Golf is a leisure activity that has long been enjoyed by people around the world. For those looking to explore this pastime in Nova Scotia, there are several exceptional courses available. These golf courses offer an environment of tranquility and beauty while providing challenging conditions for players of all levels.
From rolling hills to waterfront views, these destinations provide a unique experience for any golfer seeking freedom from their everyday life. This article will explore the best golf courses in Nova Scotia and discuss the features that make them so special.
Overview Of Golf In Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia has long been recognized as one of the top destinations for world-class golf. With a variety of courses to choose from, it’s no surprise that avid golfers flock to this beautiful region of Canada each year. From championship links courses with sweeping vistas and challenging terrain, to picturesque tracks nestled in valleys or perched on cliff sides – there is something here for every golfer.
The maritime climate presents ideal conditions for growing lush fairways and greens, often surrounded by sand dunes, forests, and wildflowers. In addition to playing some of the country’s most celebrated courses while enjoying spectacular scenery, visitors can also take advantage of numerous activities off the course in Nova Scotia, such as whale watching tours, deep sea fishing expeditions or just exploring the many coastal towns.
Golfing in Nova Scotia is an experience like none other – where you can tee up near breathtaking ocean views and feel invigorated by the fresh salty air all around you. Whether you are looking for an intimate round with friends or family members or want to challenge yourself at a renowned tournament track – Nova Scotia offers something special for everyone who loves the game.
Types Of Courses Available
Nova Scotia offers a variety of golf courses for all levels. Ranging from beginner-friendly par 3s to challenging championship courses, Nova Scotians have the opportunity to find their ideal course and hone their skills on some of the finest fairways in Canada.
Fox Harb’r’s rolling fairways are nestled along the Northumberland Strait, providing breathtaking panoramas while playing through this world-class experience. This resort also offers luxury accommodations with unparalleled amenities, like spas, fine dining experiences, and more, ensuring visitors can make an unforgettable getaway out of their visit.
For those looking for something a bit less demanding, there are several 9-hole tracks throughout the province, such as River Hills Golf Club, which provide shorter yet still enjoyable rounds for players of any skill level. These smaller layouts allow for faster play times, so you can fit a game into your day without having to dedicate an entire afternoon or evening towards it – perfect for busy travellers or leisurely weekend warriors alike.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Course
Choosing the best golf course in Nova Scotia is a task that requires careful consideration. There are many factors to take into account before making a decision, such as cost, location, and amenities offered.
Cost of green fees can be an important factor in selecting the right course for you. Many courses offer discounts on certain days or seasons, which can help reduce costs significantly. Location also plays an important role; some may want to play closer to home, while others may prefer more rural settings. Additionally, it is useful to consider what amenities each course provides in order to find one that suits your needs. These could include practice facilities, equipment rentals, pro shops, dining options and other services like lessons or clinics.
The overall experience should be taken into account when choosing a golf course in Nova Scotia. Some courses have unique layouts with challenging terrain, while others provide beautiful views amidst lush landscapes. It is therefore essential to research different courses thoroughly so you can make an informed decision according to your preferences and budget.
Cabot Links
One of the best golf courses in Nova Scotia is Cabot Links. Located on Cape Breton Island, this course has been ranked as one of the top 100 golf courses in the world by Golf Digest since its opening in 2012. This 18-hole par 70 links-style course offers an unparalleled experience with stunning views and challenging play that keeps players coming back time after time.
The unique layout of the course features five sets of tees to accommodate players at all skill levels. Each hole has strategically placed bunkers, rolling terrain, and windy conditions which add a layer of difficulty for even experienced golfers. The natural beauty surrounding the course makes it truly unforgettable; from the ocean views to rocky cliff sides, each shot presents a new landscape to enjoy. It’s no wonder that Cabot Links has become such a popular destination for golf enthusiasts around the globe!
The driving range boasts 65 hitting bays and several practice greens, making it easy for both beginners and pros alike to hone their skills while enjoying breathtaking surroundings. Additionally, there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants, accommodations, and other activities like fishing or kayaking – perfect for planning a full day out on the links. For those looking for an exceptional game of golf without sacrificing quality experiences off the green, Cabot Links is definitely worth considering when deciding where to tee up in Nova Scotia.
Accommodation Recommendation
Northeast Cove Geodomes
Experience a unique stay near Cabot Links at Northeast Cove Geodomes. These eco-friendly, luxurious geodesic domes offer an unforgettable lodging experience surrounded by nature. Each dome is beautifully furnished and features a cosy wood stove, a comfortable bed, and stunning panoramic views of the landscape.
The secluded location ensures tranquility, while the close proximity to Cabot Links allows golf enthusiasts easy access to the course. Enjoy stargazing through the dome’s transparent ceiling after a day on the greens. Northeast Cove Geodomes provide the perfect blend of comfort and adventure for an extraordinary stay.
