Saddlebrook Resort

The Palmer Course at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, opened in 1981 as part of Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay's design work for this tennis and golf destination north of Tampa. The course reflects Palmer's design philosophy from this era, emphasizing playability for resort guests while incorporating strategic elements that reward thoughtful shot-making. The layout works with the gently rolling terrain characteristic of this part of west-central Florida, featuring elevation changes modest by the state's standards but notable enough to create visual interest and varied lies. Water comes into play on roughly half the holes, typical of Florida resort courses from this period, while bunkers frame landing areas and greens in Palmer's straightforward style. The course stretches over 6,500 yards from the back tees, offering multiple tee options suitable for the resort's diverse clientele. Live oaks and pines line many fairways, and the routing takes advantage of the property's natural vegetation to create definition and separation between holes. Saddlebrook has hosted various professional and amateur events over the decades, serving primarily as a training and tournament venue for developmental tours and junior competitions. The resort itself is known for its tennis facilities and has attracted professional athletes for training camps. The Palmer Course operates alongside the resort's other Arnold Palmer-designed layout, providing guests with 36 holes in a setting that balances competitive golf with the recreational atmosphere expected at a full-service resort property.