The Tee-Off Frequent Player Program is the most respected golf discount program in Canada . For $39.95, order the 2007 edition of Tee Off for B.C. OR Manitoba and Saskatchewan . If you're like the average golfer you'll pay for Tee-Off with just one or two uses and continue saving hundreds of dollars throughout the season. MORE >>
Designed by renowned architect Les Furber and voted 1999 BCPGA Facility of the year, the Fairwinds Golf Club offers golfers one of Vancouver Island's finest courses. Play on lush fairways lined by towering fir, garry oak, and arbutus trees while more that 70 sand traps guard the immaculate greens. Challenging the low handicapper while rewarding the recreational player, Fairwinds Golf Club has spectacular ocean views, abundant wildlife and pristine natural surroundings that combine for an unforgettable golfing experience. Schooner Cove Hotel and Marina at Fairwinds now offers weekly and monthly long term stay. Relax in the newly renovated spacious guest rooms and spectacular ocean views from your private balcony overlooking the 360 slip marina. Contact us for more information. 1-800-663-7060, www.fairwinds.ca
Arrowsmith, a favourite
With the backdrop of Mount Arrowsmith , staying focused with the level of concentration required to score well could be a problem at Arrowsmith Golf and Country Club near Qualicum Beach . It's a course that still is a true executive length layout that's beautifully manicured.
This par 61, 3,724 yard course is the perfect combination of test for the regular player and enjoyment for the more occasional golfer. Boasting the driest layout on the island, the court is continuously cart pathed.
Their large greens will keep you guessing and as dominating as snow-capped Mt. Arrowsmith may be in the background...no, not all putts break away from the mountain. www.golfarrowsmith.com
Eaglecrest to close
Eagle Crest Golf Club in Qualicum Beach will likely close after receiving an offer to purchase from a Korean company. A decision will be made by Dec. 22 on where or not to go ahead with the sale. The 18-hole golf course has operated for 40 years - the track is currently surrounded by a housing community - although the clubhouse and buildings date to the 1920s. Eaglecrest is owned by Eaglestar Inc. which also operates nearby Morningstar which will continue to operate.
Napa of the North
The Wine Tourism Project, which markets 32 wineries on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands as an agri-tourism destination, has been thriving. The group published a brochure and map of the wine region. Despite the downturn in the number of US visitors, both the golf industry and the wine industry are bullish on Vancouver Island . The Cowichan Valley is also attracting artisan food producers who are helping the area to become one of Canada 's hottest culinary destinations.
Vancouver Island is not Florida or Caymen Islands with endless sunny days, so there will be some drizzle or rain. Don't plan on golfing every day, but there are lots of other great things to do. If you can pick your days and times, there will be some great golfing at great prices to be had. It's also easier to get tee times during the fall, winter and spring months.
There's likely to be a few raindrops, since it's late fall or winter after all. But you never know - this writer golfed on the Island in January 2003 and there was one rainy day out of 21. Typically, expect a couple of rainy days a week – when the weather is good, drop everything and go golfing.
Just in case bring an umbrella, good rain gear with a waterproof cap, dry towels, waterproof golf shoes and a couple of spare golf gloves. But it may be sweater weather and you won't need any of this stuff.
A water resistant bag or club cover will help keep those clubs dry.
Green fees affordable
Compared to golfing in Saskatchewan - a bargain at about $30-35 a round - golf prices in B.C. vary depending on the course. The fall/winter rates tend to be considerably less, 25-50 per cent less than peak season. There are deals - Golf BC has five and 10 game packs that average only $25-$30 a round.
In this writer's experience, expect to pay $25-$50 for a round. A couple of the high-end courses are as high as $75 off-season. That compares wonderfully with fees stateside, especially since you won't have to fork over big bucks for healthcare insurance and the dollar difference.
bcgolfguide.com is the premiere golf website and general portal for the province
Find a copy of Canadian Golf Directory at golf course clubhouses or Chapters. It's published out of Duncan , Vancouver Island . They offer a complete listing and contact information for all golf courses in Victoria and on the Island .
Drop me a note
This editor has golfed on the Island for the last five winters and loves it. The off-season prices are moderate, the courses tend not to be too crowded, and the quality of golf is excellent. You won't be able to get a hold of me by phone since I'll be golfing on the Island ! But, if you need any help with your travel plans, e-mail stan@saskgolfer.com
Win Free Golf for B.C.
The Lung Association of Saskatchewan has produced an annual golf discount book since 1996. Now, all four western provincial Lung Associations have joined forces and combined their offers into this one great book. With discounts at over 450 courses across the West including British Columbia there are sure to be great courses along your route.
