LENOX, Mass. – Wyndhurst Manor & Club is one of those places that’s not too well known outside the Northeast U.S., but it should be. Anchored by its Gilded Age Mansion, the resort here in western Massuchesetts is an outstanding destination for golfers and families who want to absorb life in a bygone era with all the modern amenities.
For example, Wyndhurst’s tree-lined golf course, designed in 1926 by Wayne Stiles and Jon Van Kleek, is the epitome of golf’s Golden Age. Contemporaries (and sometimes rivals) of legendary golf course architect Donald Ross, Stiles was the design half of the team while Van Kleek’s strength was primarily landscape design. The duo built its best-known course, Taconic Golf Club in Williamstown, MA., the year after they created The Golf Club at Wyndhurst Manor.
Wyndhurst currently is offering a “Stay & Play” package, through Oct. 31, 2021, for guests to experience the masterfully designed course and the tranquil splendor of the Berkshires. The package includes a two-night stay in one of Wyndhurst’s array of accommodations, including the Gilded-Age Mansion, historic Beechers Cottage, and the family-friendly Barnes, Griswold and McKinley Cottages; three rounds of golf; and 20 percent off golf lessons.
The golf course has contrasting nines. That is, the front being more secluded and accuracy dependent with small, sloped greens built on natural knobs, while the back nine is more open with larger more subtle greens that have been preserved since 1926. The design incorporates some of the main tendencies of the “signature” Stiles/Van Kleek style, including dramatic slopes of greens and contours from back to front.
“It makes for an engaging and challenging experience, navigating the course with tons of replay factor,’’ said Director of Golf Luke Salvatore. “Keeping the ball below the hole is absolutely paramount.’’
The Mansion embodies the Berkshires’ nickname, “Inland Newport.” Inside are 11 guestrooms inspired by the palatial estates of Berkshires’ heyday in the early 20th century. The 1894 restaurant sits on the main floor of the Mansion, which includes a lounge and rose terrace with views of the first and 18th holes, as well mountainous backdrop of the Berkshire hills.
The Mansion also features the music room with a fireplace, glass-walled tea room with white-washed brick walls, and private board room with a vaulted ceiling and inglenook fireplace. The Ballroom features a newly-added outdoor deck and plays hosts to weddings, meeting and other functions. An additional 35 guestrooms within cottages and suites dotted around the property grounds round out Wyndhurst Manor’s accommodations. Access to these historic amenities and the famed golf course attracts guests year-round.
Wyndhurst Manor was originally a 19th century mansion with land designed by Frederick Law Olmstead. It was later a prep school. Olmstead, who also designed New York’s Central Park and Village of Pinehurst, N.C., often worked with Stiles and Van Kleek.
The Golf Club at Wyndhurst Manor still has 13 original holes from the 1926 design. The other five holes were created and modified to stay in line with design elements and intent common to the original 13. The Mansion, which sits on the site of the new first tee and 18th green, serves as the backdrop of the start and completion of a round. Each guestroom is named after a famous New England artist, author or poet, such as Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost.
“We are receiving an incredible amount of interest for overnight stays in the coming months and are so thankful to our guests for their continued support,’’ said Wyndhurst General Manager Vic Cappadona. “We are also seeing a resurgence in golf, from guests who hadn’t picked up a club in years to families who are introducing spouses and children to the game due to an increase in time on their hands and the amazing life lessons the game can provide.’’
While the golf course is one of the main draws of Wyndhurst Manor & Club, the resort is centrally located from several attractions and renowned cultural institutions that are just minutes from the property. For example, art lovers can explore modern and classic art at institutions such as Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA) in North Adams and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Sturbridge. In even closer proximity, guests can experience world-class performances at the Tanglewood Music Center and Jacob’s Pillow.
“Wyndhurst Manor & Club is the perfect destination for exploration and immersion,’’ Cappadona said. “We offer the ideal experience for every type of traveler, from golfers to families and couples.’’
https://www.wyndhurstmanorandclub.com/
Photo Credits: James Baigrie
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