Stoatin Brae Golf Club in Augusta, Michigan

September 21, 2022

Stoatin Brae Golf Club is a picturesque 18-hole public golf course located in Augusta, Michigan, perched on one of the highest points in Kalamazoo County. The course is a par 71 that plays 6,742 yards from the tips and offers five par threes.

Stoatin Brae is one of seven golf courses that are part of Gull Lake View Golf Resort, which is Southwest Michigan’s oldest and largest golf resort. The course offers acres of rolling hills and woodlands, featuring beautiful scenery and impeccably manicured conditions.

The facility includes a clubhouse with locker rooms, a pro shop, and a full-service restaurant. There are also practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green and chipping green.

The club is open year-round and offers membership options for individuals, families, and businesses. Guests are welcome to play the golf course or enjoy the amenities of the club house. Private event planning is also available.

Opened in 2017, Stoatin Brae Golf Club earned critical acclaim from the outset. It’s been named one of the top five courses in Michigan by Golfweek and the 2021 National Golf Course of the Year by the National Golf Course Owners Association.

Course Highlights

Third Hole

The 3rd hole at Stoatin Brae is a challenging 436-yard par four that borders the 16th fairway on the right. Because of this, the miss off the tee is on right side where there is ample room.

Stoatin Brae 3rd Hole

A diagonal bunker at about 200 yards guards the left side of the fairway, which also offers deep fescue rough throughout the hole. The deep stuff also comes into play as you get closer to the green on the right.

The approach to the 3rd hole is uphill, making distance control imperative. The raised green features a mound in the middle and is protected by bunkers short left and right.

8th Hole

The 343-yard par four 8th hole requires a precise tee shot to avoid the long, deep fairway bunker on the right. If you have the length, the fairway expands to the left, past the sand trap, providing a perfect approach to the green.

Fescue grass borders both sides of the fairway, so short and straight is much better than long and wide. The 8th hole is definitely a green light special if you can catch the fairway with your tee ball.

The green is fairly deep and is protected on the right by a deep bunker. There is a runoff area to the left of the green that sets up either a short pitch or putt, depending on your preference.

13th Hole

The 13th hole at Stoatin Brae is a tough par four dogleg left that plays 459 yards from the tips. The target for your tee shot is bunker in the rough, left of the fairway. If you can carry this trap, you’ll shorten the hole a bit and set yourself up for a manageable approach.

A tree stand borders the right fairway towards the green, but it’s far away enough to not be much of a concern. The fairway itself offers an ample second cut in advance of the deeper heather grass.

The putting surface is large and undulating with multiple tiers. Your approach shot will be dictated entirely by the pin position and the wind direction, so think wisely about club selection.

The green is in a bit of a bowl and there are no sand traps. Even if you slightly miss the putting surface, the opportunity to get up and down is still available. This is one of the highest points of the golf course, so be sure to enjoy the view.

17th Hole

The 17th hole at Stoatin Brae is a fun, slightly uphill par three that can play 170 yards into the wind. The green is wide and features multiple tiers.

Stoatin Brae 17th Hole

The signature element of this hole are bunkers that guard the green on all sides. Catch the surface on the right level according to the pin and par is within reach. Miss the green in any of the treacherous sand traps and you’ll be struggling to save bogey.

The Bunker

A unique and wise element of the facility is the halfway house known as “The Bunker” that is built into the side of a hill. Offering restrooms and refreshments, the hidden design of “The Bunker” leaves the sight lines across the course unimpeded.

Stoatin Brae Halfway Bunker

Things to do near Augusta, Michigan

If you’re looking for things to do in Augusta, Michigan, you won’t be disappointed. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to relax.

For history lovers, Augusta is home to the World’s Largest Weathervane, an impressive piece of folk art that was once used to predict the weather. The imposing structure is now a popular tourist attraction.

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the many hiking and biking trails in the area. And for those who just want to relax, Augusta is home to several wineries and breweries, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. So no matter what you’re looking for, Augusta has something to offer.

Those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the many parks or take a scenic drive along the River Raisin National Battlefield Parkway. History buffs will want to check out the historic sites scattered throughout the city, such as the Kellogg Manor House. And for those who just want to rest and recharge, Augusta boasts several charming bed and breakfasts and cafes.