Win one of two Western Canada Golf Privilege Club book valued at $35 by answering this question: How many courses offer discounts in the new Lung Association discount book? Send your answer to lung@saskgolfer.com by end Dec. 2006. Good luck! MORE>>
Amen Corner
“My game is so bad I've hired three caddies – one to walk the left rough, one for the right rough, and one for down the middle. And the middle one doesn't have much to do.”
-Dave Hill
Some of the top golf courses in Canada are located on the so-called golf trail from Victoria to Campbell River . Among them are Bear Mountain near Victoria (top left), Fairwinds Golf and County Club (middle) near Parksville, and the Glacier Greens at Comox (top right). They offer quality off-season golf for Saskatchewan hot shots and duffers without the expense of U.S. destinations.
Golf growing on Van Isle
By Jeff Sutherland
On Vancouver Island, there is a new facility under construction with three or four others on the drawing board. It' s not surprising when you take into account that Vancouver Island is one of the world's top rated places to visit and live. Prestigious magazine Condé Nast has recently voted Victoria the best city in the Americas and Vancouver Island the top island in North America .
With the best year-round climate in Canada , the tourism appeal of Victoria , the crashing surf of Long Beach and the postcard scenery from Oak Bay to Campbell River , it's easy to see why. Connected by the super smooth Island Highway , you can easily travel almost the entire length of the island comfortably in a day.
But along the way, you're going to want to stop to play a string of golf courses that is becoming arguably second to none. This golf trail extends from Victoria in the South to Campbell River in the North with a side trip out to the Island 's West Coast which should not be missed.
VICTORIA AND REGION
ON THE DRAWING BOARD: Anchoring the trail in the south are the top quality courses to be found in the province's capital, Victoria . Victoria has a number of courses that are definitely worth playing. The newest on the island, The Westin Bear Mountain Victoria Golf Resort and Spa has quickly settled into being the biggest draw. It seems to mix the scenery required of a resort course with the challenge that better players demand. Located on Mt. Finlayson , it has unparalleled views of Victoria below. A Nicklaus Golf Academy and second designated Nicklaus track called The Valley Course is scheduled to open in 2008. www.bearmountain.ca
RECENTLY RENOVATED: One private club that is definitely worth checking out is the recently rebuilt Gorge Vale GC. The Club brought in Les Furber to redesign the entire course. The result is an instantly mature, forested jewel set in rolling hills. Many of the other private courses are willing to open their course to non-member play as well. Call ahead to find out each facility's particular policy. www.gorgevalegolf.com
Backed by the magnificence of the Olympic Mountains, Olympic View is a course where you can fully feel the unique nature of Vancouver Island . The rocky outcroppings dominate the landscape, and the Arbutus and Garry Oak trees that are found only on Vancouver Island , join with the roar of two spectacular waterfalls. This is also home to the GBC Golf Academy . www.golfvancouverisland.ca
Located just minutes from the Schwartz Bay ferry terminal, the mature Glen Meadows G&CC features treelines of majestic garry oaks. The course stretches to over 6,800 yards to challenge the longest hitting males, but they do cater to the women as well. The Garry Oaks that frame many holes are something you will see only on Vancouver Island .
Prospect Lake GC , a 9-holer is nestled on the water's edge of the lake of the same name, located just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria . This par 32 layout consists of five par fours and four par threes. With $250,000 worth of renovations in the past few years, there is a new halfway house, terrace seating area and improvements to five holes.
One of the top year-round public play courses in the area would have to be Cordova Bay . Located fifteen minutes from downtown, it enjoys a local loyal following who appreciate its excellent year-round manicure. While fairways are more than fair with generous landing areas, there is still more than enough challenge out here for any player. This expansive layout also has the nine hole par three Ridge layout that has views that would be the envy of any full length championship course. www.cordovabaygolf.com
THE COWICHAN VALLEY
Located near the city of Duncan , Cowichan G&CC's challenge lies mainly in its tricky landing areas and demanding tee shots. The original nine was laid out in 1947 by A.V. Macan and the newer nine in 1985. Towering trees and rolling hills mean that golfers must plan their strategy well. www.cowichangolfclub.com
Duncan Meadows deserves the moniker as a true championship course. It has played host to the RCGA's National Club Champion's Championship and the RCGA University and College Championship. This is a true players' course with great rhythm. Playing here with the hang gliders and eagles circling Mt. Prevost above is part of an unforgettable round. www.duncanmeadows.com
UNDER CONSTRUCTION: Some of the biggest golf news on Vancouver Island is the progress of the Cliffs Over Maple Bay development near Duncan . Fairways are being cleared and holes are being shaped. Greg Norman and his staff visited the site in August of 2004 to review the site conditions and finalize the plan. Construction then began in late September. The final routing will be a 6,891 yard, par 72 layout that will utilize the full range of terrain available. The course will have paved concrete cart paths throughout. Pre-sales on the 300 home real estate component has begun. www.cliffsovermaplebay.com
Another alternative that you may not have thought of would be a side trip to Salt Spring Island to get a sense of the laid back feel of the Gulf Islands . You can go from Vancouver Island via the ferry from Crofton (just north of Duncan ) or from Swartz Bay ( Victoria ). This island is home to many artists who open their galleries daily in the summer. There is one of the many great quality 9-holers that can be found on the West Coast, the Salt Spring G&CC . Although not overly long at 3,042 yards, this par 36 is both enjoyable and relaxing.
