Golf Vancouver Island - Golf Vacations 2017

Golf vacations

Golf vacations

VA N C O U V E R I S L A N D . C O M

VA N C O U V E R I S L A N D . C O M GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

British Columbia CANADA

VANCOUVER ISLAND GOLF VACATIONS 2017

Raft Cove Provincial Park

VANCOUVER ISLAND

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© Tourism Vancouver Island 2011

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VICTORIA TO: SIDNEY SOOKE DUNCAN NANAIMO PORT ALBERNI

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VANCOUVER ISLAND’S TOP-RATED COURSES

35 min 25 min 45 min 1 hr 30 min 2 hr 30 min

TOFINO PARKSVILLE 2 hr Golf Vancouver Island COURTENAY 3 hr Victoria, BC CAMPBELL RIVER 3 hr 30 min Phone: 250-388-4650 PORT HARDY 6 hr 30 min

VICTORIA AND THE SOUTH ISLAND (page 8)

1 Highland Pacific Golf u 2 u Olympic View Golf Club 3 Bear Mountain Resort – u The Mountain Course 4 Bear Mountain Resort – u The Valley Course 5 Arbutus Ridge Golf Club u

10 9 8

CAMPBELL RIVER COURTENAY DUNCAN 7 NANAIMO PARKSVILLE PORT ALBERNI PORT HARDY

Vancouver

COWICHAN (page 14)

6 Cowichan Golf & Country Club u

CENTRAL ISLAND (page 16)

u 8 Fairwinds Golf Club u 9 u Morningstar Golf Club 10 Pheasant Glen Golf Resort u 7

QUALICUM BEACH SIDNEY SOOKE TOFINO VICTORIA

Nanaimo Golf Club

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NORTH ISLAND (page 21)

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11 Crown Isle Resort & u Golf Community 12 Storey Creek Golf Club u 13 Quadra Island Golf Club u

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VANCOUVER ISLAND DRIVING TIMES VICTORIA TO: DUNCAN...................................... 45 min PARKSVILLE.................................... 2 hr COURTENAY.................................... 3 hr CAMPBELL RIVER.............. 3 hr 30 min

Washington USA

VANCOUVER ISLAND GOLF VACATIONS is published by Golf Vancouver Island in partnership with Page One Publishing Inc. 5 hr

Fax: 250-388-4653 Email: info@golfvancouverisland.ca Website: www.golfvancouverisland.travel Page One Publishing Inc. 580 Ardersier Road Victoria, BC V8Z 1C7 Phone: 250-595-7243 Email: info@pageonepublishing.ca Website: www.pageonepublishing.ca Cover Photo: Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community No part of this publication may be reproduced without consent from the publisher.

PRINTED IN CANADA

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Contents

ISLAND GOLF: ALL HERE, ALL YEAR LONG 4 VIT'SANCOUVER 16 GOLF VACATION PACKAGES 18 VICTORIA AND THE SOUTH ISLAND 14 COWICHAN: THE WARM LAND

16 CENTRAL ISLAND 21 NORTH ISLAND 31 TRANSPORTATION 33 ISLAND REAL ESTATE

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Victoria For golf packages call Golf Vancouver Island

1-877-307- 5566 or visit www.golfvancouverisland.travel

©2017 - Golf Vancouver Island. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited. This Guide does not constitute, and should not be construed as, an endorsement or recommendation of any carrier, hotel, restaurant or any other facility, attraction or activity in British Columbia, for which neither Destination BC Corp. nor the Region assumes any responsibility.

Super, Natural British Columbia®, Hello BC®, Visitor Centre and all associated logos/trademarks are trade-marks or Official Marks of Destination BC Corp. Tourism Vancouver Island and all associated trademarks and logos are trademarks and official marks of the Region. Admission fees and other terms and conditions may apply to attractions and facilities referenced in this Guide. Errors and omissions excepted.

Vancouver Island Golf PHEASANT GLEN GOLF RESORT

It’s all here, all year long!

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

GOLFING ON VANCOUVER ISLAND IS TRULY AN EXPERIENCE IN NATURE.

The superb conditioning of manicured courses in the midst of stunning Vancouver Island wilderness is a captivating contrast.

Mornings spent sharing fairways with deer are followed by afternoons on patios sharing drinks with friends. Clubhouses that cater to every golfer’s culinary whim grant mesmerizing vistas of the mysterious wilds just beyond.

Even courses within Island communities seem closer to the wilderness than to civilization.

The Island’s reputation as an outstanding golf destination starts with the fact that there are 40-plus courses in the region, all within a three-hour drive of each other. The year-round mild climate keeps courses open in every season, no matter what the weather is doing in other parts of the country.

Not only are the greens awesome, so

are all the Island’s post-game activities: everything from whale watching and salmon fishing, to luxurious spas, microbrewery tours, and wineries that welcome visitors with tours and tastings. Farms and orchards offer freshly grown produce from roadside stands. Parks invite exploring with trails leading into cool green forests, past rivers and waterfalls, and to beaches and shorelines.

Then there's the warmth of Island hospitality at hotels, golf courses, and restaurants, as well as from local Islanders, who are happy to share tips on what to see and where to eat. It’s a genuine friendliness that comes naturally in a place where everyone is welcome!

Golf Vancouver Island packages make it easy to discover the region's must-play courses, all professionally selected to offer a premium experience. The Vancouver Island Golf Trail — the ultimate package —

showcases six courses on a 250-kilometre (155-mile) journey between Victoria and Campbell River (page 6). It’s an easy drive, too, with all of the courses linked by the Island Highway. Along the way, glimpses into the Island lifestyle await, glimpses that bring people here again and again for the golf and frequently to live here part time or year round.

All of this together has been drawing golfers to Vancouver Island since the first course was built here over a century ago.

Whether you get here by the ferry — an unforgettable voyage between the Mainland and the Island — or by plane, with dazzling aerial views of the Gulf Islands and rocky shorelines, make this the year you golf Vancouver Island!

Great golf, outstanding facilities, superb hospitality, a season that never ends — and all that incredible wilderness!

That’s golf, Vancouver Island style.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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CUSTOM VACATIONS

ENDLESS OPTIONS

NO OBLIGATION

PRICE

ONE PHONE CALL

MATCH GUARANTEE

With so many outstanding courses and so many add-on activities, your golf vacation can be anything you want it to be.

A trip with friends or a couple's getaway. Golf combined with fishing or with winery or garden touring. And it doesn’t stop there.

CALL US FOR YOUR PERFECT VACATION!

1-877-307-5566

WE CAN CUSTOM DESIGN WHATEVER YOU WANT.

HERE’S A SAMPLING OF WHAT WE CAN DO: QUICK GETAWAYS



VICTORIA WEEKEND

2 NIGHTS / 3 ROUNDS Includes power cart and a hot breakfast.

FROM

$295

PER PERSON

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NORTH ISLAND FINS & SKINS

2 NIGHTS / 1 ROUND & 4 HOURS OF SUMMER SALMON FISHING WEEKENDS Includes power cart and ocean-view accommodation.

6

FROM

$379

2

5

OCEANSIDE GOLF GETAWAY

Includes power cart and ocean-view accommodation.

4

$475

PER PERSON

6

2 NIGHTS / 2 ROUNDS

PER PERSON

PER PERSON

WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

FROM

$625

PER PERSON

VANCOUVER ISLAND GOLF TRAIL

6 NIGHTS / 6 ROUNDS

FROM

$195

NORTH/SOUTH GETAWAY

Includes 2 nights at Crown Isle, 2 nights at Bear Mountain, and power cart.

FROM

COWICHAN GOLF ESCAPE

Includes power cart.



4 NIGHTS / 4 ROUNDS

3 NIGHTS / 4 ROUNDS

BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

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LONGER STAYS

Includes power cart and VIP restaurant discounts.

FROM

$749

PER PERSON

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Nanaimo

VICTORIA AND THE SOUTH ISLAND TIP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

Ladysmith

Island Pubs • Boutique Shops

T

o say Victoria is a chip off the old British block isn’t really fair — not anymore, anyway. Sure, there are some wonderful tearooms and doubledecker buses and plenty of pubs… but Victoria has its own style, a unique blend of off-the-charts, West Coast gorgeous and fresh, future-forward energy.

In the pubs, for example, locally made craft beer has taken over the taps in many establishments — and there are many.

Standard pub fare — fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, and the like — is anything but standard in most places. In fact, the pub fare here is positively gourmet!

While the South Island has long been known for outstanding dining choices, the local trend can no longer be called a trend when it comes to food — it just is the way it is. Some of the country’s best chefs live here, where they can select from a dizzying abundance of ingredients from the land

Duncan

1 Highland Pacific Golf 2 Olympic View Golf 3 Bear Mountain Resort: The Mountain Course 4 Bear Mountain Resort: The Valley Course 5 Arbutus Ridge Golf Club

• Great Food

and the sea to create what can only be considered culinary art.

