Champions Retreat Golf Club: Augusta's Most Exclusive New Course
Champions Retreat Golf Club sits in Evans, Georgia, approximately five miles from Augusta National. It was designed by three Hall of Fame players — Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Arnold Palmer — each of whom designed six holes of the 27-hole facility. The result is three distinctly different nine-hole experiences that can be combined in various configurations, each reflecting its designer's aesthetic and philosophy.
The Three Nines
Jack Nicklaus's nine plays as the most challenging of the three — longer, with more demanding green complexes and tighter landing areas. Nicklaus designs reward precision and patience, and his Champions Retreat nine is consistent with that philosophy.
Gary Player's nine plays through more elevation change with a rhythm that alternates between dramatic and subtle. Player is known for visually theatrical designs, and his nine at Champions Retreat has several holes that are striking from the tee.
Arnold Palmer's nine is the most accessible of the three — characteristically bold in its presentation but more forgiving in its penalties. Palmer designs invite aggressive play, and his nine rewards golfers who commit to the lines he intended.
Masters Week
Champions Retreat has become one of the preferred courses for Augusta National members and their guests during Masters week. Its proximity to Augusta National — and the prestige of its three-legend pedigree — makes it a natural complement to the Masters experience for visitors to the area.
Tee times during Masters week are extremely limited and prioritized for members. If you are visiting Augusta for the Masters as a spectator and want to play Champions Retreat, booking well in advance — ideally months ahead — is essential.
Getting There
Champions Retreat is located in Evans, Georgia, approximately 20 minutes from Augusta Regional Airport. Charlotte Douglas International and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International offer more flight options with connections to Augusta or a driving option from Atlanta (approximately 2.5 hours).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Champions Retreat Golf Club?
Champions Retreat Golf Club was designed by Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Arnold Palmer — each designing six holes of the 27-hole facility. It is one of the few golf courses in the world designed by three major champions.
Is Champions Retreat Golf Club near Augusta National?
Champions Retreat Golf Club is located in Evans, Georgia, approximately five miles from Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters Tournament.