Discover the exclusive Burlingame Country Club experience at 3,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Explore championship golf, premium amenities, and luxury mountain living in Sapphire, NC.
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Sapphire Mountain Living: The Ultimate Burlingame Country Club Guide
Experience Elevated Luxury in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Nestled at 3,000 feet in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Sapphire, North Carolina, Burlingame Country Club stands as a testament to refined mountain living. This exclusive retreat combines championship golf, world-class amenities, and natural splendor to create a lifestyle unlike any other in the region. Whether you’re seeking sporting excellence, wellness opportunities, or simply the tranquility of mountain living, Burlingame offers an unmatched private club experience that respects both luxury and nature.
Table of Contents
- The Burlingame Difference: Mountain Exclusivity
- Championship Golf: The Heart of Burlingame
- Beyond Golf: Premium Sporting Amenities
- Wellness & Relaxation: Mountain Rejuvenation
- Natural Mountain Splendor: Exploring Burlingame’s 1,450 Acres
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Member Testimonials
- Experience Burlingame: Your Mountain Retreat Awaits
The Burlingame Difference: Mountain Exclusivity
What sets Burlingame apart begins with its distinctive location. At 3,000 feet elevation, the club enjoys a climate that’s typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas, creating the perfect retreat during warm summer months and offering spectacular seasonal changes throughout the year.
The exclusivity of Burlingame is intentional by design. With limited membership, the club maintains an intimate atmosphere where staff members know you by name and fellow members become friends rather than faces. This careful balance ensures amenities remain accessible without crowding, whether you’re scheduling a tee time or enjoying a quiet dinner.
Burlingame’s 1,450-acre property represents thoughtful development that respects the natural landscape. Rather than forcing amenities into the environment, the club has integrated its offerings with the terrain, resulting in a golf course that follows natural contours and hiking trails that showcase native flora.
What truly distinguishes Burlingame is its sense of community. More than just a collection of amenities, the club fosters genuine connections through regular social events, tournament play, and seasonal celebrations. Many members describe finding not just a country club but a mountain home where relationships flourish against the backdrop of Blue Ridge beauty.
The club’s commitment to excellence extends to every detail—from the recently renovated clubhouse to the meticulously maintained grounds. Members consistently note that Burlingame exceeds expectations not through flashy displays but through consistent, thoughtful attention to quality.
Championship Golf: The Heart of Burlingame
The Tom Jackson-designed championship course serves as the crown jewel of Burlingame Country Club. Recognized for both its beauty and challenging play, the course masterfully navigates the mountain terrain to create an unforgettable golfing experience that changes with each round.
The course layout respects the natural topography of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with holes that wind through mature hardwood forests and alongside pristine water features. What makes this course particularly special is how it showcases the mountain setting—elevated tees provide breathtaking views while challenging players to navigate elevation changes that add complexity to each shot.
Conditioning at Burlingame stands as a point of pride. The maintenance team keeps fairways immaculate and greens rolling true throughout the playing season. Members particularly praise the consistency of the greens, which offer fair but challenging putting surfaces that reward skilled play.
The signature holes at Burlingame have earned their reputation. The par-4 17th and par-5 18th are frequently cited as among the most beautifully framed finishing holes in mountain golf, with dramatic vistas that compete for attention with the strategic challenges they present. These closing holes provide a fitting finale to a round that tests every aspect of a golfer’s game.
Beyond the course itself, Burlingame offers comprehensive practice facilities including a driving range, short game area, and putting green. The professional staff provides expert instruction for all skill levels, from beginners to accomplished players looking to refine specific aspects of their game. Regular tournaments and friendly competitions foster camaraderie among members while providing opportunities to enjoy the course in different formats.
Beyond Golf: Premium Sporting Amenities
While golf may be the centerpiece, Burlingame Country Club excels in offering diverse sporting opportunities that cater to varied interests and abilities. The tennis program features meticulously maintained courts where members enjoy both casual play and organized competitions. Professional instruction is available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players looking to refine their technique.