And what goes best with local cuisine?

Wines made from Island grapes and ciders made from apples grown in Island orchards.

Shopping has also gone local with many independent boutiques and galleries featuring the unique creations of Island designers and artists alongside international names you would expect to find only in a much larger city.

TIP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

➎ ➍➌ ➋ ➊  Victoria

VICTORIA AND THE SOUTH ISLAND

HIGHLAND PACIFIC GOLF COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE 6,603 6,326 5,861 5,051 SLOPE

131 126 123 117

RATING

72.6 70.9 69.1 69.2

PAR

71

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–

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COURSE ARCHITECT CHRIS YOUNG

Victoria’s Inner Harbour

AMENITIES Championship golf course; covered, heated and lit practice facility; licensed café; CPGA lessons; extensive golf shop; GPS-equipped power carts; pull carts; rental clubs.

Rob Cruise, PGA, Director of Golf Operations.

250-478-4653

www.highlandpacificgolf.com

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

DESTINATION BC

AND THEN THERE’S THE BEER The fact that Victoria had a brewery in operation before its first lighthouse was constructed should be an indication of how seriously we take our brews. Just as lighthouse builders deserve a cold one at the end of their day, so do golfers. And what better way to celebrate a great day of Island golf than with locally crafted beers from our many breweries and brew pubs. Whether you sample several with a beer flight, enjoy a pint with fish and chips at lunch, or tour a brewery, you will quickly understand why our brew masters have achieved star status among connoisseurs.

JEFFREY BOSDET

DESTINATION BC/REUBEN KRABBE

The spas, too, have given the world’s finest esthetic products and spa services a distinctive Island twist with salt scrubs and seaweed wraps.

The scenery? It’s as breathtaking as ever, with lush green forests and jagged, rocky shorelines. The air still has that same wonderfully salty freshness and the sun still sparkles off ocean waves. The well-preserved heritage buildings that give downtown Victoria its traditional charm are always beautiful, and the Inner Harbour bustles with life by day and transforms into a glowing, magical place when the sun sets.

You’re going to love the golf...

HIGHLAND PACIFIC GOLF

It's in Victoria but it feels like the wilderness.

Highland Pacific Golf’s lush fairways thread through a majestic landscape of West Coast forest, rock, fescue, and natural water features, boasting panoramic views of Victoria, the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Bear Mountain, and Thetis Lake Park.

Since opening 18 holes in 2010, Highland Pacific, with its wide, sweeping fairways, bent-grass greens, and dramatic elevation

changes, has become an Island jewel.

Rob Cruise, director of golf at Highland Pacific, says people love the tranquility.

“Highland Pacific is surrounded by West Coast wilderness and borders parkland, making the experience peaceful, breathtaking, and full of wildlife encounters,” says Cruise. “You can often get so caught up by all the beautiful scenery Highland Pacific has to offer that you forget you’re on a golf course.”

But more than just the views are beautiful at Highland Pacific.

“We boast that even our winter conditions will blow you away, leaving you feeling

OUT ON THE WATER WITH THE WHALES While Islanders are renowned for friendliness and hospitality, the South Island’s most popular residents are the 80 or so killer whales, locally called orcas, who live in the waters off the coast.

These sleek, black-and-white mammals are the focus of some of the most exhilarating adventures you can imagine, whether you choose a tour on a fast-moving Zodiac or a more relaxed yacht.

Other ways to get out on the water include fishing, kayaking, boat tours, diving adventures, and those cute little water taxis you’ll see bobbing along in the Inner Harbour and Gorge Waterway.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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outside of Victoria — so I think just hanging out in downtown Victoria is pretty neat,” he says. “Great restaurants. Great pubs. You can go whale watching. There’s a plethora of things you can do.”

If you can tear yourself away from the course, that is.

“It’s called the Olympic View for a reason,” says Frank, referring to the panoramic mountain views. “It’s quite a unique course in that it’s really West Coast-style, cutting through the rock outcroppings in the forest.”

Frank adds that their tagline — Tranquility and Nature — really fits.

“You’ll find lots of wildlife out there, and the holes are set off by themselves, so you’re out there in the forest and it’s very tranquil,” he says, also pointing out that there are no houses around the golf course — well, one or two — which he says is quite unusual in this day and age of golf courses.

Olympic View consistently rates among the top golf courses on Vancouver Island, including a four-star rating in Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play.

“It’s a risk-reward golf course,” says Frank.

“You can be aggressive or play strategic. It’s up to you.”

“If you want to take on the risk, you can get the ball way down close to the green on some of the par four’s, but if you want to play it strategically and make sure you’re in play, you can shoot a good score as well.”

OLYMPIC VIEW GOLF CLUB

★★★★ Four-Star Rating Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE 6,600 6,165 5,544 5,293 SLOPE

133 130 126 122

RATING

72.7 70.9 72.9 71.3

PAR

72

72

73

73

COURSE ARCHITECT BILL ROBINSON

AMENITIES Golf shop, restaurant, snack bar, lounge, meeting rooms, banquet facilities, teaching academy, and practice facility with natural grass tees, target greens, and 25,000 square feet of putting and chipping greens.

250-474-3673 or 1-800-i-GOLFBC

www.olympicviewgolf.com

like you just played a round in June... even though it’s January,” says Cruise. “We’re well known for having the best drainage on Vancouver Island.”

Cruise adds that Highland Pacific continues to improve course conditions, layout, and facility amenities, including adding new tee boxes to make some holes more enjoyable and improving greens to be more receptive.

“And we offer the Island’s best hot dog on course,” he says.

This is in addition to the great dining in the clubhouse, which has a superb patio and a mouth-watering list of chef’s daily specials.

The golf itself is outstanding, too, with Cruise commenting that all 18 holes are signatures. His advice?

“When playing Highland Pacific, remember to breathe because we generally take our customers’ breath away with what our course has to offer.”

It starts right at the entrance with the “Everyone Welcome” sign.

“We take pride in being known as ‘Victoria’s Friendliest Place to Play,’ from having exceptional customer service to six different sets of tee boxes to accommodate any level of player,” says Cruise. “We’re proud to be a public golf course because that is who we care about.”

Cruise recommends visiting golfers take advantage of some of the activities Victoria offers, like whale watching and fishing charters.

Whether you want a bustling outdoor patio, a lively pub, an energetic dance floor, or a quiet lounge with a view, Victoria has nightlife options for everyone.

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

“Victoria is surrounded by some of the best salmon fishing in the world,” he says.

The dining is top rated, too.

“The restaurant scene in Victoria is incredible,” he says. “Ask the locals where their favourite place is to eat, and you’ll generally never hear the same place twice.”

— Colin Montgomerie, Pacific Links Bear Mountain Championship winner

The signature hole, the 17th, is likely one of the most photographed holes in the area.

“It’s got a 40-foot waterfall as its backdrop,” says Frank. “It’s a 455-yard, par four, and you have got to keep your mind on golf because you kind of lose yourself watching the waterfall.”

Olympic View, with its award-winning GBC Golf Academy, is also well known for golf instruction.

“We’ve got some of the best golf professionals in the province winning numerous awards,” says Frank. “They’re all highly qualified and like to get people better at golf.”

A great option for your trip to Victoria is the one-, three-, or five-day golf schools, which include a half day of instruction, lunch, and 18 holes of golf daily.

The clubhouse, featuring Forester’s

restaurant with its beautiful patio overlooking the 18th, is a great place to unwind after your round.

“Yeah. It’s just a nice atmosphere here,” says Frank.

BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

Located 25 minutes west of downtown Victoria, Bear Mountain Resort offers a double feature of two Nicklaus Design courses, the Mountain Course and the Valley Course. The 1,300-acre property is a natural wonder of rocks, rivers, valleys, forests, and mountain peaks.

The Mountain Course is carved from naturally rugged terrain with dramatic changes in elevation and slope. Tall pines, firs, and arbutus trees, jutting rocks, rivers, and valleys provide the perfect backdrop for stunning views of snow-capped peaks, the coastline, and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

The Valley Course, which was added in 2009, meanders through forests, borders lakes, and traverses creeks and rivers throughout its 18 holes, while offering spectacular views of the landscape. Like the Mountain Course, the Valley Course strikes the perfect balance of playability and is a truly challenging year-round golf experience for every level of player.

Much has been happening at Bear Mountain over the last couple years. In 2010, this was the site for the TELUS World

OLYMPIC VIEW GOLF CLUB

Close proximity to Victoria is a benefit Randy Frank, general manager at Olympic View, enjoys.

“We’re close to town — about 20 minutes

BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT The Mountain Course Host of the 2016 & 2017 PGA TOUR Champions, Pacific Links Bear Mountain Championship.

