Atunyote at Turning Stone Resort

Atunyote, one of Turning Stone Resort's triumvirate of championship courses in Verona, New York, dares to invoke the spirit of grand, golden-era layouts despite its relative youth. The land, a rolling canvas carved from upstate New York farmland, possesses a deceptive links-like feel, rewarding bold carries and strategic angles off the tee. Errant shots, however, can find themselves swallowed by the thick fescue that frames many fairways. While not a true links in the Scottish sense, its wide-open vistas and wind-swept character borrow heavily from that aesthetic.

Designed by Tom Fazio, Atunyote’s generous fairways belie the challenge that awaits on approach shots. Greens are typically large and undulating, demanding precise distance control and a keen eye for subtle breaks. The course favors players who can shape the ball, as many holes feature strategically placed bunkers and water hazards that reward thoughtful shot-making. While not hosting major professional championships, Atunyote was home to the Turning Stone Resort Championship on the PGA Tour for several years, attracting a strong field of players eager to test their skills on this demanding layout.

What sets Atunyote apart is its sheer scale and dramatic setting. The expansive layout provides a sense of isolation and tranquility, allowing golfers to fully immerse themselves in the game. The views from several tees are particularly stunning, with the rolling hills of upstate New York stretching out in the distance. The course's conditioning is consistently impeccable, reflecting Turning Stone's commitment to providing a world-class golfing experience.

Known for its challenging but fair test of golf, Atunyote's name, derived from the Oneida word for "eagle," speaks to the soaring experience that awaits. Though not steeped in decades of tradition, the course has quickly established itself as a regional favorite, and a compelling reason to visit Turning Stone.