MID ISLAND
Definitely one of the more unique 18-holers on the island is the Cottonwood Golf Course . Located next to the Nanaimo airport, it is one of the few courses in Canada to offer airplane parking beside the course. Cottonwood 's links style 18 hole layout offer entertaining and challenging golf where golfers are reminded to remain focused on the tasks at hand, hit the ball straight, and try to stay out of trouble. Whatever Cottonwood is missing in length is made up with strategic hazards, out-of-bounds, narrow fairways, and table-top fast greens. www.cottonwoodgolfclourse.com
The city of Nanaimo , another 15 minutes to the north, is home to one of the prettiest settings for a semi-private club on the island. The Nanaimo G&CC is set right in the city on a ridge with views out over Georgia Strait . If you choose to travel to Vancouver Island from the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal in West Vancouver , you can be teeing it up here merely minutes after docking. This course underwent a major renovation in the early 90s and it is now a challenging par 72, 6,667 yard layout. www.nanaimogolfclub.ca
Fairwinds Golf Club , with ocean and mountain views will challenge and please experienced and novice players alike. Towering Douglas Fir, Arbutus and Garry Oaks line lush fairways. Water is in play on 11 holes while over 70 sandtraps guard the greens of this 6,200 yard, par-71 course. To get there just travel 30 minutes north from the Departure Bay ferry terminal in Nanaimo, turn off the highway and follow the signs to Nanoose Bay. This course is arguably the finest in the mid-Island area. www.fairwinds.ca
Morningstar , future host of the 2007 BC Amateur Tournament, is one of the most popular courses on the Island . Utilizing rolling terrain, and water as its main defenses, Morningstar starts you out in open meadow and then takes you quickly into an evergreen forest. Getting off to a good start is key if you want to have a good round at this challenging course. www.morningstar.bc.ca
RECENTLY RENOVATED: The one in the mid island that has been creating most of the buzz recently is the revamped and now renamed Pheasant Glen . They have rebuilt many of the holes turning it into a 6,600 yard championship layout that puts a premium on accuracy and choosing the right tees for your ability. Links style holes meander through an open meadow on the front side, with spectacular Mount Arrowsmith in the background, while much of the back nine winds through dense woods, with an environmentally protected forest as a centrepiece. They also have what has to be one of the country's top academies under the well-respected Brent Morrison. Initial plans have been made to add a new clubhouse, spa, housing and resort facilities to this facility. www.pheasantglen.com
Speaking of Arrowsmith, a course that still is a true executive length layout is the beautifully manicured Arrowsmith G&CC. This par 61, 3,724 yard course is the perfect combination of test for the regular player and enjoyment for the more occasional golfer. Boasting one of the driest layout on the island, the course is also continuously cart pathed. Their large greens will keep you guessing and, as dominating as snow-capped Mt. Arrowsmith may be in the background...no, not all putts break away from the mountain. www.golfarrowsmith.com
Opened in 1913, Qualicum Beach is the fourth oldest course in BC. One of Canada 's most scenic courses, it has unobstructed ocean views. Well-groomed it is open year round due to the mild climate and excellent drainage. The nine-hole, par 69, 5,303 yard course offers 26 different tee locations thus allowing the golfer to play two entirely different 9-hole rounds.
COURTENAY / COMOX / CAMPBELL RIVER
Crown Isle at Courtney 47,000 square foot clubhouse tells you all you need to know about this incredible golfing facility. With restaurants, a huge patio, snack bar, meeting rooms, pro-shop, cigar lounge, poker room, private classic car museum, sweeping double staircase and indoor waterfall, it instantly tells you that you have arrived at a world class resort. Perhaps the only thing that can outdo the clubhouse is the manicure of the course. This is one of the best wintering layouts on the entire island. With Mount Washington only 30 minutes away and accommodations right on site, this is one of the few places in the world where you can golf in the morning and ski in the afternoon! www.crownisle.com
Another course worth the stop is Glacier Greens . Named for the Comox glacier that backdrops all westerly pointing holes, the slick putting surfaces here live up to the icy name as well, they are quick! This course is right beside the Comox military airport and if you're lucky, you will get to see a jet landing while you play. www.glaciergreens.com
ON THE DRAWING BOARD: This area is growing by leaps and bounds . There are at least two new courses on the drawing boards or under construction here, one in Union Bay and another right in Comox. The one in Comox will be designed by well-regarded Rod Whitman who designed Wolf Creek in Alberta .
