The Club at Lac La Belle is the best “new” course in Wisconsin and will be covered in this golf course review. This is tongue in cheek since Lac La Belle golf course can trace its roots back to 1896. The recently redesigned course by Craig Haltom will have golfers wishing for another loop. Fun, challenging and visually appealing for all skill levels. As a semi-private course, tee times are available to the general public.
The golf course officially re-opened all 18 holes on June 20, 2020. The Club at Lac La Belle is a terrific addition to golf in the area. A visit will be an easy choice for planned golf trips to Wisconsin. In this golf course review, I will cover the key aspects you should know about the Club at Lac La Belle.
Golf Course Background
The history of the course is rich with names and stories that date back to 1896. I would only do them a disservice by trying to capture them in this blog. Instead, let me share a couple bullets and link to other sites.
- Early legends in golf either won at Lac La Belle or were the head professionals
- Redesign architect, Craig Haltom, has lineage to Sand Valley and serves as President at Oliphant Golf Management
- Club at Lac La Belle’s sister course is Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland
Read more about Lac La Belle’s history on their website and fellow Wisconsin blogger, WiscoGolfAddict.com.
Course Playability
As mentioned in the opening, the newly redesigned Club at Lac La Belle is for all skill levels. The course tips out at 6,758 yards with several tee box options. The redesign levels the playing field by introducing shot-making as the primary method of scoring. Play the correct tees to not feel the need to hit driver every hole.
Once on the course, golfers will find Lac La Belle to be a comfortable walk. The golf course sits on a nice piece of property with minimal distance from greens to the next tee. During our visit, I noticed walking was the primary choice for golfers. Push carts were also available for all golfers.
Caddies are an option when you play Lac La Belle. The golf course has a partnership with the Western Golf Association (WGA) Caddie Academy. Our group rewarded for supporting the WGA and using their caddies. We teamed up with four great caddies. Each of them played on their high school golf team and were terrific kids. I recommend asking for a caddie when playing Lac La Belle.
Finally, the golf course is still growing in from its complete redesign. The greens are very close to being consistent. When that time comes – watch out! I expect Lac La Belle’s greens to be the defining feature of the golf course. Characteristics include punchbowls, false fronts, wavy undulation and significant tiering. Couple these green features with their size and Lac La Belle will be a putter’s dream course.
Golf Experience
The Lac La Belle team is proud of what they have built. They have embraced the golf course’s history and heritage. The Lac La Belle ownership built a brilliant clubhouse to showcase its history. Trophies, medals and past champions are displayed throughout the Rivalry Pub. Lac La Belle’s sister course, Carnoustie Golf Links, loaned some of the priceless pieces. Go check these out before they are sent back!
The pro shop was a stand out feature for me. Not because of its size, but rather the merchandise. I love when a golf course explores brands not found at your big box retailer. Golfers can find brands like Linksoul, Johnnie-O and Seamus Golf in the Lac La Belle pro shop. Couple these brands with an outstanding logo and Lac La Belle has a winner on its hands.
The staff at Lac La Belle were exceptional. Everyone we met was welcoming and appreciative to all guests. We talked to both Tyler Morse and Clint Higgins who were both proud and knowledgeable about the golf course and its history. Out of the blue, we received a mini tour of the facility which led us to their new putting course.
The putting course, named Flatstick, is a magnificent addition to the Lac La Belle golfing experience. This 15-hole putting course will sharpen anyone’s game either before a round or after dinner. Each hole is marked with a numbered post and a useful cup holder!
Now, let’s talk about the golf course.
Memorable Lac La Belle Golf Holes
The Club at Lac La Belle is home to so many interesting golf holes. The design is deliberate and compelling. The mature trees are a perfect backdrop sprinkled throughout the golf holes. A round in early fall would be delightful. I will be penciling in a weekend myself.
During my round, a few holes grabbed my attention requiring a specific mention. Below is a review of Lac La Belle golf holes that stood out to me.
Hole 4 – Par 3 169 Yards
The first par 3 on the golf course positioned on the newly acquired land by Lac La Belle. The hole brings you back towards the clubhouse with an uphill shot into a massive green. The front portion slopes heavily and should be considered an apron more than green. A brilliant backboard at the back will allow golfers to hit one close to a back pin location. The middle tier has a mini-punchbowl creating fun golf shots. A visually intimidating hole, but the green has been designed to help the golfer. Fantastic par 3.
Hole 9 – Par 4 308 Yards
Hole 9 is the only remaining hole from the original course design. The timeless design of an elevated tee shot down to the fairway then back up to the green. Long hitters will try to reach in one but requires precision. The green is guarded by bunkers with Lac La Belle’s signature fescue edging the sand. A very cool homage to its Scottish heritage. Framing the green are beautiful pine trees making the end of the first nine memorable.
Hole 18 – Par 4 440 Yards
Lac La Belle’s final hole is a fitting end to a gorgeous golf course. The slight dogleg right fits the eye for a fading ball flight. Trees line the left side of the fairway with in-course out-of-bounds stakes. Minimal bail out on a hole where driver is needed. The green is shared with the putting course, Flatstick. Great finishing hole.
Final Thoughts on the Club at Lac La Belle
The Club at Lac La Belle is a rising star. After its maturing period, the golf course will be a must-see for both locals and golfers visiting Wisconsin. The entire club is top notch venue with all the right amenities.
Visitors to the area will see Lac La Belle as a wonderful compliment to Erin Hills. Located a short 15 miles away, an Erin Hills plus Lac La Belle golf trip would be one worth planning.
Thanks for reading this golf course review – now go check out the Club at Lac La Belle. Highly recommended.
For more golf course reviews, check out GolfWisely.com or my Instagram.
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