There’s something special about playing golf on tribal land. There’s a spirituality emanating from the surroundings and it’s evident that land holds a sacred spot in the culture. But don’t be overly reverential, because some divots will have to be taken as you traverse the fairways at Journey at Pechanga, a wonderful Arthur Hills design that opened in 2008 in Temecula. The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians hired Hills to carve a course with environmental responsibility, and the architect came through. The panoramic vistas, rock outcroppings, stately oak trees and mountain edging one side of the course provide drama and relaxation during the round. A golfer’s day begins, appropriately enough, at The Beginning Place, a 520-yard, par-5 opening hole that provides a great shot at birdie. The end comes at Eagle Nest, a 440-yard, par-4 finishing hole that concludes with one of the most unique greens in the region. The holes are bookends to – what else? – a remarkable journey. Visit journeyatpechanga.com.
COURSE OF THE MONTH: Journey at Pechanga
