Links at Carillon

There was a time when this 27-hole Greg Martin design really was a hidden jewel, literally a “diamond in the rough” in Plainfield. But with the western growth of Chicagoland over the past few years, the Links at Carillon isn't on the outskirts any longer. In fact, while this former piece of Illinois farmland inside the gated community of Carillon still feels like a getaway, it is now right in the backyard of thousands of avid Westside golfers, and has never been more ready to be explored by your foursome or group outing.

Owned by a group of golf lovers, the The Links at Carillon gets all of their attention, and it shows in the lush landscaping of the course (the group also bought a Michigan tree farm years ago and transplanted over 1,600 trees to the golf course) and its spectacular conditioning.

And with 27 holes available, there’s always an opportunity to get out and play this truly entertaining and player-friendly course no matter how many other players decided to do the same that day. And you can also count on a good time in good time as the Uplink GPS system helps guide players around the courses in a very consistent four-hour pace.

Each of the three nines offers its own interesting challenges from five sets of tees. The Red Course’s signature sixth hole forces you to approach the green over water and a railroad tie bulkhead. The two finishing holes are testing par-4s where the hazard of wetlands comes into play.

The White Course features two very distinct par-3s, its five par-4s are all of strikingly different lengths and its signature hole, the par-5 ninth, puts every number from 3 to “infinity-and-beyond” in play. The hole features a large lake on the entire left side and a small pond in the landing area to the right off the tee that’ll make you contemplate how to attack the hole. Hit the driver 250 yards down the left hand side and go for the green in two? Or make the smart play and hit 200 yards off the tee, a 200-yard second and a wedge in. But what’s the heroic story in that? Unless you’re one down and a birdie can win the press!

The Blue Course has the shortest of the par-5s, but its “reachability” is challenged by playing into the prevailing wind and over the big bunkers that surround the green. Conquer that challenge and the next hole is a strong par-4 with wetlands left and another retention pond down the right hand side.

The Links Learning Center features professional instruction, grass tees and practice bunkers for both greenside chipping and fairway shots (take the hint, there are plenty of bunkers on the course as well).

With 27 holes to play with, the Links at Carillon has the flexibility to host outings and open play at the same time, or as large a corporate or charity outing as you can create (and the White Sox have .. more than once). The Grille can host 100 visitors inside and a wonderful all-weather Pavilion with three sides exposed to the course with glass windows (not those plastic tent windows) is perfect for outings, weddings, receptions and other special events for up to 250. There’s even free wireless access in the clubhouse.

Just 30 minutes from the Loop and a quick jaunt from the Oak Brook, Naperville and Joliet areas, The Links at Carillon can become your getaway that’s not too far away. Check out their Web site, www.carillongolf.com to book tee times online, for the latest specials and a player-loyalty program for even bigger savings. Or call their friendly staff at (815) 886-2132. The Links at Carillon, a jewel that’s hidden no more.