Manistee National Golf and Resort

As any golf enthusiast can tell you, Northern Michigan is home to some of the most picturesque golf courses and resorts anywhere in the country. And no discussion regarding the best of what the state has to offer would be complete without a mention of Manistee National Golf and Resort in Manistee.

Manistee National's stunning grounds and exquisite amenities augment the resort's two newly renamed golf courses, The Revenge and The Retreat, that offer two opposing styles of play.

The road to The Revenge goes through a tunnel underneath US-31, and the hope is you return to that tunnel unscathed after 18. Though every bit as beautiful and well-kept as its sister The Retreat, The Revenge requires a completely different approach to the game, focused on precision and accuracy. Playing just over 6,600 yards from the back set of tees, The Revenge is one of the most sought-after courses in Michigan for those low-handicappers with something to prove. Since its opening in 2000, this brilliant Jerry Matthews design has only gotten better with age — and the recent improvements in tree management and drainage.

The more relaxed vibe at The Retreat is visible right from the first tee as you eye a line down No. 1's generous fairway (mind the newly placed dune on the left). The Retreat is the kind of creative layout that will both challenge the low-handicap players in your group and also provide high handicappers many opportunities for a magical hole. Measuring a reasonable 6,500 yards from the back set of tees (of which there are four), the landing areas here are very friendly and with only a few forced carries. However, players would do well to remember that the primary defense of The Retreat is arrayed around its moderately sized greens: which are well-guarded by ponds, marshes, strategically placed trees, and numerous bunkers.

After your round (or even in between) The Grille at Manistee National is the place to be. The staff is friendly and inviting, and they're serving up an inventive menu featuring both classic fare and upscale creations made fresh and, of course, your favorite cold beverages.

Whether you prefer a focused approach at The Revenge or the generous fairways of The Retreat, whether you play sun-up to sun-down or take the day to relax by the pool, the all-encompassing hospitality of Manistee National Golf and Resort awaits.