Canada is a golf-rich country with renowned resorts where you can “grip it and rip it,” coast to coast. And now that spring is here, putter patter, let’s get at ‘er.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
When golf courses are described, the word “masterpiece” is often overused. However, in the case of Jasper Park Lodge—a stunning 99-year-old classic by renowned gold-course architect Stanley Thompson—the description fits to a tee. Both the course and the regal resort are situated on the peaceful shores of gem-blue Lac Beauvert, Alberta—a truly unforgettable setting.
If you want to stay the night, AMA members save up to 20 percent on room bookings at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Elk Ridge Resort
Comfortably in the top tier of Canadian golf spots is the 27-hole Elk Ridge Resort, located in a beautiful swath of boreal forest on the edge of Prince Alberta National Park, Saskatchewan. Featuring a soaring timber-framed lodge, a space, fine dining and contemporary rooms just a Nick Taylor putt from the first tee, this resort is an oasis in Western Canada.
Lakeview Hecla Resort
With some holes sitting snug along the shores of Lake Winnipeg and others zigzagging through a majestic mixed forest, the layout at the Lakeview Hecla Resort, Manitoba, is peaceful—parkland golf at its finest. After gold, guests can unwind in the cozy confines of the lodge, soak in the indoor/outdoor pools, visit the Salka Spa and dine at Seagull’s Restaurant and Lounge.
Taboo Muskoka
A lodge. A lake. A golf course. It’s the trifecta for those looking for the ultimate golf retreat. And the entire Muskoka area north of Toronto is pure gold for golfers. Located along the rocky shores of Lake Muskoka, Taboo is an upscale resort that includes a fantastic Ron Gan-designed gold course, which is expertly routed through rough terrain. Non-golfers will appreciate the wide assortment of recreation options, including the beautiful private beach, hiking and biking trails, nearby boat rentals and clay tennis courts.
The Algonquin Resort
This historic New Brunswick outpost boasts a spectacular seaside gold course that was recently renovated by acclaimed Canadian architect Rod Whitman. The entire property is steeped in history. If the gold course and iconic Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel don’t win you over, the charming and historic village of St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea surely will. This is considered Canada’s first seaside resort town.
Cabot Cape Breton
With two of the best links courses on the planet—Cabot Links, opened in 2011, and Cabot Cliffs, opened to the public in 2016—Cabot Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is an unparalleled golf offering in this country. It’s essentially the St. Andrews of Canada. Thanks to the luxurious lodge, the restaurants (fresh seafood, anyone?) the idyllic beach and the many nearby attractions—check out the Glenora Distillery—even non-golfing guests will savour the experience.