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Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of New Preston, Connecticut, Lake Waramaug Country Club stands as a beacon of elegance and recreation. This esteemed club, located on the shores of the stunning Lake Waramaug, offers a sanctuary for those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty and luxurious amenities. With its rich history and pristine surroundings, Lake Waramaug Country Club invites members and guests alike to experience a world-class destination where the timeless allure of the countryside meets modern sophistication.

Lake Waramaug Country Club History and Founding

Lake Waramaug Country Club, located in New Preston, Connecticut, has a storied history that dates back to its founding in 1896. The club’s rich heritage and architectural charm are an integral part of its identity.

Founded by a group of enthusiastic and visionary individuals, Lake Waramaug Country Club was established as a private haven for those seeking recreation and relaxation in the idyllic Litchfield Hills region. The club’s founders were inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Waramaug and its surrounding landscapes, leading them to create a haven for golf enthusiasts and social gatherings.

The renowned architect, Seth Raynor, was instrumental in shaping the club’s initial design. Seth Raynor was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century golf course architecture, known for his innovative and strategic course layouts. He crafted Lake Waramaug Country Club’s golf course to harmonize seamlessly with the natural terrain, ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable playing experience for members and guests.

Over the years, Lake Waramaug Country Club has evolved while preserving its historic charm. It has become a cherished destination, offering a blend of golf, dining, and social experiences in a picturesque setting that pays homage to its founders’ vision and the architectural brilliance of Seth Raynor.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Lake Waramaug Country Club

There are several famous golf tournaments held at Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston, Connecticut. Here are a few of the most notable:

The Northeast Amateur: This prestigious amateur event has been held at Lake Waramaug since 1939. It is one of the most important amateur tournaments in the United States and has been won by many notable golfers, including Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Phil Mickelson.
The Evans Scholars Invitational: This invitational tournament is held annually to benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation, which provides full scholarships to deserving caddies. The tournament has been played at Lake Waramaug since 1982 and has been won by many notable golfers, including Lee Trevino, Tom Kite, and Fuzzy Zoeller.
The Connecticut Open: This professional tournament was held at Lake Waramaug from 1955 to 1965. It was one of the most important professional tournaments in the Northeast during that time and was won by many notable golfers, including Arnold Palmer, Billy Casper, and Doug Sanders.
The Lake Waramaug Invitational: This amateur invitational tournament has been held at Lake Waramaug since 1926. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious amateur tournaments in the Northeast and has been won by many notable golfers, including Francis Ouimet, Bobby Jones, and Ben Hogan.
The Apawamis-Lake Waramaug Interclub Match: This interclub match between the Apawamis Golf Club and the Lake Waramaug Country Club has been held annually since 1927. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious interclub matches in the United States.

In addition to these tournaments, Lake Waramaug Country Club also hosts a number of other smaller events throughout the year. The club is a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels and is known for its beautiful setting and challenging course.

Lake Waramaug Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

Unfortunately, due to the private nature of the club, Lake Waramaug Country Club does not publicly disclose its membership fees. However, based on publicly available information and rumors, here are some estimated ranges for membership costs and dues:

Initiation Fee: $50,000 – $100,000

Annual Dues: $15,000 – $25,000

Monthly Dues: $1,250 – $2,000

These are just estimates, and the actual costs may vary depending on several factors, such as the type of membership, the applicant’s age, and the current waitlist.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

The initiation fee is a one-time payment that is required of all new members.
Annual dues are paid on an annual basis to cover the cost of operating the club.
Monthly dues are paid in addition to annual dues, and cover the cost of maintaining the course and other facilities.
There may also be additional fees, such as food and beverage minimums, cart fees, and locker fees.

Lake Waramaug Country Club Amenities

Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston, Connecticut, offers a range of amenities and facilities to enhance the experience of its members. While specific amenities may evolve, here are some common amenities you might find at a country club like Lake Waramaug:

Golf Course: Lake Waramaug Country Club is primarily known for its beautifully designed golf course. Members have access to a challenging and well-maintained golf course that provides a scenic backdrop of Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse typically serves as the central hub of social activities at the club. It may include dining areas, lounges, and event spaces where members can gather for meals, special events, and socializing.
Dining Facilities: Country clubs often offer dining options ranging from casual to fine dining. Members can enjoy meals in a club restaurant, bar, or outdoor patio with scenic views.
Tennis Courts: Many country clubs, including Lake Waramaug, may have tennis courts where members can enjoy recreational play or participate in tennis programs and tournaments.
Swimming Pool: A swimming pool is a common feature at many country clubs, providing a refreshing place for members to relax and cool off during the summer months.
Social Events: Lake Waramaug Country Club typically hosts a variety of social events and activities throughout the year, such as holiday parties, themed dinners, and member tournaments.
Pro Shop: The club’s pro shop usually offers a range of golf merchandise, equipment, and apparel for members to purchase.
Fitness Center: Some country clubs may have fitness facilities with exercise equipment and fitness classes to help members stay active and healthy.
Boating and Water Activities: Given its location on Lake Waramaug, the club may offer members access to boating and water-related activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing.
Private Events: Lake Waramaug Country Club may be available for private events, including weddings, corporate meetings, and special celebrations, with event planning and catering services.

