I really like this thread. "A sense of place" kind of sums up why certain places just have that something special about them. Using the natural surroundings just seems to be a part of that.
The place that captures this best for me is Stonewall. Something about the way the course lies on the land, the views of the rolling hills of Chester County from many of the holes, and the use of the old barn as the clubhouse which is right next to the 18th green just make it seem very much "of" where it is. The drive there goes on winding roads past some horse farms, setting the tone before you even arrive. It's not blow-you-away pretty like a dramatic seaside course, it's more of a serene, peaceful pretty. And even the club's lighthearted cow logo lets you know that it doesn't take itself too seriously. Put it all together, and for me, when I pull through the gates I can feel my blood pressure drop about 20 points and am just totally relaxed.
Actually, writing this makes me want to go down there for a round soon!