COURSE DETAILS TEE

GOLDEN GRIZZLY

BLACK SPIRIT CINNAMON

YARDAGE 6,925 6,487 6,138 5,631 4,771 SLOPE

142 140 127 120

112

RATING

73.2

63.5

PAR

71

70.7 –

68.9 –

66.8 –

–

COURSE ARCHITECT NICKLAUS DESIGN

JO-ANN LORO

“WE TAKE PRIDE IN BEING KNOWN AS ‘ VICTORIA’S FRIENDLIEST PLACE TO PLAY.’”

“THIS IS UNBELIEVABLE, THIS GOLF COURSE [BEAR MOUNTAIN - THE MOUNTAIN COURSE]. TO HAVE THE VISION OF PUTTING A GOLF COURSE ON THIS LAND IS QUITE PHENOMENAL.”

AMENITIES 18-Hole Mountain Course, driving range, putting greens, PGA of Canada certified instructors, GPS power carts, club valet/ cleaning/storage, day lockers, luxurious accommodation and meeting rooms, two restaurants, Sante Spa, athletic club, mountain biking, tennis courts.

250-744-2327 or 1-888-533-2327

www.bearmountain.ca

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Skins Game. Then Bear Mountain hosted the PGA TOUR Champions Pacific Links Bear Mountain Championship, an event that brought some of the most recognizable names in golf to compete for a $2.5-million purse. The big news is that the Pacific Links Championship is coming back to Bear Mountain in 2017 from September 11 to 18.

But there’s more. “We added two large putting greens as a Mountain and Valley 18-hole putting course, a new academy deck, and a new high-end comfort station for the Mountain Course,” says Jordan Ray, director of golf. “We have also have been working with Nicklaus Design to add several tee boxes to the courses and improve playability, and we partnered with Landscapes Unlimited to improve the course conditions and standards.”

More news: a partnership with Pacific Links International gives Bear Mountain golf members access to over 200 high-end,

exclusive courses around the world.

Obviously, having two courses to play makes Bear Mountain a popular choice among golfers, but there is more to love.

“The views on the Mountain Course make the experience unlike any other around the world,” says Ray. “And each hole on the Valley Course is on its own and set in nature, so you don’t see anything around you other than the natural setting.”

The 10th hole on the Mountain Course, where a new comfort station is located at the tee, has a waterfall in the background.

“The only downside to this hole is you don’t want to leave,” says Ray. You will, though, and you’ll be rewarded at the 14th hole with views of downtown Victoria, the ocean, and Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt. On clear days, you can see Mount Baker and Mount Ranier in Washington State.

“Number 14 on the Mountain Course is one of the most spectacular and unique holes in the world,” says Ray. “It’s only 160 yards from the back tees, but you have nowhere to miss so hit it straight.”

On the Valley Course, the 14th has the largest bunker on the property and Mount Finlayson in the background.

“Premium is again on accuracy as this hole is only 150 yards from the tips with one of the Valley Course’s signature massive target greens,” says Ray. “But don’t be short.”

Staff at Bear Mountain know how to take

ARBUTUS RIDGE GOLF CLUB

★★★★ Four-Star Rating Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play BOOMER JERRITT/TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

GOLF LEGENDS ARE COMING BACK TO VICTORIA IN 2017 WITH THE PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS PACIFIC LINKS BEAR MOUNTAIN CHAMPIONSHIP SEPTEMBER 11-18

COURSE DETAILS TEE

a stroll through the gardens at Hatley Castle, or even a zipline through the trees.

ARBUTUS RIDGE GOLF CLUB

Just 20 minutes from the outskirts of Victoria, Arbutus Ridge Golf Club straddles Cobble Hill, above the Satellite Channel and the southern Gulf Islands, and looks out to the snowcapped peak of Mount Baker. Designed by Bill Robinson, the course opened in 1987 and has since become known as one of the most scenic in Canada — and a top pick among golfers.

“Our 4.5 Trip Advisor rating for the golf course and restaurant are industry leading,”

135 130 128 120 103

RATING

72.9 70.8

69

PAR

71

–

–

66.8

63.2

–

–

COURSE ARCHITECT NICKLAUS DESIGN

AMENITIES 18-Hole Valley Course, driving range, putting greens, PGA of Canada certified instructors, GPS power carts, club valet/ cleaning/storage, day lockers, luxurious accommodation and meeting rooms, two restaurants, Sante Spa, athletic club, mountain biking, tennis courts.

250-744-2327 or 1-888-533-2327

www.bearmountain.ca

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

JEFFREY BOSDET

COURSE DETAILS

SLOPE

5,113

SLOPE

125 124 125 119

RATING

70.3 68.6 72.3 69.3

PAR

70/71

–

–

–

www.arbutusridgegolf.com

Host of the qualifying event for the 2016 PGA TOUR Champions, Pacific Links Bear Mountain Championship.

YARDAGE 6,807 6,392 6,022 5,583 4,684

250-743-5000 or 1-800-i-GOLFBC

BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT The Valley Course

BLACK SPIRIT CINNAMON

AMENITIES Clubhouse with spectacular views, restaurant/lounge, meeting/banquet facilities, practice facilities, lessons, golf shop, indoor tennis courts.

care of golfers. “Our authentic West Coast service sets us apart and ensures you don’t need to lift your clubs or anything from the time you get to our property until you leave.”

That is, if you do leave.

“With our dining, hotel, pool, gym, and all of our other amenities, such as mountain biking and tennis, you can visit as long as you like and not have to go anywhere off property,” says Ray. “Room to first tee is just a pitching wedge away!”

Much awaits if you do venture off the property, such as a hikes up Mount Finlayson,

GOLDEN GRIZZLY

COURSE ARCHITECT BILL ROBINSON

From dance performances and outdoor tours to art galleries and museums, opportunities to experience First Nations culture abound.

TEE

YARDAGE 6,193 5,834 5,535

“OUR 4.5 TRIP ADVISOR RATING FOR THE GOLF COURSE AND RESTAURANT ARE INDUSTRY LEADING.” —Jason Lowe, Arbutus Ridge general manager

says Jason Lowe, general manager at Arbutus Ridge.

One of the most notable characteristics of the course is the condition.

“Especially the condition of our greens — we believe we’ve found the right balance of speed and receptiveness and have one of the best golf course superintendents in the country making sure all elements of agronomy are cuttingedge,” says Lowe.

Recently, Arbutus Ridge has spent $640,000 in capital upgrades, not including operating budget items.

Your dining options on the South Island are as dazzling as the views from the “We completed 65 golf courses. Most chefs favour fresh local ingredients, creating dishes that are global in the diversity of their flavours yet distinctly Island in character. different golf course

master plan projects in 2016 alone,” says Lowe. “The recent facility improvements have been very much appreciated by guests.”

The clubhouse, with its gorgeous views, is raved about, as is the service from the staff.

“The general atmosphere is positive and fun,” he says.

But the top reason Arbutus Ridge is such a favourite is the design of the course — it has a very good variety of golf holes.

“No hole is like another and you use every club in your bag,” says Lowe. “It is an excellent mix of challenge and fairness, with no forced carries except for the par threes.”

The signature hole is one of those par threes.

“Number 17 features a peninsula green with some elevation drop,” says Lowe. “It’s all carry and dramatic to watch. The set up makes it good near the end of the round to potentially cause a swing of who’s in the lead for the side bets.”

Something else that makes this course very attractive to visitors is what surrounds it: nine award-winning wineries all within a few minutes of each other.

“People are often very surprised at the quality of these wines that don’t have the marketing budget or distribution as some of the other wineries in B.C.,” says Lowe. “They have won many awards recently for great reasons.”

Post-game wine tour anyone?

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Qualicum Beach

COWICHAN: THE WARM LAND SIP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

Parksville Nanaimo

wineries • first nations • fly fishing

T

he drive from Victoria into the Cowichan is a descent from the forests and mountains of the Malahat into rolling farmland. The Cowichan Valley, which gets its name from a First Nations word that roughly means “warm land,” is one of the Island’s premier agricultural areas with more than 17,000 hectares of rich farmland.

Everything grows here. Fields of vegetables, berries, herbs, and flowers, orchards of fruit trees, bountiful vineyards, and pastures that support everything from chickens and cows

to emus, alpacas, and water buffalo — it all flourishes. With all this homegrown goodness, the farm markets are wonderful and the restaurants have a decidedly local bias.

For foodies, the Cowichan is a destination.

For golfers, this means great dining options before and after a game at Cowichan Golf and Country Club.

Located in Duncan, the area’s largest community, the Cowichan Golf and Country Club has been at this location overlooking the waters of Cowichan Bay since 1947, when

COWICHAN

Ladysmith

SIP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

legendary architect A.V. Macan designed one of the finest nine-hole courses on the Island. It expanded to 18 holes in 1985 and meanders through the valley, offering a picturesque mix of meadow and tree-lined holes.

At 6,189 yards, Cowichan isn’t particularly long from the tips, but don’t let that fool you into a sense of complacency, as the tight fairways and fast, undulating greens will come to haunt you.

