Reasons to play » Secluded, unique, dramatic setting incorporating river and mountains. Conditions, once spotty, have improved in just seven months under Love’s watch. That and reduced rates make this course an exceptional value, especially considering the stunning scenery. Appropriately, it has a log cabin clubhouse, rustic only on the outside.

Road less traveled » It’s a good thing the mile-long unpaved road leading to Virginia National is well-marked. Most city slickers would assume they had taken a wrong turn as they rumble down rugged, densely shaded Parker Lane, which passes a few Beverly Hillbillies-style dwellings.

Worth the wait » A rudimentary course, which went out of business in the 1980s, was the forerunner of Virginia National. When former owner Cliff Boyd purchased the land, he had to negotiate numerous zoning potholes, which didn’t exist when the original course was built in the 1950s.

Historic perspective » The land just across the Shenandoah from the 15th and 16th holes was the site of the Battle of Cool Spring, the only Civil War activity in Clarke CountyThe land just across the Shenandoah from the 15th and 16th holes was the site of the Battle of Cool Spring, the only Civil War activity in Clarke County.

Signature hole » No. 14, Par 3, 205 Yards
Even if you’re not playing from the tips, it’s imperative to climb to the top tee box, stop, sit down, inhale and take in the river below, the Shenandoah Valley beyond and the Allegheny Mountains. This is panoramic perfection, a view unmatched by another golf course in Northern Virginia. As for the tee shot, play two clubs less and fire at the center of the mushroom-shaped green 80 feet below.

Beautiful beast » No. 5, Par 4, 414 Yards
Your first encounter with the Shenandoah comes at No. 5, the No. 1 handicap hole, where the tee box is just a flop shot from the river. With the prevailing wind at your back, watching your drive soar (hopefully) toward the mountain slope can provide a feeling of power and majesty, be it ever so fleeting. And if you happen to hit an ugly runner, tee up another. This hole calls to mind the spectacular Cascades Course at the Homestead.

On high » No. 13, Par 4, 350 Yards
After 12 holes that run along the river, everything changes as you climb the winding cart path that leads uphill to No. 13. Once there, you get a hole typical of Virginia National — short, tight, strategic and full of undulation on the elevated green.

Strategic hole » No. 11, Par 5, 571 Yards
No hole requires more consideration than No. 11, which has a stream that cuts across the fairway. The green is typical of many on the back nine — tough to read as the effects of the river and mountain create deception. Many putts on the back will break in the opposite direction of what is expected.

Well manored » A white brick manor house overlooks the 10th tee and 18th green. Plans to update it for conferences, weddings and outings were scrapped, and the home is up for sale. “The Retreat” dates to 1799 and was once owned by Richard Parker, the “Hanging Judge,” who sentenced abolitionist John Brown to death in 1859.

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