When you pull into Burlingame’s entrance and see the Blue Ridge Mountains rising beyond the fairways, something shifts. The air feels cleaner at 3,000 feet. The pace slows. This isn’t just another country club in Western North Carolina.
Burlingame Country Club represents four-season mountain living at its finest, spanning 1,450 acres in Sapphire Valley, just minutes from Cashiers. More than 600 members call this community home, and they’ve discovered something rare: a place where championship golf meets authentic mountain hospitality, where wellness facilities rival resort destinations, and where every amenity feels purposeful rather than excessive.
Tom Jackson’s Championship Golf Course: Where Mountain Golf Gets Serious
Tom Jackson didn’t just design an 18-hole golf course. He collaborated with Burlingame’s natural terrain, working with elevations ranging between 3,000 and 3,500 feet, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and old-growth forests to create a course that continues to mesmerize members and guests alike.
“Golf is the closest game to the game we call life,” Bobby Jones once observed. “You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots, but you have to play the ball where it lies.” That philosophy plays out beautifully across Burlingame’s championship layout.
Course Architecture and Design Philosophy
The course weaves through mountain terrain with strategic precision. Jackson understood that mountain golf requires different thinking. Elevation changes affect distance calculations, mountain air plays with ball flight, and natural hazards create memorable challenges without artificial difficulty.
Every hole tells a story. The layout respects the land’s contours while creating varied challenges for golfers of all skill levels. Par 3s might play dramatically uphill or across ravines. Par 5s reward strategic positioning over pure power. The greens demand thoughtful approaches, with mountain backdrops that can distract even focused players.
Hole-by-Hole Tour: Navigating Burlingame’s 18 Holes
The Front Nine: Morning Mountain Magic
Holes 1-3 ease players into the round while establishing the course’s character. The opening holes showcase the balance between playability and challenge, with generous fairways that reward accuracy over distance.
The 4th hole introduces water features that recur throughout the course. Mountain streams and ponds aren’t just aesthetic; they’re strategic elements demanding precise club selection and confident execution.
By hole 6, the elevation changes become more pronounced. Uphill approaches require extra club, while downhill tee shots can travel farther than expected. Local knowledge becomes invaluable here.
The Back Nine: Where Mountain Golf Gets Real
The turn reveals Burlingame’s more challenging character. Holes 10-12 navigate through old-growth forests, where doglegs demand strategic tee shots, and accuracy becomes paramount.
The par 3s on the back nine showcase Jackson’s design brilliance. One might play over water to an elevated green. Another drops dramatically downhill, creating club selection dilemmas even for experienced players.
Holes 16-18 provide a memorable finish. The closing stretch rewards smart play while offering opportunities for those needing to make up ground. It’s golf the way it should be—challenging, fair, and impossible to forget.
For detailed strategic insights, explore our hole-by-hole guide to Burlingame’s championship course.
Golf Programs: From Juniors to Competitive Play
Burlingame’s golf programs serve members at every level. Beginners receive patient instruction from PGA professionals. Competitive players find regular tournaments and league play. Juniors develop skills through structured programs designed for young golfers.
Men’s golf includes weekly competitions, seasonal tournaments, and social events that build community. Women’s programs feature dedicated play days, instruction clinics, and competitive opportunities. Mixed events bring members together for social golf that balances competition with camaraderie.
The Wednesday mixed golf event has become a club tradition—friendly competition followed by exceptional dining creates the kind of experiences members treasure.
Seasonal Golf Calendar and Mountain Weather Advantages
Mountain golf season at Burlingame typically runs from April through October, with occasional rounds extending into November during warm falls. Spring brings wildflowers alongside fairways. Summer offers relief from lowland heat temperatures rarely exceed 85 degrees at elevation. Fall showcases spectacular foliage that makes every round memorable.
The seasonal golf guide for Burlingame details optimal playing times throughout the year.
Practice Facilities: Where Games Get Better
The practice areas at Burlingame support great improvement. The driving range offers mountain views while players work on distance and accuracy. Short game areas allow focused work on chipping, pitching, and bunker play. Putting greens mirror course conditions, helping players develop the touch needed for mountain greens.
PGA Professional John leads golf operations with expertise developed at prestigious clubs, including Old Chatham, Seminole, Jupiter Hills, and Elk River. His background brings teaching excellence and operational knowledge that elevate the entire golf experience.
Lawn Sports: Tennis, Croquet, and Pickleball Excellence
“Tennis is a perfect combination of violent action taking place in an atmosphere of total tranquility,” Billie Jean King noted. That perfectly describes the lawn sports experience at Burlingame.