“It’s a very walkable course but a

6 Cowichan Golf Club

Duncan

➏

Victoria

COWICHAN GOLF CLUB COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE 6,189 5,899 5,570 4,865 SLOPE

118

RATING

69.0 67.7 65.9 68.2

113

PAR

70

–

110 112 –

–

COURSE ARCHITECT A.V. MACAN

AMENITIES Practice range, lessons, rentals, power carts, club fitting, pro shop, tournaments, restaurant, lounge, banquets, and weddings.

250-746-5333 or 1-877-744-5333

www.cowichangolfclub.ca

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

JEFFREY BOSDET

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT The Cowichan River flows 47 kilometres from Cowichan Lake to Cowichan Bay. It’s a designated B.C. heritage river and a Canadian heritage river, which means it has been recognized for its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational value. The river’s most famous activity is fly fishing, a sport that has been luring people with their waders and fly rods for well over a century. If you want to catch your own steelhead, salmon, or trout, tours and gear are available. And whether you fish or not, the pathways along the river are perfect for pleasant afternoon strolls.

BOOMER JERRITT/ TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

Unsworth Vineyards

UNSWORTH VINEYARDS

challenging test of golf, with small, fast greens,” says Cowichan’s head pro, Norm Jackson — Stormin’ Norm, as he is locally known.

“It’s friendly, affordable golf,” he says, adding that all the competitors in the 2015 Golf British Columbia Women’s Mid-Senior Amateur enjoyed the course immensely.

A good example of Cowichan’s enjoyable challenge is the 10th, a par-four dogleg left.

Trees block out the green, so the play is a sensible iron shot off the tee. The approach is downhill into a slick green that is bounded by bunkers front, left, and back. You need to remember to spin it on the green but keep the ball beneath the hole.

That’s just a warm up for the 11th.

“Our signature hole is hole number 11, and it is probably one of the most challenging holes on Vancouver Island,” says Jackson.

“It is a long 404-yard, uphill par 4 with the second shot over water to a narrow sloping green. If you don’t hit the perfect tee shot, it

is a gamble to go for the green in two shots.”

“Sometimes laying up your second shot is a smart play,” he adds.

Norm’s tip for playing Cowichan Golf?

“Our greens all break to Cowichan Bay, and when in doubt, hit to the middle of the greens so you don’t short side yourself,” he says.

Jackson’s got one more tip.

“The area’s wineries are a must see: awardwinning wines and culinary extravaganza.”

Beautiful scenery, challenging holes, excellent service, a great clubhouse, and wineries close by — all the right ingredients for a terrific day of golf.

START YOUR ENGINES If you have ever wanted to drive a high-end car at top speeds, you will want to check out one of the Island’s newest and most exciting attractions. Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit opened in 2016 to much fanfare. Members and visitors can experience the thrill of fast driving on a 2.3-kilometre track with 55 metres of elevation changes and 19 turns, all designed by Tilke GmbH of Germany, the company behind almost every Formula One track built since 1999. The stunning clubhouse overlooks the track and the spectacular surrounding wilderness.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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➓

Qualicum Beach

➒

Parksville Nanoose Bay CENTRAL

CENTRAL ISLAND HEART OF THE GOLF TRAIL

ISLAND

Glorious beaches • Resort Unique attractions

F

rom Nanaimo, with its beautiful harbourfront, through Nanoose Bay and all the way to Lighthouse Country just north of Qualicum Beach, this stretch of coastal beauty has been captivating vacationers for over a century. Miles of golden-sand beaches lure paddlers and dreamers, boaters ply the waves on sailboats and yachts, lush green parks invite walkers and hikers, restaurant patios serve justcaught seafood, and resorts with decadent spas and water views provide the ideal escape from the stresses of modern life.

In the summer, this is a very popular destination, especially with events like the Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition drawing crowds of admirers who come to see the intricate creations made by sand-sculpting artists from around the world. This year, the competition is on from July 14 to 16, and the sculptures are on display until August 20.

But Central Island’s beaches are as appealing in the cooler months as they are in the heat of July and August. In fact, many vacationers prefer to be here when the

lifestyle

➑

Nanaimo

TIP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

➐

Ladysmith

7 Nanaimo Golf Club 8 Fairwinds Golf Club 9 Morningstar Golf Club 10 Pheasant Glen Golf Resort

Duncan

Victoria

summer crowds subside and the beaches are more conducive to quiet contemplation and peaceful strolls.

On land, most of the region is included in the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Reserve, recognized with a UNESCO designation for its unique microclimate and ecosystem of Douglas fir and giant red cedar. For jaw-dropping views of the Strait of Georgia, explore the alpine trails leading to Mount Arrowsmith, Cokely, and Moriarity.

As for the golf, it has been a favourite pastime in the Central Island since 1913.

NANAIMO GOLF CLUB COURSE DETAILS

TEE

YARDAGE 6,667 6,321 6,171 5,964 5,648 5,014 SLOPE

132 127

RATING

72.2 70.8 70.0 69.0 67.2 66.8

127 126 125 125

PAR

72 – – – – – COURSE ARCHITECT ARTHUR VERNON (“MAC”) MACAN

AMENITIES Pro Shop with CPGA professionals on staff, lessons, club fitting, covered and heated driving range, putting and chipping practice areas, club and power cart rentals, restaurant and lounge with outdoor patio, meeting/banquet/wedding facilities.

250-758-2451

www.nanaimogolfclub.ca

NANAIMO GOLF CLUB

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

BOOMER JERRITT/TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

BOOMER JERRITT/ TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

REALLY BIG OLD TREES No Island experience is complete without a walk in a forest. MacMillan Provincial Park, more commonly known as Cathedral Grove, a name it picked up back in the 1920s, is a 301-hectare park located 25 kilometres west of Qualicum Beach off Highway 4. Preserving a rare Vancouver Island ecosystem of Douglas fir forest, this park has trees that are an amazing 800 years old. And they are big: one tree measures nine metres around. Short pathways start from both sides of the highway and take you through this small but treasured park.

BOOMER JERRITT/ TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

Qualicum Beach

Vancouver Island’s second largest city has it all: a major transportation hub, excellent shopping and dining, all kinds of outdoor adventures, a very pretty waterfront, and fantastic golf.

The Nanaimo Golf Club, a highly respected semi-private course and host of the BCGA’s 2016 BC Mid-Amateur and Mid-Master, is a course people love for many reasons and in every season.

Head professional Kerry Davison started his golf career in Ontario before landing in Nanaimo, so he understands winter and the joy of golfing on courses that stay emerald green all year long — no brown turf here.

“We’re open 362 days a year. We’re closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, and open every other day. We play all the way through,” he says, adding that if there is snow, it melts right away, unlike the

rest of Canada. “Only on the West Coast, and that’s it. It’s a very, very small pocket, comparatively speaking.”

Davison is especially proud of the course conditioning.

“Our conditioning is second to none, and our drainage is second to none, so during our shoulder season, the course is in terrific shape.”

It’s also very walkable.

“They say walkability is a key component for our players,” says Davison. “And people do like to walk.”

Not surprising, when the scenery is this beautiful: the course is lush with trees and

SO MUCH TO DO This region offers so many options for exploring the great outdoors. Little Qualicum River Falls Provincial Park rewards walkers along an accessible pathway with spectacular waterfall views. More waterfalls await in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, along with hiking trails, a picnic area, and an all-natural pool for swimming. Milner Gardens and Woodlands features 60 acres of woodland and 10 acres of garden surrounding a heritage house. And then there are the beaches: almost 20 kilometres of glorious sand at four main beaches between Parksville and Qualicum Beach.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Thrill seekers have no shortage of options on Vancouver Island. Mountain biking, surfing, cliff climbing, and ziplining are some of our most shriekworthy activities.

COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE 6,204 5,699 5,173 4,043 SLOPE

130 125 127 98

RATING

69.9 67.6 70.2 61.0

PAR

71 71 71 71

COURSE ARCHITECT LES FURBER

AMENITIES 18-hole golf course; grass tee driving range with covered heated stalls for winter; two practice greens, one with practice bunker; clubhouse with daily restaurant, as well as full banquet/tournament facilities.

250-468-7666 or 1-888-781-2777

www.fairwinds.ca

located on a ridge above Departure Bay. But while the scenery is easy to take, the golf is a good test. “The characteristics of the course are very subtle: undulations in the greens and the fairways,” he says. “It’s certainly not a course you get tired of playing.”

Signature hole? Davison says they’re all good, but the 13th has a great view of the Strait of Georgia. “It’s a par three with an elevated tee and plays about 183 yards from the blue plate,” he says, adding with laugh, “There’s always a hint of wind it seems, never favourable.”

Davison’s advice relates to the course subtleties. “The greens break towards the water, even though lots of times it doesn’t look like it, so don’t over-read the greens or the fairways, because they tend to take the ball towards the water.”

