array of amenities, ensuring residents enjoy a lifestyle that's as rich in culture and activity as it is in comfort and elegance.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through Palm Desert's most exquisite golf communities, it's clear that each offers more than just a place to call home. They provide a gateway to a lifestyle filled with leisure, luxury, and the lure of the fairways, all set against the backdrop of stunning desert beauty. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant social life of Indian Ridge, the serene vistas of Ironwood, the rich history of Avondale, the unparalleled elegance of Bighorn, or the architectural marvel that is Marrakesh, there's a community waiting to welcome you into its fold. These havens are not just about golf; they're about creating a life that's as active and enriching as it is peaceful and prestigious. So, I invite you to explore these communities for yourself and discover where your perfect fairway to heaven lies. Who knows? Your dream home could be just a tee away. 🏡💫
