Thirty years ago a group of entrepreneurs set out to create a one-of-a-kind community in Southwest Florida. The standards were set high with oversized lots, world-class facilities and a golf program steeped in Scottish tradition. The idea of a community of this magnitude raised many an eyebrow back in the 80’s as the dedicated parcel was amidst a largely undeveloped area of Fort Myers. But under the premise of “if you build it, they will come”, this once-in-a-lifetime community became the place to live and play golf in Southwest Florida. And now today, several decades later, Fiddlesticks Country Club continues to be a thriving country club community of choice. The homes are spacious, the facilities are beautiful and every major golf tournament still opens with a traditional bagpiper send-off.
Welcome Home – entrance to the Fiddlesticks Community
When first arriving at Fiddlesticks, most are awe-struck by the natural and quiet beauty of the community. Large, handsome oak trees are plentiful, palm trees stand majestic against the blue skies and the grass appears greener. Even the unassuming Welcome Home sign that greets every resident and visitor upon their entrance through the gates lends itself to the warm and friendly atmosphere that so many find so inviting. Modeled after Scottish castles from long ago, the Clubhouse and sister Tennis and Fitness building depart from the typical Florida or Mediterranean style that many other Southwest Florida clubs have adopted. Their unique architecture is not only noteworthy, but has become a source of pride for the Community.
Real estate opportunities have decreased greatly over the past two years due to a recovering economy and the amenities and recognition Fiddlesticks has achieved. In 2013 there were 43 properties for sale and at the time of this article there are only 28. Opportunities range from small condo fixers to multi-million dollar sprawling estates, each with their own personality and views of the courses.
The Long Mean Course at Fiddlesticks CC
Winding through Fiddlesticks are two pristine 18-hole courses designed by world-renowned golf architect Ron Garl. Both the Long Mean and the Wee Friendly provide a challenging yet playable round of golf. The Long Mean (7,077-yards, par 72) has 18 unique holes that require even the seasoned golfer to use every club in their bag. The Wee Friendly (6,645-yards, par 72), while equally as unique, provides a slightly more forgiving design. But don’t let the name fool you! It’s neither “wee” nor “friendly” but balances the golf offerings at Fiddlesticks and ensures that course density is very low.
With only 600 members, Fiddlesticks’ members and guests have the opportunity to play every day, year-round. Members love the easy access to the courses; tee times may be made online or with a simple personal phone call to the pro shop and playing times average well under four hours. With over 20 men’s and women’s golf groups we can not only find you a game but we can introduce you to friends for life.
St Andrews courtyard
As the 2015 venue for the recent FSGA Mid-Am Championship, Fiddlesticks garnered rave reviews from both the players and the FSGA administration including participant Rob Bryans who had this to say about the facility, “The course was fantastic, a real gem and in great shape – those greens were a real treat and some of the best we have played in a long while.”
For those who desire non golf-related activities, Fiddlesticks offers a competitive yet friendly tennis facility (home to this season’s Ladies 4.0- district champions) as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center (with on-site trainers). The dining rooms in the Clubhouse provide well-appointed cuisine and a comfortable and lively atmosphere. And there certainly is no shortage of social events throughout the year. By the end of the season Members are overwhelmed with the memories created during their time at Fiddlesticks. Concert on the Green, Shakespeare in the Park, Comedy Shows, Harvest Festival and Christmas Concerts; Fiddlesticks has it all and completes the country club experience with a social calendar fostering camaraderie and fellowship.
Enjoy an evening at Piper’s Patio
The newly renovated Piper’s Patio offers sweeping views of two signature holes, two fire pits for those chilly winter nights and warm, shaded breezes in the summer. A picturesque venue to commemorate a hole-in-one, celebrate a victorious tennis game with your teammates or simply enjoy cocktails and appetizers with friends and family.
Currently scheduled to begin a total renovation in the summer of 2015, the pool area will be revamped in its entirety. Members will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the new Cabana as they sip on cocktails, dine on wood-fired pizza and casual fare, and watch the latest sports events on TV while their kids and grandkids enjoy the resort-style zero entry pool. When those up North are digging out from another snow packed winter we are in flip flops, basking in the sun by the pool.
It’s hard to say what a first-time visitor to Fiddlesticks will immediately fall in love with the most….perhaps one of the signature golf holes, or maybe the view of the fountain while relaxing on the patio, or maybe the abundance of friends that are immediately acquired upon entrance through the gates. Whatever the initial lure, it’s Fiddlesticks as a whole that draws one in and creates a comfort, a peace and a desire to make Fiddlesticks a place to call home.
For membership and additional information please contact Sarah Martini-Ricci, Director of Happiness, at 239-210-2775 or email: smr@fiddlestickscc.com
Important Links:
Fiddlesticks CC website: www.fiddlestickscc.com
Course Tour: http://www.fiddlestickscc.com/Default.aspx?p=dynamicmodule&pageid=91&ssid=104&vnf=1
About Video: http://www.fiddlestickscc.com/Default.aspx?p=dynamicmodule&pageid=69&ssid=77&vnf=1