The addition of pickleball courts reflects Burlingame’s commitment to embracing popular sporting trends. This fast-growing sport has found an enthusiastic community at the club, with regular play groups and friendly tournaments that welcome newcomers and experienced players alike. The social nature of pickleball has made it particularly popular among members looking to stay active while connecting with others.
Croquet at Burlingame offers a touch of classic sporting elegance. The perfectly manicured lawns provide the ideal setting for this traditional game that combines strategy and skill. Regular croquet events have become social highlights of the club calendar, attracting members who appreciate the game’s combination of friendly competition and refined atmosphere.
For families, Burlingame ensures that younger members have access to appropriate sporting opportunities. Youth clinics in golf, tennis, and swimming help develop skills while fostering a love of active pursuits. The club’s approach to family inclusion ensures that sporting traditions are passed to new generations of members.
The interconnected nature of Burlingame’s sporting amenities creates a community where members often explore new activities. Someone who initially joins for the golf might discover a passion for tennis, while tennis enthusiasts might try their hand at croquet. This cross-pollination of interests strengthens the club’s social fabric and ensures that sporting amenities remain vibrant and well-utilized throughout the season.
Wellness & Relaxation: Mountain Rejuvenation
Burlingame Country Club recognizes that true luxury includes caring for both body and mind. The club’s comprehensive wellness facilities are designed to complement the natural rejuvenating qualities of mountain living, creating spaces where members can focus on health, relaxation, and personal wellbeing.
The fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment that accommodates everything from serious training regimens to gentle exercise. The thoughtfully designed space includes cardio machines positioned to take advantage of mountain views, strength training equipment, and a dedicated area for stretching and functional movement. Professional fitness staff are available to design personalized programs that help members achieve their individual health goals.
The swimming pool area serves as both a fitness venue and social gathering place. The heated pool allows for comfortable lap swimming as well as family enjoyment, while the surrounding deck area provides a perfect setting for relaxation in the mountain air. During summer months, the pool becomes a natural gathering spot where members connect while enjoying the refreshing atmosphere.
Spa services at Burlingame offer professional treatments that focus on restoration and rejuvenation. Members appreciate having access to massage therapy, facial treatments, and other spa services without leaving the club grounds. These offerings are particularly welcome after active days spent on the golf course or tennis courts, providing a balanced approach to the club experience.
What makes Burlingame’s wellness approach unique is how it incorporates the natural environment. Yoga sessions might be held on an outdoor deck with mountain views, while fitness classes sometimes move outdoors in favorable weather. This integration of nature and wellness reinforces the special quality of mountain living that makes Burlingame distinctive.
The club’s wellness philosophy extends to dining as well, with menu options that include health-conscious choices alongside more indulgent fare. This balanced approach ensures that members can maintain their preferred lifestyle while still enjoying the pleasures of exceptional dining in the club’s atmospheric settings.
Natural Mountain Splendor: Exploring Burlingame’s 1,450 Acres
The natural setting of Burlingame Country Club represents one of its most extraordinary assets. Spanning 1,450 acres of pristine Blue Ridge Mountain terrain, the property offers members an opportunity to connect with nature in ways that complement the club’s more structured amenities.
An extensive network of hiking trails winds through the property, allowing members to explore the diverse ecosystems that make up the Burlingame landscape. These well-maintained paths range from gentle walks suitable for all ages to more challenging routes that reward hikers with spectacular viewpoints. Throughout the seasons, the trails showcase the changing beauty of the mountain setting—spring wildflowers, lush summer greenery, spectacular fall colors, and the stark elegance of winter.
For those who enjoy angling, Burlingame offers exceptional fishing opportunities. The property includes access to pristine mountain streams and stocked ponds where members can enjoy both fly fishing and conventional techniques. The clean, cold mountain waters support healthy fish populations, creating rewarding experiences for both serious anglers and occasional fishing enthusiasts.
The dedicated dog park reflects Burlingame’s understanding that pets are important family members for many residents. This thoughtfully designed space allows four-legged friends to exercise and socialize in a safe, controlled environment that maintains the club’s standards while accommodating the needs of pet owners.
