Disclaimer: CountryClubMag.com is an independent resource and is not associated with any of the clubs on this website. Club initiation and membership cost information are estimates only and should not be relied upon for making club membership decisions.
If you’re seeking a club to enjoy during the shoulder or winter seasons, consider Briggs Ranch Golf Club. It’s situated in the serene Texas Hill Country just half an hour away from downtown San Antonio.
With its captivating course, well-furnished amenities, and distinctive cuisine, Briggs Ranch stands as an exceptional destination catering to both golf enthusiasts and groups of any size.
Let’s dive into the details of the club including its history and amenities!
Historical Background
Originally opened in 2001, the course boasts Zeon Zoysia fairways that provide an impeccable playing surface. Encompassing 260 acres, with 100 acres dedicated to constructing the course, it was designed by Tom Fazio, with contributions from Beau Welling and Dennis Wise.
Local San Antonio golf figures Bill Rogers and Buddy Cool also offered their insights. Nestled in the Hill Country on land that once served as a ranch, Fazio meticulously shaped the natural hills to craft a dynamic golf course.
Highlighted by undulating bent grass greens and lush Zeon Zoysia fairways, which are unique in Texas, the course is conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio, yet surprisingly shielded from the city’s clamor and distractions.
One potential oversight was the decision to incorporate bent grass greens, which struggle to endure the year-round heat exceeding 100 degrees for extended periods, leading to noticeable greens distress.
In June of 2017, Hana Golf acquired Briggs Ranch, integrating it into The Dormie Network. At the time, this upscale gated community and club was possibly facing challenges despite possessing a highly regarded golf course and facilities.
Fast forward four years, the growth of greater San Antonio has shifted westward rather than northward, resulting in the addition of schools, restaurants, and shops to accommodate the expanding population.
Those residing within the confines of Briggs Ranch’s gates have likely seen favorable returns on their investment, as The Dormie Network continues to develop the club’s cottages and infrastructure while enhancing the golf course.
Having reached its two-decade milestone, the course displays signs of certain green sizes being reduced due to mowing patterns. From tee to green, the course is excellently maintained.
It’s anticipated that The Dormie Network will address the greens’ condition, ensuring year-round playability, even if transitioning to Bermuda grass is necessary.
Briggs Ranch Fame
Even for the genial Briggs Ranch course, challenges exist.
Members widely agree that the opening hole presents the most difficulty. Holes #2 and #13 further solidify their reputation as the network’s most daunting in Texas, while #4, #6, #10, and #17 consistently win favor among golfers.
However, there’s no need to solely rely on their assessment. Briggs Ranch Golf Club has accumulated numerous accolades, including being ranked #21 Best Course in Texas (Golf Digest, 2021) and attaining 4th Best New Course (Golf Digest) upon its launch in 2002.
Membership Information and Estimated Costs
Among the exclusive options, Briggs Ranch Golf Club stands as the first and sole $10 million project in San Antonio, designed by Tom Fazio, with an initiation fee exceeding an estimated cost of $50,000, limited to a membership of 300 individuals.
As Briggs Ranch Golf Club is part of the Dormie Network, you’ll have to become a member of the network to gain access to the seven country clubs that are part of the Dormie network.
The Dormie Network introduces a distinctive private membership experience that offers pure golf across various destinations in the country.
Challenging the conventional country club model, Dormie Network provides seasonal chef-prepared cuisine, specialty cocktails, sommelier-selected wines, and luxurious en-suite cottages.
With expansion plans in the pipeline, Dormie Network is committed to enhancing member value by adding more travel opportunities and amenities. Every acquired club has undergone, or is undergoing, significant renovations and construction, ensuring a minimum of 60 beds on-site.
With only 18 daily tee times spaced at least 15 minutes apart, the golf experience guarantees leisurely play and superb turf conditions year-round. Members enjoy full privileges at all affiliated clubs, devoid of cart fees or reciprocal play arrangements.
To inquire about membership details, you can go to the Dormie Network’s official site and fill up a form.
Diverse Amenities
The clubhouse at Briggs Ranch, infused with distinct Texan elements like Spanish-style tiling and terra-cotta roofing, offers versatile dining and event spaces suitable for gatherings of all sizes, including several other amenities.
Exquisite Dining
At Briggs Ranch Golf Club, dining transcends into an experience of its own. The club’s restaurant showcases a menu that pays homage to the flavors of Texas, utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
From signature Texas-style barbecue to innovative cocktails, the culinary offerings at Briggs Ranch are a treat not to be missed.
The main dining area accommodates up to 40 guests, while the Mixed Grill dining space at the rear seats up to 35.
A delightful surprise awaits—nestled near the entrance is a bourbon bar boasting a collection of over 40 rare liquors. The wine room houses the Chef’s Table Experience, complete with a fireplace and seating for 8. The expansive outdoor terrace, particularly popular during the cooler months, caters to 40 patrons.
