Along the banks of the Rapidan River amid the beautiful Virginia countryside is the home of the newly redesigned and renovated Somerset Golf Club.

After falling on hard times the course closed it's doors in hopes to revive it's luster for a brighter future. This Scottish links style course re-opened in late August after an extensive renovation headed by respected golf course architect, Rick Robbins.

The redesign included an entire re-conditioning, which involves changing the types of grasses at the course. The plan is to better match the grass types with the area and to dispel past issues with certain greens and areas of the course that were troublesome. Mr. Robbins has taken a once troubled course and worked magic to improve playability, look and conditioning.

If you're a fan of a course design you must make a trip to Somerset. With outstanding views, uniquely shaped holes and newly installed bentgrass greens, this course has made a new mark to challenge the elite clubs of Northern Virginia.

Amigos Favorite Hole: With out a doubt the par 5, 513-yard number 17 was our choice of favorite. Its unique design and test of course management makes this hole a true three shot test of accuracy.

The conservative player will be able to direct his way over the strategically placed hazards but a properly placed drive and fairway wood is a possibility for those who dare tempt to reach the green in two.

The hole design is unique because it weaves through three distinct hazards that cross the fairway before you reach the green, with the last and most punishing hazard protecting the entire front of the green.

After a less than perfect tee shot, our "Solo Amigo" was forced to take the three shot approach on playing the hole. Once near the green the lone Amigo lie just off the back edge and was left with a delicate chip. But with one of his better chips on the day, and a solid one putt, a par was had on this demanding golf hole.