Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is not only known for its rich history and vibrant culture but also for its lush golf courses. With a diverse range of terrains and designs, golf enthusiasts can find a multitude of courses to challenge their skills and enjoy the beauty of Eastern Ontario. From early season play to unique golfing experiences, this article highlights the best golf courses around Ottawa, including those that have set records for their early openings and those that offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Key Takeaways
- Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort and other local courses have celebrated their earliest openings ever, thanks to mild late winter weather.
- The Nation Golf Club, minutes from Ottawa, offers well-drained greens and online reservation services for convenience.
- GolfNorth properties like Acton Golf Club and Beaverdale Golf Club in Cambridge provide a variety of challenges and amenities for all skill levels.
- Unique golf experiences can be found at The Oaks of St. George Golf Club in Paris and The Club at Bond Head in Beeton, each offering distinct 18-hole courses.
- Early birds can take advantage of special offers and green fees for the 2024 season, as many courses have opened ahead of schedule.
Premier Golfing Destinations in Eastern Ontario
Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort: A Record-Breaking Early Season
The Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort has made history with its unprecedented early opening on March 8, marking the earliest start in its 41-year history. This milestone surpasses the previous record by a significant margin, with the former earliest date being St. Patrick’s Day.
The mild late winter weather has been a boon for golf enthusiasts, allowing for an extended season that is both unexpected and welcome. The resort, known for its picturesque views and challenging layout, is now bustling with activity as players take advantage of the early start.
The early opening is a testament to the changing climate and the adaptability of the golf industry. It’s an opportunity for golfers to enjoy more time on the green, perfecting their swing and enjoying the sport they love.
While the early opening is a cause for celebration, it’s also a reminder for golfers to be prepared. With the season starting sooner, ensuring that your golf gear is ready for action is more important than ever.
Here’s a quick checklist to get you started:
- Ball retrievers
- Divot fixers
- Golf clubs and balls
- Appropriate attire for varying weather conditions
As the season progresses, keep an eye out for special offers and events that Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort may host to commemorate this record-breaking season.
Dragonfly Golf Links in Renfrew: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away in the serene landscape of Renfrew, Dragonfly Golf Links offers a tranquil escape for golf enthusiasts. This course is celebrated for its well-maintained fairways and natural beauty, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all levels.
With the recent balmy March weather, Dragonfly Golf Links joined the list of courses that opened early, setting the stage for a longer and potentially more rewarding golf season. Golfers are eager to take advantage of the extended playtime, with the course already receiving positive feedback for its condition and the quality of the golfing experience.
Dragonfly Golf Links prides itself on offering a unique golfing experience that harmonizes with the surrounding environment.
The course’s popularity is on the rise, and it’s easy to see why. From the friendly staff to the strategic layout, Dragonfly Golf Links is a course that should not be overlooked by anyone looking for a memorable round of golf.
Mapleview in Perth: Scenic Fairways and Challenging Greens
Nestled in the picturesque town of Perth, Mapleview Golf & Country Club offers golfers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge. The course is renowned for its meticulously maintained fairways and strategic green placements, making every round both a visual treat and a test of skill.
With a variety of holes that cater to different skill levels, Mapleview ensures an engaging experience for all players. The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in the quality of the greens and the thoughtful layout of each hole.
Mapleview’s serene environment and challenging course design provide an ideal setting for golfers looking to improve their game or simply enjoy a day out on the links.
The early season has seen a surge in players eager to take advantage of the mild weather. As reported by CBC News, courses across eastern Ontario, including Mapleview, have celebrated some of the earliest openings on record.
- Early Openings: Following the balmy March weather, golf enthusiasts have been flocking to courses that have opened their doors ahead of schedule.
- Course Conditions: Despite the early start, the conditions at Mapleview have been exceptional, with the greens and fairways in prime shape for the season.
- Special Offers: To celebrate the early season, Mapleview is offering special rates and packages, enticing golfers to hit the fairways sooner rather than later.
Ottawa’s Top Golf Courses for Public Play
Nation Golf Club: Minutes from Ottawa with Impeccable Greens
Just a short drive from the heart of Ottawa, the Nation Golf Club offers an accessible escape for golfers seeking a round on impeccable greens. With a well-drained landscape and nightly irrigation, the course maintains excellent play conditions throughout the season.
