Perched dramatically in the Texas Hill Country just 10 miles northwest of Austin, Fazio Foothills is the signature course at Omni Barton Creek Resort and a certified Top 100 candidate. Designed by Tom Fazio and established in 1986, this 7,125-yard par-72 track is described by Golf Channel's Matt Ginella as "a roller-coaster ride through the Texas Hill Country (without the screaming)." The course tumbles across the landscape with massive elevation changes, cliff-lined fairways, natural limestone caves, cascading waterfalls, and small, pristine TifEagle Bermuda greens that demand precision.
What makes Foothills special is its theatrical routing. Five different tee boxes render the course accessible to beginners and daunting to accomplished players, while elevated tee boxes frame dozens of dramatic scenic overlooks. Approach shots matter here—creeks guard several greens, and the undulating aprons and grass bunkers reward shot-makers. Holes like the iconic par-4 10th (an epic downhill monster) and the brutish par-5 18th carved across ridgelines stay with you long after your round.
The resort setting elevates the experience. You're staying at a world-class Omni property with 493 guest rooms, nine dining venues, Mokara Spa, multiple pools, and direct access to four championship courses. Staff are attentive, conditions are consistently excellent (especially spring and fall when the course doesn't overseed), and the practice facilities are top-notch. For group trips, the stay-and-play packages are excellent value.
One caveat: resort guests must ride carts (members can walk), and the course is pricey compared to some Texas alternatives. But when you're standing on that 10th tee looking down 100+ feet to a fairway carved through the hills, with Austin twinkling in the distance, the investment feels absolutely justified.
Tom Fazio's signature 7,125-yard Hill Country masterpiece featuring elevated tees, dramatic waterfalls, and small pristine greens.
Fazio's second design (1999) with wider fairways and larger greens, located a few miles from the main resort.
Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore design featuring lush fairways, massive undulating greens, and traditional shot-making emphasis.
Arnold Palmer design 25 miles west, perched on Lake Travis with panoramic views and dramatic elevation changes.
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa features 493 guest rooms and suites set across 4,000 acres in the Texas Hill Country. Premier Balcony rooms offer Juliette-style balconies with sweeping Hill Country views. Amenities include 4 outdoor pools, world-class Mokara Spa, 9 dining venues, fitness center, kids club, and direct access to all golf courses. Rooms range from $386-$563 per night based on recent bookings. The resort is 30 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and 10 miles from downtown Austin.