Canada boasts some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in the world. From the stunning landscapes of British Columbia to the rugged beauty of the Maritimes, this country offers a diverse range of golf experiences. If you're a golf enthusiast, exploring our Canadian fairways should definitely be on your bucket list. In this blog post, I'll take you on a journey through The Top 10 ‘Bucket List’ Canadian Golf Courses you absolutely need to play, in my opinion!
10. Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club - Jasper, Alberta
Played by Garrett: No
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this Stanley Thompson masterpiece is a golfer's paradise. The stunning mountain scenery combined with challenging fairways make it a must-visit.
9. Sagebrush Golf Club - Quilchena, British Columbia
Played by Garrett: Yes
Located on the southern bank of Nicola Lake in Quilchena, Sagebrush Golf Club is a public golf course that was designed by Rod Whitman, the designer behind several of Canada’s best courses, including Cabot Links in Nova Scotia and Blackhawk in Edmonton.
Sagebrush Golf Club is, quite simply put, the best expression of links golf in Western Canada. The course is “one of one” in its adherence to tour quality, minimalist golf standards, links-style playability, and a laid-back Ranchland culture. To preserve its unique feel, the course accommodates no more than 56 guests each day (about one-quarter of a typical course daily play). The Sagebrush experience is unique in that it offers enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.
8. Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course - Banff, Alberta
Played by Garrett: No
Another gem in the Rockies, this course offers a spectacular mountain backdrop. Designed by Stanley Thompson, it provides an unforgettable mountain golf experience.
7. Cape Breton Highlands Links - Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia
Played by Garrett: No
This course, located in Cape Breton, is known for its dramatic ocean views and challenging play. It's a must-visit for those looking for a true East Coast golf adventure.
6. The Links at Crowbush Cove - Morell, Prince Edward Island
Played by Garrett: No
Situated along the stunning PEI coastline, this course is a favorite among golfers for its pristine conditions and sea breeze challenges.
5. Predator Ridge Golf Resort - Vernon, British Columbia
Played by Garrett: No
Offering two exceptional courses, The Predator and The Ridge, this resort in the Okanagan Valley showcases the natural beauty of the region. Its rolling fairways and picturesque views are unforgettable.
4. Cape Breton Highlands Links - Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia
Played by Garrett: No
Designed by Stanley Thompson, this course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience amidst the rugged terrain of Cape Breton.
3. Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club - Whistler, British Columbia
Played by Garrett: No
Set in the breathtaking mountain scenery of Whistler, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. course combines natural beauty with a challenging layout.
2. Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club - Vancouver, British Columbia
Played by Garrett: No
With its lush fairways and meticulously maintained greens, this course is a testament to classic golf course design.
1A. Cabot Cliffs Golf Course - Inverness, Nova Scotia
Played by Garrett: Yes
Cabot Cliffs consistently ranks among the world's top courses. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, it offers breathtaking ocean views and a thrilling layout that utilizes the natural terrain. Cabot Links is the sister course to Cabot Cliffs and it is just as amazing! Both are must-plays, so if you’re there, you may as well play them both! Cabot Cape Breton is becoming an increasingly popular destination for golf trips, which is no surprise!
Pro Tip: Take Advil with you for the inevitable headache you’ll have after spending a night at Whit’s Public House on top of the hill above the cabins. Enjoy the experience!
1B. Royal Montreal Golf Club – L'Île-Bizard, Quebec
Played by Garrett: Yes
This is a private club, so you’ll need a membership (or a connection) if you want to play this exceptional course. Royal Montreal Golf Club has hosted President Cups as well as PGA Tournaments. Mike Weir once defeated Tiger Woods on this course in singles match play in the 2007 Presidents Cup. 45 holes at this course offer you something you’ve most likely never seen - deep bunkers, undulating greens, tall pines, and an amazing layout. If you EVER get the chance to play here, make sure you do!
If you ever have the opportunity, here are a few other private clubs you should play:
Royal Mayfair Golf Club - Edmonton, Alberta
Royal Colwood Golf Club - Victoria, British Columbia
Magna Golf Club - Aurora, Ontario
Whether you're a local looking to explore your country's golfing treasures or an international traveller seeking a memorable golf vacation, these Top 10 ‘Bucket List’ Canadian Golf Courses should be at the top of your list. Each course offers a unique blend of natural beauty, challenging play, and a chance to create unforgettable golf memories. So, pack your clubs and tee off on an unforgettable Canadian golf adventure!
Let me know in the comments below which Canadian courses are at the top of your Bucket List!
Happy Golfing!
Interesting list, Garrett, and some great picks. Jasper Park Lodge is a classic and definitely one should have on a bucket list. Sagebrush is just different, but in a wow sort of way. It was great meeting its creator (former PGA golfer) Dick Zokol when we first played it. Super golf course, with an amazing "halfway hut". How often does one fly fish during a round of golf lol, or toss a fish on the dock and watch an eagle swoop down to grab it (the chef did this for us). Banff Springs is another classic but it definitely took a step down - I think - when they built a third 9. The original 18 was awesome with one…
Good list. Played a few myself. When in Whistler I referred Nicklaus North over Chateau Whistler. Whistler wasn't at it best however. NN was over the top. Absolutely outstanding golf imo.🏌♂️