I just played Sand Valley in Wisconsin for the first time. The seven-year-old course is simply a monumental achievement in what had been a barren area.

The often picturesque sand dunes stretch down every hole. The good news? When you land in one, you may ground your club, unlike a usual sand trap in the United States.

More good news: It’s hard to lose a ball on the 6,500-yard layout. There are a few forests, but an errant shot on most holes that avoids the dunes can be found in foot-high grass.

The views of the Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design are spectacular. A number of tee shots start at the top of hills. There’s a punchbowl green with nasty breaks on the par-three 17th. After the round, dollar tacos at Craig’s are truly tasty while watching those teeing off the first and 10th holes.

We stayed at Lodges of the Lakes, a clean, comfortable spot about eight minutes away. The price is right compared to Sand Valley (about $340 a night for a two-bedroom cottage with a kitchen).

No doubt I will be returning to play this special golf course.