Central Oregon Golf – Best 19th Holes
The 19th hole is to golf like a period is to a sentence. Without it no round is complete. Golf owns no greater ritual than a post-round swapping of stories while sharing a favorite beverage (may we recommend a Central Oregon craft beer) with a good friend. The Central Oregon Golf Trail knows this well, with watering holes that range from the luxurious to the historical. Spectacular views off in the distance are a nice bonus, too.
Aspen Lakes’ Brand 33 Bar and Restaurant is ensconced in a clubhouse that by design feels like a hunting lodge. And views of the snowcapped peaks, either from the terrace or through the floor-to-ceiling windows, will surely brighten a round … no matter the score.
Recently remodeled, Robert’s Pub (named after Robert Muir Graves, Big Meadow architect and local legend) offers a vast selection of local beers, Northwest wines, full bar and an outdoor terrace seating area with unmatched mountain views just off the first tee and 18th green.
The Sandbagger Saloon is a local institution that feels as much like a western-themed neighborhood bar as a 19th hole. Of course, it is a bit of both. Inexpensive eats and a laid-back atmosphere fit perfectly at Crooked River Ranch, a favorite among bargain-hunting golfers.
The patio reveals how The View Restaurant got its name. Just steps away from the ninth and 18th greens and with the Cascade Range towering off in the distance, golfers can share the great shots from a round at Juniper, one of Central Oregon’s toughest tests of golf.
Owner Brian Whitcomb, a Bend local who served as the PGA of America, displays a literal treasure trove of one-of-a-kind golf artifacts. Autographed menus from champions dinners at some of pro golf’s most prestigious events and Paul Azinger’s power cart from the 2008 Ryder Cup are just two examples of why Lost Tracks pairs golf history and the 19th hole like none other.
Resting in Pronghorn’s luxurious clubhouse, Cascada is a casual bistro and lounge. Whether resting in a plush leather chair or outside on the wraparound deck taking in the panoramic mountain views, there are few more comfortable places to share a post-round drink.
With local beers on tap and a casual menu, Bogey’s Cafe boasts a modest interior. But the River’s Edge clubhouse is perched high on Awbrey Butte in Bend, and the surrounding deck happens to offer one of the most spectacular city views that can be found.
Sunriver Resort’s Main Lodge has long been the center of the sprawling resort. And in May, golfers will be able to relax post-round in a brand new lounge – the Twisted River Tavern. Formerly the popular “Owl’s Nest,” Twisted River will give golfers a bird’s eye view of the Meadows Course while offering an unobstructed look at majestic Mount Bachelor.
Tetherow’s ultramodern The Row has become a local favorite, even among nongolfers. Yes, it has the local brews and food – like ghost pepper hot wings – that any visitor craves. The pub is also set high above the spectacular links course, overlooking the first tee and driving range against a backdrop of the Cascades. Several TVs always have on sports too.