Campbell River , less than an hour away, has historically been a fisherman's paradise but more recently has become known for what is many island golfer's favourite course, Storey Creek . A Les Furber design, this layout has been truly carved out of the dense fir forest. Each hole is separate. It's unusual to not see deer grazing at least once during your round. This course has been awarded 4 stars by Golf Digest. www.storeycreek.bc.ca
Fast Track To The Top
By
Lisa Vlooswyk
Bear Mountain Golf Resort, located on Vancouver Island, is fast becoming Western Canada 's most renowned golf destination. Opened in 2003, the resort initially boasted a spectacular 7,083 yard layout stretching over and around the entire mountain. Since then they have made some major expansion or improvement virtually every year.
This premier resort is the baby of former NHL player Len Barrie. It all started when Barrie pulled a Paul Bunyan and chopped down some trees on his property that backed onto the third green of his then home course, Royal Colwood. Although Barrie was simply seeking additional space and sunlight, the powers that be at the Royal Colwood felt that the trees were on their property and decided to take Barrie to court where he was forced to pay damages and his membership was revoked. Looking for a place to play, a close friend of Barrie 's suggested he should build his own course, and that's what he did.
After purchasing land in 2001 Barrie 's dream became reality. He looked to several former NHL teammates and buddies as investors. The subsequent team roster includes such notables as net-minder Mike Vernon, Rob Niedermayer, Joe Nieuwendyk and Ryan Smyth.
The result... The Mountain Course, co-designed by legendary Jack Nicklaus and son Steve, has views that overlook the entire city of Victoria and has that true “Beautiful British Columbia” feeling. Tee to green, the course winds through several elevation changes and undulations. A variety of tree species pepper the fairways including the bark shedding, orange tinted Arbutus Trees. As you play the course you truly feel you are in a glade in the middle of a dense forest.
There are five sets of tees to accommodate the novice golfer all the way up to the pro. The tees were all named after species of bears starting with the Cinnamon at 5,014, the Spirit at 5,783, the Black at 6,257, the Grizzly at 6,641 and the most revered bear of all, the Golden tees at 7083 yards.
As for a signature hole, Jack Nicklaus put it best himself, “I think some of the holes out there are just unbelievably fantastic…there are 18 signature holes.” I would concur.
In addition to the world class golf course, the “Fairways” component of the hotel complex opened in late 2004 offering guests 65 deluxe rooms and suites that came standard with slate flooring, deep soaker tubs, kitchen facilities and private balconies.
For those not just interested in fairways and greens, the state-of-the art Mountainside Athletic Club followed last fall. The co-ed and ladies-only gyms are chalk full of weight equipment and cardiovascular machines. Plasma screens pepper the room offering would be Schwarzeneggers a visual distraction from the task at hand. In addition to the gym there is a fitness studio that hosts instructor-led yoga, pilates, step, spin and body sculpting.
To relieve your aches and pains from either your workout or the links, guests can grab a beverage at the juice bar and soak in the outdoor heated salt-water pool, hot tub or sun bed. There's even an infra-red sauna that cooks you from the inside out.
The Westin Bear Mountain Victoria Golf Resort and Spa
Just when you thought that the resort couldn't get any better, Barrie scored another hat-trick by unveiling the brand new 160,000 square foot, six-story “clubhouse” building, that opened May 1st of this year. Both it and the Fairways comprise the Westin Bear Mountain Victoria Golf Resort and Spa. The Clubhouse overlooks the 18th green and includes a 1,700 square foot pro shop, three dining options and state of the art Santé Spa.
No expense was spared in making this property high end. The new section of the hotel offers an additional 91 guest rooms and one and two bedroom suites on top of the 65 from the Fairways building. The rooms are styled in a very similar fashion to the Fairways building while still offering all of the same luxury touches including Westin's signature beds and bath.
For those not wanting to chef it up in their own room, there are numerous dinning choices available. The quaint Copper Rock Grill has a great patio overlooking the 18th green and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. For those looking for a more intimate fine-dining experience, Panache offers delectable international and local cuisine accompanied by a vast selection of fine wines.