Recently, forward sets of tees were added on some holes — 10 at last count — making the course an inviting challenge for everyone.

Between games, Davison suggests exploring the Nanaimo waterfront or hopping a ferry to Newcastle or Gabriola Islands.

“It’s beautiful here. It’s a really special place,” he says.

FAIRWINDS

Golfing at Fairwinds Golf Club is the kind of experience that can change the direction of

18

“... FAIRWINDS IS SURROUNDED BY THE OCEAN, WITH ABUNDANT WILDLIFE, INCLUDING RESIDENT DEER, SWANS, AND EAGLES.” your life. Located at Nanoose Bay between Nanaimo and Parksville, Fairwinds is more than a golf course: it’s a stunningly beautiful coastal community with gorgeous beaches, rivers, and waterfalls. Sailing, fishing, and kayaking adventures launch from the marina, and miles and miles of trails invite hikers and cyclists to explore the Nanoose Peninsula landscape.

But it’s often the golf that gets people here in the first place, and it makes an indelible first impression. The natural surroundings are one of the top reasons people love this course, says Brett Standerwick, director of golf.

“Being at the tip of Nanoose Bay, Fairwinds is surrounded by the ocean, with abundant wildlife, including resident deer, swans, and eagles,” he says.

The course is also well known for its conditions.

“Fairwinds prides itself on maintaining high-quality on-course playing conditions

WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

for all its players,” says Standerwick. “It is also a very walkable golf course for those that choose that option.”

And having options is something else golfers love about Fairwinds: playability for everyone and great practice facilities.

“Fairwinds is challenging, but not particularly long, making it appealing for all players,” says Standerwick. “There are even five tee box options, including ‘junior tees.’

The driving range boasts grass tees in season with covered, heated stalls in the winter.”

Standerwick’s pro tip relates to the fact that the course, while not long in length, is challenging for all levels.

“Using shorter clubs off the tee and giving up some distance to improve your accuracy will also improve your score,” he says.

And he has one more tip, one you’ll appreciate after the game: “There is worldclass fishing just off-shore in and around the Winchelsea Islands.”

Fairwinds came under new ownership as of August 2015, and many exciting plans are in the works, beginning with a pub and redevelopment of Fairwinds Landing down at the marina.

“The first new building will be condominiums, featuring a fantastic view of the water, and community amenities are being planned,” says Standerwick.

That’s yet another thing to note about Fairwinds. In addition to being an outstanding golf experience, this is a smart,

sophisticated residential community, and you wouldn’t be the first golfer to head from the course to the real estate office.

Just think: from Fairwinds Landing, it’s only a two-minute drive to the golf course.

LANDON SVEINSON/TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

FAIRWINDS GOLF CLUB

MORNINGSTAR GOLF CLUB

The pristine beauty of nature and the exciting challenge of a great course meet at Morningstar Golf Club in Parksville.

Designed by course architect Les Furber, this par-72, 6,983-yard course integrates six links-style holes with 12 others nestled within the trees. It’s a superbly conditioned course, with undulations and slopes to challenge even the best players. But with multiple teeing options and five different length options per hole, Morningstar is a popular course with players of every level.

“People love it because they can play every club in their bag,” says Kevin Oates, Morningstar’s head professional.

Evidence that Morningstar is worthy of the praise it continually gets is clear from the number of times it has been selected to host professional, national, and provincial events.

Morningstar has hosted three PGA of Canada events, two CN Links Pacific

“PEOPLE LOVE IT BECAUSE THEY CAN PLAY EVERY CLUB IN THEIR BAG.” Championships, the 2007 BCGA Men’s Amateur, the 2010 Golf Canada Senior Ladies National Championships, the 2014 Golf Canada’s Women Tour, and the 2016 Golf Canada University/College Championships.

Morningstar’s signature hole is the ninth, a long par five Oates says starts with a risk-

reward tee shot with a long carry over water.

“If successful, you will be left with a fairway wood or hybrid to the very large and undulating greens,” says Oates. “This shot is also all carry over the second pond located on the hole.”

Trouble is everywhere on this hole, he adds.

“With two exceptional shots, you can find yourself with a fabulous eagle attempt before you head over to the back nine,” he says.

“But one misplayed shot and you could join the very large group of players to make a double-digit score on this hole.”

If you want to warm up before tackling

MORNINGSTAR GOLF CLUB COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE 6,983 6,374 5,846 5,277 SLOPE

141 139 125 117

RATING

74.9 70.8 69.2 66.4

PAR

72 72 72 72

COURSE ARCHITECT LES FURBER

AMENITIES 18-hole championship golf course; grass driving range; practice greens and traps; full-service restaurant and pro shop; Randle Golf Academy.

250-248-2244 or 1-800-567-1320

www.morningstargolf.com

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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13

Campbell River

the course, you can. Recently, Morningstar has undergone a total redo of their shortgame practice area.

“More area, more space, more challenge, more shot types to practice,” says Oates.

And you can do that anytime of the year.

Just like the beaches in the area, the season never ends.

“Morningstar is open year round and there are excellent playing conditions throughout the year,” says Oates.

Before or after the game, enjoy great service in Morningstar’s clubhouse or head to the beach.

“There are miles and miles of sandy beaches minutes from the first tee,” says Oates.

Sound like paradise? It is.

PHEASANT GLEN GOLF RESORT

Qualicum Beach is one of the most charming communities on Vancouver Island. Art galleries and studios, boutiques, cafés, and bistros line streets bordered by flower baskets and boxes. The town’s beach has been named one of the best in Canada and is known for shallow water that gets deeper gradually and warms up quickly on hot summer days. Some days, the water temperature along the shore heats up to 20˚C /70˚F. The golf here is as beautiful as the beach.

Pheasant Glen Golf Resort is a 6,928-yard

“PHEASANT GLEN IS WALKABLE THROUGH NATURE — THERE ARE NO HOUSES LINING THE FAIRWAYS.” course devoted solely to great golf in a natural setting.

“Pheasant Glen is walkable through nature — there are no houses lining the fairways,” says Gord Melissa, manager and head professional at Pheasant Glen.

Melissa adds that golfers love Pheasant Glen’s conditioning, which has resulted in lush fairways and fast greens, and the staff, who are notable for creating a friendly, happy environment.

The front nine winds through high grass, meadows, and creeks, all framed by the peak of Mount Arrowsmith. The back nine zigzags through a heavy stretch of Douglas fir and features a finishing punch that may be the most memorable in the province.

The 16th hole is a narrow, 520-yard par five that dares big hitters to try for the green in two. Go too far and the ball splashes down into the hazard that wraps around the back of the hole.

The 17th is a 427-yard par four with water squeezing the fairway on both sides

NORTH ISLAND TOP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

of the landing zone.

The 18th measures 582 yards from the tournament tees, and after giving it all you’ve got from the tee and fairway, it demands accuracy with your approach to stay out of the water and bunker left and bunker right.

A proven championship course, Pheasant Glen has a list of events to its credit, most recently the 2016 British Columbia Amateur Championship, and many more expected for the future.

Pheasant Glen has a great Junior Academy, which offers four programs currently, including a credit course for high school students.

“The Elite Group Program is a threetiered program providing coaching for juniors entering into competition and who are seeking a future in golf, whether it be a scholarship, professional golf, or golf business,” says Melissa.

The fourth Junior Academy program, the School of Golf, sees high school students enjoy instruction three days a week during their PE block.

“We have a 20-seat shuttle bus that shuttles them to and from school,” says Melissa. “Students get golf instruction, membership at Pheasant Glen, and credits towards graduation.”

No matter what level of play you are at, Pheasant Glen is a must-golf course on a Vancouver Island golf adventure.

NORTH ISLAND

TOP OF THE GOLF TRAIL

12 11

Courtenay

Spectacular wilderness Outdoor adventure Fine food and drink

T

he first thing that strikes anyone about the North Island is the wilderness. The magnificent views of forest, mountains, glaciers, and coastline seem endless. This is the location of Strathcona Provincial Park, B.C.’s oldest park, encompassing 231,434 hectares of wilderness, including six of the seven highest peaks on Vancouver Island.

The North Island is a place where the opportunities to experience nature at its wildest and most rugged range from whale

and bear watching adventures and guided marine and aerial tours, to snorkelling with salmon, kayaking among the Islands, skiing the slopes of Mount Washington, hiking through forests and up glaciers, mountain biking and cycling, and diving at some of the best dive sites in the province.

After a day on the golf course or exploring the wilderness, creature comforts await: luxurious spas, arts and cultural experiences, and fine wine and food, most likely grown or raised right here in this

11 Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community 12 Storey Creek Golf Club 13 Quadra Island Golf Club

Qualicum Beach Parksville Nanaimo Ladysmith Duncan

Victoria

rich agricultural heartland. Local wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries make wonderful products that pair beautifully with the delectable dishes the area’s star chefs create from local ingredients.

