The circa 1990 definition of a golf destination has been altered dramatically over the past fifteen years. So much so that golf is only part of the vacation equation.

Spas, hiking, horseback riding – even fishing and rock climbing – have surfaced as legitimate pursuits for have-clubs-will-travel types.

Case in point: golfers are flocking to the foothills of the Sierras to experience Castle & Cooke-developed Saddle Creek Resort. A 900-acre residentially-driven golf resort, Saddle Creek offers visitors 18 holes of championship golf, tennis, hiking, fly fishing and access to 28 local wineries.

The property is conveniently located within a 2.5 hour drive of more than seven million people; the Bay area is two hours west, San Jose two hours southwest and Sacramento just an hour and a half to the northwest. Not surprisingly, Saddle Creek has become a golf home away from home for hundreds of Northern California residents.

The resort component centers on the aforementioned golf course, designed by Carter Morrish (son of Texas-based architect, Jay Morrish). Ranked among the top 10 in the state by Golfweek and adorned with four and a half stars by Golf Digest, no two holes run parallel at Saddle Creek, and native grasses and wetlands blend seamlessly with the high country surrounds.

If it’s teeth you’re after, back it up and play from Saddle Creek’s 6,800-plus-yard tips. The Northern California Open was recently contested from these back tees, and the best golfers of the NCAA’s West Coast Conference recently tested their mettle against the track’s formidable chops. A hole to belt-notch: the 535-yard 18th, a strong downhill par-5 with bunkers flanking the left and native grasses along the entire right side.

Traveling golfers bed down in Saddle Creek’s on-course bungalows, all appointed with cozy décor, fireplaces, full kitchens and patios. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the Copper Grille, an award-winning, chef-driven restaurant located in The Lodge overlooking the ninth hole. The wine list is extensive, and a planned expansion of the wine room will add even more vintages.

The resort recently introduced two new activities to further expand the resort’s culinary and luxury lifestyle experience for members and guests. A wine tasting takes place in the foyer of The Lodge on select nights. Piano often accompanies the libations; a fire burning bright in The Lodge’s cozy foyer.