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Among the many top-notch golf courses in the Michiana Area, Blackthorn Golf Club, located northwest of the Airport near Interstate 80/90 in South Bend, Indiana has earned a reputation as one of the best. The layout conjures up thoughts of Links-style golf, yet adds the modern day features of the best Championship Courses. Blackthorn Golf Club is hilly, yet has wide landing areas and big greens. Don't be too far from the hole location as the many undulations in the greens will cause the average putter to hope for a 3-putt green.

Blackthorn Golf Club is a wonderful course that you'll find hard to believe is actually a municipal course! The City of South Bend initially had this parcel in mind for an airport expansion; however, it was too hilly. While it may have been too hilly for planes, these same hills and undulations have proven ideal for an award-winning course.

What separates Blackthorn Golf Club from other public courses? The course is in top shape with some the best conditions available in the region and playing Blackthorn is unique in that it feels like you're a Country Club Member for the day. Blackthorn offers GPS-enabled carts, bag service, and club cleaning which will certainly add to this Country Club feel.

Blackthorn is also unique in that it doesn't just have one "Signature Hole" but several ... Holes 5, 16, and 18 with perhaps number 16 officially wearing the crown. Their 16th features a raised tee, 137 yards, over water, Par-3. However, their number 18 is quite possibly one of the best finishing holes in Indiana!

Although Blackthorn Golf Club has many challenges in its hills, undulations, water and length (there are several sets of shorter tees as well), it is a very fair course. If you're on your game, you can score within or near your handicap. But watch out if you're having an off-day!

Recent changes to the course are focused primarily on the refurbishing and redesign of the many sand bunkers. On the horizon is a plan to expand the clubhouse, which is already one of the more attractive facilities around.

There are many amenities at Blackthorn Golf Club. Besides the GPS and club-care, there is club rental, practice putting & chipping greens, a driving range, on-course drinks/snacks/restrooms, locker rooms & showers, the Pro Shop, and a 19th hole. But not what you may be thinking. There actually ARE 19 holes. Your round begins with the 266-yard Blarney Hole with the large Blarney Stone in the middle of the fairway. Hit the Blarney Stone on the right day and receive a replacement golfball!

Reasonably-priced lessons are available as well. Also, look for the many Leagues and Outings available at Blackthorn Golf Club.

The traditional 19th hole would be the Blarney Grill located in the Clubhouse. There is a fully-stocked bar and don't miss out on ... of course, the famous Blarney Burger.

If you'll be golfing in the Michiana Area anytime soon, Blackthorn Golf Club is a destination you should definitely plan. The entire experience is excellent. And that's not a bunch of Blarney!

The Blackthorn Golf Club is also a MichianaGolf.com "Offers for Golfers" participant ... do you have your Pass yet?

To learn more, visit the Blackthorn Golf Club page.