With more than 1,250 golf courses, there’s a reason Florida has claimed the title of, “the golf capital of the world.” While each course offers its own set of unique challenges and impressive scenery, standing out in such a crowded landscape is no small feat.

That’s a challenge that Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor has willingly (and successfully) taken on. Although the resort has been around since 1970 — originally named the Golfview Inn and Club — it has undergone multiple renovations and expansions through the years to continue standing out as a premier golf destination. With its acquisition by the Salamander Hotels & Resorts in 2007, Innisbrook stepped up its game even further and secured its status as a must-visit luxury destination. Offering more than 900 acres of rolling parkland and native wetlands, it is both serene and breathtaking, providing the perfect place to decompress from the cares of everyday living.

GOLF LIKE A CHAMPION

With four championship courses, golf is clearly the name of the game here. Each course offers a distinctive experience, and each is worth exploring. Of course, the most famous course is the Larry Pack- ard-designed Copperhead Course, which opened in 1974.

Leveraging the natural rolling terrain of the area, the Copperhead Course’s unexpected elevation changes add a unique challenge to the game. But that’s just the beginning; pine trees line the fairways, and the course is dotted with lakes and ponds that provide plenty of strategically placed water hazards.

The 16th hole, nicknamed “The Moccasin,” is a par-4 that has earned the reputation of being the course’s most difficult. It also is the first of three holes that, combined, are known as “The Snake Pit,” where players’ skills are put to the test and championships can be won or lost.

Since the inception of The Valspar Championship in 2000, Copperhead has hosted the event and the course is rightfully considered one of the toughest on the PGA Tour. So, there’s no reason not to go see for yourself just how challenging it can be.

A TRIO OF FUN

While the Copperhead Course grabs much of the spotlight, the other Packard-designed courses at Innisbrook Golf Resort each merit a day (or more) of play.

If you want to play the OG, head to the Island Course, which opened with the resort in 1970. The flagship course set the stage for Innisbrook to build its reputation as a world-class golfing destination and is best known for its picturesque views and beautiful natural surroundings.

Don’t be fooled by its beauty, however; this is a demanding course that features tight fairways, an abundance of intimidating water hazards, and extreme elevation changes to give players a run for their money. It has been played by some of the best, having hosted many U.S. Open qualifiers and NCAA Championships.

The North Course, also referred to as the “Baby Copperhead,” offers some of the same challenges but on a smaller scale. The par-70 course demands strategy and precision, as its narrow fairways are lined with cypress and pine trees. It also features water hazards on 11 holes and well-bunkered greens just to add to the fun. While more relaxed than the other two courses, it still offers plenty of challenges.

The South Course is slightly longer than the North, with a par of 71, and is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Its rolling terrain and abundance of fairway bunkers give it a links-style feel, and the breezes from the Gulf of Mexico bring a dynamic element to the mix.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Although Innisbrook Golf Resort is most renowned for its courses, it also offers a variety of other activities and amenities to appeal to all interests. Its six swimming pools include the Loch Ness Monster Pool, which, with its water slides and sandy beach area is perfect for a day of family fun.

Fitness enthusiasts will be delighted by the state-of-the-art fitness center, where you can enjoy a fitness class including Pilates, yoga, and aqua aerobics, play a game of basketball or volleyball, or enjoy the tennis courts. You can also explore the diverse flora and fauna on the resort by hiking one of its many nature trails.

For complete relaxation, the Salamander Spa provides soothing and restorative treatments and therapies for the body as well as hair and nail treatments.

To round out the perfect experience, Innisbrook offers several on-site restaurants with diverse and delightful selections. At Packard’s Steakhouse — named after the golf courses’ architect — you can relax into a warm, upscale environment with a recently updated menu. From traditional choices like petit filet mignon to new creations with an innovative twist, the restaurant serves up culinary surprises at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A more casual experience is found at the Market Salamander Grille, where a variety of American classics provide a well-rounded menu. And, when it’s time for a cocktail or glass of wine, the Osprey Bar has everything you’re looking for, while the Turnberry Pub’s relaxed environment is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal or drink.

Innisbrook Golf Resort, 36750 US Hwy 19 N, Palm Harbor, Florida, (727) 942-2000, innisbrookgolfresort.com