Hole-by-Hole Tour of FarmLinks, Alabama's Top Golf Course

The FarmLinks at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, Alabama, isn't just a golf course - it's a top level golfing experience draped in the rich history of the American South that offers a unique story at every turn. 

‍

Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, FarmLinks, since its inception in 2003, has been a testament to golfing excellence. In this article we will take a look into some of the most iconic holes that make this course a staple of Alabama golf.

The Farm - Hole 1 - Par 5

The opening hole, known as 'The Farm', sets the tone for a golfing experience that's both challenging and immersive. This expansive par 5 offers players a generous fairway, making it an ideal start to the round.

Sawmill - Hole 2 - Par 4

This hole's name harkens back to the days when the Eureka Railroad passed through the property, picking up lumber from the land rich in minerals, hardwoods, and pines. A small spring near the green, once used in sawmill operations, adds to the hole's historical charm​​.

Baby Rattler - Hole 3 - Par 4

An encounter with a baby rattlesnake on the Copperhead tee in 2012 gives this hole its name. This incident adds an element of the unexpected to the course, blending the wildness of nature with the game of golf​​.

Lower 40 - Hole 4 - Par 4

Recognized as the #1 handicap hole, the Lower 40 stretches 426 yards from the Whitetail Tees. The true challenge lies in navigating the creek that crosses the fairway. Golfers will find this hole requires a great swing off the tee, but more importantly, precision with their irons, fairway woods or hybrids.

Hang Time - Hole 5 - Par 3

The signature hole of The FarmLinks, Hang Time is a marvel of golf course design. Boasting a 172-foot vertical drop from the tee to the green, this par 3 is as breathtaking as it is unique, offering a truly unforgettable golfing moment right off the tee.

Bootlegger - Hole 6 - Par 5

This hole has a hidden historical angle, with the woods off the fairway once housing whiskey stills during prohibition. Even today, remnants of these stills can be found, connecting golfers to a bygone era of American history​​.

Big Daddy - Hole 7 - Par 4

Marked by an old tire swing, this section of the course tells a story of the past. The Big Daddy is as much about its beautiful landscape as it is about the challenge it presents to avid golfers from around the world.

Back It Up- Hole 8 - Par 3

Inspired by Black Diamond Ranch in Florida, this challenging par 3 at Pursell Farms is a long, downhill hole that's both open and inviting. While many may miss the green with a longer club, the design offers a fair chance to chip up and make par. Initially, the tee complex was closer to the green, but David wisely moved it back, reminding players that appearances can be deceiving; choose your club carefully.

‍

‍

Desoto - Hole 9 - Par 4

Named after the explorer Hernando DeSoto, this hole has quite the history. It's believed that DeSoto and his men camped in these woods in 1540, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your round.

Christine - Hole 10 - Par 5

Named after Lake Christine and the grand matriarch of the Pursell family, this hole challenges you right from the tee box. David Pursell’s mother, Chris, known for her enforcing presence, symbolizes the caution this lake demands; don't let your guard down or become overly confident.

Lonely Pine - Hole 11 - Par 4

Characterized by a solitary pine tree in the middle of the fairway, similar to Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe, the Lonely Pine is both a natural beauty and a challenge to golfers aiming for a clear shot.

Eureka Railroad- Hole 12 - Par 4

The Eureka train tracks once traversed this property at the turn of the 20th century, named for the pure white marble they transported. You can still see traces of the track bed, which ran from the northeast side of the green, through the right greenside bunker, and straight toward the office building visible to the south.

Go For It- Hole 13 - Par 4

Not much to say about this hole. We call it our "just do it" hole due to the thick patches of rough you'll need to clear midway.

Swap- Hole 14- Par 4

Hole #14 brings you to our low-country, featuring the most level terrain on the course. To your left lies Pennywinkle Creek, home to a variety of Southern wildlife. If your ball strays into the woods on the left, we recommend leaving it; enjoy your round and return home safely.

Showcase - Hole 15 - Par 3

This hole is notable for featuring a special Bermuda grass that requires minimal maintenance. It's a testament to FarmLinks’ commitment to innovative golf course management.

Dana's Pick- Hole 16 - Par 4

Dana Fry, a partner architect from the Hurdzan-Fry team, loved this hole, and we think you will too. The fairway is visually appealing but beware of cutting too much towards the green, as the right side falls off and the fairway bunker is perfectly positioned.

Big Gulp - Hole 17 - Par 3 

The beauty of this par 3 is accentuated by the presence of Parker Lodge in the backdrop and the water hazard that lies in front. Although not overly long at 145 yards, it demands accuracy and focus.

Orchards - Hole 18 - Par 5 

Years ago, before the golf course existed, this vast land was a sprawling orchard of apple and other fruit trees. Hamilton Place, the original farmhouse owned by the family and built before the Civil War, stands stately just across the road from the tee box.

‍

‍

Stay and Play Packages at Pursell Farms

The FarmLinks is only one aspect of Pursell Farms. We offer Stay and Play Packages that are perfect for the golf enthusiast, their family, friends, corporate associates and clients. With four different types of accommodation, we offer something for every occasion - and all packages include premium tee times on the course.

‍

The Inn - A picture of Alabama charm, this accommodation offers 40 rooms that sleep 2 to 4 people, a stone's throw from the FarmLinks Golf Club.

‍

Cabins & Cottages: Ideal for golf loving families or groups. These stand alone units offer everything you need to live in comfort and style - perfect for rest and recuperation after a day on the links.

‍

The Parker Lodge - Bolstering 14,000 square feet of Southern opulence, Parker Lodge has everything you need and more for larger golf groups and gatherings such as weddings, corporate events or team building retreats - and tops it off with a fantastic view of the 17th hole.

‍

The Hamilton House - For those looking for more than a vacation filled with amazing rounds on the links, The Historic Hamilton house offers a fully immersive experience into the history of the American South.

‍

The Orvis® Farm House - Originally constructed in 1830, this incredible relic of Alabama history is ready to welcome you into its fully restored glory. The house features everything you would expect from a luxury escape into the American Heartland.

Dining, Amenities and Activities

At Pursell Farms, we offer the full 5 star experience. From our excellent dining options at The Founders Pub, Arrington and the Clubhouse Grille to the full service Spring House Spa and the Orvis® shooting grounds featuring a number of sporting activities - you will be able to take it all in on the ultimate getaway.

‍

Whether you are creating the ideal corporate retreat, planning a wedding in unique style or simply want to get away from it all and hit the links - Pursell Farms has what you are looking for. 

‍Contact us today to book your dream golfing getaway!