Gamble Sands: Your Unforgettable Golf Escape In Washington
For golf enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled experience, Gamble Sands has long stood as a beacon of excellence in the Pacific Northwest. From its inception as best new course in 2014, this remarkable destination set out to offer a golf escape unlike any other, promising not just a game, but an entire journey of relaxation, challenge, and breathtaking natural beauty. More than a decade later, the commitment to an unforgettable experience remains the cornerstone of Gamble Sands, drawing visitors from across the globe to its unique desert links.
This comprehensive guide will delve deep into what makes Gamble Sands a must-visit destination, exploring its acclaimed courses, luxurious accommodations, dining options, and the scenic journey to get there. We’ll cover everything from the historical vision that brought this golfing gem to life to the exciting new additions that continue to enhance the guest experience. Prepare to discover why Gamble Sands is more than just a golf course—it's a world-class resort meticulously designed for the discerning golfer.
Table of Contents
- The Genesis of a Golfing Gem: Gamble Sands' Legacy
- Unveiling the Courses: The Heart of Gamble Sands
- Beyond the Fairways: Accommodations & Amenities
- Culinary Delights: Dining at Gamble Sands
- The Journey There: Location and Accessibility
- Planning Your Perfect Getaway: Booking Your Gamble Sands Experience
- Why Gamble Sands Stands Apart: A Decade of Excellence
- The Future of Gamble Sands: What's Next?
The Genesis of a Golfing Gem: Gamble Sands' Legacy
The story of Gamble Sands isn't just about a golf course; it's about a bold vision to create something truly extraordinary in an unexpected landscape. Nestled in the high desert of Washington State, this destination was conceived to break the mold of traditional golf resorts. The goal was to offer a pure, unadulterated golf experience, where the land dictated the design and the natural beauty was paramount. This foundational philosophy has guided its development and continues to define its unique appeal.
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A Vision Realized: From Inception to Icon
From its inception as "best new course in 2014," Gamble Sands immediately captured the attention of the golf world. This early recognition wasn't just a fleeting accolade; it was a testament to the meticulous planning and thoughtful execution that went into its creation. The initial design, crafted by renowned architect David McLay Kidd, embraced the natural contours of the land, resulting in wide, flowing fairways and expansive greens that invite creativity and strategic play. The course was designed to be walkable, fostering a more intimate connection with the landscape and the game itself. This commitment to a natural, enjoyable experience is precisely what Gamble Sands set out to offer, distinguishing itself from the outset. More than a decade later, this foundational vision continues to resonate, proving that a focus on authentic golf and a memorable escape endures. The resort's growth, including new facilities and courses, has only strengthened its position as a premier golf destination, proving that the initial promise of an unforgettable experience was not just a marketing slogan, but a genuine commitment that continues to evolve and impress.
Unveiling the Courses: The Heart of Gamble Sands
At the core of the Gamble Sands experience are its world-class golf courses, each offering a distinct challenge and aesthetic. The resort prides itself on providing diverse golfing opportunities, catering to different skill levels and preferences. From the original championship layout to exciting new additions, the quality of play is consistently exceptional, ensuring that every round is memorable. More than a decade later, your unforgettable experience starts with two primary golf offerings that showcase the brilliance of their design and the stunning Washington landscape.
Gamble Sands: The Original Masterpiece
The flagship course, simply named Gamble Sands, is a testament to minimalist design and strategic play. Opened in 2014, it quickly garnered accolades for its links-style layout, wide fairways, and panoramic views of the Columbia River. Designed by David McLay Kidd, the course allows for multiple lines of play, encouraging golfers to think creatively about their shots. The expansive greens are a signature feature, presenting subtle breaks and demanding precise putting. It’s a course that rewards thoughtful strategy over brute force, making it enjoyable for golfers of all handicaps. Playing Gamble Sands feels like a grand adventure across rolling dunes and natural fescue, with every hole offering a unique vista and a fresh challenge. It's truly an experience that blends the raw beauty of the Washington landscape with the timeless appeal of links golf.
Scarecrow: The Exciting New Chapter
Adding another dimension to the Gamble Sands experience is Scarecrow, the resort's highly anticipated second 18-hole championship course. Scarecrow and the Inn at Gamble Sands expansion are the big new draws this year, promising an even richer and more diverse golfing adventure. Designed by Tom Doak, Scarecrow offers a different yet equally captivating challenge. While sharing the same stunning high desert setting, Doak's design brings its own unique character, with different strategic elements and perhaps a slightly more rugged feel, playing into the natural contours of the land in its own distinct way. The introduction of Scarecrow significantly enhances Gamble Sands' appeal as a multi-day golf destination, allowing guests to enjoy varied championship-level play without ever leaving the resort. The excitement around Scarecrow is palpable, as it represents a significant evolution for Gamble Sands, solidifying its status as a top-tier golf resort with multiple world-class offerings.
