Earlier this autumn, Rumbling Bald, the 36-hole golf retreat on Lake Lure an hour east of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains, released its late fall and early winter golf packages amid high shoulder season demand. The 36-hole property's original 18-hole track, Bald Mountain, is scheduled to close Nov. 7 through Dec. 31 for seasonal maintenance; it will reopen on Jan. 1, 2023.

So, have-clubs-will-travel golfers take note: there are still a few weeks available in 2022 to take advantage of Rumbling Bald's fall golf package rates and enjoy both Bald Mountain and the retreat's marque layout, Apple Valley designed by Dan Maples.

Starting at $347 per golfer for two nights and two rounds of golf on Apple Valley and Bald Mountain, fall package rates are offered through Oct. 31. Three-night, three-round and four-night, four-round options are also available for $477 and $608 per golfer, respectively. Rates include all taxes and fees based on full occupancy in a Rumbling Bald villa or studio.

The shoulder season starts Nov 1. and runs through the end of the year, with rates starting at $300 per golfer for two nights and two rounds on Apple Valley. Three-night, three-round and four-night, four-round options are also available for $400 and $514 per golfer, respectively. Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy in a villa or studio (blackout dates apply). Bald Mountain, Rumbling Bald's mountain style-course will be closed from Nov. 7 through Dec. 31 and reopens on Jan. 1, 2023.

Lodging options include the Apple Valley Studios (across from Apple Valley) and two- and four-bedroom Fairway Villas situated along Bald Mountain just steps from its first tee. Via its wide variety of spacious vacation rentals, Rumbling Bald can accommodate golf groups of all sizes. Luxury vacation homes are also available for extended stays and golf rounds can be added a la carte.

Rumbling Bald continues to extend complimentary golf rounds to leaders of groups of 12 or more when booking their first trip to the property. The Large Groups 12+ Comp is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, small tournaments, or large golf buddy trips. The shoulder- and off-seasons are ideal for group play, with ample value and typically a faster pace of play than the peak spring and fall periods. To learn more about Rumbling Bald's golf courses and packages, visit www.rumblingbald.com.To book packages directly, or to speak with a golf vacation planner, call (828) 694.3072. Golfers are advised to call, email or check the website for course maintenance and closure schedules. Rates include all taxes and fees and are based on full occupancy (four players in a two-bedroom villa or two in a one-bedroom studio).

On Course

Apple Valley stretches to nearly 6,800 yards and features expansive views of Bald Mountain and the surrounding Lake Lure area. Maples estimated 75% of shots at Apple Valley are either level or downhill, virtually unheard of for a mountain course. Shimmering mountain lakes adorn 12 holes, but water only occasionally comes into play. Bald Mountain, at 6,300 yards, is renowned for its unique configuration of five par 5s and five par 3s. Movie buffs appreciate the 16th green, the backdrop of a scene from "Dirty Dancing." A protégé of golf course architect George Cobb, Lewis is known for his traditional approach to course design. This philosophy is reflected in Bald Mountain's playability from tee to green.

Off Course

Rumbling Bald is rich with amenities and activities, including scenic Lake Lure boat tours, boat rentals, tennis, pickleball, a full-service spa and hiking trails. Families enjoy the Trout Stream Pool and Lazy River, winding its way through the outdoor pool area where guests relax under fan-cooled covered seating. It's the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Travel Time

Tucked along scenic Lake Lure and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rumbling Bald is secluded yet eminently accessible from numerous metro areas. Charlotte, Asheville and Raleigh, N.C., Knoxville and Nashville, Tenn. and Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C. are all one to five hours away. The idyllic retreat features two contrasting 18-hole layouts: W.B. Lewis-designed Bald Mountain and Dan Maples-designed Apple Valley.