Looking for a great golf course in East Tennessee? Two come to mind: Rarity Bay Golf Course in Rarity Bay and Tanasi Golf Course in Tellico Village. Both are on the shores of Tellico Lake, which has great views, nice fairways, and challenging greens. But each has its personality. Let’s get into the details to help you decide which is for you.
Rarity Bay Golf Course
Rarity Bay Golf Course is part of a gated community with upscale homes and country club living. Designed by D.J. DeVictor and Peter Langham, it is an 18-hole, par 72 course on 150 acres of gently rolling terrain, perfect for all skill levels.
- 1996
- Challenging layout with elevation changes
- Tellico Lake and Smoky Mountain views
- Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways
- Full-service clubhouse with dining
The course winds through the area’s natural beauty, hills, valleys, and along the lake. It has narrow fairways and broader, more forgiving holes, so it’s never the same round.
What sets Rarity Bay apart?
Rarity Bay Golf Course is a luxury with a laid-back feel. The course has some forgiving holes and some that will test your precision and strategy—water hazards, sand traps, and tree-lined fairways present challenges but not at the expense of fun. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s what players like:
- The relaxed pace of play
- Nice fairways and greens
- Scenic views
- Modern practice facilities
- Membership options
Rarity Bay is tough to beat for golfers who want a high-end experience and many amenities. The community around the course has equestrian facilities, tennis courts, a pool, and access to boating on Tellico Lake. It’s perfect for those who want to combine golf with other activities.
Tanasi Golf Course
Tanasi Golf Course is one of three courses in Tellico Village. It was designed by Ault, Clark & Associates and opened in 1996. This par 72 course plays 6,731 yards and has a mix of short and long holes, so it’s varied from start to finish.
- 1996
- The course wraps around Tellico Lake
- Large undulating greens
- Bermuda grass fairways
- 18 holes with driving range and putting greens
Tanasi is known for its water features which come into play on many holes so you need to be accurate off the tee. The course is also famous for its large multi tiered greens that require skillful putting.
What sets Tanasi apart?
Tanasi has a more relaxed atmosphere than Rarity Bay, but that doesn’t mean the course is any less challenging. The course takes full advantage of the natural terrain, with several holes skirting Tellico Lake, so it’s beautiful and challenging.
What golfers like about Tanasi:
- Water in play on 10 holes
- Wide fairways but tricky greens
- Beautiful lake views throughout the course
- Fun layout with a good mix of hole lengths
- Great for all skill levels
The course has a laid-back atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The clubhouse has a restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking the course and lake so it’s a great place to hang out after your round.
Course Comparison: Rarity Bay vs Tanasi
While both courses offer a memorable golfing experience, they differ in several key areas. Here’s a quick look at how they stack up against each other.
| Feature | Rarity Bay Golf Course | Tanasi Golf Course |
|---|---|---|
| Opened | 1996 | 1996 |
| Course Designer | D.J. DeVictor & Peter Langham | Ault, Clark & Associates |
| Length | 6,765 yards | 6,731 yards |
| Par | 72 | 72 |
| Greens | Bentgrass | Bermuda |
| Layout | Rolling hills, lake views | Water hazards, lake views |
| Amenities | Full clubhouse, dining, pool, tennis | Driving range, restaurant |
| Atmosphere | Upscale, relaxed pace | Casual, fun layout |
Layout & Scenery
Both courses have great views of Tellico Lake but Rarity Bay has more elevation change so it’s a bit more challenging and beautiful. Tanasi is right on the lake with water hazards on many holes so it’s more difficult for those who are not accurate off the tee.
Greens & Fairways
Rarity Bay has bentgrass greens that are fast and true so it’s a favorite among those who like quicker greens. Tanasi has Bermuda greens, which are slower but still challenging due to the undulations.
Amenities & Extras
Rarity Bay is a full-service country club with many amenities, including a pool, tennis courts, and equestrian facilities. If you want a lifestyle that has it all, it’s got it. Tanasi keeps it simple and focuses on golf, but the on-site restaurant is a big plus for those who like to hang out after their round.
Which Course to Choose?
It all depends on what you’re looking for in a golf experience. Rarity Bay may be the way to go if you want a relaxed, upscale environment with great views and plenty of off-course activities. The mix of challenging and forgiving holes makes it perfect for all skill levels who want a high-end experience.
If you like a more casual, laid-back atmosphere with water hazards and big greens, Tanasi is a great round at a lower price. The mix of short and long holes keeps it interesting without being too tough.
Either way, you can’t lose. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these two courses on Tellico Lake will give you some great memories and, hopefully, a great card!