With the legacy of the historic Donald Ross-designed course at the heart of the company’s vision, Raines, in partnership with Bobby Weed Golf Design, has transformed the Waynesville Inn & Golf Club into “a perfect blend of refined amenities and top-notch golf” within the Western North Carolina landscape.
“Our goal was to create a place where members and guests can enjoy both the laid-back charm of the mountains and the comfortable, updated amenities,” said David Tart, managing partner, Raines. “We took great care to preserve the Inn’s history while adding conveniences that today’s guests appreciate. From the refreshed rooms to the improved facilities, everything has been thought through to enhance the guest experience. We’re pretty excited about what we’ve done here—bringing the past and the present together—and we hope our members and guests will love it as much as we do.”
Waynesville Inn & Golf Club has a history dating back to a local dairy farm in the early 1920s. The property has experienced several transformational milestones, each contributing to its stature as a premier golf destination, according to the company. In 1926, the Waynesville Country Club was established based on a sketch from architect Donald Ross. A community-supported expansion in 1929 allowed the club to grow further, adding to its legacy. The addition of the Woodcrest building in 1939 was a significant step in accommodating the increasing demand for extended stays.
The transformative vision of W.T. Eller and George Kimball, who purchased the club in 1946, led to further improvements that enhanced the club’s appeal. Fast-forward to the 2000s and a series of upgrades took place, including revamping the Golfview building and constructing a new Brookside building. In 2006, the property was purchased by David Stubbs and Sammy Carver, leading to its transformation into Waynesville Inn – Golf Resort and Spa in 2009.
Raines acquired the property in April 2021. Following two years of renovation and rebranding under the direction of Woven by Raines, a specialized company division providing a unique development and management approach to boutique hotels, Waynesville Inn & Golf Club now stands as a testament to its enduring allure and celebrated legacy, according to the company.
The historic 165-acre property now has 72 newly refurbished guestrooms, an 18-hole golf course and practice facilities, 6,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space, an event lawn and a variety of dining options.
Guests at Waynesville Inn & Golf Club can choose from various accommodation options; each with a distinct charm. The historic Inn offers nostalgia-infused rooms in the building dating back to 1926, while the Brookside rooms resonate with a classic ’60s roadside motel vibe. Those seeking proximity to the historic “Ross 9” can opt for the Golfview rooms with private balconies with sweeping course views. The Golf Cottages off Hole #9 offer rooms with home-like comforts.
In addition to golf, Waynesville Inn & Golf Club’s location lies in close proximity to Western North Carolina activities including hiking and fishing, as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
“We are proud to be part of this transformative journey at Waynesville Inn & Golf Club,” said Bobby Weed, founder, Bobby Weed Golf Design. “Our focus was on honoring the course’s historic roots while infusing it with the demands of modern golf. The resulting design showcases a thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation within a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s been a privilege to participate with Raines in reigniting the course’s vibrancy, and we eagerly anticipate seeing players relish in the unique golf experience we’ve created.”
The club has new practice facilities, a new fleet of golf carts and uninterrupted mountain views from its 3,000-ft. elevation point.
“In partnering with Bobby Weed Golf Design, we’ve been able to elevate this historic destination into a must-visit hub for golfers and non-golfers alike,” said Kerry Ranson, president, operations/partner, Raines. “By preserving the heart of the iconic Donald Ross design and incorporating top-notch amenities, we’ve created a venue that genuinely celebrates the stunning Western North Carolina landscape. We’re proud to invite guests to experience this perfect blend of history, comfort, and a superior lodging experience.”
The property’s on-site facilities have been substantially upgraded and feature a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, a business center and accommodating rooms for guests with pets.
“The revitalization of the historic Waynesville Inn & Golf Club has been an exceptional journey for us,” said Grey Raines, managing partner, Raines. “It embodies what Woven by Raines is all about—cherishing the past, introducing the comforts of the present, and fostering a deep bond with the community. We’ve successfully blended the property’s rich legacy with the conveniences modern guests appreciate. We’re thrilled to be a part of Waynesville’s vibrant community and add a fresh chapter to a location property that’s hosted so many memorable celebrations.”
For more on Raines’ work on the renovation of the Waynesville Inn & Golf Club, be sure to check out the October issue of Hotel Business.
