The game of golf has often been referred to as "a good walk spoiled." Having tried and failed at this sport many times, I believe it's quite a perfect description. While I loved a golf course's natural beauty and open space, chasing the little white ball only took away from an otherwise lovely walk.
So with that in mind, let me introduce you to one of Nantucket's most popular and beautiful walks, the Tupancy Links. Formed in 1921, The Nantucket Golf Club was the island's first golf course. Many years later it was purchased by Mr. Oswald Tupancy and became the Tupancy Links. He and his wife eventually donated this gorgeous property to the Nantucket Conservation Foundation, leaving it open for all to walk and enjoy . . . without that pesky white ball.
The property is located off Cliff Road, a short distance from town. The trail begins up a gentle slope lined with a rail fence.
Once you crest the slope there is wide open grassland in front of you, with a sandy path to follow if you like. If you look carefully you can still see where the greens and tees once were, many years ago. On a quiet afternoon you can almost see the ghosts of golfers past.
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| August 2012 |
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| With Adrienne, October 2004 |
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| Pappa, Grandma B and Adrienne, July 2010 |
Eventually the path enters a grove of pine trees and leads up a short slope.
I think the best walks give you a destination, the point in the journey where you pause and take in a view, and the Tupancy Links walk offers just that. At the half way point you reach the top of a bluff overlooking the Nantucket Sound, and to your right, the harbor and town.
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| August 2012 |
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| October 2004 |
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| A favorite photo of my parents taken in 2005, at the top of the bluff |
After you enjoy the gorgeous water views, the path continues back inland, looping you along the other side of the course back to Cliff Road . . . the end of a refreshing, peaceful, beautiful walk not spoiled.
The Tupancy Links is accessible by bike path.
Parking is available.
The Tupancy Links is a popular place for dog walking.
Post card image from etsy.com; NantucketCards shop
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| July 2010 "Golf seems to me an arduous way to go for a walk. I prefer to take the dogs out." ~ Princess Anne of Great Britain |
The Tupancy Links is accessible by bike path.
Parking is available.
The Tupancy Links is a popular place for dog walking.
Post card image from etsy.com; NantucketCards shop