The region has a fascinating past that goes back to the days of the dinosaurs, through thousands of years of First Nations history to the much more recent arrival of Europeans. Several museums in the North Island pay tribute to this very colourful, intriguing history.

PHEASANT GLEN GOLF RESORT COURSE DETAILS TEE

SLOPE

128 128 118 112 101

RATING

73.5 69.8 67.4 64.9 63.2

PAR

72 – – – –

AMENITIES Home of the Pheasant Glen Golf Academy, the Pheasant’s Nest Restaurant, banquet facilities, practice facilities.

Proud hosts of the 2016 BC Amateur Championship.

Future co-host of the 2018 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship.

250-752-8786 or 1-877-407-GOLF

www.pheasantglen.com

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

BOOMER JERRITT/TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

YARDAGE 6,928 6,300 5,699 5,188 4,812

Kayaking on Tahsis Inlet

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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CROWN ISLE RESORT AND GOLF COMMUNITY

The massive Comox Glacier and the Beaufort Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the course at Crown Isle Resort.

Just 30 minutes away, Mount Washington Alpine Resort beckons, reminding golfers that, in the winter months, they can split the day’s activities between golfing and skiing.

Alternatively, the ever-present Pacific offers fishing, kayaking, and sailing as options.

“We have plenty of things to do in our valley: fishing, hiking in the forest and along our streams and rivers,” says Rod Prieto, director of golf at Crown Isle. “We also have numerous wineries nearby where our guests can do wine tastings, have lunch, and take their favourite bottle of wine home.”

The course, designed by Graham Cooke and Associates, is as beautiful as its

surroundings: lush green fairways, lakes, glacier views, and abundant wildlife, including bald eagles and deer.

“Our members and guests love the beauty of our course,” says Prieto, noting that their maintenance crew works tirelessly to keep Crown Isle in top shape.

Prieto adds that the course is also loved for its challenge and for its fairness.

“Our course has generous fairways and larger greens, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get into trouble,” says Prieto.

“My tip is to play smart. You don’t always need to hit driver off the tee and don’t always need to fire at all the pins. Take the club that will get you into the widest part of the fairway. The holes are tucked into tight locations, so aim for the centre, take your par, and move on to the next hole.”

The fifth hole, a 502-yard par five, is one to play smart. Water runs down the right side and the out-of-bound stakes guard the left edge of the hole. To make it even more interesting, the fairway gently rolls like an ocean swell, so there are frequent challenges.

STOREY CREEK GOLF CLUB

BOOMER JERRITT/TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND

The all-natural splendour of the North Island is captivating, especially taken in from a golf course.

COURSE DETAILS TEE

“OUR COURSE HAS GENEROUS FAIRWAYS AND LARGER GREENS, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOU CAN’T GET INTO TROUBLE.”

YARDAGE 7,025 6,555 6,179 5,805 5,169 SLOPE

125 121 125 115 119

RATING

73.9 71.1 70.0 67.7 69.6

PAR

72 – – – –

“We have recently agreed to a threeyear term to host the PGA Tour Canada Canadian Qualifier,” says Prieto. “It’s a fourround tournament each May where aspiring professionals attempt to play their way onto the PGA Tour Canada.”

The Crown Isle Clubhouse is a dazzling 48,000-square-foot West Coast structure, offering sweeping views and top

COURSE ARCHITECT GRAHAM COOK & ASSOCIATES

AMENITIES Pro shop, extensive practice facilities, and golf academy. Resort Centre with Timber Room Bar & Grill, fitness centre, lounge, and conference rooms. On-site accommodations overlooking the first fairway.

250-703-5050 or 1-888-338-8439

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WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

DESTINATION BC/JEREMY KORESKI

www.crownisle.com

WINE AND CULINARY EXTRAVAGANZA North Island chefs love this region because so much of what they serve in their dining rooms comes from local land and water: fresh produce, farm-raised meats, just-caught fish and seafood, handcrafted cheese, and freshly baked bread. A culinary destination with some of Vancouver Island’s most productive agricultural land, the North Island is also gaining a reputation for wine and spirits. Farm markets and tours are very popular, as are visits to wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

SLOPE

128

125

132 133

RATING

72.2

69

70.5 72.7

PAR

72 72 72 72

www.storeycreek.bc.ca

COURSE DETAILS

250-923-3673 or 1-866-923-3674

CROWN ISLE RESORT & GOLF COMMUNITY

AMENITIES Pro shop (retail and rentals), Creekside Grill & Lounge (with outdoor patios), covered driving range, putting and chipping greens, private lessons.

Crown Isle ends with its signature 18th, a 423-yard monster with bunkers both off the tee and guarding the front of an elevated green.

While Crown Isle has always impressed amateur golfers, the PGA is also impressed.

COURSE ARCHITECT LES FURBER

The North Island is one of the best places in the province to learn about First Nations culture.

Museums, cultural centres, galleries, and totems make excellent between-game stops.

TEE

YARDAGE 5,411 5,881 6,249 6,696

amenities, including a restaurant, pub, and accommodation.

It’s no wonder so many visiting golfers, after a day on the greens, wander over to the Crown Isle real estate office to inquire about available properties (see page 35 for details).

STOREY CREEK GOLF CLUB

Just south of Campbell River, where the scenery becomes a little wilder yet, you come upon Storey Creek Golf Club. Truly a course that has been set into the rugged natural wilderness, Storey Creek is in the midst of dense old-growth and second-growth forest.

Kyle Stoudt, Storey Creek’s head golf professional, describes it as a “true course in nature” with no houses or roads and plenty of wildlife: eagles soar, deer wander, and the occasional black bear ambles across the course.

“Storey Creek is located in one of the most beautiful areas in B.C. and offers endless recreation for the

outdoor types,” says Stoudt. “Hiking and biking trails, lakes, beach walks, Quadra Island, and Mount Washington are just a few of the highlights of the area.”

The course itself, designed by Les Furber and opened in 1990, has gained international attention as a renowned championship golf course. Most recently, it was named the 43rd Best Public Course in Canada by Score Golf in 2015 and rated the 2014 number one public course in the province by the PGA of B.C. The course is surrounded by forest, and each hole is wrapped in its own grove of trees, giving way to a few forgiving par threes, as well as awe-inspiring par fives.

“Our signature hole is the 12th, and it is also our hardest hole,” says Stoudt. “A long dog-leg right par five, this hole has a water hazard down the right side beginning at the tee and continuing until the 100yard marker, forcing the slicer to play strategically.”

Stoudt says the longer hitters must play

REALLY GREAT FISHING The North Island is world famous for its spectacular wilderness as well as for its long list of outdoor adventure options. Topping the list for well over a century is fishing. Legend has it that the waterway between Campbell River and Quadra Island was so abundant with fish, it could be crossed by walking on the backs of the salmon. These days, boats are preferred for getting out on the water. If you really want to explore the remote wilderness, check into a floatplane charter.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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ARBUTUS INN | VICTORIA

Arbutus Inn

QUADRA ISLAND GOLF CLUB COURSE DETAILS TEE

YARDAGE SLOPE

Arbutus Inn offers 52 guest rooms in the heart of Victoria, BC. Less than a 10 minute drive from the famous Victoria Inner Harbour and 5 minutes to Mayfair Shopping Centre. All guest rooms include free wireless, free parking, air conditioning, and coffee/ tea. We make Victoria affordable with comfort and newly appointed rooms.

3,219 2,932 2,662

134 125 119

RATING

72.2 68.6 66.2

PAR

36

–

–

AMENITIES Golf shop (retail/rentals), power carts, pull carts, tournaments, driving range, practice green, lessons, licenced facility with limited lunch/snack menu.

AMENITIES

•F ree in-room wireless and lobby computer • Free parking and free local calls •F latscreen TVs, new Serta Sleep Perfect beds • In-room coffee and tea

250-285-2811

www.quadragolf.com

a long-iron or wood off the tee to avoid going through the fairway, and the second shot requires tremendous courage and accuracy as the water on the right and forest on the left make the fairway seem extremely narrow.

“If you are lucky enough to plot your way through to the green, you are not done yet, as the two-tiered, undulated green will present you with a challenging two-putt,” says Stoudt. “Walking away with a par here is gaining one on the field for sure!”

Exciting changes are coming up soon.

“We are doubling the size of our grass tee deck at the driving range with hopes of increasing our annual usage of the driving range,” says Stoudt.

Yet another great reason to go north to Storey Creek.

QUADRA ISLAND GOLF CLUB

Beautiful Quadra Island is just 10 minutes by ferry from Campbell River, but it feels like a whole new world. It’s a laid-back Island, known for its rich history, friendly people, and natural beauty.

Jason Tchir, general manager and golf professional at the Quadra Island Golf Club, says the natural beauty is a big draw for golfers. In fact, the setting gets rave reviews.

