Golf originated in the cool, green Scottish highlands so where better to play it than in the cool, green Tennessee highlands? If you are planning a vacation around Pigeon Forge, cabin rentals abound and many of them offer great golf packages. In addition to comfortable accommodations, you can enjoy the convenience of reserved tee times at the many local golf courses.

Here are just a few of the great golf courses conveniently located near Pigeon Forge cabin rentals. The mild weather means courses are open year round. But be warned - the breathtaking mountain scenery makes it hard to concentrate on your game!

Gatlinburg Golf Course: This course is 6,282 yards long and a par 71. It was designed by William B. Langford and opened in 1955. It had major renovations in 1993 and 2007 which revitalized this exciting course.

This course is best known for the 12th hole, known as "Sky-Hi". It has a 200-foot drop from tee to green and is one of the most dramatic holes in the country. Golfers with fears of heights have been known to skip this hole.

River Islands Golf Course: One of the newer courses in the area, this par 72 was designed by Arthur Hills and opened in 1991. River Islands has received a 4-star rating from Golf Digest and is considered by many to be the "must play" course for people staying at Pigeon Forge cabin rentals.

The holes are imaginatively designed and are unlike any other course you've played. The greens on this course are often deceptive and subtle breaks can send putts in odd directions.

Bent Creek Golf Course: One of the most striking features of this course, designed by Gary Player in 1972, is the mountain stream that winds its way through the grounds. Golfers often underestimate this par 72 course, lulled by the gentle curves of the mountain terrain. The course is challenging and fun and will test even the best player's abilities.

The most challenging part of this course has got to be hole 11. With a 90 degree dogleg and creek surrounding the landing area, golfers require great skill (or luck) to do well on this hole.

Laurel Valley Course: Another of the newer courses, Laurel Valley opened in 1989. Although rated a par 70, most players agree it is a challenging 70 strokes. Golfers will be distracted not only by the natural beauty, but the abundant wildlife such as deer, wild turkeys, and black bears that are often seen nearby.

This is a tricky course the first time through because on several of the holes, you can't see the green from the tee. New players have to guess on how to place their shots until they know the course better.

These are just a few of the golfing opportunities in the area. There are many other courses in the area all within easy reach of any Pigeon Forge cabin rentals.