Casitas
Secluded along the tree line adjacent to the first hole are four-bedroom cottages adorned with classic Southwestern accents. Each features a fireplace and lounge in the communal space, as well as a walk-out patio—a perfect spot to unwind after a match.
Upon passing through the impressive iron gate at Briggs Ranch and veering right past the Spanish-style clubhouse, the casitas take center stage, embodying a true sense of belonging.
With 60 master suites spread across 15 casitas, year-round golf retreats are a viable option (considering San Antonio’s winter highs reaching the 60s and 70s—ideal tee-time conditions).
The casitas mirror the clubhouse’s aesthetic, showcasing Spanish-style tiling throughout, along with a terra-cotta roof, surrounded by honey mesquite trees, evergreen Texas live oaks, and blooming Indian Hawthorn.
During your stay at Briggs Ranch, you’ll have the choice of 10 Dormie casitas, four Executive casitas offering a larger dining area and steam showers, and one Ranch House with elevated spaces for work and relaxation.
Opt for the Executive or Ranch House when hosting clients, as they include a board/dining table seating 10. Inquire about the casitas on the shared Hacienda Patio for larger groups!
The Golf Course
Briggs Ranch’s golf course stands as a masterpiece in design, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Known for its swift greens, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning views adorned with natural landscaping, the course offers an unparalleled experience.
The Club boasts a world-class practice facility encompassing a driving range, putting green, and short game area. Dating back to 2001, Fazio’s design incorporates Zoysia tees, fairways, and roughs, with TifEagle greens (completely renovated from the original Bentgrass in 2022).
The 18-hole course spans up to 7,247 yards, with a rating of 75.7 and a slope of 139. The club’s agronomy team dedicates itself to maintaining the course at the highest standards, prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
From water conservation to integrated pest management, Briggs Ranch Golf Club remains committed to preserving the scenic allure of the Texas Hill Country.
Ideal Suitability of Briggs Ranch Golf Club
Briggs Ranch Golf Club caters perfectly to a multitude of scenarios, whether it’s friend getaways, client entertainment, private tournaments, or instructional clinics.
The club’s professional staff is poised to assist in meticulous event planning, down to the finest details, including coordinating private clinics and golf lessons.
Friends
Friends Traveling with a foursome? Feel free to select any casita on the property, though the Premier Casita is recommended due to its proximity to the illuminated putting green and the mobile Truck Stop bar and taco stand.
Briggs Ranch consistently receives high praise across the network for informal group trips, thanks to its welcoming course and array of evening activities (such as axe throwing, cornhole, horseshoes, and even mariachi bands upon request).
Check out a sample three-day, two-night itinerary on the official site for additional ideas to enhance your next outing.
Engage with your companions through light exercise, friendly competition, and relaxation, all while escaping the daily routine. Members frequently bring their friends to Briggs Ranch for an authentic golf experience.
The luxury of 15-minute tee times ensures a leisurely round, while private small-scale tournaments and unique formats can also be arranged upon request.
Business Gatherings
Boasting a range of meeting spaces within the clubhouse and four private master suites within each casita connected by a communal area, Briggs Ranch effortlessly hosts corporate and client groups.
The Mixed Grill dining area accommodates up to 35 attendees that can act as a classroom, theater, or for round table configurations. The wine room’s boardroom layout seats eight, and executive casitas offer 10-seat tables for private meetings.
Couples
Traveling with your foursome and your partners? Opt for any casita on the premises, with the Premier Casita as a recommended choice due to its proximity to the lit putting green and the mobile Truck Stop bar and taco stand.
For a more intimate gathering, the Hacienda Patio, flanked by four casitas, features a private firepit, ample Adirondacks, ambient string lighting, and a prime view of the 9th hole—ideal for groups of up to 16.
Dress Code
Metal spikes are strictly prohibited on the golf course, while soft spikes are deemed acceptable and encouraged to preserve the course’s quality and playability.
Within the Clubhouse, a more refined dress standard is upheld. Business casual attire should be donned.
For gentlemen, this translates to collared shirts paired with slacks, underscoring a neat and polished appearance. Similarly, women are expected to wear attire that aligns with the venue’s refined atmosphere.
This stipulation extends to encompass appropriate and tasteful attire that complements the Clubhouse’s ambiance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Briggs Ranch Golf Club stands as a haven for both golf enthusiasts and those seeking a refined social experience. Nestled in the serene Texas Hill Country, its stunning course, top-notch facilities, and delightful cuisine make it a destination of choice.
Whether you’re teeing off on the meticulously designed golf course, indulging in the flavors of Texas in the clubhouse, or simply relishing the tranquil ambiance, Briggs Ranch offers an unmatched escape from the daily routine.
With a blend of rich history, exceptional golfing opportunities, and an inviting atmosphere, Briggs Ranch Golf Club remains an enduring destination for those seeking a slice of luxury in the heart of Texas.
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Disclaimer: CountryClubMag.com is an independent resource and is not associated with any of the clubs on this website. Club initiation and membership cost information are estimates only and should not be relied upon for making club membership decisions.