Occasional Golfer Needs Your Help

[cottonwood]

I am hosting a guys week-end June 10th -12th and need suggestions on a golf course for Saturday. I am in Gilford and will have 6-8 golfers of varied abilities. I would not consider myself a golfer as I only get out one or twice a year and have not golfed in the area as of yet. Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[sa meredith]

There are two courses I use for "guy weekends". Both are 9 holes (for non-golfers, 18 is usually just too much) ...both allow beer on the course (bring your own, or buy their's...either way)...both are perfect for any skill level, including first timers, or seasoned golfers who would rather have a few brews, and play for fun. And, lastly...the conditions (fairways, greens, tee boxes) are average at best, so no need to worry about a novice taking out a chunk. And no need for anyone to be embarressed about a swing and a miss.
Oak Hills off exit 23 (always my first choice for such occasions).
Den Brae off of exit 22.
Can't miss at either one.
For a little more of a serious round, but still on the casual side...Pheasant Ridge.
Lochmere...not at all what you are looking for. Same goes for Wakeewan and Laconia Country Club.
I never go anywhere else.
Oak Hills would be a drive for you...but it really is exactly what you are looking for. 4 or 5 miles off the highway.

[AC2717]

I second pheasant ridge

[SteveA]

I "third" Pheasant Ridge'.

http://www.playgolfne.com/golf/proto/playgolfne/pheasantridge_home/pheasantridge_home.htm

[upthesaukee]

Overall, course is wide open. Two holes with water. Plunk one in the water, go to the drop zone, drop a ball and chip on the green.

Nice little lounge for a beer or two afterwards.

Staff is very nice.

Enjoy the day.

[AC2717]

they do a great deal after 2pm on Fri, sat, and sunday, $35 per person for 18 cart included

[brk-lnt]

Tavern 27 also has a 9 hole course, Jade Trace at the facility.

http://www.jadetrace.com/

It's right on Route 106 in Laconia (just past Elm Street).

There is also the Tavern 27 bar and restaurant for afterwards. The owners, Ray and Leslie, are generally known for going out of their way to help people have a good time, plus you could get some light golf coach lessons as well.

[sa meredith]

Cottonwood...just to clarify. Many people are agreeing with my PR suggestion, but I want to say this..it was my third suggestion. PH is certainly casual, and can be fun. But, if your group has 1st timers...or real hacks...or drunks...PH is more of a "real" golf course than Oak Hills. While it certainly is no Lockmere, PH does attrack actual golfers who want to score well, and take the game seriously. People that can become frustrated with your group's "rate of play". Or their shenanigans. Or their abuse of the course. Also, PH's holes are a little more "legit" with regard to distance and difficulty, so novices can become quickly frustrated and lose interest.
None of these things will occur at Oak Hills, I can assure you. And, for someone who can play the game, OH can be great fun. Some very reachable par 4's. 4 of them, actaully.
Just want help you make the right call.
PH is a favorite track of mine...but not for a drunkfest. Or for 1st timers.

[cottonwood]

SA Meredith and all that have replied, thank you for your suggestions. My group has four relatively strong golfers (10 -12handicap) and three guys I would classify as double bogy guys. No real hacks or anyone that would cause disruptions on the course. Pheasant ridge seems like a good balance and for the more challenged in our group,(that being me) we may opt to play off the best drive. It's a good group of guys and while we will have a good time, we're not likely to make it on to the cast of the new "Hang-over" movie. Thanks again