Golf architect, Ray Hearn has created a beauty at Saint John’s Resort in Northville, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. Saint Johns is a former Catholic Seminary that was converted into a high-end lodging, dining and golf resort.
The Pulte Family Charitable Foundation purchased the resort several years ago and recently invested over $50 million in renovations and updates to make this one of the best resorts in the country.
Conveniently located between downtown Detroit and Ann Arbor, it is perfect for sports fans coming into southeast Michigan for the Tigers, Lions or even University of Michigan events.
Back 9 Report visited Saint John’s Resort last month and chatted with their Director of Golf, Nick Becks. Watch the full interview HERE.
There were 27 holes of golf available at Saint John’s, but Hearn ripped up the old holes and created a wonderful 18-hole championship course, a seven-hole par 3, plus the largest putting green in the state of Michigan.
“This new championship golf course, combined with the short course and putting course, creates the perfect golf entertainment venue for golfers of all abilities, golf groups, and families to enjoy together. The facility serves as a foundation for building a passion for the game and offers a welcoming entry point into the world of golf. Plus, 100% of the profits from the resort, including golf, goes to charity.”
The Cardinal presents an original experience with no two holes that look, or play alike. Hearn’s routing factors in elevation, wind, terrain, and scenic beauty for optimal shot values. The course also takes full advantage of the trees that frame many fairways to provide a classic design aesthetic from the golden age of golf course architecture.
“The land was a perfect setting for me to draw on my inspiration from previous Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and Willie Park Jr. projects and one of my favorite courses, The Old Course at Sunningdale by Willie Park Jr, which I implemented on both the championship course and the short course,” said Hearn. “Our goal was to create a fun golf experience. I believe we have achieved that, and then some, with this project.”
Also designed by Hearn, The Little Cardinal provides golfers with a variety of short shots. Ranging from 44 yards to 112 yards with names such as Punchbowl, Volcano, and Postage, the course provides a unique experience for all ages and abilities. The Cardinal Putting Course is 18 holes packed with challenges.
The resort also has a first-class driving range and practice facility, plus there is Carl’s Golfland retail shop and Trackman driving range on the premises.
Doyles Irish Pub, an authentic two-story Irish pub restaurant makes the perfect place for a pre-or post-round meal, or libation. Lodging options are all first class and Saint John’s can accommodate any size of group, or function.
Stay-and-play packages include resort credit to Doyles Irish Pub and FIVE Steakhouse, reduced fees on Little Cardinal, and unlimited access to The Cardinal Putting Course.
For more information, or to book your next golf getaway visit: SaintJohnsResort.com
