Central Florida’s golf scene has seen a significant transformation with the success of Streamsong, and now High Grove, an ultra-exclusive private club in Venus, seeks to further redefine the region’s golf potential. With 36 holes designed by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner of Hanse Golf Design, High Grove will be limited to 250 members and is the latest project from Ryan Hanks, Colin Sheehan, and Bert Guy, who have developed several other prominent golf clubs in recent years.
Construction of High Grove is set to begin in December 2024, with a grand opening planned for November 2025. The courses will be situated on over 1,200 acres of citrus groves that sit atop large sand dunes, offering 60-70 feet of elevation change. Hanse and Wagner have expressed their excitement about the natural site of High Grove, which is centrally located just two hours away from major hubs like Orlando, Tampa, Naples, and Jupiter.
The unique tumbling topography of High Grove is a result of its location on the southern end of the Lake Wales Ridge, an ancient sand dune that provides the designers with plenty of options. The sand-based soil will allow for firm course conditions, similar to the characteristic of many of Hanse and Wagner’s finest designs. With director of golf Scott Nye from Merion G.C. and director of agronomy Frank O’Rourke on board, the club has assembled a lineup of elite talent to deliver an understated luxury experience.
High Grove aims to provide an escape for its members with rustic facilities, including 54 rooms and a modern clubhouse. The two courses, measuring 7,100 and 6,500 yards respectively, will be walking only with a caddie program available. Hanse has described the key word for both greens and bunkers as ‘unpredictable’, aligning with the essence of links golf. The club anticipates that most members will use High Grove as a destination club, staying for one or two nights to enjoy the unique golf experience.
The rise of Central Florida as an elite golf destination has been surprising to many, but High Grove is set to redefine perceptions of the region. With its spectacular natural site, talented design team, and luxurious facilities, High Grove promises to elevate the golfing experience in Central Florida. The club’s commitment to delivering a world-class golf experience paired with a serene getaway for its members sets it apart as a destination that will surely attract avid golfers looking for a unique and challenging course.