Quicksands: Perfecting Your Short Game
For those looking to hone their short game or simply enjoy a more relaxed round, Quicksands provides the perfect solution. This innovative 14-hole par-3 course is anything but typical. Designed with creativity and fun in mind, it features imaginative green complexes, varied hole lengths, and the same stunning views as its championship counterparts. Wake up under the blue Washington sky and head out to tackle Scarecrow, Gamble Sands, or Quicksands – each offers a distinct golfing experience. Quicksands is ideal for a warm-up before a full round, a quick twilight game, or a friendly competition with friends and family. It’s a testament to Gamble Sands' commitment to providing a comprehensive golf experience, ensuring there's something for everyone, regardless of their skill level or time constraints. The design encourages creative shot-making and provides a fantastic opportunity to practice those crucial wedge shots and putts in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
Beyond the Fairways: Accommodations & Amenities
The Gamble Sands experience extends far beyond the golf courses. To truly immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the resort, comfortable and well-appointed accommodations are essential. The resort offers a range of options designed to provide a restful sanctuary after a day on the links, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is as enjoyable as your time on the course. The overall design of the resort, including its lodging, is crafted to complement the natural environment, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Tailored Stays: Packages for Every Golfer
The best way to enjoy Gamble Sands Resort is through overnight packages with river view or golf view accommodations. These packages are thoughtfully designed to maximize your experience, combining rounds of golf with comfortable lodging. Whether you prefer waking up to the serene sight of the Columbia River or overlooking the pristine fairways, there's an option to suit your preference. These curated packages often include multiple rounds of golf on the various courses, ensuring you get to experience the full breadth of what Gamble Sands has to offer. View rates below or click now to design your custom stay & play package. The flexibility to tailor your visit means you can choose the number of nights, the type of room, and the golf itinerary that best fits your schedule and desires. This personalized approach to booking ensures that your golf escape to Gamble Sands is precisely what you envisioned, providing both convenience and exceptional value. Book now below to design your custom stay & play package, and embark on an unforgettable journey.
Culinary Delights: Dining at Gamble Sands
A day spent navigating the challenging fairways and enjoying the crisp Washington air naturally builds an appetite. Fortunately, Gamble Sands understands that exceptional dining is an integral part of a complete resort experience. After a day on the course, you can dine at one of our two restaurants, each offering a distinct ambiance and culinary focus to satisfy diverse palates. These dining establishments are more than just places to eat; they are extensions of the resort's commitment to quality and an enjoyable experience, providing the perfect setting to unwind and recount the day's best shots.
The main dining venue, The Danny Boy Bar & Grill, offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with stunning views of the golf course and the Columbia River. Here, you can enjoy hearty breakfasts before your round, casual lunches between nines, or a delicious dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. The menu often highlights Pacific Northwest flavors, with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce and expertly prepared dishes. It’s the ideal spot to gather with your golfing partners, share stories, and enjoy a well-deserved meal and a refreshing beverage. The second dining option provides an alternative, perhaps a more casual setting or a different culinary theme, ensuring variety for guests staying multiple nights. The presence of two distinct restaurants underscores the resort's dedication to providing comprehensive amenities that cater to every aspect of a guest's stay, ensuring that after a day on the course, you can dine at one of our two restaurants, head back to your comfortable accommodation, and truly relax.
The Journey There: Location and Accessibility
Part of the allure of Gamble Sands is its serene, somewhat secluded location, which contributes to its "escape" quality. However, this doesn't mean it's difficult to reach. Gamble Sands is located outside the small town of Brewster, Washington, a charming community that serves as a gateway to this golfing paradise. The journey to the resort is often described as part of the experience itself, offering scenic vistas and a sense of anticipation as you draw closer to your destination.
Specifically, the resort is just 35 miles northeast of Lake Chelan, a popular recreational area known for its beautiful lake, wineries, and outdoor activities. This proximity means that visitors can combine their golf trip with other regional attractions, extending their Washington adventure. Additionally, Gamble Sands is located just 13 miles north of Bridgeport, another small town along the Columbia River. The drive to Gamble Sands is renowned for its picturesque beauty, winding through rolling hills, orchards, and high desert landscapes. It’s a scenic drive from anywhere, offering glimpses of the vastness and natural splendor of Eastern Washington. Whether you're coming from Seattle, Spokane, or further afield, the journey to Gamble Sands sets the tone for the tranquil and unforgettable experience that awaits you, making the drive itself a memorable part of your golf getaway.
