Candlestone History

The dream lives on at Candlestone Golf & Resort!

A changing of the guard has not diminished the drive to make Candlestone Golf & Resort your favorite area golf destination. With new ownership also comes renewed enthusiasms – and an infusion of money – to keep Candlestone the treasure of golf in the area.

The story of Candlestone begins to unfold in 1971 when a group of local businessmen envisioned a grand, luxurious restaurant and hotel in a picturesque setting that was once an apple orchard.

They could see a staff that was committed to providing top-quality food and service to their imaginary customers. In 1972 the dream became a reality. A beautiful dining room with a glass wall The dream lives on at Candlestone Golf & Resort! A changing of the guard has not diminished the drive to make Candlestone Golf & Resort your favorite area golf destination. With new ownership also comes renewed enthusiasms – and an infusion of money – to keep Candlestone the treasure of golf in the area. The story of Candlestone begins to unfold in 1971 when a group of local businessmen envisioned a grand, luxurious restaurant and hotel in a picturesque setting that was once an apple orchard. They could see a staff that was committed to providing top-quality food and service to their imaginary customers. In 1972 the dream became a reality. A beautiful dining room with a glass wall overlooking the orchard, complete with cascading water fountain and sunken bar, were constructed along with a spacious, 25-room hotel. The view was impressive, the food and service wonderful, but this was only the beginning …

The golf course opened in 1978 and designer Jerry Matthews considered Candlestone to be one of his best designs. The majestic pines and rolling hills that stood behind the orchard proved to be a hidden treasure of beautiful fairways, lush greens and challenging obstacles.

Years later, Candlestone has come to be known as one of West Michigan's toughest and most beautiful golf courses.

In the early 1990's, Grand Rapids auto dealer Joe Duthler purchased Candlestone. He ran the facility until 2008 when his estate sold the resort to the current owners, Steve Leach (Rockford), Cathy Farr (Rockford), and John Durkee (Cedar Springs).

The new group has great visions for Candlestone and has backed it up with massive capital infusion. A new restaurant and lounge, new greenside deck, all-new remodeled motel rooms and lobby were just the beginning.

Following was a new golf shop, bag drop area, learning center and putting green.

In the Spring of 2009 the owners commissioned Mike Husby to remodel and modernize the golf course. The bulk of the work has been completed, with an eye and budget to make additional improvement as needed.

Although the original founders of Candlestone have moved on to other endeavors, their dream lives on. Once again Candlestone is the destination resort where you get the personal attention you deserve.

Call now to book your tee time at (616) 608-0681!