Philadelphia’s must play courses

The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau has announced that eight member golf courses of the destination, "Pocono Mountains: Discover Golf's Great Destination Secret" have been named to GolfStyles Philadelphia magazine's “100 Must-Play Courses of Greater Philadelphia” for 2008.

These eight courses – Buck Hill, Hideaway Hills, Mountain Laurel, Pocono Manor, Shawnee, Split Rock, Water Gap and Woodloch Springs – are just some of the many golf and resort options awaiting visitors to Northeastern Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains.

“The Pocono Mountains are blessed with many beautiful and challenging golf courses,” says Carl Wilgus, executive director of the PMVB. “While we’re excited to see eight of our member courses recognized as ‘must-play,’ there are many more gems to be discovered in this golf-rich part of the state.”

An interesting golf course design dichotomy exists in the Pocono Mountains with options ranging from expansive layouts with forced carries, generous putting surfaces and dramatic vistas of the surrounding area to parkland courses with tree-lined fairways and tricky greens. Regardless of playing ability or budget, the Pocono Mountains meet the needs of any discerning golfer.

The close proximity of the Pocono Mountains to Philadelphia, New York City and other metropolitan areas makes it a natural fit for golfers looking to experience this wide variety of playing options by legendary designers such as Donald Ross, A.W. Tillinghast and Jack Nicklaus – all of whom have left their masterful mark on the region.

Countless additions and enhancements have taken place at Pocono Mountains courses and resorts over the last few years and many more are planned in the coming months and years. It's time for golfers, families, couples and friends to relax, reconnect and rediscover the authentic glory of the venerable Pocono Mountains.

In addition to great golf, the Pocono Mountains boast relaxing spas, hiking, biking, boating, fine dining and much more.

For more information about golf in the Pocono Mountains visit Poconosgolf.com.