With more than 1,200 courses, Florida is the country’s king of golf. It had to start somewhere, and one of the Sunshine State’s grandest courses is celebrating its 100th birthday in 2017, with all golfers invited to join in the festivities.

The history-rich El Campéon golf course at Mission Inn Resort and Club has played host to many notable players and tournaments since opening in 1917. Golfers are invited to experience this significant milestone and play this very special piece of Americana.

Located in the storied central Florida town of  Howey-In-The-Hills, Mission Inn Resort & Club is an elegant, 1,100 acre destination resort located just 90 minutes northeast of Tampa. Renowned for its picturesque rolling hills, orange groves and shimmering lakes, the area draws golf enthusiasts, fishermen and eco tourists who enjoy being surrounded by the region’s expansive natural beauty.

There are two championship courses at Mission Inn that provide exceptional challenge and play. The golf experience is truly remarkable –hills that roll and pitch, mature pine and magnolia trees that tower, eagles and ospreys that fly overhead and a peaceful ambiance without fairway houses or condos.

Spend the day challenging El Campeon, known for its steep hills and required shot making skills. This storied course, originally known as “The Floridian”, was one of the first in the state to feature grass greens rather than the oiled-sand greens common a century ago. It was one of only two courses in the state built to what was then considered the “regulation” length of 6,300 yards.

Designed by George O’Neil, a golf professional and noted architect from the Chicago Golf Club, El Campéon quickly became a hot spot for vacationers and top golfers. Among its early guests were Ben Hogan, Patty Berg, Babe Zaharias, Arnold Palmer and trick-shot artist Joe Kirkwood.

Christened “El Campéon” — The Champion — by the Beucher family who bought the resort in 1964, the course has been modernized to current playing standards while still showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Unique to this part of Florida are the 85-foot elevation changes on 6 holes of former rolling citrus groves and hardwood forests. El Campéon exceeds most players’ expectations having been rated # 2 nationally in the most recent Golf Advisor.com player surveys. It is a true example of historic class and current quality.

Mission Inn’s other course – Las Colinas – offers sweeping fairways among the rolling hills. Both courses are quality 18-hole championship layouts that have earned their share of accolades from members and resort guests alike.

Golfers looking to hone their skills can practice on the oversized golf range, large putting green and chipping areas, or enroll in one of three on-site golf schools. The professional, friendly staff is at the ready and knowledgeable PGA professionals are available to help lower your scores.

After your round, explore the extensive pro shop; relax at Nicker’s, our clubhouse pub and restaurant, or perhaps indulge at Spa Marbella.

Mission Inn features 176 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom accommodations in its two-story “San Miguel”, “San Diego” and “San Angel” buildings in a quaint, courtyard setting. A select number of privately owned two- and three-bedroom villas are also available.

With four restaurants, two championship golf courses, a luxury spa and a wide range of recreational activities, Mission Inn Resort & Club offers a truly unique and memorable guest experience.

For more information, call (800) 874-9053 or click to visit the resort’s web site.