Actually, it has its advantages, like modest cost, quality turf, and unrestricted walking. One of the finest additions to the greater Washington area is The Links at Challedon in Mt. Airy, Maryland, an hour north of Capitol Hill. Brain Ault laid out this par-72 course so that each hole nestles into its own wooded pocket. Thankfully, it is spacious, not tight down the middle, and the low-lying land with its relatively flat bunkers conveys an appealing, unhurried look. It helps that there's no housing cluttering up the site.
Green fees are modest, and walking is optional mid-week and on weekend afternoons.
Over on the Virginia side of the Potomac River, and only ten minutes by car from Dulles International Airport, is Herndon Centennial GC . The family resemblance in design styles is evident. This par-71 layout varies from 5,025 yards to a comfortable 6,445. A little farther up the road is an ambitious conference and resort undertaking called Lansdowne . The golf here, designed by Robert Trent Jr., is on a very high order, what with the landing areas well-defined and lots of strategic options from diverse tee placements.