A national poll of the subscribers of Golf Digest, the world’s largest golf magazine, have rated Lake Oconee among the Top 10 “Buddies-Golf Destinations” in the world.

The results appear in the January issue of Golf Digest in an article entitled “On the Road Again,” which highlights the tradition of eight or 16 buddies travelling and playing golf together, while nurturing friendships along the way. The article included a complete ranking of the Top 36 “Buddies-Golf Destinations.”

Lake Oconee was joined in the Top 10 by such esteemed golf havens as Scotland, Ireland, Pinehurst, Maui and Pebble Beach/Monterey. It was ranked higher than several notable golf regions, including Hilton Head Island, Scottsdale and Palm Springs.

“Buddies-golf getaways provide an iconic blend of camaraderie, friendly competition and exploring new places,” said Harbor Club general manager, Brandon Matney. “All of us at the lake are proud to be recognized so highly by the Golf Digest readers.”

Lake Oconee boasts one of the greatest collections of golf courses in the world, mostly located just minutes apart at the resort communities of Harbor Club, Reynolds Plantation and Cuscowilla. The courses represent the designs of the world’s premier golf architects, including Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Rees Jones and the duos of Ben Crenshaw/Bill Coore and Tom Weiskopf/Jay Morrish.

Accommodations for golf groups at Lake Oconee are varied and include inviting lakefront villas and townhomes at Harbor Club, beautifully rustic golf cottages at Cuscowilla, vacation rental cottages at Reynolds Plantation and the elegant 251-room Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation.

“Lake Oconee provides a unique opportunity to elevate the traditional buddies’ trip to an entirely new level,” said The Ritz-Carlton Lodge general manager, Ralph Vick. “In addition to Ritz-Carlton’s signature level of service, we offer guests access to five extraordinary courses, the Reynolds Golf Academy and the TaylorMade Kingdom.”

Dining options at the AAA Five Diamond resort include a classic steakhouse, a lakeside grille and a casual bistro. The main lobby is a favorite spot to gather in the evening, whether for cocktails, billiards or just relaxing around the fireplace. “And gentlemen should not overlook the spa,” Vick reminds us. “We proudly offer a menu of services specifically tailored to gentlemen that are sure to leave you refreshed and ready for the next day’s round.”

In addition to outstanding golf and resort amenities, the Lake Oconee region offers a multitude of recreational and cultural activities, many based around the lake itself. Recently ranked one of the “10 Gorgeous Lakes in the US” by MSN.com, Lake Oconee is a haven for boating, kayaking, water skiing and paddle boarding. It is also regarded as one of the premier bass fishing lakes in the country. Local marinas offer boat ramp access, watercraft rental, fuel, supplies, and referrals to professional fishing guides.

Among the many other amenities are swimming pools, tennis courts, walking trails and acclaimed dining facilities, while trail hiking, shooting sports, antiquing and exploring historical sites are favorite local activities unique to the area.