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“IF YOU ARE NOT HITTING IN THE MIDDLE, YOU’LL DEFINITELY HAVE A LONG DAY, SO CLUB DOWN WHERE IT’S SAFE: IN THE CENTRE OF THE FAIRWAYS.” “People love the setting. It’s a really nice, isolated setting. You’re out with nature and your golf clubs, and that’s about it,” he says. “You don’t even see too many other golfers, because each hole is pretty isolated from the others.”

Quadra Island Golf Club makes it easy, too, with a free shuttle between the golf course and the ferry terminal, resorts, and marina. But while getting to the greens is easy, this nine-hole course is a “really good nine holes,” says Tchir.

“A lot of people are surprised at how serious a challenge and tough of a test it is just doing nine holes. They come off the course, saying, ‘Wow! That’s a serious golf course.’”

A round finishes with the signature hole.

“It’s our par-three finisher, and it’s a

WWW.GOLFVANCOUVERISLAND.TRAVEL

good 100-yard carry over a pretty large pond,” says Tchir, adding that the ninth is very picturesque.

“Really, all the holes are beautiful, and they’re all unique,” he says. “Personally, I love the second hole, a great par four.”

His advice for golfers: keep your ball in play.

“I know it’s cliché,” he laughs. “But at our golf course, definitely, the most important thing is to keep your ball, keep it in play, keep it in the middle. Our trees are unforgiving.”

Though underbrush gets cleared away every winter, the forest is thick: this is golfing as natural as it gets.

“If you are not hitting in the middle, you’ll definitely have a long day, so club down where it’s safe: in the centre of the fairways.”

While Quadra Island is a popular day trip, it’s also a great place to kick back for a couple days.

“Quadra’s got some really nice resorts.

The water access is great, and there are some beautiful areas, like Rebecca Spit Park, and lots of hiking trails, whale watching tours, fishing adventures, the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre,” says Tchir.

A peaceful setting, fantastic golf, and all that nature.

“Kind of endless opportunities in those respects,” he says.

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2012 and 2013

2898 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC • T 250-386-1000 TF 1-888-546-4432 • www.arbutusinn.ca

THE CAPITAL CITY CENTER HOTEL | VICTORIA

The Capital City Center Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Victoria, within walking distance to the Inner Harbour, downtown shopping and restaurants. This newly renovated property features modernized guest rooms ranging from standard for a quick overnighter to deluxe onebedroom suites for extended stays.

Enjoy a tropical cocktail on our Caribbean-inspired poolside patio.

AMENITIES

•S easonal outdoor heated pool •C omplimentary parking and highspeed internet •R estaurant, lounge and seasonal patio • I n-room fridge, microwave and Keurig coffee makers 1961 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC • T 250-953-1000 F 250-953-1001 TF 1-800-877-9444 • www.capitalcitycenterhotel.com

GOLF PACKAGES GOLF PACKAGES1.877.307.5566 1.877.307.5566

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DAYS INN – VICTORIA ON THE HARBOUR | VICTORIA

HOTEL GRAND PACIFIC | VICTORIA

The Days Inn Victoria on the Harbour is perfectly located on Victoria’s beautiful downtown Inner Harbour, walking distance to so much of what the city has to offer, including the Convention Centre, Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, IMAX Theatre, US Ferry docks, Beacon Hill Park, restaurants, shopping, and more.

Come and visit our beautiful Garden City, and we’ll take care of the rest!

You Play the Best, Why Not Stay at The Best?

Located on Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, the Hotel Grand Pacific offers welcoming comfort, world-class facilities, an unbeatable location, and access to Victoria’s most exciting experiences. One of the few hotels right on the Inner Harbour, and next to the landmark BC Legislature and Parliament Buildings, the Hotel Grand Pacific is just a par 5 away from Victoria’s downtown restaurant and shopping district, and minutes away from some of the best courses the Greater Victoria area has to offer.

AMENITIES

• Onsite restaurant and lounge with seasonal outdoor patio • Seasonal outdoor heated pool and yearround whirlpool • Complimentary high-speed Internet access, Internet kiosk on lobby level, and free local calls • In-room coffeemaker/tea/kettle • Harbourview, pet-friendly, and kitchenette rooms available 427 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC • T 250-386-3451 F 250-386-6999 TF 1-800-665-3024 • www.daysinnvictoria.com • info@daysinnvictoria.com

AMENITIES

• Victoria Athletic Club and Pool • SORA Spa • Concierge staff • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Pacific Restaurant and Lounge • Courtyard Cafe 463 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC • T 250-386-0450 TF 1-800-663-7550 • www.hotelgrandpacific.com • reserve@hotelgrandpacific.com

INN AT LAUREL POINT | VICTORIA

THE DELTA VICTORIA OCEAN POINTE RESORT AND SPA | VICTORIA

Situated on Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa is just steps from downtown shopping, restaurants and attractions. This beautiful hotel offers a modern waterfront setting for unsurpassed guest service, exceptional dining, and full resort amenities, including an award-winning Spa, complimentary health club, indoor salt-water swimming pool and tennis/ racquet courts.

Resort-style luxury, excellent service, and captivating inner harbour views make Inn at Laurel Point an exceptional accommodation choice. Minutes from many of Victoria’s attractions, this property has a park-like setting and offers harbour-view rooms and suites with private decks. AURA waterfront restaurant + patio is a full-service, award-winning dining room serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

AMENITIES

• Restaurant and Bar • 24-hour room service • Complimentary health club and indoor pool • The Spa at Delta Victoria • Complimentary wireless 100 Harbour Road, Victoria, BC • T 250-360-2999 F 250-360-1041 TF 1-800-268-1133 • www.marriott.com/yyjvo

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AMENITIES

Erickson Wing Studio Suite

• Surrounded by water, stunning views • All guest rooms have balconies and complimentary high-speed Internet • AURA waterfront restaurant + patio • Locally owned • Carbon-neutral property

680 Montreal Street, Victoria, BC • T 250.386.8721 TF 1.800.663.7667 • www.laurelpoint.com • reservations@laurelpoint.com

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Coast Bastion Hotel

ROYAL SCOT HOTEL & SUITES | VICTORIA

COAST BASTION HOTEL | NANAIMO full-service, destination property in Nanaimo

The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites is located one block from the Inner Harbour and offers guest rooms, studio, and one- and two- bedroom suites with kitchens. The hotel offers flat screen TVs and DVD players, billiards and games room, business centre, indoor pool, whirlpool, saunas, and exercise room. Jonathan’s Restaurant and Lounge is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

AMENITIES

• Guest rooms and suites with kitchens • Restaurant on site • Indoor pool • Hot tub & saunas • Free Wi-Fi • Downtown courtesy shuttle

business or pleasure...treat yourself to our spacious accommodations with spectacular waterfront views Situated in the heart of charming Nanaimo, our full-service property has everything you need from all new renovated guest rooms to impressive event spaces, onsite restaurant and exceptional room service. Each of our beautifully appointed guest room feature bright and modern decor with partial or full ocean views — so you can take in that fresh ocean air!

Conveniently located near the ferry terminal and seawall, we’re also within walking distance to an array of dining, shopping and entertainment options.

For great rates and special offers, visit coastbastionhotel.com and book your next unparalleled getaway.

In the heart of Nanaimo, our fullservice property has everything you need — from 179 guest rooms to our full service lounge and restaurant. Each of our beautifully appointed guest rooms feature bright and modern décor with partial or full ocean views to take Jacuzzi Room Ocean View air! Conveniently in the fresh ocean located near the ferry terminal and seawall, we’re also within walking distance to an array of dining, shopping and entertainment options.

AMENITIES

• Full service hotel/conference Conference Centre –10,000 sq. ft.

Meetings, banquet and events

Minnoz Restaurant & Lounge open for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Fitness centre

24 hour room service

Pet friendly

Complimentary WiFi

centre • Restaurant/lounge/room service • Fitness centre/spa • Valet parking • Waterfront location situation downtown Nanaimo

Minnoz Restaurant & Lounge

425 Quebec Street, Victoria, BC • T 250-388-5463 F 250-388-5452 TF 1-800-663-7515 • www.royalscot.com • royalscot@royalscot.com

11 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, BC • T 250-753-6601 F 250-753-4124 TF 1-800-663-1144 • www.coasthotels.com reservations coasthotels.com 1.800.663.1144

THE WESTIN BEAR MOUNTAIN GOLF RESORT & SPA | VICTORIA

AMENITIES

• Nicklaus Design golf • Sante Spa • The Cellar private dining • Heated outdoor pool and hot tub • Minutes to Victoria’s Inner Harbour

1999 Country Club Way, Victoria, BC • T 250-391-7160 TF 1-888-533-2327 • www.bearmountain.ca • reservations@bearmountain.ca

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points earning preferences

TIGH-NA-MARA SEASIDE SPA RESORT | PARKSVILLE

The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa is the only luxury destination golf resort on Southern Vancouver Island and only 30 minutes to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The Westin Hotel offers 156 spacious guestrooms, all with generous balconies. Downstairs is the award winning Sante Spa, which features a full array of spa treatments and endless opportunities for relaxation, discovery, and renewal.