The Nation Golf Club is not only renowned for its superb course maintenance but also for the convenience it offers to players. Making a reservation is a breeze with their online system, ensuring that your tee time is secured with minimal fuss.
Here are the 2024 green fee rates (HST not included):
| Green Fee (18 Holes) | Walking | Golf & Cart | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Rate | $X | $Y | 4 for 3 |
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice.
Located at 731 County Road 19, Curran, Ontario, the club is easily reachable for a quick getaway or a leisurely day on the links. For more information or to book your next round, visit nationgolf.ca or contact them at (613) 673-3333.
Loch March Golf Club in Kanata: A Golfer’s Retreat
Tucked away in the serene landscapes of Kanata, the Loch March Golf Club offers an escape for golfers looking to immerse themselves in the game. With its meticulously maintained fairways and greens, it stands as a testament to the dedication of its groundskeepers. The club’s commitment to providing a top-tier golfing experience is evident in every swing.
- Location: Kanata, Ontario
- Facility: Full 18-hole course
- Amenities: Clubhouse, driving range, pro shop
Golfers at Loch March are greeted with a variety of challenges that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a satisfying round for both novices and seasoned players. The course’s natural beauty is complemented by its strategic design, which calls for thoughtful shot selection and a keen eye for the terrain.
Embrace the tranquility of Loch March Golf Club, where each hole offers a new opportunity to test your skills against the backdrop of Ontario’s stunning landscapes.
As the season progresses, the club is poised to host a range of events and tournaments, providing ample space for both competition and camaraderie. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a day out on the links, Loch March Golf Club is a destination that should not be missed.
Grey Silo Golf Club in Waterloo: Modern Design Meets Natural Beauty
Nestled in the heart of Waterloo, Grey Silo Golf Club stands as a testament to modern golf course design seamlessly integrated with the natural beauty of the region. The course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, with rolling hills and strategic bunkers that will test golfers of all skill levels.
The serene environment and exceptional facilities at Grey Silo provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Golfers can enjoy a round in this picturesque setting, where every hole offers a new challenge and a chance to appreciate the surrounding landscape.
With a reputation for friendly staff and well-maintained greens, Grey Silo is not just a golf course; it’s a destination for those seeking a premier golfing experience. The club’s spacious event areas also make it a popular choice for tournaments and special events.
Here’s what golfers are saying about Grey Silo:
- Darius: "Very nice golf course with some challenging hills!"
- Anonymous: "Course in great condition. Challenging without being ridiculously tough."
Premier golf clubs in Ontario, like Grey Silo, offer not just a game, but an experience—a blend of sport, relaxation, and connection with nature.
GolfNorth’s Finest: Ontario’s Must-Play Courses
Acton Golf Club: Traditional Layout with Modern Amenities
Acton Golf Club seamlessly blends a traditional golf course layout with modern amenities, offering a harmonious golfing experience. The course is renowned for its meticulously maintained fairways and greens, providing a consistent play for golfers of all levels. With a variety of challenging holes, the course tests both strategy and skill.
- Traditional course design with a modern twist
- Exceptional maintenance of fairways and greens
- Suitable for all skill levels
Acton Golf Club is the perfect example of how a golf course can honor its heritage while evolving to meet the contemporary needs of the sport.
While the Toronto area offers affordable golf courses like Braeben, Lakeview, Lionhead, Crosswinds, and Piper’s Heath, Acton Golf Club stands out with its unique blend of classic and current elements. This makes it a must-visit for those seeking a golf experience that pays homage to the past but is firmly planted in the present.
Beaverdale Golf Club in Cambridge: A Course for All Skill Levels
Nestled just off the 401, Beaverdale Golf Club in Cambridge is a testament to accessibility and playability. This GolfNorth property boasts mature, well-treed fairways that provide a serene backdrop for golfers of all skill levels.
The course’s design strikes a perfect balance, offering a challenge to seasoned players while remaining approachable for newcomers. The well-maintained greens and thoughtful layout contribute to a rewarding golfing experience.
Here are a few highlights of Beaverdale Golf Club:
- Convenient location with easy access from major highways
- A mature course with a rich history and natural beauty
- A friendly atmosphere with staff that enhance your visit
Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a day out on the links, Beaverdale Golf Club is an excellent choice.