Tennis: Four Har-Tru Courts in Mountain Paradise
Burlingame’s four Har-Tru tennis courts provide the ideal playing surface—soft on joints, consistent in bounce, easy to maintain. The courts sit surrounded by mountain views that make every match memorable.
Tom Tyler, Burlingame’s Lawn Sports Professional, brings extensive experience from tennis programs in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. His certifications include High-Performance Coaching, Strength and Conditioning, Performance Enhancement (NASM), Personal Training (NASM), Professional Tennis Registry (PTR), and Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR). He’s also certified in Golf Croquet.
Tennis Programs and Instruction
Lessons range from beginner fundamentals to advanced competitive training. Private instruction allows focused work on specific skills. Group lessons create social learning environments while developing technique.
Interclub tournaments connect Burlingame players with other mountain clubs, creating friendly rivalries and competitive opportunities. The tennis court advantages at Burlingame extend beyond surface quality to programming depth and community engagement.
The complete tennis equipment guide helps players select appropriate gear for mountain conditions.
Croquet: Regulation Lawns and Competitive Play
Burlingame features meticulously manicured, regulation-size croquet lawns with mountain backdrops. The club offers both six-wicket competitive croquet and the more accessible golf croquet format.
“Six Wicket Sequential Bliss,” as one member described it, captures the strategic satisfaction of well-played croquet. The game demands precision, strategy, and patience—qualities that translate beautifully to mountain living.
Interclub play, lessons, tournaments, and casual games all happen on Burlingame’s croquet lawns. Community Finder recognized the Burlingame Country Club as one of the top master-planned communities with USCA-regulated croquet lawns.
The rise of croquet as an inclusive sport explains why more people are discovering this strategic game.
Pickleball: Four Courts for America’s Fastest-Growing Sport
Burlingame added four pickleball courts in 2021 in response to member interest in America’s fastest-growing sport. The courts accommodate “all the racquet you can handle,” as the club notes with characteristic warmth.
Pickleball blends tennis, badminton, and table tennis into an accessible, social, highly addictive game. It’s easier to learn than tennis but offers strategic depth that keeps experienced players engaged.
Lessons, tournaments, and interclub play integrate pickleball fully into Burlingame’s recreational offerings. Tom Tyler’s Professional Pickleball Registry certification ensures members receive expert instruction.
Seven game-changing pickleball tips from professionals in Burlingame help players improve quickly.
Swimming and Pool Complex: Resort-Style Mountain Relaxation
The pool complex at Burlingame creates a resort-style gathering place for members. It’s where families connect, swimmers train, and relaxation happens naturally.
Main Pool and Features
The heated pool extends the swimming season beyond typical mountain timeframes. Lap lanes accommodate serious swimmers. Shallow areas welcome children and non-swimmers. The surrounding deck provides space for sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying mountain air.
Pool furniture, umbrellas, and cabanas create comfortable spaces for extended visits. Members often arrive mid-morning and stay through lunch, combining swimming with dining and socializing.
Family Pool Experience
Children’s programming makes the pool a family destination. Swimming lessons teach water safety and stroke development. Pool parties celebrate birthdays and achievements. Summer becomes an endless series of cannonballs, floaties, and poolside snacks.
Parents appreciate that the pool environment feels safe and welcoming. Lifeguards maintain professional oversight. Fellow members create a sense of community where everyone watches out for each other’s children.
Outdoor Dining Deck Connections
The Outdoor Dining Deck sits adjacent to the pool, creating seamless transitions between swimming and dining. Members can order lunch without changing out of swimwear. Beverages arrive poolside. It’s casual mountain living at its best.
“If coming in after a round of golf, joining us after a tennis match, or just meeting friends,” the club explains, “it is a welcome location to relax, enjoy superb cuisine, a cold local draft, and friendship.”
Fitness and Wellness: Rejuvenate Mind and Body
Burlingame’s Rejuvenate Spa/Wellness/Fitness complex offers a state-of-the-art retreat for body and spirit. Set within the mountain landscape, the facility rivals resort wellness centers while maintaining the personal touch of a private club.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Center
Exercise equipment and free weights provide comprehensive workout options. Cardio machines offer entertainment and tracking features. Weight training areas support strength development and functional fitness.
