Saddlebrook Resort near Tampa is nearing completion of a $92 million dollar renovation that spans the property from guest rooms to restaurants to the pool. Part of the work includes a rethink of the resort’s golf courses, and as of now, nine holes are open to play, nine more will open in January and another nine should see work completed in 2026.
The resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, formerly had two 18-hole courses, but architect Rees Jones has cut that to three nine-hole layouts that eventually can be played in various orders. Rounding out the work to the courses is a new 13-acre driving range with short-game practice areas that opened in December 2024.
Prior to the work, the resort operated the Saddlebrook Course that was designed by Dean Refram and opened in 1976 and the Palmer Course that was designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 1982. Jones’ renovation of those courses now leaves three nines. The Oak nine has opened after renovation, the Pine nine opens Jan. 9 and the Cypress nine is yet to be completed. The work to each nine includes greens rebuilt to USGA specifications, rebuilt tees, a bunker renovation and a modern irrigation system.
“We are very pleased to have completed the first and second phases redesigning and reimagining the quality golf facilities at Saddlebrook Resort,” Jones said in a media release describing the completion of most of the work at the resort. “Saddlebrook now has a world-class practice facility and a completely re-envisioned 18 holes. The Pine and Oak nines have been completed and will soon be ready for members and guests to experience. The Cypress nine will be the third phase of the renovation and, when completed, Saddlebrook will have a classic, playable and enjoyable 27-hole complex.”