The Master's Lounge is also available offering full fare or tapas set in a cozy atmosphere perfect for a night cap with friends or an evening full of chatting.
As a casual option, Jake's Place is open in the old clubhouse area and has a sports bar feel to it and a fantastic patio. Kuma Sushi is also located here with a unique atmosphere and another healthy alternative for guests.
If you are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, look no further than the Santé Spa located on the ground floor of the Clubhouse. Originally a Calgary based company; Institut de Santé opened its second location at Bear Mountain and is Canada 's leader in medical spas. Resort General Manager Terry Yacyshen is thrilled with the inclusion of the spa. “The Santé Spa is integral to Bear Mountain 's complete lifestyle experience. Our goal for the Resort is to create a well-rounded destination recognized not only for its golf and community, but also as a setting for total health and well being.”
Both traditional and medial esthetic treatments are available. The relaxing and plush environment includes 12 treatment rooms, a landscaped terrace with nautilus - shaped mineral pool, make-up rooms and products, deck and labyrinth, guest lounge with fireplace, saunas and showers. There are even golfer specific treatments including the “Mulligan”, complete with foot and lower leg massage, soak and a cold brew.
For those interested in enjoying these amenities year-round, there are a variety of ownership and investment opportunities. Home sites, Town homes, Condominiums and Executive Factional Ownership are available ranging anywhere from $249,000 to 1.7 million and are selling like hotcakes. Residents enjoy access to all of the resort's amenities including transportation, child care, cleaning and catering.
There is no slowing down for Bear Mountain Resort in the near future. There is another 18- hole Nicklaus designed layout, the Valley Course, under construction set to open in 2008. This 6,890 yard track will mark the only 36-holes of Nicklaus-designed golf in Canada and will be accompanied by a state of the art Nicklaus Golf Academy and driving range.
Long term plans also include The Village, a vision of a mini Whistler. There will be a core center with coffee houses, shops, boutiques, parks and an amphitheater.
Lisa Vlooswyk is a regular contributor and columnist for Inside Golf. She is the five-time Canadian Long Drive Champion and is ranked 3rd in the World. Lisa can be reached at www.lisalongball.com
Enjoy a round at Glacier Greens
This winter, Glacier Greens Golf Club at Comox wants you to enjoy a golf getaway on Vancouver Island .
When you jump on a flight to Comox Airport , golfers can view the 6 th hole as you taxi in. Then swing next door to a beautiful 18-hole championship course. Warm up with a bucket of balls before challenging yourself on this engaging track with spectacular views and abundant wildlife.
With newly upgraded drainage and a renovated clubhouse, Glacier Greens offers quality year-round golf services at affordable prices, says manager Chris Ouimet. Club and cart rentals are available and two CPGA Professionals are on hand for instruction. Be sure to enjoy the friendly service in our fully stocked Pro Shop and in our licensed clubhouse. Hotel accommodation is only 5 minutes away.
“So escape to the Island and enjoy the unbeatable value of Glacier Greens Golf Club where visitors are always welcome,” says Ouimet. “Winter” green fees are only $35 or you can take advantage of our $100 special for a foursome which includes two power carts.
BCTeeTimes.com is the latest entry in services that help you get tee times and save a dollar on the Island . Tee times are offered at four Island courses and a growing list of other B.C. tracks.The company also offers packages, accommodation and tee off time specials in the U.S. www.teetimes.com
Tee-Off discount book, based on Vancouver Island, is the oldest and most respected of all the golf discount programs in Canada . It publishes several regional play-and-save program guides including an edition for British Columbia . Course descriptions are accompanied by photos, course maps and lists of services that give you a good idea what's in store. Tee-Off discounts include 2 for 1 green fees, 50 per cent off and even free golf. For most golfers, playing twice will pay for the cost of the $39.95 book. www.tee-off.ca
Golf Vancouver Island , an umbrella of golf and travel partners promoting the island as a golf destination, has a number of great deals at www.golfvancouverisland.ca
The GolfBC group in British Columbia own 12 courses, three in Hawaii and eight in BC. Check out www.golfbc.com for deals at their two Island courses, Arbutus Ridge at Cobble Hill and Olympic View in Victoria .
BCGolfGuide.com and the Kiwanis in B.C. also offer discount program books.
One-stop shopping for golfing Vancouver Island!
Golf Vancouver Island is your one-stop-shop for booking a golf vacation. We will save you time and money, while choosing from 12 golf courses and over 20 accommodation partners. Shimmering blue water, lush green forests, rolling mountain peaks and superb golf courses. Vancouver Island is truly a Pacific Paradise. MORE>>