The facility design maximizes natural light and mountain views. Working out becomes less of a chore when you’re surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Group Fitness Classes and Personal Training
Rejuvenate offers diverse class options:
- Yoga: Three unique yoga classes plus private coaching sessions
- Strength Training: Builds muscle and bone density
- Non-Impact Cardio: Move and Groove sessions get hearts pumping without joint stress
- High-Intensity Interval Training: Aqua fitness in the pool provides challenging workouts
- Back and Belly Toning: Core-focused sessions improve posture and function
- Essential Golf and Tennis Stretching: Sport-specific flexibility work prevents injury and improves performance
Private fitness sessions allow customized programming. Knowledgeable staff help members decide which services best support their health goals.
Therapeutic Massage and Spa Services
The spa services menu includes:
- Therapeutic Massage: Multiple therapists with distinctly different approaches
- Bellanina Facelift Facial Massages: Specialized facial treatments
- Private Coaching: Personalized wellness guidance
“Clients ranging from well-toned athletes to individuals living with challenges and chronic disease speak highly of our staff,” the club notes. “Available year-round, our staff helps many of our members get back in the swing of life, regardless of their challenges.”
Wellness Philosophy and Member Benefits
Wellness at Burlingame extends beyond equipment and classes. It encompasses the entire mountain living experience, hiking trails, clean air, a four-season climate, and a pace that allows for genuine restoration.
“Here, wellness isn’t just about fitness, it’s about finding balance in a setting where nature itself seems to breathe alongside you,” as Burlingame describes the philosophy.
Members report improved energy, better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced quality of life. Whether it comes from morning yoga, afternoon hikes, or simply sitting on the deck watching the mountains, the impact on wellness is real.
Dining Options: Six Venues for Every Occasion
“Club life revolves around food and beverage,” Burlingame acknowledges. “From a quick lunch at the turn to a multi-course dinner for the wine society, our kitchen is a non-stop engine of precision, production, and YUMMY perfection.”
Overlook Lounge: Casual Dining with Panoramic Views
The newest addition to Burlingame’s dining venues, Overlook Lounge, provides panoramic views of majestic mountains and the golf course. It’s the perfect spot for quick bites, social gatherings, or relaxing with local craft brews.
Pull up a chair, order your refreshment of choice, and let the views work their magic. The casual atmosphere welcomes members whether they’re fresh off the course or just stopping by to connect with friends.
Elevation 3042: All-Day Dining and Coffee Bar
Named for Burlingame’s elevation, this casual restaurant features Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner service, grab-and-go items, and a Barista Station. It’s become the go-to spot for members who want quality food without formality.
The menu draws on cultural inspirations, seasonal ingredients, and organic selections. Chef Gerry Fong, a Culinary Institute of America graduate with accolades including appearances on Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” and recognition as one of NC’s Top 100 Chefs, leads culinary operations.
The Presidents’ Room: Intimate Private Dining
This elegant space honors current and past club presidents while providing the perfect setting for intimate gatherings of 8 to 14 people. Whether hosting a board retreat, luncheon, reception, or private dinner, The Presidents’ Room exudes warm elegance with dramatic mountain views.
The room works for both business and pleasure—member dinners, family celebrations, or corporate functions all benefit from the refined atmosphere and attentive service.
Outdoor Dining Deck: Mountain Fresh Air and Fresh Food
“Our outdoor dining area is one of our most popular dining venues,” the club notes. The combination of superb cuisine, mountain air, and a casual atmosphere creates experiences that define Burlingame living.
The deck welcomes golfers finishing their rounds, tennis players after matches, and members simply gathering with friends. Local drafts, thoughtful menus, and comfortable seating make extended stays natural.
The Overlook Room: Lunch and Dinner with Vista Views
“Views, views, views!” Burlingame proclaims about the Overlook Room. Distant vistas and delightful views provide the backdrop for lunch and dinner service.
The room suits both casual dining and special occasions. Members celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and milestones here. The combination of excellent food and spectacular scenery makes every meal feel like an occasion.
Wine Society and Special Events
The wine society brings together members who appreciate fine wines paired with exceptional cuisine. Multi-course dinners feature carefully selected wines that complement Chef Fong’s creations.
Special events throughout the year include holiday celebrations, themed dinners, chef’s table experiences, and seasonal tastings. These gatherings strengthen community bonds while introducing members to new culinary experiences.
Chef Fong’s emphasis on local, sustainable products delivers a true farm-to-table experience. His connections with farmers and local purveyors ensure seasonal products arrive at peak freshness.
The culinary journey through mountain dining explores Burlingame’s food philosophy in depth.
Community Calendar: Tournaments, Events, and Traditions
Burlingame’s social calendar creates rhythm and connection throughout the seasons. From competitive tournaments to casual gatherings, events regularly bring members together.
