Sand Hills Resort, a haven of tranquility nestled in the heart of Nebraska, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury accommodations, world-class golf, and exceptional dining experiences. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the resort’s stunning natural beauty and impeccable attention to detail.
With its championship golf courses designed by renowned architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Sand Hills Resort is a golfer’s paradise. The courses seamlessly blend into the surrounding sandhills terrain, providing a challenging yet exhilarating experience for players of all skill levels.
Overview of Sand Hills Resort
Nestled in the picturesque Sandhills region of Nebraska, Sand Hills Resort has emerged as a haven for nature enthusiasts and discerning travelers. Its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century, when visionary rancher Lewis T. Graves recognized the region’s unparalleled beauty and established a sprawling ranch that would later become the resort’s foundation.
Over the years, Sand Hills Resort has evolved into a world-class destination, offering a harmonious blend of luxury, adventure, and tranquility. Spanning over 15,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the resort boasts an array of amenities designed to cater to every taste and preference.
Accommodations
Sand Hills Resort offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit the needs of every guest. From cozy guest rooms to spacious suites and elegant cabins, each unit is meticulously appointed with plush furnishings, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Guest Rooms: The resort’s guest rooms are designed to provide a comfortable and inviting retreat. Each room features a plush king or queen bed, a private bathroom with luxurious amenities, and a private balcony or patio.
- Suites: For guests seeking more space and privacy, the resort offers a variety of suites. These spacious units include a separate living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private balcony or patio.
- Cabins: Nestled amidst the rolling sandhills, the resort’s cabins offer a unique and secluded experience. These charming cabins feature a cozy living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private porch.
Activities
Sand Hills Resort offers an endless array of activities to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone.
- Golf: The resort is home to two championship golf courses, the Arnold Palmer Signature Course and the Tom Fazio Course. Both courses offer a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
- Hunting: The Sandhills region is renowned for its world-class hunting opportunities. The resort offers guided hunts for a variety of game, including whitetail deer, mule deer, and upland birds.
- Fishing: The resort’s private lakes and ponds are stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, bluegill, and catfish. Guests can enjoy fishing from the shore or from boats provided by the resort.
- Hiking and Biking: The resort’s extensive trail system provides opportunities for hiking and biking amidst the beautiful sandhills landscape.
- Spa and Wellness: The resort’s state-of-the-art spa offers a variety of treatments and therapies designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
Golf at Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort boasts two championship golf courses that offer golfers an unforgettable experience. The courses, designed by renowned architect Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, are meticulously crafted to provide a challenging yet enjoyable round for players of all skill levels.
The Old Course, the resort’s signature layout, is a par-72 masterpiece that meanders through rolling sand hills and native vegetation. The course features wide fairways, challenging greens, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The New Course, a par-71 layout, offers a more traditional links-style experience with pot bunkers, deep rough, and undulating greens.
Unique Features
- Both courses are built on natural sand dunes, providing unique and challenging playing conditions.
- The Old Course features a double green shared by the 9th and 18th holes, adding an element of strategy to the game.
- The New Course is home to the “Punchbowl,” a par-3 hole with a dramatically sloping green that requires a precise approach shot.
- Sand Hills Resort offers a variety of tee boxes to accommodate golfers of all abilities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Accommodations at Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations to suit the needs of every traveler. From elegant guest rooms to spacious suites and private cottages, the resort provides a tranquil retreat amidst the rolling sandhills of Nebraska.
Guest Rooms, Sand hills resort
The guest rooms at Sand Hills Resort are designed to provide a comfortable and stylish stay. Each room features plush bedding, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some guest rooms also offer private balconies or patios, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air and serene surroundings.
Suites
For those seeking more space and amenities, Sand Hills Resort offers a selection of spacious suites. The suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, as well as luxurious bathrooms with soaking tubs and separate showers. Some suites also include fireplaces, wet bars, and private balconies or patios.
Cottages
For the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity, Sand Hills Resort offers a collection of private cottages. These cottages are nestled amidst the sandhills and feature fully equipped kitchens, cozy living areas, and private decks. Guests staying in the cottages can enjoy the convenience of having their own private space while still having access to all the amenities of the resort.
Dining at Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort offers a range of dining options to cater to the diverse culinary preferences of its guests. From casual bites to fine dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The Hilltop Clubhouse
The Hilltop Clubhouse is the heart of the resort’s dining scene. It features a spacious dining room with panoramic views of the golf course and surrounding hills. The menu offers a selection of classic American dishes with a modern twist, including grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and handcrafted pizzas.
The clubhouse also has a full-service bar with an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
The Lodge Dining Room
For a more intimate dining experience, The Lodge Dining Room offers a cozy ambiance and a menu that showcases the flavors of the region. The chef uses locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the bounty of Nebraska. The dining room also features a wood-burning fireplace, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is a casual dining spot located in the resort’s main lodge. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. The Watering Hole is a great place to unwind after a round of golf or simply enjoy a casual meal with friends.
The Spa Cafe
The Spa Cafe is located within the resort’s spa and offers a menu of healthy and refreshing dishes. The cafe specializes in smoothies, salads, wraps, and other light fare. The Spa Cafe is a great option for those looking for a nutritious meal after a workout or spa treatment.
