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THE course is known as Sugarloaf/USA and it lies in the wilderness of the Carrabassett River valley, two hours north of Bethel. See it and you'll wonder how on earth a golf course could have been built there, let alone one of such quality. It is awesome.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., for beauty and challenge it has several holes to rank with any in world golf, in fact the second loop starts with what the architect calls his "String of Pearls," six of the finest holes he has ever laid out. (The par three 11th is pictured right, from the tee.)
The course is part of the famous ski complex and was added 15 years ago to extend the resort's summer attractions. It has been collecting accolades ever since. Now they're building a second course, such has been the response.
The terrain predicates that most holes have either an elevated tee or a pulpit green; some have both and many are dog-legs. There are ravines and the river to cross, and there is some serious bunkering, much of it strategic, for damage limitation!
The fairways, edged by wilderness, could be described as less than magnanimous, the bent grass greens munificent and undulating. In their pomp, late in the season, the latter reach Augusta speed, 12 on the stimp meter. Imagine! Here's a mental challenge you couldn't face with a hangover!
As club professional Scott Hoisington advised when we set out: "Any mistake will cost at least two strokes and probably at least one ball. You're going to have several bad holes but forget your score; simply enjoy your good holes and the natural splendour." He was correct: it's the only way to approach a course that will leave you breathless.
You simply must play this one twice, or more if time permits. You'll be in a fog of indecision at your first attempt. But it gets better. Or so Scott assured me!
Being a ski resort there's oodles of sound accommodation with all the usual facilities and a choice of good dining that won't break the bank. This one merits a detour from anywhere...
There's another treat in store as we turn towards the coast and our final destination, the Samoset Resort at Rockport. Halfway there, as you head south on Highway 27, you'll spot a golf course nine miles north of the town of Augusta. It's obvious from the road that it's one of some quality so wheel in. A surprise awaits.
The club is known as Belgrade Lakes and you'll quickly confirm first impressions. It's a beauty with a hint of something traditional and British, particularly in the cross bunkering that's redolent of the design style of the great Harry Colt.
It was designed by Britain's Clive Clark, late of the Walker Cup, the Ryder Cup and BBCTV. Now living in Palm Springs, California, Clive is making waves in the world of US golf architecture and Belgrade Lakes is his 20th commission in America.
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