LOCATION: 30 minutes north of Manistee on M-22 ADDRESS: 14710 Northwood Highway YARDAGE: 5,529/7,404; three sets of tees ARCHITECT: Warren Henderson/Rick Smith YEAR OPENED: 2000 PHONE: (800) 494-8666 WEB SITE: www.arcadiabluffs.com

The ocean-like views along 3,100 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline lead players to believe they are teeing it up in Scotland or Ireland. While the views may captivate you, the 7,300-yard layout demands your full attention. Designers Warren Henderson and Rick Smith crafted wide fairways, with the most challenging aspects evident from 100 yards and in.

The most photographed hole at Arcadia Bluffs is the dramatic downhill par five 11th. The 110 feet of elevation drop from tee to green offers players a view of the hole that is nothing short of spectacular. The green is perched on the edge of a 160-foot bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. The rising winds make for a challenging approach to the two-tiered green. If Arcadia Bluffs had one signature hole, this would be it.

The shortest par 4 is the 340-yard 14th. Accuracy is the key to this hole and players can choose to bite off as much of the left dogleg as they dare, but being in the fairway for your second shot is a must. The uphill elevation into the green requires an extra club to avoid the lone pot bunker that guards the front of the putting surface. Don’t forget to turn west while on the green – the view is best part of this beautiful hole.

Hole 16 is the longest par 4 on the course, measuring 486 yards, with a downward slope that runs west to the Lake. The generously wide fairway allows players an opportunity to view the green on their approach, but take heed, this green is deep and tricky; a classic bump-and-run. Take one less club and land it short and watch your ball roll easily onto the surface. The views on this hole are panoramic and spectacular, enjoyed all the more if you avoid the deep bunkers to the right and front of the green.

The uphill finishing hole faces the Nantucket-style where your rocking chair and beverage await! Play down the left side off the tee to have a clear view of the green, and take an extra club for the elevation gain to the flag. When on the green be sure to soak up the incredible view one last time before closing your round.

The Restaurant at Arcadia Bluffs offers exquisite, world-class dining for all guests to enjoy. The spectacular view and breathtaking sunsets are offered daily, compliments of Mother Nature. The setting from the dining room and deck make Arcadia one of the most dramatic dining experiences on the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Lunch and dinner are served daily throughout the summer and fall months. The weekend evening bagpiper plays the sun down to its conclusion. Enjoy lighter fare and a more casual atmosphere on the Patio Grill and take in the relaxing lake breeze. You can relax in your own Carolina rocker, chez lounge, or comfy cushioned wicker chair. The views and sunsets and never to be forgotten.

There might not be a more scenic spot in Michigan, where the windswept landscape collides with the ice-blue waters of a great lake. Many visitors come just to sit on the veranda and take it all in or catch a sunset, golf withstanding.

Come tee it up at Michigan’s No. 1 golf destination; the course Golf Digest ranks as the 10th best in America.