The nine-hole Sweetens Cove golf course in Tennessee, ranked as the best public-access course in the state, has exciting plans for expansion in collaboration with Reef Capital Partners. The new additions will include a par-3 course, stay-and-play cabins, a putting green, a fishing dock, a skeet range, a restaurant, and a distillery at the laid-back facility located in South Pittsburg, just a short drive from Chattanooga. These groundbreaking plans are set to be announced in the coming months.
After a challenging 2024, during which the course had to be closed for several months for repairs due to damage caused by harsh winter weather, Sweetens Cove has reopened this fall with new grass that has grown in well. The layout is expected to return to its signature fiery and bouncy playing conditions in 2025 following the successful restoration of the greens and fairways. Additionally, the masterplan for expansion at Sweetens Cove includes a range of new amenities and facilities to enhance the overall experience for visitors.
Sweetens Cove offers a unique golf experience different from traditional courses with its all-day passes instead of tee times, relaxed dress code, and vibrant atmosphere. Operators have been keen on maintaining the facility’s distinctive charm while adding new features that will make every visit even more memorable. The new partnership with Reef Capital Partners aims to preserve the energy and simplicity that sets Sweetens Cove apart while introducing exciting offerings like Sweetens at Night, exceptional food and drinks, and more activities for guests to enjoy.
Opened in 2015 on the site of a former golf course, Sweetens Cove quickly gained popularity among golf enthusiasts and has earned a spot among Golfweek’s Best as one of the top 100 modern courses in the U.S. The course was designed by Tad King and Rob Collins, who have since taken over operations and management of the facility from its founding family. Notable investors, including sports stars Peyton Manning and Andy Roddick, have supported Sweetens Cove and the planned small-batch distillery named after the course.
Reef Capital Partners, known for its successful development of Black Desert Resort in Utah and Marcella Deer Valley, has a bold vision for the expansion of Sweetens Cove. The partnership with Reef Capital will bring significant enhancements to the facility, including a unique par-3 short course that offers flexibility and creativity in play. With a focus on maintaining the special character of Sweetens Cove while enhancing the guest experience, the expansion aims to meet the high demand for tee times while ensuring a quality and enjoyable visit for all guests.
Sweetens Cove’s popularity and unique appeal have led to high demand for tee times, with passes selling out quickly each year. The golf course, designed by King-Collins Golf Design, has attracted attention for its architecture and atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for golfers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. The expansion plans, while ambitious, are set to maintain the distinctive culture of Sweetens Cove and provide an even more exceptional experience for visitors while keeping the focus on quality and limited daily passes to preserve the special charm that people love about the facility.
