Golf's Worst-Kept Secret Taking Shape in the Carolina Sandhills

In the Carolina Sandhills, a new golf resort called Candyroot is emerging as the 'worst-kept secret' in the golf world. Located between Charlotte and Columbia, this resort promises to become a popular destination for golfers due to its accessibility and unique course design approach. Inspired by minimalism and focused on golf, Candyroot is reminiscent of the renowned Bandon Dunes resort in Oregon, but with a more convenient location.

Plans include multiple courses, with the first one set to open for preview play this fall. Charlotte, one of the largest golf hubs in the U.S., lacks standout public-access courses, and Candyroot aims to fill this niche. The courses will cater to contemporary tastes: walking-friendly layouts and minimalist shaping, complemented by smart but unfussy amenities.

The developers have enlisted Mike Koprowski, the co-founder and designer behind the popular Broomsedge course in South Carolina. Koprowski, who pivoted into architecture mid-career, created one of the more improbable success stories in modern golf design. Charlotte-based investors involved in Broomsedge are also backing Candyroot.

While the team has remained relatively quiet, rumors about the project are spreading faster than any marketing campaign. My friend, while sitting on a bench and scrolling through his inbox, stumbled upon an invitation to become a founding member of Candyroot. The funding model is similar to projects like The Lido and Rodeo Dunes, where early believers help fund ambitious builds.

Candyroot offers membership tiers ranging from $100,000 to $1 million, each tied to varying privileges and access. Although terms may change, one thing remains constant—the name Candyroot, drawn from a flowering plant native to the Sandhills landscape.