Lake Waramaug Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Lake Waramaug Country Club offers a variety of events and celebrations that members can enjoy throughout the year. While specific events may vary from year to year, here are some common types of events and celebrations that you can typically experience at a country club like Lake Waramaug:

Golf Tournaments: Golf enthusiasts can participate in a range of golf tournaments and competitions. These may include member tournaments, charity events, and special golf outings.
Holiday Parties: Lake Waramaug Country Club often hosts holiday-themed parties and celebrations. Members can gather to celebrate occasions such as New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving with festive dinners and entertainment.
Themed Dinners: The club may organize themed dining events where members can enjoy specially curated menus and entertainment. Themes might include an Italian night, a seafood buffet, or a barbecue cookout.
Social Mixers: Social mixers provide opportunities for members to socialize and get to know each other better. These events may include cocktail parties, wine tastings, and casual gatherings.
Member Appreciation Events: Clubs often hold events to show appreciation to their members. This could include special dinners, member-exclusive parties, or recognition ceremonies.
Private Celebrations: Members can host their private celebrations at the club, such as weddings, anniversary parties, birthdays, and corporate events. The club’s event staff can assist with planning and catering for these occasions.
Live Music and Entertainment: Lake Waramaug Country Club may bring in live bands, musicians, or entertainers for special events and evenings of entertainment.
Family Events: Some events are designed to be family-friendly, with activities for both adults and children, like family brunches or outdoor picnics.
Golf Clinics and Lessons: For those looking to improve their golf skills, the club may offer golf clinics and lessons conducted by golf professionals.
Charity and Fundraising Events: The club may participate in or host charity golf tournaments or fundraisers for local causes and organizations.

Lake Waramaug Country Club typically offers a range of dining options to cater to the tastes and preferences of its members and guests. While specific menus and offerings may vary, here are some common dining options you can expect to find at the club:

Clubhouse Dining: The main clubhouse often features a dining room where members can enjoy a variety of culinary offerings. This dining area may offer both casual and fine dining options for lunch and dinner.
Bar and Lounge: Many country clubs have a bar and lounge area where members can relax, socialize, and enjoy cocktails, wine, and beer. It’s a comfortable space for members to unwind after a round of golf or social events.
Outdoor Dining: Depending on the season and weather, Lake Waramaug Country Club may provide outdoor dining options. Members can dine alfresco on patios or terraces, taking in scenic views of the golf course and Lake Waramaug.
Special Dining Events: The club may host special dining events and culinary experiences. These events can include wine tastings, themed dinners, chef’s tasting menus, and other unique dining experiences.
Private Dining Rooms: For more intimate gatherings or special occasions, private dining rooms may be available. These rooms often offer personalized menus and attentive service for private events.
Sunday Brunch: Some country clubs offer Sunday brunch as a popular dining option, allowing members to enjoy a leisurely meal with family and friends.
Snack Bars or Grill Rooms: In addition to formal dining, the club may have snack bars or grill rooms, which provide a more casual atmosphere and offer lighter fare such as sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Catering Services: Lake Waramaug Country Club may offer catering services for private events and functions. Members can work with the club’s catering team to plan and customize menus for weddings, parties, and corporate gatherings.

Lake Waramaug Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Lake Waramaug Country Club, like most private country clubs, typically has a dress code and guest policy in place to maintain a certain level of decorum and uphold the club’s standards. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Dress Code:

Golf Course: Members and guests playing golf are often required to adhere to a specific dress code. Common requirements include collared shirts for men, golf-appropriate shorts or slacks, and golf shoes with soft spikes. T-shirts, denim, and athletic shorts may be prohibited.
Clubhouse: Inside the clubhouse, a business casual or smart-casual dress code is often expected. This typically means collared shirts, dress shoes, and neat, presentable attire. Some areas of the clubhouse may have more formal dress requirements, such as a jacket and tie.
Pool and Outdoor Areas: Swimwear is typically appropriate around the pool and outdoor areas. However, cover-ups and proper footwear may be required when leaving these areas and entering the clubhouse.
Special Events: For special dining events, themed dinners, or formal gatherings, the club may have specific dress codes that require more formal attire, such as cocktail dresses or jackets for men.

Guest Policy:

Guest Privileges: Lake Waramaug Country Club often allows members to bring guests to the club. However, the specific guest policy, including the number of guests allowed, guest fees, and guest registration procedures, can vary. Members should check with the club for the most current guest policy.
Sponsored Guests: Guests are typically required to be sponsored by a club member. This means that a member must accompany and vouch for their guests during their visit.
Reservations: Reservations may be required for guests, particularly for dining or special events. Members are usually responsible for making reservations on behalf of their guests.
Etiquette: Members are usually expected to ensure that their guests adhere to the club’s rules, dress code, and etiquette standards while on the club premises.

Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston, Connecticut, stands as an oasis of refined recreation, where members can enjoy the pristine beauty of the Litchfield Hills region while partaking in a host of amenities and activities. With its beautifully designed golf course, elegant clubhouse, and commitment to upholding time-honored traditions, Lake Waramaug Country Club offers a haven for those seeking not only sporting excellence but also a strong sense of community. Whether it’s a round of golf, a fine dining experience, or a memorable social event, this club provides a respite from the ordinary and a warm welcome to its members and guests alike.

Lake Waramaug Country Club New Preston CT | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting