Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/801177
S P O R T I N G C L A S S I C S • 127 to be spent on Primland's acclaimed golf course, and we were looking forward to our tee time with Head Golf Professional Brian Alley. At its inception, the golf course was a long shot. "You can't build a golf course at the top of a mountain," was the general consensus, and several prestigious architects passed on the project, citing the logistical concerns, before Donald Steel, renowned for his modification efforts at St. Andrews, accepted the task. "When I first saw Primland, it reminded me of the highlands of Scotland. I knew this was the perfect spot for a truly exceptional course." And with that, back to the region's rich bootlegging history. According to the barkeep, it'll sting your throat, burn your belly, then melt into liquid gold, or so they say. There is also a mixologist on hand to blend specialty flavors. That night we dined at the Stables Saloon, a rustic and remote setting built atop the former stables. The buffet was set with a Southern-style smorgasbord, including homey comforts like fried green tomatoes, fried fish, and collard greens—the perfect respite following an afternoon of hard hunting. After a meal-polishing indulgence of chocolate delight, we withdrew to find the night had slipped over the mountains like a black silk stocking flashed with spangles. So with stomachs full, we gathered back at the observatory dome, which sits atop the corner of the lodge for an evening of stargazing. The Celestron CGE Pro 1400 series telescope gave us extraordinary glimpses into the outer reaches of our solar system and beyond. We marveled at the constellations and planets, admiring galaxies and nebulae before retiring to Flying Squirrel, sending the girls off to sleep, and dreams of skyrocketing pheasants and shooting stars. I n the early twilight of dawn, the mountains were dappled with the beginning shadows of the day. Pulling out from our drive, a fat spike buck fled from a laurel grove and ran parallel to the road, dodging through flares of morning light before bounding over a ridge. It was the perfect start to our day, one which was Primland's treehouses offers sweeping views of the majestic Kibler Valley and North Carolina Piedmont. From the Observatory Dome, the Celestron CGE Pro 1400 telescope provides extraordinary views of outer space.