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![]() Spectacular scenery is a staple at the Bridges. Established: 1999 Designer: Robert Trent Jones II Group 6,901 yards, Par 71 Amenities: 36,000-square-foot Tuscan-style clubhouse with wine loft and private dining area; 10,000-square-foot sports center with its own basketball court, massage and spa services and pool. Why it’s on our list: Located on 540 picturesque acres dotted with hills, canyons, creeks and two 285-foot stress-ribbon bridges, the aesthetics of this club must be seen to be believed. The landscaping, which includes working vineyards, is brilliant but treacherous: multiple carries of more than 200 yards off the tee must be navigated. The combination of the incredible natural beauty and the challenging mettle of the course lured organizers of a made-for-TV golf exhibition to stage the Battle at the Bridges from 2003 to 2005, with participants including Tiger Woods, Annika Sorenstam and Phil Mickelson. Bet you didn’t know: Mickelson, who lives nearby in Rancho Santa Fe, and acclaimed putter designer Scotty Cameron are members. Wow factor: In the final edition of Battle at the Bridges, Retief Goosen made four birdies on the final six holes to give him and playing partner Mickelson the victory — and $500,000 each. Woods and his partner, Sergio Garcia, had to settle for $200,000 apiece. Private Eyes: Our favorite Southern California country clubs
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