Aston Oaks Golf Course Offers Scenic Challenges for Players
Premier Destination for Challenging Play
Nestled in North Bend, Ohio, Aston Oaks Golf Club offers golfers a championship-level experience with stunning views of the Ohio River valley. This 18-hole, par-72 course designed by the Jack Nicklaus Design Group stretches over 6,908 yards of challenging terrain, featuring fast greens, elevation changes, and native hardwoods.
Aston Oaks Golf Club provides a scenic backdrop for players of all skill levels. The course winds through towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere for a round of golf. Golfers can expect a world-class experience with well-maintained fairways and greens that test their abilities.
Beyond the golf course, Aston Oaks offers additional amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The club features dining facilities and banquet spaces, making it an ideal venue for events and gatherings. Golfers can also take advantage of lessons to improve their game or book tee times online for convenient access to this picturesque course.
History and Legacy
Aston Oaks Golf Club boasts a rich history tied to one of America's early presidents. The course's origins and its connection to William Henry Harrison make it a unique golfing destination in Ohio.
Origin of Aston Oaks
Aston Oaks Golf Club was developed by John Niehaus and Jack Nicklaus. The course sits on rolling hills overlooking the Ohio River Valley, taking full advantage of its scenic location.
The Jack Nicklaus Design Group carefully carved each hole into the landscape. This thoughtful design process resulted in a premier 18-hole golf course that offers stunning views of the Ohio River.
Aston Oaks is now part of a larger community, blending residential development with world-class golfing facilities.
William Henry Harrison Connection
Aston Oaks Golf Club is situated on the former estate of President William Henry Harrison. This connection to America's ninth president adds historical significance to the course.
On the 13th and 16th holes, golfers can see a creek that was home to the first mill in southern Ohio. The foundations of this mill are still visible on the left side of the 16th hole's fairway.
Harrison's legacy in Ohio is evident throughout the golf course. The land's rich history enhances the golfing experience, offering players a unique blend of sport and American heritage.
Course Design
Aston Oaks Golf Club boasts a meticulously crafted layout that harmonizes with its stunning natural surroundings. The course's design showcases the expertise of the Jack Nicklaus Design Group, blending strategic challenges with breathtaking vistas.
Nicklaus Design Philosophy
The Nicklaus Design team applied their signature approach to Aston Oaks, creating a course that tests golfers of all skill levels. Strategic bunkering and thoughtfully placed hazards require players to think critically about each shot. The design incorporates risk-reward elements, offering multiple routes to the green on many holes.
Fairways are generously wide, but optimal landing areas are often narrower, rewarding precision. Green complexes feature subtle contours and well-guarded approaches, demanding accurate iron play. The course layout emphasizes variety, with each hole presenting a unique challenge.
Landscape and Terrain
Aston Oaks takes full advantage of its picturesque setting overlooking the Ohio River Valley. The course winds through wooded terrain, with dramatic elevation changes adding both beauty and complexity to the gameplay. Natural features are seamlessly integrated into the design, with ravines and streams coming into play on several holes.
The landscape's rolling hills create numerous elevated tee shots and uphill approaches, adding depth to the strategic elements. Native vegetation frames fairways and greens, enhancing the course's visual appeal while also serving as natural hazards. Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside provide a stunning backdrop throughout the round.
Golf Experience
Aston Oaks Golf Club offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole championship course. Designed by the Jack Nicklaus Group, it features strategically placed hazards and stunning views of the Ohio River valley.
Signature Holes
The par-3 17th hole stands out as one of Aston Oaks' most memorable. It requires a precise tee shot over water to a well-guarded green. Another standout is the par-5 9th hole, which offers risk-reward opportunities for long hitters.
The 18th hole provides a fitting finale, with its elevated tee box offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Players must navigate a narrow fairway lined with mature hardwoods to reach the green.
Challenges and Fairways
Aston Oaks' fairways wind through native hardwoods, including white oak and hickory trees. This creates visually striking corridors and adds an extra layer of difficulty to tee shots.
Many fairways feature subtle undulations that can affect ball roll and stance. Players must carefully consider club selection and shot placement to score well.
Water comes into play on several holes, most notably on the back nine. These water hazards add both beauty and challenge to the course.
Teeing Grounds and Bunkers
The course offers multiple tee boxes on each hole, accommodating players of various skill levels. From the back tees, Aston Oaks stretches to 6,908 yards, providing a stern test for accomplished golfers.
Strategically placed bunkers guard many greens and fairways. These sand traps are well-maintained and vary in size and depth. Some feature steep faces, while others are more shallow but expansive.
The greens at Aston Oaks are known for their smooth rolling surfaces and subtle breaks. Many are multi-tiered, requiring precise approach shots to set up makeable putts.
Amenities
Aston Oaks Golf Club offers a range of amenities to enhance the golfing experience. From well-appointed clubhouse facilities to a fully stocked pro shop, the club caters to players' needs both on and off the course.
Clubhouse Facilities
The clubhouse at Aston Oaks serves as a central hub for golfers and visitors. It features a spacious lounge area where players can relax before or after their round. The clubhouse also houses locker rooms equipped with showers and changing areas for member convenience.
A restaurant and bar within the clubhouse provide dining options with views overlooking the scenic 9th fairway. The club offers both indoor and outdoor banquet facilities, making it suitable for hosting various events, including:
Weddings
Business meetings
Special occasions
These spaces can accommodate groups of different sizes, allowing for flexible event planning.
Pro Shop and Services
Aston Oaks Golf Club maintains a well-stocked pro shop to meet golfers' equipment and apparel needs. The shop offers:
Golf clubs
Balls
Tees
Gloves
Clothing and accessories
Professional staff members are available to assist with purchases and provide advice on equipment selection. The club also offers club fitting services to help players optimize their game.