Fox Harb’r Resort
Fox Harb’r Resort, located in Wallace Bay, Nova Scotia, is considered one of the best golf courses in the province. It features a championship-level 18 hole course designed by Thomas McBroom and boasts spectacular views of Northumberland Strait and Fox Harbour Marina. The layout has been carefully created to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while providing an enjoyable challenge for all levels of players. With generous fairways lined with tall trees, strategically placed bunkers and fast undulating greens, there are plenty of opportunities to test your skills.
The resort also offers a range of amenities, including two restaurants, multiple bars and lounges, private beach access and spa treatments. In addition to this, they provide personalised instruction from golf professionals, who will help you improve your game. For those looking for more than just a round of golf, Fox Harb’r Resort provides activities such as kayaking, fishing, hiking and horseback riding. These activities add to the overall experience, which makes it one of Nova Scotia’s premier locations for golfing holidays or weekend getaways.
Glen Arbour Golf Course
Glen Arbour Golf Course is one of the best golf courses in Nova Scotia. Located just fifteen minutes from downtown Halifax, it features an 18-hole championship course that offers a unique blend of challenging holes and stunning views. With its lush fairways and undulating greens, Glen Arbour has become a popular destination for golfers looking to experience some of the finest golf available in Canada. Interestingly, this impressive course also holds the distinction of being home to the longest hole in North America – the 8th hole measures 710 yards!
At Glen Arbour, players are presented with plenty of opportunities to test their skills while enjoying the freedom that comes with playing on such an expansive property. The wide open design allows for generous shot selections off the tee, meaning golfers can take risks if they wish or play more conservatively if desired. Additionally, there are five sets of tees which make Glen Arbour suitable for all levels of golfer; beginners will find something enjoyable here as well as experienced players who seek out a challenge. All told, Glen Arbour provides an excellent opportunity for those seeking top quality golfing experiences in Nova Scotia.
The Links at Brunello
One of the most remarkable golf courses in Nova Scotia is The Links at Brunello. Situated just minutes from Halifax, this magnificent 18-hole golf course has quickly become a favourite among both local and visiting golfers since its opening in 2015. Designed by the acclaimed golf course architect Tom McBroom, The Links at Brunello combines a modern layout with the traditional elements of a classic links-style course.
Sprawling across 7,158 yards, the course boasts a par of 72 and features a diverse array of challenging holes that cater to players of all skill levels. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast, contoured greens, The Links at Brunello provides a golfing experience that is both thrilling and rewarding. The course’s design incorporates the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, which includes lush forests, pristine lakes, and stunning rock formations, offering players a visually stunning backdrop as they navigate through each hole.
The Links at Brunello also offers top-notch facilities for golfers looking to improve their game. The practice area includes a spacious driving range, chipping and pitching greens, as well as a large putting green for refining your short game. Golfers can also benefit from the expertise of PGA professionals who offer private lessons and group clinics to help improve their golfing skills.
Granite Springs Golf Club
The Granite Springs Golf Club in Nova Scotia, Canada is known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and challenging golf course. It has become a popular destination amongst golfers seeking to challenge themselves on one of Canada’s most beautiful courses. The truth behind this allure may be deeper than simply offering an enjoyable game; it could also have something to do with the feeling of freedom that comes from playing outside in nature.
Granite Springs Golf Course provides players with a unique experience due to its wide open layout which allows generous amounts of space between each hole. This creates a sense of liberation as players are able to move freely without worrying about crowding or obstruction from other players. Additionally, the rolling hills and breathtaking views add another layer of enjoyment to the round. From atop certain tee boxes, one can take in panoramic vistas of peaceful lakeside scenery and rugged terrain along the coastline – creating a truly memorable experience on every single shot. By combining these elements together, Granite Springs Golf Club offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in Nova Scotian beauty while engaging in some friendly competition at the same time.
Ashburn Golf Club
Moving on from Granite Springs Golf Club, the next destination is Ashburn Golf Club. Located near Halifax in Fall River, this golf course offers a challenging and enjoyable round of golf for players at all levels. The 18-hole championship layout stretches 6,435 yards from the back tees with a par of 71. It features plenty of water hazards and bunkers to test your skills and help you hone them along the way. In addition to its pristine greens, fairways are lined by lush forests, ensuring that each hole presents an entirely unique experience.
At Ashburn Golf Club, there is something for everyone as they offer a variety of amenities, such as an outdoor patio area complete with BBQ facilities and a rangefinder kiosk, so you can easily find your ball during play. They also offer lessons with their qualified professionals who have years of experience helping both beginners and experts alike improve their game. All in all, it’s clear why Ashburn Golf Club has become one of the best places for golfing in Nova Scotia!
Dundee Resort & Golf Club
Situated in the picturesque Dundee Hills of Nova Scotia, The Dundee Resort & Golf Club is one of the top golf courses in Canada. Featuring a spectacular 18-hole layout designed by renowned Canadian architect Graham Cooke, this par 72 championship course offers stunning views and an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. With four sets of tees ranging from 5400 to 7300 yards, Dundee has something for everyone. In addition, it features two large putting greens and practice bunkers that are perfect for honing your short game skills.
