The Top Canadian Destinations for Golf Lovers
With a diverse terrain of mountain ranges, sprawling valleys, and rugged coastlines, Canada’s picturesque landscapes make for some of the best golf conditions in the world. Here is our round-up of the top Canadian destinations for golf lovers.
923 Soldiers Cove Road, Lewis Cove Road, NS
Nova Scotia
This charming maritime island on the northeastern tip of Nova Scotia is celebrated for its picturesque coastlines and rugged landscapes. The island is home to eight unique golf courses including the renowned Cape Breton Highland Links in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Cabot Cliffs, which are both consistently ranked among the world’s top golf courses. These courses offer breathtaking ocean views and challenging links-style play. In Halifax, the Glen Arbour Golf Course stands out with its challenging layout and picturesque setting. In Cape Breton Highland Links you’re priviledged with a classic Stanley Thompson design surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Other notable venues include the historic Algonquin Golf Course in St. Andrews-By-The-Sea and the scenic Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa overlooking the Bay of Fundy. With its rich golfing heritage and spectacular courses, Nova Scotia promises an unforgettable golfing experience for enthusiasts seeking both challenge and beauty on the fairways.
611 Foul Bay Road, Victoria, BC
British Columbia
With Canada’s mildest climate, a welcoming community, and tranquil ocean views, living in Victoria, BC is an outdoor recreation paradise for enthusiasts. There are several top golf courses around the city including, Canada’s only 36-hole golf resort courses designed by golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Steve Nicklaus, the Bear Mountain Resort. Another notable venue is the Victoria Golf Club, Canada’s oldest golf course, offering a historic and challenging seaside layout. Additionally, the Olympic View Golf Club showcases breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Juan de Fuca Strait, providing a memorable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
Located at the northern tip of the Okanagan Lake, real estate in Vernon is renowned for its proximity to an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, including golf. Predator Ridge Resort is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, boasting two championship courses designed by acclaimed architects. The Predator Course, with its dramatic elevation changes and stunning vistas, promises an unforgettable golfing experience, while the Ridge Course offers a more relaxed round with scenic views of Lake Okanagan. Vernon is also a 40-minute drive from Kelowna, home to more courses catering to all skill levels, and is conveniently located within the Thompson & Okanagan region.
1212 Montreal Avenue SW, Calgary, AB
Alberta
Located among the stunning Canadian Rockies, the town of Canmore is surrounded by sprawling forests, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wilderness. The area is home to the top-rated Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club and the Silvertip Golf Resort. In the nearby towns of Banff and Jasper, you’ll find the scenic Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, along with the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course. Golfers of all levels will be captivated by the region’s championship courses, where challenging layouts blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, providing a harmonious balance between excitement and serenity. Beyond the golf course, visitors to Canmore can explore the town’s charming streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, or embark on outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting in the surrounding wilderness.
Along with a rich culture, diverse population, and a sprawling urban landscape, Calgary is home to dozens of highly rated golf courses. With both public courses – such as the 27-hole Heritage Pointe Golf Club – as well as prestigious private clubs including the Glencoe Golf & Country Club and the Earl Grey Golf Club, golf lovers will never run out of new courses to explore. Beyond the fairways, visitors can explore the city’s dynamic cultural scene, vibrant neighbourhoods, and world-class dining options, ensuring that a golf getaway in Calgary is as memorable off the course as it is on. With its perfect combination of golf, culture, and natural beauty, Calgary is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a golf adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
3 Tree Tops Lane #302, Huntsville, ON
Ontario
As Canada’s largest metro area, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Toronto itself offer diverse golf courses and driving ranges. Considered Canada’s top private golf club, The National Golf Club of Canada has highly challenging holes played by some of the world’s best golfers. You’ll also find the scenic Royal Woodbine Golf Club, the 18-hole Angus Glen Golf Club, and dozens more. Within the GTA, golfers can tee off at prestigious venues such as Glen Abbey Golf Club, home to numerous Canadian Open championships. Other notable courses include Angus Glen Golf Club, and the renowned Royal Ontario Golf Club, offering challenging layouts and scenic vistas. In Toronto, golfers can enjoy urban escapes at historic clubs like the Toronto Hunt Club, nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, or explore hidden gems like Donalda Club, known for its pristine fairways and lush surroundings. With its diverse range of courses and iconic golf clubs, Toronto and the GTA provide an unforgettable golfing experience for enthusiasts of all levels.
Outside of the GTA, Ontario boasts a wealth of must-visit destinations for golf enthusiasts. One notable destination is Muskoka, renowned for its picturesque courses such as Taboo Muskoka and The Rock Golf Course, both offering challenging layouts and breathtaking views of the region’s iconic lakes and forests. Additionally, the Niagara region is home to world-class courses like Legends on the Niagara and Whirlpool Golf Course, providing golfers with scenic views of the Niagara River and surrounding vineyards. With its diverse array of courses and iconic clubs, Ontario offers an unforgettable golfing experience for enthusiasts of all levels.
162 Rue de la Rivière, Bromont, QC
Quebec
In the heart of the Appalachian mountains, the Eastern Townships are home to the highest concentration of golf courses in Quebec. With a backdrop of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and pristine lakes, the Eastern Townships offer a stunning setting for a round of golf. Notable golf clubs in the Eastern Townships include the renowned Club de Golf Royal Bromont located in the town of Bromont, boasting two championship courses designed by renowned architects, as well as the scenic Owl’s Head Golf Club, Club de Golf Mont-Orford and the historic North Hatley Golf Club, where golfers can enjoy a round amidst the charming ambiance of a quaint village setting. With its exceptional courses and breathtaking scenery, the Eastern Townships offer an unforgettable golfing experience for enthusiasts of all levels.
This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Insight The Art of Living Blog in May 2024
