Skip to Content

Golf-a-Go-Go

By Yolanda Brooks
On: Sun, Jul 1, 2007 , Tagged:

With rugged scenery, an impressive choice of championship courses and easy access, it’s no surprise to learn that British Columbia has been named the 2007 Golf Destination of the Year for North America.

The courses on the province’s western fringe enjoy a climate mellowed by the Pacific and a landscape lush from liquid sunshine. Expect sea, mountain and metropolitan views and the company of bald eagles as you make your mark on some of B.C.’s most memorable courses.

The stunning view at the 9th hole on
the Crown Isle fairway (Crown Isle)The best bet for year-round golf is on Vancouver Island, which has more than 50 courses, mainly dotted along the drier and warmer eastern and southern sections of the Island.

Almost every course on the Island can lay claim to great views but few can boast a 40-ft waterfall. The 18-hole Olympic View Golf Club, just a 20-minute drive from the Inner Harbour in Victoria, regularly ranks high on the “must-play” courses in Canada. The heavily forested championship course has a 123-slope rating and features a roaring waterfall behind the 17th hole, another waterfall at the 8th hole, 12 lakes and views of the Olympic Mountain range. 1.800.446.5322, www.olympicviewgolf.com. Peak green fees: $77.

Further north, within sight of the Comox Glacier, is Crown Isle, which offers the full resort experience. An hour’s drive from Nanaimo, this resort and community near Courtenay features an 18-hole, platinum-rated course that winds through marshland and rolling hills. As well as the 4.5-star golf villas, other off-course attractions include the 48,000-sq.-ft. resort centre including a classic car museum, cigar and cognac room, and fitness complex. 1.888.338.8439, www.crownisle.com. Peak green fees: $75.

Crown Isle clubhouse (Crown Isle)

For a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, there’s the 9-hole Pender Island Golf & Country Club. Run by member volunteers, it has all the facilities you need including golf shop rentals, café, putting green and practice area. On the course expect rolling terrain and several elevated tees. 250.629.6659, www.penderislandgolf.com. Peak green fees: $36 for 18 holes; $25 for 9 holes.

Renowned for its pristine greens and fairways is the championship course of Morgan Creek. Just 35 minutes south of Vancouver, you’ll get great views of the North Shore Mountains and enjoy gently rolling terrain with great drainage for year-round play. 1.800.513.6555, www.morgancreekgolf.com. Peak green fees: $98.

Whether you plan to catch a few quick rounds or indulge in a full-blown golf-touring holiday, always book tee times in advance to avoid disappointment.