I had the good fortune to spend four days at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, GA this past weekend. What a great facility! It's like heaven on earth. While there I played two of Reynolds courses: Great Waters & The Oconee. But, most importantly, I had the opportunity to play Cuscowilla!!!
Great Waters is an outstanding Nicklaus design... definitely a kinder and softer Nicklaus than I am used to seeing. No sharp edged fairways, broad waste areas, or humped-backed greens. Very flowing and "smooth," with quite a number of beautiful holes along Lake Oconee.
The Oconee, a Rees Jones resort course, was also outstanding. The overall look of the course reminded me very much of Greenville Country Club's Chanticleer... of course, Rees Jones just renovated Chanticleer. But, I was really struck by the similarity of the shape and contours of the bunkers and greens.
Cuscowilla is amazing. I read the review of the course on this site before I left for my trip, and again after I returned. All I can say is that it is so obvious that you are experiencing greatness when you play this course. It is playable for all levels of golfers and yet tests even the scratch player's game. The strategy and challenge designed into this course is brilliant. I can't believe I only live 2 1/2 hours from this course and it took me this long to get there. We have already booked a return trip in November!
If you haven't played Cuscowilla make plans to do so. You will not be disappointed.