The drive up to Turning Stone Resort and Casino in upstate New York was definitely part of the adventure during our only weekend away this summer. There were farms and cows everywhere and both Barry and I felt the history of the area as we passed through the bucolic countryside. Who would have ever imagined such beauty existed outside of the confines of the City? But, once I heard that Turning Stone Resort is one of the top-five tourist destinations in the entire State, I could understand why!
The Oneida Indian Nation opened Turning Stone in 1993 and has been awarded numerous accolades including a AAA Four Diamond rating as well as a Condé Nast Johansens 2007 Award For Excellence in the “Most Excellent Resort” category. One of only four resorts in America have been nominated for that award!
The golf courses are challenging and immaculately maintained. Although we wouldn't suggest Kaluhyat as the first course you play during your stay because of its level of difficulty, there are several options available like the par-three, Rick Smith designed Sandstone Hollow which will fine-tune your game for Shenendoah and Atunyote.
During our stay we met Steve Flesch, last year's winner of the upcoming Turning Stone Resort Championship. Although he was prepared to stand at the dreaded par-three eleventh hole at Atunyote and hit our shot for us, it rained and we were given a clinic instead (I wonder if I could have gotten my shot closer to the hole?). I even whacked a few golf balls for Flesch and he gave me his honest opinion on my golf swing, which you can hear on our broadcast!
Turning Stone Resort and Casino should be savored like a fine wine. The restaurants range from quick eats to fine dining and each dish is carefully and lovingly prepared. Although I didn't visit Skana Spa on this visit, I can still smell the Lavender (you'll know what I mean after one treatment). We also made our small donation to the Casino...you can't win them all!
The area is rich in history and, if we had more time there I would have loved to explore or even signed us up for a romantic balloon ride!
Turning Stone Resort offers the "Be Our Next Champion" package as well as an inexpensive stayover to watch the Turning Stone Resort Championship, October 2-5. With one of the biggest purses after Fed Ex Cup mayhem, this will surely be a tournament to watch!
Reach Turning Stone Resort and Casino on the web or call: 800.771.7711.
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"Shiny Tech" courtesy of Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"
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