Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth, Michigan, is set to debut its new Cardinal Golf Course on June 22, offering golf enthusiasts a top-tier experience alongside several other amenities. Renowned golf architect Raymond Hearn was tasked with redesigning the old 27-hole layout at what was formerly known as the Inn at St. John’s, located on the west side of Detroit. Hearn’s vision for the new 18-hole course aims to provide players with a unique and enjoyable experience on the property’s rolling landscape, drawing inspiration from classic courses by golf legends such as Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and Willie Park Jr.
The main layout of the Cardinal golf course has been carefully crafted to offer golfers a memorable and challenging round of golf, blending elements from iconic courses like the Old Course at Sunningdale in England. In addition to the main course, Hearn has also designed a seven-hole short course called Little Cardinal, which provides a fun and accessible option for players of all skill levels. The resort also features an 18-hole putting course themed after the famous Himalayas Putting Course in St. Andrews, Scotland, adding a unique and entertaining element to the golfing experience.
These new amenities at Saint John’s Resort are the first of their kind in the Detroit area, showcasing a commitment to providing diverse and engaging golf experiences for guests. Stan Witko, the executive director of golf at the resort, emphasizes that these attractions are designed to create a relaxed and fun environment that encourages newcomers to the game to participate, learn, and improve their skills. By offering alternative golf options and innovative facilities, Saint John’s Resort is setting a new standard for golf resorts in the region.
The property’s transformation, funded by the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation, includes significant renovations to the resort’s hotel, adding updated rooms, a 6,200-square-foot pavilion, a ballroom, and more. Following the donation of the property by the Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit in 2021, the resort has been rebranded as Saint John’s Resort, reflecting its new ownership and direction. With a $50-million investment in the property, the charitable foundation has committed to donating 100 percent of net proceeds to educational and humanitarian initiatives in Metro Detroit and beyond, showcasing a commitment to giving back to the community.
In conclusion, Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth, Michigan, is poised to become a premier destination for golf enthusiasts in the region, offering a range of top-tier amenities and innovative golf experiences. The new Cardinal Golf Course, designed by acclaimed architect Raymond Hearn, promises players a challenging and enjoyable round of golf on the picturesque landscape of the property. With unique additions like the Little Cardinal short course and the themed putting course, the resort is setting a new standard for golf offerings in the Detroit area, catering to players of all skill levels and preferences. Supported by the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation’s generous investment and commitment to philanthropy, Saint John’s Resort is not only a golfer’s paradise but also a beacon of support for educational and humanitarian causes in the community.