Planning Your Perfect Getaway: Booking Your Gamble Sands Experience
Once you've decided that Gamble Sands is your next golf destination, planning your trip is straightforward and designed for convenience. The resort emphasizes ease of booking, particularly through its tailored stay & play packages, which are the most recommended way to experience everything Gamble Sands has to offer. These packages simplify the process by bundling accommodations with golf rounds, often at a better value than booking separately.
To begin planning, you can view rates below or click now to design your custom stay & play package. The online platform provides a user-friendly interface where you can select your preferred dates, choose between river view or golf view accommodations, and specify the number of rounds you wish to play on courses like Gamble Sands, Scarecrow, or Quicksands. The ability to customize your package ensures that your trip is perfectly aligned with your preferences and budget. The resort's booking system is designed to be intuitive, guiding you through the options to create an itinerary that suits your needs. Booking directly through the official website is highly recommended to ensure you receive the best available rates and access to all package inclusions. Remember, for the best experience, especially with the new draws like Scarecrow and the Inn at Gamble Sands expansion, booking in advance is advisable, as these popular times can fill up quickly. Book now below to design your custom stay & play package and secure your spot at this premier golf destination.
Why Gamble Sands Stands Apart: A Decade of Excellence
In a competitive landscape of golf resorts, Gamble Sands has consistently distinguished itself, not just as a great place to play golf, but as a holistic escape. Its journey from being named the "best new course in 2014" to its current status as a revered destination is a testament to its enduring quality and commitment to the guest experience. More than a decade later, your unforgettable experience starts with two world-class golf courses and a suite of amenities that cater to every need.
The core appeal lies in its authentic links-style golf, which is rare in the United States, especially in a high desert setting. The courses, Gamble Sands and the new Scarecrow, offer wide fairways and strategic play, making them enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels while still challenging the most accomplished players. The walkability of the courses fosters a deeper connection to the game and the landscape. Beyond the fairways, the resort's attention to detail shines through in its accommodations, which offer stunning views and comfort, and its two restaurants that provide excellent dining options after a day on the course. The serene location outside Brewster, Washington, coupled with a scenic drive, adds to the sense of escape. It's this combination of exceptional golf, thoughtful amenities, and a truly unique setting that solidifies Gamble Sands' reputation as a standout destination, offering an experience that consistently exceeds expectations and keeps golfers returning year after year.
The Future of Gamble Sands: What's Next?
Gamble Sands has never been a resort to rest on its laurels. Its continuous evolution, marked by significant additions like the Scarecrow course and the Inn at Gamble Sands expansion, demonstrates a clear commitment to enhancing the guest experience and maintaining its position at the forefront of golf destinations. These new draws are not just about adding more capacity; they are about diversifying the golf offerings and improving the overall hospitality infrastructure, ensuring that guests have even more reasons to visit and stay longer.
The vision for Gamble Sands appears to be one of sustained growth and refinement, always with an eye towards preserving the natural beauty and the unique character that made it famous. Future developments might include further enhancements to the practice facilities, expansion of dining options, or even more diverse recreational activities that leverage the stunning natural surroundings. The focus will likely remain on providing an authentic, high-quality golf escape that feels both luxurious and connected to nature. As the resort continues to mature, its reputation as a premier destination for golf and relaxation will only strengthen, promising even more unforgettable experiences for visitors in the years to come. The ongoing investment in its facilities underscores a long-term commitment to excellence, ensuring that Gamble Sands remains a vibrant and evolving destination for discerning travelers.
Conclusion
From its inception as the best new course in 2014, Gamble Sands has consistently delivered on its promise of an unforgettable golf escape unlike any other. More than a decade later, this commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the resort, from its world-class courses like the original Gamble Sands and the exciting new Scarecrow, to the convenient Quicksands par-3 course. The seamless experience continues with comfortable overnight packages offering river or golf view accommodations, and two delightful restaurants to unwind in after a day on the links. Located in the serene high desert outside Brewster, Washington, the scenic drive sets the tone for a truly immersive getaway.
Gamble Sands is more than just a place to play golf; it's a destination where every detail is curated for the ultimate guest satisfaction. We encourage you to experience this exceptional resort for yourself. Ready to design your custom stay & play package? Click here to view rates and book your unforgettable golf adventure at Gamble Sands today! Share your thoughts in the comments below – what are you most excited to experience at Gamble Sands? We'd love to hear from you!

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