Golf Tournament Schedule
The golf calendar features:
- Men’s Tournaments: Weekly competitions, member-guest events, club championships
- Women’s Events: Ladies’ day competitions, seasonal tournaments, social golf
- Mixed Tournaments: Husband-wife events, member-member competitions, scrambles
- Junior Events: Age-appropriate competitions, skill development challenges
The 2025 golf events and tournaments schedule provides detailed timing and formats.
Lawn Sports Competitions
Tennis, croquet, and pickleball all feature competitive opportunities:
- Interclub Matches: Competitions against other mountain clubs
- Internal Tournaments: Member brackets across skill levels
- Social Competitions: Fun formats that emphasize participation
- League Play: Regular structured competition
Seasonal Celebrations and Social Events
The social calendar reflects mountain seasons:
- Opening Weekend: Spring celebration as the season begins
- Fourth of July: Patriotic festivities and family fun
- Labor Day: End-of-summer gathering
- Fall Festival: Celebrating mountain foliage
- Holiday Events: Seasonal dinners and celebrations
“Opening weekend. It’s like a family reunion except everybody likes each other,” captures the spirit of these gatherings.
Wine Tastings and Culinary Events
Beyond the wine society’s formal dinners, Burlingame hosts:
- Chef’s Table Dinners: Intimate experiences with Chef Fong
- Wine and Food Pairings: Educational tastings
- Seasonal Tasting Menus: Showcasing peak-season ingredients
- Cooking Classes: Member participation in culinary education
Family-Friendly Activities
Programming for families includes:
- Junior Golf Clinics: Summer skill development
- Swimming Lessons: Water safety and stroke instruction
- Tennis Camps: Multi-day intensive training
- Family Movie Nights: Outdoor cinema experiences
- Kids’ Tournaments: Age-appropriate competitions
Membership Benefits: What Makes Burlingame Different
“Everything you want in a club. Nothing you don’t,” Burlingame’s tagline promises. After exploring the amenities, that sentiment rings true.
Access to All Recreational Facilities
Membership at Burlingame provides comprehensive access to:
- 18-hole championship golf course
- Four Har-Tru tennis courts
- Regulation croquet lawns
- Four pickleball courts
- Resort-style pool complex
- Rejuvenate Spa/Wellness/Fitness center
- Six dining venues
- Miles of hiking trails
- Fishing ponds
- Dog park
No additional fees for facility usage beyond dues. No complicated priority systems. Members enjoy full access to everything Burlingame offers.
Professional Instruction Across All Sports
Expert instruction comes standard:
- PGA Golf Professional: Experienced in teaching and club operations
- Lawn Sports Professional: Multi-sport expertise and certification
- Fitness Professionals: Certified trainers and wellness coaches
- Spa Therapists: Licensed massage and wellness practitioners
Members can easily book lessons and access the same professionals who work with competitive players.
Reciprocal Access and Guest Privileges
Membership includes reciprocal privileges at select clubs nationwide. When traveling, members can access similar private club facilities.
Guest privileges allow members to bring friends and family to share the Burlingame experience. Reasonable guest fees apply, but the ability to host visitors enriches membership value.
Social Community and Networking
Beyond amenities, membership provides access to a community of 600+ families who share values around mountain living, outdoor recreation, and authentic connection.
Professional networking happens naturally when members share common interests. Business relationships develop through rounds of golf, tennis matches, and dinner conversations. But the connections go deeper than professional utility—genuine friendships form.
Members describe Burlingame as warm, welcoming, unpretentious, and fun. The screening process ensures new members fit culturally, maintaining the community atmosphere that makes Burlingame special.
Family Membership Benefits
Family membership benefits extend across generations:
- Children: Junior programs in all sports, pool access, social events
- Teens: Competitive opportunities, social programming, leadership development
- Adults: Full facility access, programming, social calendar
- Seniors: Appropriate activities, wellness focus, community connection
Families find that Burlingame accommodates everyone, creating shared experiences while respecting individual interests.
Membership Categories and Investment
Burlingame offers several membership categories:
- Golf Membership: Full access to all facilities with golf privileges
- Social Membership: All facilities except the golf course
- Tennis Membership: Tennis-focused with pool and dining access
- Young Professional: Reduced rates for qualifying members
Understanding membership categories helps prospective members identify the best fit.
The membership investment guide provides detailed information about initiation fees, monthly dues, and overall value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Burlingame’s golf course unique compared to other Western North Carolina clubs?
Tom Jackson’s design works with natural mountain terrain rather than against it, creating a course that feels integrated into the landscape. Elevations between 3,000-3,500 feet affect play strategy. Old-growth forests, mountain streams, and dramatic views make every hole memorable. The course challenges without overwhelming, welcoming various skill levels while rewarding strategic play.
