Panther Lake Golf Course at Orange County National Golf Center is a somewhat remote world of virgin Florida wetlands, rolling meadows, old-growth native pines and lakes and many native species of birds and wildlife. Elevation changes over vast tracts of great natural beauty make the course not just an interesting challenge, but a visual delight. Consider also that there’s no development on or around the course – no homes – and you realize that Panther Lake is a rather special place in the Florida golfing world.
The Panther Lake course is an 18-hole, championship layout of 7,295 yards from the longest tees for a par of 72 . The course rating is 75.7 and the slope is 137. Designed by Phil Ritson/Dave Harman/Isao Aoki, the Panther Lake opened for play in 1997.
Every hole on Panther Lake is unique: gently sloping fairways are guarded by strategically placed fairway bunkers, trees and water hazards. The greens are large, elevated, well-guarded, undulating and often difficult to read.
The term “shot-maker’s course” is often over used; in this case, however, I think it’s appropriate. A good shot will be rewarded, a bad one penalized. Panther Lake is a quite a test: intimidating forced carries and risk-reward approaches can lead to birdies or bogeys. Four set of tees provide a variety of options and make for an enjoyable round whatever your age, gender or level of skill. From the three forward tees, the carries are much shorter, the angles more forgiving, and the landing areas more easily found. Panther Lake offers a memorable golfing experience. You’ll love it.
Green Fees: From $69 to $155, depending on the day of the week and month of the year.
- Orange County National - Golf Packages
Where to Stay: Orange Country National Golf Center Lodge
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How to get There:
The closest regional airport is Orlando International Airport. The airport is served by all major US airlines, including United, Delta, Continental, US Air, AirTran, American, and Northwest, and by Air Canada and major airlines from Europe and the United Kingdom.
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Contact:
Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge, 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden, Florida 34787: Phone: (407) 656.2626 (888) PAR.3672 Fax: (407) 656.4045
And don’t forget: there are many other opportunities for great golf all over the world. Favorite locations include Scotland, Florida, the American Southwest, Bermuda, the Bahamas and many more. For up-to-date golf travel news and information, be sure to Subscribe to my weekly Newsletter.
Central Florida offers an amazing diversity of golf courses and resorts to choose from. Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge is one I can personally recommend.
