Why Pinehurst is the perfect post-Masters escape
After watching golfing history unfold on the grounds of Augusta National, for those looking to extend their adventure there is nowhere better to deliver a flawless follow-up than Pinehurst – the spiritual home of American golf.
Golfing heritage
Founded in 1895, Pinehurst has grown into one of the largest and most acclaimed golf resorts in all of America. After the arrival of Donald Ross in the early 20th century, this sleepy resort in sandy pinewoods of North Carolina took its first steps to becoming the golfing mecca it is today, home to 11 courses.
The crown jewel of Pinehurst is course No. 2, Ross’s enduring masterpiece. Famous for its crowned greens and strategic demands, it has staged multiple U.S. Opens and remains one of the world’s finest tests of championship golf in the world. To walk No. 2 is to encounter the same challenges faced by legends, where precision, imagination, and nerve are rewarded in equal measure.
Pinehurst No. 10
But Pinehurst has also embraced the modern era. The newest addition, Pinehurst No. 10 by Tom Doak, offers a rare and creative golfing experience that manages to strike a contrast to the rest of the resort’s layouts, while tied by the same sandy soil and whispering pines.
The Cradle
For a lighter touch, The Cradle – a nine-hole short course by Gil Hanse – provides a relaxed counterpoint, perfect for an afternoon warm-up, a late-evening loop, or a casual match with friends.
And just steps away, there’s Pinehurst’s iconic putting course, which has become an evening hub: a defined 18-hole layout with drinks holders at each tee marker. With a drink in hand and laughter in the air, it’s golf at its most fun and communal.
Homely hospitality
Accommodation at Pinehurst reflects its layered history. The Carolina Hotel, often called the ‘Queen of the South’, serves as the resort’s flagship. Its grand hallways, large guest rooms, and multiple dining venues create a sense of tradition, while its spa, pool, and proximity to the main clubhouse add convenience.
For those who prefer something more intimate, the Holly Inn offers charm and heritage in the heart of the village, while newer options like the Manor bring a contemporary edge.
The latest addition to Pinehurst’s accommodations, The Cottages, offer a modern home-away-from-home luxury experience. Each feature four en-suite bedrooms, a full kitchen, and open-plan living areas designed for groups to gather. Outdoor seating and premium amenities – such as a games room – make them ideal for winding down between rounds.
Guests staying in cottages enjoy access to all seven of the resort’s dining venues, a complimentary round at The Cradle, and the option to request private catering delivered directly to their residence.
Whether it’s a chef-prepared breakfast before an early tee time or a celebratory dinner after a day on No. 2, the cottages allow for privacy and luxury without giving up the services and support of the wider resort. Shuttle transfers, concierge services, and golf bookings are all included, ensuring every detail is taken care of.
Resort relaxation
The real benefit of Pinehurst above other golf resorts is that it can blend golf with all the luxuries required for total relaxation. Beyond the fairways, The Spa at Pinehurst is a peaceful haven where massages, facials, and body treatments provide the perfect antidote to a day on the course, while the resort’s heated pools, steam rooms, and state-of-the-art fitness centre ensure wellness is always within reach.
Tennis courts and lawn sports add another layer of activity for those looking to mix competition with relaxation. Just a short stroll away, the charming village of Pinehurst offers boutique shopping, cafes, and galleries nestled among tree-lined streets, ideal for a slow morning or a quiet afternoon.
Dining at Pinehurst is just as varied as the golf. From the Southern elegance of the Carolina Dining Room to the lively energy of The Deuce overlooking the 18th green of No. 2, each venue offers something unique.
Enjoy craft cocktails at The North & South Bar, wood-fired fare at Villaggio Ristorante, or hearty post-round dishes at PL8TE.
With fourteen restaurants and bars across the resort, every meal becomes an experience: whether it’s a celebratory steak, a casual burger, or an indulgent dessert to end the night.