The hotel is completely detached from the golf in a way I found to be somewhat awkward, so a putting course is great news. A lighted short course would be an even better idea, but they expressed pride to me about the hotel's separation from the golf, so we shall see.
I'm just back from a trip and stay at the lodge. The golf was phenomenal, of course. But as I've worked in the hotel industry for years, I was particularly curious about the accommodation aspect.
The new hotel... let's just say it's not the relaxed vibe one imagines from an isolated, minimalist golf mecca (unless that mecca is in the Meatpacking District). I also found its rates to be outrageously priced, even coming from NYC. I expect the Best Western Bowling Green and Holiday Inn Express Bartow to see some increased business as a result. The hotel portion of the Stay & Play essentially came out to $325 per person/per night, tax included, for sharing a room. That represents serious negative value as you could save about $125 pp/pn by booking off-package hotel and golf.
I will say that the service was fantastic and not at all overbearing. They were particularly adept at handling our awkward arrival/departure times. The locker rooms and staging area out front the clubhouse were key.
It's pretty clear they are angling for both the hardcore, Bandon-loving, destination golfers as well as spa junkies, couples, and those for whom golf is but just another available activity. I'm not sure that combo has been attempted before so it'll be interesting to see how it plays out. I'm very excited to get back to those courses but not as excited to have another drink at Fragmentary Blue.
Sorry for rambling. I know there have been a gazillion Streamsong threads but just wanted to add some details about the new lodging.