Conestoga Golf Club in Conestogo: A Blend of Challenge and Enjoyment
Nestled in the heart of Conestogo, the Conestoga Golf Club offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge. With its meticulously maintained fairways and greens, golfers of all skill levels find both enjoyment and challenge on this course.
Accessibility is a key feature at Conestoga, with a range of services designed to cater to every golfer’s needs. From the convenience of online booking to the variety of round packages, the club ensures a seamless experience from tee-off to the final putt.
The spirit of golf is alive in the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed at Conestoga. It’s a place where every stroke counts and every moment is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
As part of the GolfNorth family, Conestoga Golf Club prides itself on offering competitive rates and promotions, making it an accessible choice for those seeking quality golf without breaking the bank. The course calendar is filled with events that cater to both competitive and casual players, ensuring that there’s always a reason to return to the greens.
Unique Golf Experiences Around Ottawa
The Oaks of St. George Golf Club in Paris: A Test of Precision
The Oaks of St. George Golf Club offers a unique challenge for golfers seeking precision over power. The course’s layout demands accurate shots, with narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards that test even the most skilled players. The semi-private nature of the club ensures a blend of exclusivity and accessibility, making it a favorite among both members and daily-fee golfers.
The club boasts a comprehensive practice facility, complete with a chipping and putting area, allowing golfers to refine their short game before taking on the course. The Pro Shop is well-stocked with the latest gear and apparel, ensuring you’re fully equipped for your round.
The Oaks of St. George is not just about golf; it’s an experience that combines the love for the game with the beauty of the landscape.
With a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of course conditions, The Oaks of St. George is a testament to quality golfing experiences. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a day on the greens, this course is a must-visit destination.
Uplands Golf & Ski Club in Thornhill: Golfing with a View
Nestled in the picturesque town of Thornhill, the Uplands Golf & Ski Club offers a unique blend of golfing and scenic vistas. This 9-hole course is not only a golfer’s delight but also a visual treat, with its well-maintained fairways and panoramic views.
The club is more than just a golf course; it’s a community hub with a full-service restaurant and a range of programs for all ages, including kids camps and leagues.
Uplands Golf & Ski Club is a perfect destination for both casual and serious golfers. The course is known for its challenging layout, which requires precision and strategy. Golfers can also participate in various tournaments held throughout the season, making it a vibrant place for competition and camaraderie.
- Address: 46 Uplands Ave, Thornhill, Ontario
- Facilities: Full-service restaurant, leagues, tournaments, kids camps & programs
- Course Type: 9-hole course
The Club at Bond Head in Beeton: Two Distinct 18-Hole Courses
The Club at Bond Head offers an exceptional golfing experience with its two distinct 18-hole courses. Each course presents its own unique challenges and aesthetic, ensuring that every round is a fresh adventure. The North Course is known for its links-style layout, while the South Course features more traditional parkland surroundings.
- North Course: Links-style, expansive fairways, and rolling terrain.
- South Course: Traditional parkland, strategic water hazards, and mature trees.
Golfers can enjoy the perfect blend of natural beauty and strategic play. The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in the well-maintained greens and fairways, providing a top-tier golfing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the courses at Bond Head are designed to cater to all skill levels.
The Club at Bond Head is a testament to the diversity and quality of golfing available around Ottawa. Its two courses offer a comprehensive golfing experience that is both challenging and enjoyable.
Early Season Golfing: Taking Advantage of Mild Ottawa Weather
Ottawa-Area Courses Celebrate Earliest Openings Ever
The onset of mild late winter weather has led to a remarkable phenomenon for golf enthusiasts in the Ottawa region. Several courses have swung open their gates earlier than ever before, marking a new chapter in the area’s golfing calendar. Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort, for instance, teed off the season on March 8, the earliest in its 41-year history, surpassing its previous record by a significant margin.
This year’s early openings are not just a stroke of luck but a sign of changing patterns that may redefine seasonal golfing schedules.
Local golfers, like James Drolet, have eagerly taken to the driving ranges, anticipating the chance to play on the actual greens. The early bird opportunity has been embraced by courses such as Nine Golf in Belleville, Crooked Creek in Athens, and Dragonfly Golf Links in Renfrew, each offering their unique challenges and scenic views ahead of schedule.
