Marriott Prattville on the Capitol Hill course near Montgomery

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama functions like an almost-mythical pilgrimage for serious golfers. This series of 11 ambitious public courses across the state is billed as “the largest golf course construction project ever attempted.” Even jaded magazine and newspapers writers can’t hold back the praise when they play on these stunning courses, especially when they see the bargain greens fees – generally between $45 and $65.

I’ve only had the pleasure of playing on the Capitol Hill course near Montgomery, but I hope to hit more of them the next time I’m in the state. It’s not hard to set up a vacation centered around playing multiple courses: there’s a whole Resort Collection of places to stay. (Much to the delight of many business travelers, they all earn points in the Marriott program.) Here are a few that are situated right next to the greens.

Montgomery Marriott Prattville at Capitol Hill

You’ve got to like these numbers: 54 holes of golf, next to 1,600 acres of land, but only 92 rooms and villas. Still, this Marriott has all the amenities you would expect, including a pool, tennis courts, and a large conference center.

Lobby of the Auburn Marriott Opelika by the Grand National course

Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel at Grand National

Showing that there’s a reason to stay in Auburn even when it’s not college football season, this 144-room conference hotel is next to the 54-hole Grand National golf course. The golf course often shows up on “best public courses in America” lists and readers’ polls and the hotel has won its share of awards as well. Rates often start well under $150 a night, making the night’s stay as much a bargain as the golfing.

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Opened in 2005, this 260-room resort near Birmingham is situated on the third-longest golf course in the world: Ross Bridge. You might be thrown for a loop with the castle appearance and a bagpipe player at dusk, but expect good southern hospitality and an array of bars and restaurants.

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort near Birmingham

See more on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the official site and see more details about these lodging options at PCH Hotels and Resorts.

Travel writer and destinations expert Tim Leffel is editor of the Cheapest Destinations blog and is author of several books including Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune. Photos courtesy of PCH Resorts.