The club also prides itself on its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability practices, including using natural fertilisers derived from organic matter and implementing a water conservation plan to reduce overall water usage. This focus on sustainable operations helps ensure that the environment remains pristine while providing members with an outstanding playing experience every time they visit.
Dundee also boasts impressive facilities, such as a restaurant with beautifully appointed seating areas overlooking the golf course, a pro shop stocked with high quality apparel and equipment, and expertly trained staff who provide friendly service throughout your stay. All these amenities combine to make The Dundee Resort & Golf Club one of the premier golf experiences available in Nova Scotia today.
Northumberland Links
Nestled along the Northumberland Strait, Northumberland Links offers a spectacular golf experience. It is widely regarded as one of Nova Scotia’s premier courses and provides players with an array of challenges while allowing them to appreciate stunning ocean views. Its layout features a mix of open meadows and rolling hills that provide ample opportunities for birdies. The course also has plenty of sand traps and water hazards, keeping players on their toes throughout the round. With its top-notch conditions and challenging holes, it is no wonder why this award-winning facility remains one of the most popular destinations in Nova Scotia for both amateur and professional golfers alike.
The club itself boasts excellent amenities, such as full practice facilities, a pro shop, restaurant, bar, pool tables and more. Golfers can even stay overnight at the resort’s hotel or nearby vacation rentals so they don’t have to worry about leaving early before completing their rounds. From beginners just learning how to play to experienced pros looking for a challenge, Northumberland Links ensures every golfer will come away feeling satisfied with an enjoyable round on one of Nova Scotia’s finest courses.
Osprey Ridge Golf Course
Osprey Ridge Golf Course, a par 72 championship layout located in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, is a renowned golf destination that has been captivating players since its inception. Aesthetically, the course provides an idyllic backdrop as it weaves through rolling hills and tranquil streams, providing every golfer with an opportunity to transcend antiquity for a few hours and truly immerse themselves in their surroundings.
The playing experience at Osprey Ridge is both challenging and rewarding, offering something new each round, regardless of your skill level or familiarity with the terrain. The signature 7th hole features two islands connected by bridges – one leading to the green while the other leads to the tee box – allowing golfers to feel like they are floating across time and space as they make their way around this scenic gem. Additionally, all 18 holes have five sets of tees ranging from 4500-7000 yards, which allows players of any ability to find enjoyment in the game without sacrificing difficulty.
Bell Bay Golf Club
A true example of northern hospitality, Bell Bay Golf Club offers an unforgettable experience. Located in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, the golf course is easily accessible from all points of the province and beyond. It features a championship 18-hole layout with natural beauty at every turn. The manicured greens are well protected by deep bunkers and water hazards that add to the challenge for any level golfer.
The clubhouse overlooks the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake and provides a relaxing atmosphere where guests can enjoy a meal or just sit back and watch the sun set over the lake. After your round, be sure to check out their practice facility, which includes a driving range, putting green, chipping area and sand bunker – perfect for improving your game! With its breathtaking views and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder why Bell Bay Golf Club is one of the best courses in Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Highland Links Golf Course
Highland Links Golf Course is situated near Ingonish Beach in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, and has been heralded as one of the top golf courses in all of Canada. Considered an iconic layout by many, it was designed in 1941 by Stanley Thompson and features both classic Scottish links-style play along with modern touches. With rolling fairways and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Highland Links offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for amateur and professional players alike.
The course’s length varies from 5,547 yards to 6,683 yards, depending on which tees are chosen. It features two par 5s, four par 3s that range from 145 to 213 yards long, and twelve par 4s with lengths between 348 and 433 yards. All 18 holes feature various hazards such as bunkers, ponds, or creeks that force players to think strategically about each shot before taking action.
Overall, Highland Links provides a unique challenge for golfers who demand quality playing conditions while enjoying breathtaking scenery. The ever-changing wind direction along with strategic tee placements makes this course difficult but rewarding when conquered properly. Highly recommended for those looking to improve their game or just have some fun out on the links!
Conclusion
Nova Scotia is home to a variety of golf courses, providing an array of experiences for golfers. Whether seeking seaside vistas or challenging terrain, the province has something for everyone. Cabot Links and Fox Harb’r Resort offer breathtaking coastal views, while Northumberland Links provides rugged terrain in an idyllic setting. Osprey Ridge Golf Course offers pristine fairways surrounded by beautiful wetlands and Bell Bay Golf Club features spectacular mountain scenery. Lastly, Highland Links Golf Course boasts rolling hills with elevated tees, offering incredible viewscapes throughout the course.
The range of options available means that any golfer can find their ideal experience on Nova Scotia’s courses. When choosing which one to play, factors such as playing style, handicap level and location should be taken into consideration. With its diverse selection of courses, Nova Scotia guarantees each player a unique opportunity to enjoy a memorable round of golfing no matter what they are looking for.
From stunning oceanside links-style courses to more traditional parkland layouts, Nova Scotia offers something special for every type of golfer. All six featured courses provide exceptional quality and value while allowing players to take in some of Canada’s most picturesque views – making it easy to understand why so many people consider Nova Scotia one of the premier locations for golfing in all of Canada.
