Reviewed by: Kimball, Shoot in the 90s, from Wakefield, MA USA

Summary:
I couldn't disagree with Bruce anymore if I tried, except for his comments about the greens being responsive, the tee boxes level and the fairways in excellent condition. I found the course spectacular, and at 6800 yard, plenty long enough. The greens are slick, (listen to the starter when he says everything slopes towards Vt!). According to their literature, Golf Digest named it the best course in NH. The view is one of the most amazing you will ever find on a golf course. Not a gimmee par 3 on the course either.

I have played it on numerous occasions and have always completed a round in between 4:00 - 4:15 hours. They seem to spread out the tee times to prevent back-ups on the course, or at least have whenever we have been there.

Customer Service:
The attendants were courteous, friendly and made us feel very welcome. The starter who was on when we went this most recent trip, Neil, bent over backwards to accomodate us when we arrived late due to traffic problems. The staff were anything but aloof.

Similar Courses Played:
As far as the food at the Balsams resort itself is concerned, our meals were absolutely top-notch, even the lunch time buffet, and I'm not a fan of buffets. The service in the dining rooms is what you would expect to find at a 4 star resort, first class all the way, attentive without falling all over you. The 18 hole putting green at the resort (the panorama course is actually about 1 1/2 miles from there)was a fun way to spend some time after those amazing meals.

Reviewed by: Bruce, Shoot in the 80s, from Bedford, NH USA

Summary:
One of the most hyped courses in the Northeast, and it 'ain't worth it. Maybe I'm just spoiled because I live in New Hampshire, and get all of the scenic beauty on a daily basis, but the Balsams only has the views going for it, for the most part. Other than that, it's no better than a decent Muni course. And don't forget, you will pay dearly for the experience.

Dixville Notch is way the heck up there in the middle of nowhere. So, of course you have to stay at the hotel, which is going to set you back about 500 to 600 bucks a day for two people. Some folks may like that, and the place is basically relaxing. It's modified American Plan, so everything is included (from meals to shuffleboard) including golf.

On the plus side, the course is very well maintained, and nicely groomed. The views extend for many miles. The weather is quite pleasant, tending toward the cool side. The greens are nicely rolled and responsive. Tee boxes are even, fairways well cut.

But the course isn't very long, so longer hitters like myself feel a bit cheated. The course isn't particularly challenging--they can talk about the Ross design, but, hey, this course wasn't the guy's greatest triumph. And you have carloads of high-handicappers (like REALLY high)who inevitably play ahead of you....so it's a long day, folks. Also, I like to walk, which they really frown upon at the Balsams (many hills).

If you want a resort atmosphere, you probably would like the Balsams. If your main concern is golf, though, look up some of the great public-access courses in Golf Digest (or here!)and spend your money that way.

Customer Service:
Tee times are easy; they have a captive audience. Staff at the Balsams is a bit aloof. I expect more brio from the staff for 600 bucks a day.

Similar Courses Played:
Food generally good, but not great (as it should be). Semi-formal attire for dinner.