Additional services include:
Golf lessons from PGA professionals
Practice facilities with a driving range and putting green
Club repair and regripping
Cart rentals are available for those who prefer to ride the course. The pro shop serves as a check-in point for tee times and tournament registration.
Location and Accessibility
Aston Oaks Golf Club is situated in North Bend, Ohio, overlooking the scenic Ohio River valley. Its prime location offers golfers easy access and stunning views.
Directions to Aston Oaks
Aston Oaks Golf Club is located at 1 Aston Oaks Drive, North Bend, OH 45052. From Cincinnati, take I-74 West towards Indiana. Exit onto I-275 South and continue for about 10 miles. Take exit 21 for US-50 West/River Road. Turn right onto US-50 West and drive for approximately 2 miles. The entrance to Aston Oaks will be on your left.
For those coming from the west, take I-74 East and follow the signs for I-275 South. Then follow the same directions as above.
The golf course is easily accessible from both Cincinnati and southeastern Indiana, making it a convenient destination for golfers in the region.
Local Accommodations
While North Bend itself has limited lodging options, several nearby communities offer a range of accommodations for visiting golfers.
Cincinnati, about 20 minutes east, provides numerous hotels and resorts to suit various preferences and budgets. Popular options include:
The Westin Cincinnati
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza
21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati
For those seeking a more quaint experience, the charming town of Harrison, just 15 minutes north, offers bed and breakfasts and small inns.
Lawrenceburg, Indiana, approximately 20 minutes west, features the Hollywood Casino and Hotel for those interested in combining golf with entertainment.
Membership and Rates
Aston Oaks Golf Club offers various membership options and guest rates for golfers. The club provides flexibility for both frequent players and occasional visitors.
Membership Options
Aston Oaks Golf Club presents several membership tiers to suit different preferences. Annual memberships typically include unlimited golf with cart privileges. Some plans may offer discounts on pro shop merchandise and food and beverage purchases.
Family memberships are available for couples and families who enjoy golfing together. These often provide better value for households with multiple golfers.
Corporate memberships cater to businesses looking to entertain clients or reward employees. These packages may include a set number of rounds or special event hosting privileges.
Guest Fees and Policies
Non-members can enjoy Aston Oaks Golf Club through daily green fees. Rates generally range from $25 to $30, depending on the day and time of play. Weekends and holidays may have higher pricing.
Tee time reservations are recommended for guests. The club may offer twilight rates for late afternoon play at a reduced cost.
Aston Oaks maintains a dress code policy for all players. Proper golf attire is required, including collared shirts and appropriate footwear.
Guest policies may limit the number of times a non-member can play per month or season to maintain course availability for members.
Events and Tournaments
Aston Oaks Golf Club offers a vibrant calendar of events and tournaments throughout the year. The club provides diverse options for both corporate gatherings and competitive play, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
Hosting Corporate Events
Aston Oaks Golf Club excels in hosting corporate events with its hassle-free packages. The club offers customizable options to suit specific company needs. Indoor and outdoor banquet facilities overlook the scenic 9th fairway, creating an ideal setting for meetings and special occasions.
Corporate groups can enjoy team-building activities on the course. The club's staff assists in organizing tournaments, skills challenges, and networking sessions. Catering services are available to complement the golfing experience.
Competitions and Leaderboards
Aston Oaks Golf Club hosts regular tournaments for competitive golfers. The club organizes events like the Hope Open Golf Tournament, providing opportunities for friendly competition and skill showcase.
Charity golf outings are a staple at Aston Oaks. The St. Dominic Golf Outing, scheduled for September 19, 2024, exemplifies these events. Participants pay an entry fee of $100 per person and have chances to win prizes.
The club maintains leaderboards for various competitions, allowing golfers to track their performance against peers. Tournaments often feature different formats, including scrambles, best ball, and stroke play.
Instruction and Improvement
Aston Oaks Golf Club offers opportunities for golfers to enhance their skills and enjoy top-notch practice facilities. Players can access professional instruction and dedicated areas to refine their game.
Golf Lessons and Clinics
PGA Professional Steve Chandler provides expert instruction at Aston Oaks Golf Club. With extensive experience, Chandler helps golfers of all levels improve their technique. He offers personalized lessons tailored to individual needs and goals.
Group clinics are also available for those preferring a more social learning environment. These sessions cover various aspects of the game, from driving to putting.
Beginners can learn the fundamentals, while more advanced players can fine-tune specific elements of their game.
Practice Facilities
Aston Oaks Golf Club boasts well-maintained practice areas for golfers to hone their skills. The driving range features multiple hitting stations with high-quality turf mats and natural grass tees.
A spacious putting green allows players to work on their short game. Golfers can practice various putts and improve their feel for green speeds.
The club also includes a chipping area where players can perfect their approach shots and bunker play. These diverse practice facilities cater to all aspects of the game, helping golfers prepare for their rounds on the challenging Nicklaus-designed course.
Contact Information
Aston Oaks Golf Club is located at 1 Aston Oaks Drive, North Bend, OH 45052. Golfers and visitors can easily reach the club by phone at (513) 467-0070.
For email inquiries, the club can be contacted at [email protected]
The club's website provides additional information about course amenities, tee times, and events. Visitors can find updates on weather conditions that may affect play.
PGA Apprentice Paul Macke Jr is available in the Pro Shop for golf lessons and other inquiries. Interested parties can contact him directly through the main club phone number.
Aston Oaks Golf Club maintains an active Facebook page with over 2,400 likes. This social media platform offers another way for golfers to stay informed about club news and activities.
The club's facilities include indoor and outdoor banquet spaces overlooking the 9th fairway. These areas are suitable for meetings, special events, and weddings of various sizes.
