Remembering back about 10 years ago, the talk of the town was Quintero. However, I never took the opportunity to play a round while it was a private golf club and community. Why? No clue. However, I did hear great things about this exclusively private golf club through the years. Fast forward 10 years and the club is now under new ownership and open to public play. Now we all can experience The Best!

So, my gang ventured out and I’m still in awe over this exquisite golf club. Had absolutely no idea that we could have such elevation changes right in our own backyard. I always thought you had to go to Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff or Payson to experience this kind of dramatic landscaping on a course. Not!! As a matter of fact, many of the holes on this magnificent design reminded me of some of my favorite holes played in the aforementioned locations. I was and still am amazed at the beauty and challenge of Quintero.

Measuring 7,208 yards from the championship tees and playing to a par 72, this Rees Jones Founders course is certain to test any golfer. Yet, with as many as nine tees per hole, it’s also accessible to players of all skill levels. Dramatic elevation changes enhance the thrill of this desert golf masterpiece. And, yes ladies, it is women friendly but you need to bring your game. There’s more than enough bunkering and the greens are slick, true and hold well.

Quintero Golf Club has received many accolades through the years and most recently Golfweek honored it #37 in the country for Top Residential Golf Courses in 2012. This Club has been voted Top 100 Modern Golf Courses in America 9 years in a row by Golfweek. Actually, there are too many to print in this review, but you’ll understand why this is so, once you tee it up.

The golf club offers a large practice facility for driving, chipping and putting. It’s sprinkled with a few homes and interestingly designed condos but none too near the fairways. Our group stated many times how quiet it was and that we felt like we needed to whisper. Fact of the matter is that Quintero is so secluded you can almost hear the grass growing. It’s truly a golf purist dream come true.

Hole #8, Par 5, 586 yards from the tips – by Vito Berlingeri

This beautiful golf hole is the number 1 handicap hole on the golf course and for good reason, the dog leg right par 5 is a true 3 shot hole, very picturesque and intimidating from the start. Several large sand bunkers guard the left side of the fairway next to the adjoining number 2 fairway with desert all up the right side, followed by a wash/deep ravine right of the landing area. A good drive is crucial otherwise double digit number is in your future. A well placed tee shot down the middle (240 - 280 yards) will leave you all you can handle (300 + yards) to the uphill green. My drive landed just short of the end of the fairway leaving a down hill lie to hit my 5 iron over the deep wash and short of the three large sand bunkers guarding the right side. Left with 170 yards ALL uphill into the wind, another 5 iron shot at the back pin was perfect leaving an 8 foot putt for birdie. Which wasn’t made but walked away with a tap in par! Looking from the green to the landing area on the fairway you can see the significant change in elevation, it has to be equivalent to about a 4-6% grade change in elevation, just a beautiful piece of architecture utilizing the desert landscape!

Hole # 18, Par 4, 334 yards from the tips – by David Brink

One of the best holes to finish a great round of golf. A good tee shot helps on this hole as the left side of the fairway has large deep bunkers that will make it tough to save for par. A good second shot is needed on this hole to make par, but don’t hit it too far as everything slopes off the back side of the green right into trouble. Truly enjoyed the wonderful waterfall and pond as you walk off the green.

The Club offers a pro shop, the grille and patio dining. Menu offers a good variety and be sure to sit out on the patio for a libation after your round. It’s just a pure pleasure in this quiet secluded atmosphere.

The staff is pure joy, very accommodating to your every need and so eager to please. They make your golfing experience exceptional.

On March 2nd, Quintero will be hosting a PING Demo Day and on March 23rd there will be a Tour Edge Exotics Demo Day.

Tee times are welcomed up to 90 days in advance of the day of play  with Arizona Resident rates available up to 90 days in advance, as well.

This is an introduction to a most amazing golf experience on a “Must Play” golf course. Quintero will awe you and inspire you and you will find yourself wanting that second and third chance at this exquisite challenge. So, what are you waiting for?!