Signature Dishes
Among the signature dishes offered at Sand Hills Resort are the Tomahawk Ribeye, a massive 42-ounce steak grilled to perfection; the Pan-Seared Scallops, served with a creamy risotto and lemon butter sauce; and the Smoked Pork Belly, glazed with a sweet and savory barbecue sauce.
Unique Culinary Experiences
Sand Hills Resort also offers a variety of unique culinary experiences, including private dining in the resort’s wine cellar, cooking classes with the resort’s chef, and wine tastings featuring local and international wines. These experiences provide guests with an opportunity to indulge in the resort’s culinary offerings and create lasting memories.
Activities and Recreation at Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort offers an array of activities and recreational amenities for guests to enjoy during their stay. From golf and tennis to swimming and hiking, there is something for everyone at this luxurious resort.
Golf
The resort is home to two world-class golf courses, the Arnold Palmer-designed Sand Hills Golf Course and the Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw-designed Longleaf Golf Course. Both courses offer stunning views of the surrounding Sand Hills region, and they are consistently ranked among the best in the United States.
Tennis
The resort also has six tennis courts, including four Har-Tru clay courts and two hard courts. Guests can enjoy a game of tennis with friends or family, or they can take lessons from one of the resort’s professional tennis instructors.
Swimming
The resort has two swimming pools, an indoor pool, and an outdoor pool. The outdoor pool is located on the resort’s main lawn, and it offers stunning views of the Sand Hills region. The indoor pool is located in the resort’s fitness center, and it is open year-round.
Hiking
The resort is surrounded by miles of hiking trails. Guests can hike through the Sand Hills region, and they can enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. The resort also offers guided hikes, which are led by experienced naturalists.
Other Activities
In addition to the activities listed above, Sand Hills Resort also offers a variety of other activities, including:
- Biking
- Fishing
- Archery
- Spa treatments
- Fitness center
Events and Weddings at Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort offers a breathtaking setting for events and weddings, providing exceptional services to create unforgettable experiences. The resort’s experienced event planners assist with every detail, from venue selection to catering and décor, ensuring a seamless and memorable occasion.
Event Spaces
The resort boasts a variety of event spaces, including:
- The Clubhouse: A grand and elegant space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the golf course, perfect for receptions and large-scale events.
- The Ballroom: A sophisticated and spacious ballroom with a neutral color palette, offering flexibility for various event designs.
- The Library: A cozy and intimate space with a fireplace and comfortable seating, ideal for smaller gatherings and private dinners.
- The Terrace: An outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the resort and golf course, perfect for al fresco ceremonies and receptions.
Catering Options
Sand Hills Resort’s culinary team creates exquisite menus tailored to each event’s theme and dietary preferences. The resort offers a range of catering options, including:
- Passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails for receptions
- Multi-course plated dinners with seasonal ingredients
- Buffet-style meals with a variety of culinary stations
- Custom-designed wedding cakes and dessert displays
Planning Assistance
The resort’s dedicated event planners provide comprehensive assistance throughout the planning process, including:
- Venue selection and layout design
- Vendor recommendations and coordination
- Décor and lighting consultation
- Day-of event coordination to ensure a seamless celebration
Memorable Events
Sand Hills Resort has hosted numerous unforgettable events and weddings. Some notable highlights include:
- A grand wedding ceremony on the Terrace, with panoramic views of the rolling sand hills and the setting sun.
- A corporate retreat in the Clubhouse, featuring a multi-day agenda with team-building activities and networking opportunities.
- A charity gala in the Ballroom, raising funds for a local non-profit organization and featuring a live auction and entertainment.
Location and Accessibility of Sand Hills Resort
Sand Hills Resort is nestled in the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills region, an area renowned for its scenic beauty and vast open spaces. The resort is located just 15 miles west of Valentine, the nearest town, and is easily accessible from major cities in the Midwest.
To reach Sand Hills Resort, guests can drive approximately three hours from Omaha, Nebraska, or two hours from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The resort also offers a complimentary shuttle service from Valentine Municipal Airport, which is served by regional airlines.
Surrounding Area and Local Attractions
The surrounding Sandhills region offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Guests can visit nearby Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Other popular attractions in the area include the Niobrara River, known for its scenic canoeing and kayaking, and the Smith Falls State Park, featuring a stunning waterfall.
Final Review
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an unforgettable golfing adventure, Sand Hills Resort promises an extraordinary escape. Its luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining options, and world-class amenities cater to every need and desire, ensuring a truly memorable and rejuvenating experience.
Top FAQs
Is Sand Hills Resort open year-round?
Yes, Sand Hills Resort is open year-round, offering seasonal activities and amenities to cater to guests throughout the year.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations at Sand Hills Resort?
No, Sand Hills Resort does not allow pets in its accommodations or on the golf courses.
Does Sand Hills Resort offer transportation to and from the airport?
Yes, Sand Hills Resort provides complimentary transportation to and from Kearney Regional Airport (EAR) for guests staying at the resort.