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Itinerary
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Magnolia Greens
Magnolia Greens' 27 holes have hosted PGA Tour and US Golf Association qualifying tournaments. Warm up at the driving range, which has natural grass tees. There are also chipping and putting practice greens. Enjoy a meal or a drink at Blossoms Restaurant, where its biggest treat is sweeping views of the course.
Cape Fear National
Golfweek magazine has consistently ranked Cape Fear National on its “Best Courses You Can Play in North Carolina” list. The lush setting is filled with native vegetation, and its fairways are challenging but fair. Use the touchscreen computer in the cart to pull up distances to pins and hazards, review aerial views to plan an attack on the next hole, and order food and drinks, which will be waiting at the turn.
Villages at Brunswick Forest
You might be surprised to learn that Leland is a young town, having been incorporated in 1989. And its population growth has attracted many new amenities, including The Villages at Brunswick Forest. Its 500,000 square feet of retail and professional space has everything you need. Find organic treats, unique collars and other wholesome supplies for your four-legged friends at locally owned Family Dog Naturals.
Founders Park
Leland balances development with a strong dedication to nature and green space. That starts at Founders Park, the town’s first park. It has a playground, picnic tables and a paved trail that’s a little more than a half-mile long. Use the free wireless internet to quickly share pictures of your visit through social media.
Brunswick Nature Park
Brunswick Nature Park in nearby Winnabow has trails for hiking and mountain biking throughout its 900-plus acres. Rookie riders will enjoy the flat and fast trails. If you’re more experienced, pedal the single track that winds through woods and wetlands, and test your balance on the obstacles and rock gardens. The park’s pavilion is perfect for large family gatherings.
Green Swamp Preserve
The kayak and canoe launch at Brunswick Nature Park provides easy access to Town Creek, whose dark tannin-stained waters start at 17,000-plus-acre Green Swamp Preserve in Supply. Follow the red diamonds that mark the 1.5-mile out-and-back trail. You’ll walk among 14 species of insectivorous plants, including Venus flytraps, and have a chance to see rare animals, such as the bright green and brown Hessel’s hairstreak butterfly. Town Creek’s slow current is well-suited for beginner paddlers and sightseeing. North Carolina Coastal Land Trust has led the preservation of more than 13,000 acres along the creek. For a longer expedition, follow it to the Cape Fear River, where you can watch alligators sunning, dolphins swimming and brown pelicans gliding. Beach your boat and explore the river’s islands.
Belville Riverwalk Park
The tide affects fishing and small-boat access at Belville Riverwalk Park. So enjoy a meal at a picnic shelter, walk a trail or admire the Brunswick River from an overlook while waiting for it to get right — rising for launching and falling for fishing. When it does, cast for big flounder, called “doormats,” and striped bass. There are also catfish, redfish and speckled trout to be caught from 125-foot, wheelchair-accessible Joseph Breault Fishing Pier.
Wilmington
And remember, Leland puts you in perfect position to enjoy everything that southeastern North Carolina offers. During your time here, easily spend a whole day exploring downtown Wilmington, where you can stroll more than 200 blocks of National Historic District or the Riverwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants and nightlife. And have your pick of beaches when you want to make a short drive to fun in the sun.
This article was produced in partnership with Leland TDA.
Snapshot Module
Your Trip at a Glance
Stop 1
Magnolia Greens
Stop 2
Cape Fear National
Stop 3
Villages at Brunswick Forest
Stop 4
Founders Park
Stop 5
Brunswick Nature Park
Stop 6
Green Swamp Preserve
Stop 7
Belville Riverwalk Park
Stop 8