While the early tee times are a boon for golfers, they also present a unique set of challenges for course maintenance. Groundskeepers are adapting to the unexpected weather, ensuring that the fairways and greens are in top condition despite the early start. The table below highlights the opening dates of some notable courses:
| Golf Course | Opening Date | Previous Record |
|---|---|---|
| Calabogie Highlands | March 8 | St. Patrick’s Day |
| Nine Golf | March 10 | March 15 |
| Crooked Creek | March 9 | March 14 |
| Dragonfly Golf Links | March 11 | March 16 |
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these early openings influence the golfing landscape, not just in Ottawa but potentially in other regions where climate challenges are reshaping the traditional golf season.
Balmy March Weather Leads to Surging Golf Enthusiasm
The unexpectedly warm March weather has led to a surge in golfing activity across Eastern Ontario. Several courses have reported record early openings, with golfers eager to take advantage of the mild conditions. Notably, Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort marked its earliest opening in over four decades on March 8, significantly earlier than the previous record of St. Patrick’s Day.
While the early season has been a boon for golf enthusiasts, courses are bracing for a return to colder temperatures. The dry conditions have been ideal for early play, but some courses anticipate temporary closures to weather the seasonal shift.
Other courses in the region, such as Nine Golf in Belleville and Mapleview, have also welcomed golfers much earlier than usual. This trend is a clear indication of the growing enthusiasm for the sport, spurred on by the balmy weather. As the season progresses, golfers are advised to stay informed about course conditions and potential closures due to weather changes.
2024 Green Fees and Special Offers for Early Birds
As the Ottawa area celebrates the earliest openings ever, golf enthusiasts are eager to hit the fairways. Early birds are in for a treat this season with a range of special offers designed to make the most of the mild weather.
The Nation Golf Club, just minutes from Ottawa, is offering an enticing package for those looking to secure their spot on the green. With a one-time fee, members can enjoy unlimited play during off-peak hours for the entire year. Here’s a quick glance at what’s on offer:
- Membership: Unlimited play during off-peak hours
- Green Fee Rate: Preferred rate of $29 for other times
Embrace the opportunity to play more and pay less with these early season specials.
Remember, these offers are a limited-time affair, so be sure to book your tee times and take advantage of the balmy March weather. With the courses in prime condition, there’s no better time to enjoy the game.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the best golf courses around Ottawa, it’s clear that the region offers a diverse array of options for golf enthusiasts. From the historic charm of courses like The Oaks of St. George Golf Club in Paris to the modern amenities of Nation Golf Club just minutes from Ottawa, there’s a course to suit every preference and skill level. The early openings this year, thanks to the balmy March weather, have given golfers a head start on the season, allowing them to enjoy the well-maintained greens and fairways even sooner. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, the golf courses around Ottawa promise a memorable experience with every swing. So, grab your clubs, book your tee time, and experience the best that Eastern Ontario’s golf scene has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best golf courses around Ottawa for early season play?
Some of the best golf courses around Ottawa that open early in the season include Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort, Mapleview in Perth, Dragonfly Golf Links in Renfrew, Nation Golf Club, and Loch March Golf Club in Kanata.
How has the mild Ottawa weather affected golf course openings?
The mild weather in Ottawa has led to record early openings for many golf courses in the area, with some like Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort opening as early as March 8.
Are there any special offers for golfers looking to play early in the season?
Yes, some golf courses offer special deals such as ‘4 for 3 on green fees’ and discounted rates for early birds. It’s best to check individual golf course websites for the latest offers.
Can I book a tee time online for golf courses in the Ottawa area?
Yes, many golf courses around Ottawa offer online booking options. For example, you can reserve and pay online at the Nation Golf Club’s website.
What should golfers consider when playing on courses that have recently opened due to mild weather?
Golfers should be mindful of course conditions, as early openings can mean softer grounds. Courses take measures to protect the turf, so it’s important to follow any guidelines or restrictions they may have in place.
Are there any public golf courses with exceptional greens near Ottawa?
Nation Golf Club, located minutes from Ottawa, is known for its well-drained and nightly irrigated greens, offering a high-quality golfing experience for the public.