Can I take golf lessons if I’m a complete beginner?
Absolutely. Burlingame’s PGA Professional regularly works with beginners, patiently building fundamentals. Group lessons for beginners create supportive learning environments. Private instruction allows customized pacing. The practice facilities support skill development. Many current members began as beginners and became confident players through Burlingame’s instructional programs.
What’s included in a Burlingame membership besides golf?
Full membership includes access to four Har-Tru tennis courts, four pickleball courts, regulation croquet lawns, resort-style pool complex, Rejuvenate Spa/Wellness/Fitness center, six dining venues, hiking trails, fishing ponds, and a dog park. Professional instruction is available in golf, tennis, pickleball, and croquet. Members also enjoy the social calendar, tournaments, and community events throughout the year.
Are the wellness facilities and spa services available year-round?
Yes. Rejuvenate Spa/Wellness/Fitness operates year-round, providing consistent access to exercise equipment, group fitness classes, personal training, therapeutic massage, and spa services. The pool operates seasonally (typically May through September), but indoor facilities remain available regardless of season or weather.
How does the dining work for members?
Burlingame offers six distinct dining venues ranging from casual (Elevation 3042, Outdoor Deck) to elegant (Overlook Room, Presidents’ Room). Members can dine without reservations at most venues, though booking is recommended on weekends and for special events. Monthly minimum food-and-beverage requirements apply to some membership categories. The wine society and special culinary events require separate registration.
What’s the typical age range of Burlingame members?
Burlingame attracts multi-generational families. Active members range from young professionals in their 30s to active retirees in their 80s. The average member is probably 55-65, but there is strong representation across age groups. Junior programs serve children and teens. The diversity in age creates a vibrant, well-rounded community.
Can members bring guests to use the facilities?
Yes. Members can bring guests to all facilities for a reasonable guest fee. Golf guest fees cover cart and course access. Tennis, pickleball, and pool access for guests typically involves modest daily fees. Dining welcomes member guests at no additional cost beyond meal costs. The club encourages members to share the Burlingame experience with friends and family.
How competitive is the golf and tennis programming?
Programming accommodates all competitive levels. Serious players find regular tournaments, interclub competitions, and league play. Recreational players enjoy social events that emphasize fun over competition. Beginners access lessons and clinics that build confidence before entering any competitive settings. Members choose their own competitive level.
What’s the process for becoming a member?
Prospective members typically start with a tour and introduction meeting with Membership Director Jennifer Webb. If interested, they submit an application with references from current members. The membership committee reviews applications, conducts interviews, and votes on acceptance. The process ensures cultural fit while welcoming diverse professionals and families who will contribute to the community.
Does Burlingame offer trial memberships or short-term arrangements?
Contact Jennifer Webb at 828.966.9200 to discuss current options. Policies change seasonally, and some trial arrangements may be available for serious prospective members. The club wants members to experience Burlingame before making long-term commitments.
What property ownership options exist at Burlingame?
The community includes various property types from villas starting around $400K to luxury estates exceeding $3M. Properties range from golf course lots to forested acreage to waterfront locations. The 1,450-acre community provides diverse real estate options. Property ownership is separate from club membership—you can own property without membership or hold membership without owning property.
How far is Burlingame from major airports and cities?
Burlingame sits in Sapphire Valley, approximately:
- 55 miles from Asheville, NC (airport access)
- 90 miles from Greenville, SC (airport access)
- 140 miles from Atlanta, GA (major hub)
- 15 miles from Highlands, NC
- 20 miles from Cashiers, NC
The location provides mountain seclusion with reasonable access to regional airports and services.
Your Mountain Haven Awaits
Burlingame Country Club in Sapphire Valley offers more than recreational amenities. It offers a lifestyle rooted in mountain beauty, authentic community, and year-round activities that bring families and friends together.
Tom Jackson’s championship golf course challenges and delights. Four Har-Tru tennis courts host matches against mountain backdrops. Regulation croquet lawns welcome strategic play. Four pickleball courts accommodate America’s fastest-growing sport. The resort-style pool creates gathering spaces. Rejuvenate Spa/Wellness/Fitness supports comprehensive wellness. Six dining venues satisfy every occasion.
More than facilities, though, Burlingame offers connection to nature, to each other, and to the timeless rhythms of mountain living.
Your private adventure starts here in the heart of Sapphire Valley, just minutes from Cashiers. Contact Jennifer Webb at 828.966.9200 to schedule your personal tour and experience firsthand why members call Burlingame “The Best of Times.”