On a recent trip to South Carolina, I decided to break the drive up by stopping in Virginia. It was a beautiful early spring day, so I took a short detour off Interstate 81 to stop at The Schoolhouse Nine in Sperryville.
Experience the tranquil beauty of Rappahannock County, nestled in the shadow of Old Rag and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Schoolhouse Nine Website
The unique design features nine challenging par-3 holes, ranging in length from 85-171 yards. The course meanders through a series of native wildflower meadows bordered by the Thornton River and the historic ruins of the original Smoot Tannery.
Schoolhouse Nine Website
The Schoolhouse Nine opened in July of 2015, as the first and only course in Rappahannock County, Virginia. The architect, Mike McCartin, designed the course to show off its beautiful surroundings and provide an inclusive, architecturally interesting, and – most importantly – fun experience for golfers of all ages and abilities.
Schoolhouse Nine Website
While it was a very nice day, it was too early for wildflowers. The Pro shop was under construction as well as a pub and other shops in what was the old schoolhouse. The green fees were $15 for unlimited play, a pretty good bargain. Just grab a push cart and go.
The course is all par 3s, in an out-and-back routing. The condition of the tees was a little spotty. There were no real fairways to speak of, but with all short holes, that was no big deal. The greens however were surprisingly good, smooth, fast, and had a fair amount of slope.
The first three were all of medium length. Hole #4 is a little shorter but plays a little uphill.
Holes 5,6 and 7 are short holes that are bunched together on the back edge of the course.
Holes #8 and #9 are the two longest holes heading back to the clubhouse. You can see to the side where the wildflowers grow in the summer. In the background are the Blue Ridge Mountains containing Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park. Luray Caverns are just up the very winding road.
Alas, I couldn’t stay and play more as I had miles to go before I slept. I thoroughly enjoyed my loop around The Schoolhouse Nine. Unpretentious and fun, that is right up my alley. I hope my travels let me return on another day.
Nine is Fine 