Why Hermitage Golf Course is a Must-Visit Nashville Golf Destination

When golfers think about secluded, highly relaxing golf trip destinations, Nashville likely isn’t anywhere near the top of their lists.

Yet, one of its suburbs (Old Hickory) is home to a golfer’s paradise—36 holes of championship golf that will enable each guest to pause, enjoy Mother Nature and challenge themselves on two gorgeous layouts.

Known as Hermitage Golf Course, the golfer’s paradise features the President’s Reserve and the General’s Retreat, along with stunning cottages that provide picturesque views of the property.

Located less than 20 minutes from the Nashville International Airport, Hermitage Golf Course offers golfers two key positives. First, it’s very close to one of the United States’ most renowned cities. And second, once golfers desire to leave Nashville’s “hustle and bustle” behind, it will provide them a true escape.

From the back tees, the President’s Reserve is 7,157 yards long, ensuring it will challenge golfers of all skill levels. However, it also offers golfers seven sets of tee boxes to choose from, enabling them to play on a 5,138-yard layout if they’d prefer.

“It was designed to cater to a diverse range of golfers, providing challenges and enjoyment, depending on a golfer’s skill level and preference,” said PGA Director of Golf Chris Pierce.

Previously recognized as one of Tennessee’s top 10 courses by Golf Digest, the President’s Reserve was created by course architect Denis Griffiths, who also developed Atlanta’s Chateau Élan Resort Courses. Aside from its variation that allows everyone to play it, the President’s Reserve is renowned for its natural beauty, too.

“It trails through 300 acres of wetlands along the banks of the Cumberland River,” Pierce stated. “Golfers will come for the course—and stay for its immaculate views.”

As an example of its ability to challenge all golfers, Hermitage Golf Course’s other 18-hole layout, the General’s Retreat, hosted the LPGA Sara Lee Classic from 1988 to 1999.

Offering seven sets of tees as well, the General’s Retreat is shorter than the President’s Reserve, as it’s 6,770 yards long from the back tees. Nonetheless, it will also test everyone that tees it up.

Located along the Cumberland River too, the General’s Retreat has four par-5 holes, 10 par-4 holes and four par-3 holes, guaranteeing that everyone is able to use nearly every club in their bags.

“From its beautiful setting to its variety of tee placements, the General’s Retreat will allow golfers of all capabilities to thoroughly enjoy its challenges and scenery,” Pierce emphasized.

As a further example of Hermitage Golf Course’s seclusion, it’s also known for its official brand and mascot: Scottish Blackface sheep. Since 2012, the sheep have been roaming the President’s Reserve year-round. Currently, the course has more than 40 sheep.

“We have eight luxurious cottages that overlook the courses as well,” Pierce said. “With their private putting greens, bunker areas and fire pits, the cottages will provide golfers yet another opportunity to escape reality—even if it’s just for a night or two.”

He added, “We welcome golfers from across the United States to experience Hermitage Golf Course’s seclusion for themselves!”

Two Rivers Golf Course: Located near downtown Nashville, this course features impressive view of the Nashville skyline on the 8th hole.

VinnyLinks Golf Course: Created with families in mind, this par-3, nine-hole course is only 1,210 yards long.