Throughout the property, carefully placed gathering areas allow members to enjoy the natural beauty in comfort. Scenic overlooks with seating, fire pits for evening gatherings, and sheltered picnic areas create opportunities for socializing amid the splendor of the Blue Ridge setting.
Perhaps most importantly, Burlingame’s approach to its natural assets reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship. Conservation practices protect sensitive areas while ensuring that members can enjoy the property’s natural beauty for generations to come. This balance between access and preservation demonstrates the club’s thoughtful approach to its extraordinary mountain setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of membership options does Burlingame Country Club offer?
Burlingame Country Club offers several membership categories to accommodate different needs and interests. These typically include Full Golf Membership with complete access to all club amenities, Social Membership focusing on dining and social events, and Sports Membership that includes access to tennis, fitness, and pool facilities. Each membership type is designed to provide a comprehensive experience while reflecting members’ primary interests at the club. For specific details on current membership availability and pricing, contacting the club’s membership director is recommended.
What is the best time of year to visit Burlingame Country Club?
Each season offers distinct experiences at Burlingame’s 3,000-foot elevation. Summer provides relief from lowland heat with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler, perfect for golf and outdoor activities. Fall delivers spectacular foliage displays, with many members considering September and October the most magical months. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and refreshed landscapes after winter. While winter sees reduced golf play, the club maintains active social calendars and indoor amenities, with the mountain setting creating a cozy retreat atmosphere. Many members appreciate Burlingame year-round for its seasonal variety.
Are there real estate options associated with Burlingame Country Club?
Yes, Burlingame Country Club offers various real estate opportunities within its 1,450-acre property. Home options typically include custom-built mountain residences, luxury townhomes, and select home sites for those wishing to build. Properties are designed to complement the natural landscape, often featuring mountain views, access to club amenities, and architectural styles that honor the Blue Ridge setting. The real estate component is managed separately from club operations, with dedicated real estate professionals available to assist prospective buyers. Property ownership and club membership are generally separate decisions, though many homeowners choose to become club members.
Member Testimonials
“What a treat to play this course! Conditions were fantastic! Challenging but fair. Greens rolling smoothly. Bring your camera and shoot for an afternoon round to get that sunset pic in Fall. Over the next couple of weeks the colors will be spectacular as the leaves will be changing colors. Bring a range finder with slope and enjoy! Thank you to Beth for allowing us to play your beautiful course. 17 and 18 may be 2 of the best framed greens.”
“This course was my favorite on the trip. Even with the incredible amounts of water from the rain, the course was in great shape and easy to navigate. There are some spectacular views during the round and some of the elevation changes into the holes are incredible. I would play here again for sure.”
“Can’t speak more highly of this club and course! Really enjoyed our round of golf. Guys in the pro shop were great. Members were fun and kind. Will come back again!”
“This golf course is incredible. A true mountain golf experience. The greens roll true. The fairways are perfect. The food is excellent and the service is amazing. Everyone waives and says hello. Truly a great place.”
“Fantastic golf course and wonderfully friendly members. The clubhouse was just renovated and is beautiful. The food was over the top good…the fried chicken is the best in the mountain!”
Experience Burlingame: Your Mountain Retreat Awaits
Burlingame Country Club represents the finest tradition of mountain luxury—not through ostentation, but through thoughtful excellence in every detail. From the championship golf course that follows the natural contours of the land to the welcoming community that makes every member feel at home, Burlingame offers an experience that honors both the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the personal touches that create lasting connections.
What makes Burlingame truly special is how it brings together seemingly opposite qualities—it’s both exclusive and welcoming, both active and relaxing, both sophisticated and comfortable. This balance creates a place where members can truly be themselves while enjoying exceptional amenities in one of America’s most beautiful natural settings.
Whether you’re drawn to the sporting life, seeking wellness in mountain air, or simply looking for a community that shares your appreciation for life’s finer aspects, Burlingame Country Club offers a distinctive approach to elevated living. At 3,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this remarkable retreat provides not just amenities but a lifestyle—one that respects tradition while embracing the best of contemporary club experiences.
We invite you to discover the Burlingame difference for yourself. Contact our membership director today to schedule a visit and explore how Burlingame Country Club might become your mountain home away from home.