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![]() Journey at Pechanga ambassador Corey Pavin tees off on No. 6, which has a 300-foot drop from tee to fairway. Corey Pavin has seen his share of high-stress situations on the golf course, but the success he’s enjoyed has afforded him many unique opportunities outside the ropes. One of them is serving as ambassador for Journey at Pechanga in Temecula, something that’s a bit less stressful than trying to close out a tournament on the 72nd hole. “Spreading the word about how great the golf course plays and looks is an easy and comfortable role for me,” Pavin said. Nestled against a large hillside at the edge of the Temecula Valley, the track is one of the most breathtaking in the Southland and boasts an astounding range of high-quality amenities. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to have California’s largest casino resort next door, a recipient of AAA’s Four-Diamond award six years in a row. Each hole on the Arthur Hills-designed layout brings something different to the table. The short par-4 fifth has a creek that splits the hole in two and presents a few options from the tee. The tee box on the par-4 sixth is 300 feet above the fairway and presents the opportunity to hit 400-yard drives. An old-school, uniquely-tiered Biarritz green looms on the par-4 18th and has to be seen to be believed. Better golfers seeking a challenge certainly can find it here, but five sets of tees make it accessible for players of all skill levels. Pavin always emphasizes the importance of playing from the proper tee and keeping the ball in play, since out-of-bounds areas, bunkers and old oak trees can be troublesome. A unique experience is further entrenched by a state-of-the-art GPS system on each cart and an extremely well-groomed driving range, which boasts targets complete with undulating greens, bunkers and rocks. Pavin says the adjacent practice chipping and putting greens “are as good as any on tour.” Then there’s the clubhouse, which was recently recognized as Southern California’s best in Southland Golf’s inaugural Readers’ Choice Awards. The modern structure complements the rural beauty of the course and features a luxurious pro shop, private-club-caliber locker rooms and Journey’s End, which has delectable breakfast and lunch options that won’t break the bank. An ideal way to cap a round of golf is by hanging out or spending the night at Pechanga Resort & Casino, where there’s something for everyone. Gamblers can revel in the 188,000-square-foot casino (bigger than any in Las Vegas) and more than 3,700 slot machines (the most in the Western United States, including Las Vegas). Foodies will appreciate nine different dining options, including the Great Oak Steakhouse (pictured), which has been a winner of Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence” five years in a row and features Pechanga Premium Angus Beef raised on exclusive farms in Northern California.There are always special events happening, from boxing and comedy shows to top-notch musical acts. How’s this for a sample of shows in September — the Doobie Brothers, George Lopez and Foreigner are performing during consecutive weekends. After the whirlwind of activity, there’s an opportunity to relax with a massage or other rejuvenating treatment at Spa Pechanga. And there’s an on-site RV park as a lodging alternative to one of the resort’s cozy and spacious 517 guest rooms. If it seems like there’s a lot going on at Pechanga — golf, the clubhouse, the casino, entertainment, dining and more — it’s because there truly is. And it’s only about an hour away from any point in Orange, San Diego, Los Angeles and Riverside counties. For more information on Pechanga Resort & Casino or to make a reservation, call (877) 711-2946 or visit pechanga.com. ALSO SEE: U.S. Ryder Cup captain Corey Pavin interview at Pechanga Local Knowledge: Journey at Pechanga Temecula's Journey at Pechanga is the new game in town |
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