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Coast Bastion Hotel 11 Bastion Street Nanaimo BC, V9R 6E4 t. 250.753. 6601 f. 250.753.4155

Reconnect at Vancouver Island’s Natural Choice for your next golf getaway, retreat or corporate event.

Located in picturesque Parksville BC, Tigh-Na-Mara offers rustic charm in the heart of nature. Experience the quality comfort, convenience, unique restaurants, award winning Grotto Spa and handcrafted log accommodations nestled in 22 acres beside the ocean.

AMENITIES

• Over 10,000 sq ft of meeting space • Free Wi-Fi • Parking • Indoor pool with fitness facilities •3 kms of sandy beach with the warmest ocean swimming waters in Canada 1155 Resort Drive, Parksville, BC • T 250-248-2072 F 250-248-4140 TF 1-800-663-7373 • www.tigh-na-mara.com • info@tigh-na-mara.com

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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CROWN ISLE RESORT & GOLF COMMUNITY | COURTENAY

Transportation Stay. Play. Dine. Live. Crown Isle is Vancouver Island’s ultimate home base.

Rooms and suites overlook the first fairway, with our Resort Community encircling our Championship Golf Course. We offer easy access to the Comox Valley’s alpine-to-ocean recreational activities, vibrant cultural scene, airport, hospital and shopping.

Host Facility of the Mackenzie Tour — PGA TOUR Canada Qualifying School.

Getting to the Island is easier than ever with so many scheduled flights. Or bring your car aboard a ferry and cruise across the strait.

AMENITIES

• Platinum-rated golf course and 47,000 sq.ft. clubhouse • Comprehensive practice facility and golf shop • Fitness centre • Banquet and conference facilities • Timber Room Bar & Grill

FERRY SERVICE

BC Ferries provides more than 30 crossings per day between Vancouver Island and the Mainland. B.C. Ferries feature vehicle transportation (cars, RVs, trucks, buses, bikes), snack bars and restaurants, gift shops, >

399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay, BC • T 250-703-5000 TF 1-888-338-8439 • info@crownisle.com • www.crownisle.com

APRIL POINT RESORT & SPA | QUADRA ISLAND MORNING GOLF, AFTERNOON BLISS

Welcome to our playground. April Point Resort & Spa offers the best fishing, adventure tours and relaxation on the West Coast, and it can all be accessed just a few steps from your room. In addition, Storey Creek Golf Club and the majestic Quadra Island Golf Course are located right nearby.

So what are you waiting for? Give us a call and let your playtime begin!

Compact & Luxury Cars, Convertibles, Mini Vans Sport Utilities, 15 Passenger Buses & Trucks

• Discounts on Golf, Mount Washington Winter L Summer Scenic Chair Ride Tickets • 2 for 1 passenger fares on BC Ferries Gulf Islands • Low daily, weekly and monthly rates • Special weekend packages • Entertainment & AAA rates • One way drop off on Vancouver Island & Vancou • Free local pick up & drop off

AMENITIES

• Oceanfront dining room • Aveda spa • Guided fishing charters • Wildlife tours • Whale watching • Grizzly bear tours • Kayak rentals • Free water taxi to Painter’s Lodge 900 April Point Rd, Quadra Island, BC • T 250-285-2222 TF 1-866-347-4037 • www.aprilpoint.com

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NATIONAL CAR & TRUCK RENTAL National Car Rental has been a leader in the car rental industry for more than 50 years. We have established a solid reputation as the car rental company of choice, with a commitment to deliver quality service to our customers.

Locations in Victoria, Duncan, Nanaimo, Courtenay/Comox Airport, Campbell River, Port Hardy, and North Vancouver.

•D iscounts at some of Vancouver Island’s premier golf courses • L ow daily, weekly & monthly rates & special weekend packages •E ntertainment & AAA rates •O ne way drop-off on Vancouver Island & Vancouver • Free local pick-up & drop-off

Victoria, Duncan, Nanaimo, Courtenay/Comox, Campbell River, Port Hardy & North Vancouver

1-800-227-7368 www.nationalvictoria.com

Victoria and Vancouver Island’s Industry Leader, Year After Year.

Call 1-800-227-7368 or go to www.nationalcar.com www.drivenational.ca

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Skip the ferry and whale watch from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria on ‘Salish Sea Dream,’ a 94-passenger luxury catamaran. This vessel offers floorto-ceiling windows for an unrivaled viewing experience as well as plenty of room for luggage. Already in Victoria? Hop on a 3+ hour whale watching adventure from Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

Vancouver & Victoria, BC 250-383-4884 1-888-383-4884 www.princeofwhales.com

AIR SERVICE

Vancouver Island is easy to reach by air and has several airports, including Victoria International Airport (YYJ), Nanaimo Airport (YCD), Comox Valley (YQQ), and Campbell River (YBL).

WestJet Airlines provides non-stop service from Edmonton, Calgary, and Kelowna and seasonal service from destinations such as Toronto, Las Vegas, and Honolulu. Call 1-800538-5696 or visit www.westjet.com.

Air Canada offers service to Victoria from Vancouver, Toronto, San Francisco, and Calgary. U.S. carriers, such as Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines, offer service from Seattle; United Airlines provides non-stop service from San Francisco.

For information on air service providers, visit www.golfvancouverisland.travel.

VANCOUVER ISLAND REAL ESTATE

WEST COAST BREWERY TOURS Experience Victoria’s #1 brewery tour!

Our brew bus will pick you up and tour you through 3 craft breweries in 3 hours with plenty of delicious craft beers at each stop!

Chat with a brew master while you savour everything from liquid gold lagers to black as night chocolate coffee porters. Our super friendly, knowledgeable guides and designated drivers will keep you happy and safe on your tour. Cheers!

254 Belleville Street Victoria, BC 250-516-4402 1-844-516-4402 www.westcoastbrewerytours.com

A

DRIVING THE ISLAND

FINS AND SKINS Since 1989 the Adam’s Fishing Charter crew has logged more than 25,000 hours of on-the-water guiding experience.

Located in the heart of Victoria harbour we depart from the crescent docks located directly below the Visitor Centre. Round out your Vancouver Island experience with a day on the water fishing for salmon or halibut.

The total drive time of the Vancouver Island Golf Trail (page 6), a 250-km/155-mile stretch from Victoria in the South to Campbell River in the north, is only three hours.

Car rentals are easily arranged and can be reserved when you book your vacation with Golf Vancouver Island. The car rental provider for our golf vacation packages is National Car and Truck Rental which allows for one-way rentals between Victoria and Comox (1-800227-7368, www.nationalvictoria.com).

For more information on transportation, including a distance calculator and maps, visit www.golfvancouverisland.ca/transportation.

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Let there and andyour yoursafe Letus us be be your your fun fun way way there safe way home!

Arrive to your golf way home! Arrive to your golf destination destination relaxed and ready!

relaxed and ready!

We Wealso also offer offer transportation transportation services services like like shopping sightseeing, plus shopping trips,trips, sightseeing, plus brewery brewery and wine tours!

and wine tours!

LIMOUSINES JOSHUA LAWRENCE

Adam’s Fishing Charters Victoria, BC 250-370-2326 www.adamsfishingcharters.com

L.A. L.A. LIMOUSINES LIMOUSINES& & TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATIONSERVICES SERVICES

Mention 10%off offour our Mentionthis thisad adand and receive receive 10% regular regular rates! rates!

Adam’s Fishing Charters “Introducing people to fish for over 20 years.”

CROWN ISLE RESORT & GOLF COMMUNITY

PRINCE OF WHALES WHALE WATCHING

newsstands, and elevators.

Crossing time between Vancouver and Victoria is 95 minutes; crossing time between Vancouver and Nanaimo is 95 minutes to two hours, depending on the departure point.

Optional vehicle reservations are available up to 90 minutes prior to departure. Service between Powell River and the Comox Valley is also available; reservations are not offered for this route. Call 1-888-BC FERRY or visit www.bcferries.com.

For visitors from Washington, options include both passenger and vehicle service on the Clipper from Anacortes and Port Angeles.

Visit www.golfvancouverisland.travel.

“...it’s how you get there.” lalimo.ca

Box 27085 250-391-9000 772 Goldstream Avenue 888-933-5466 (LIMO) Victoria, BC V9B 2X3

www.lalimo.ca 250.391.9000 info @ lalimo.ca 888.933.5466 @ LALimoVictoria www.lalimo.ca

LIVING THE DREAM

funny thing happens when you golf Vancouver Island. After a few days of amazing golf, fine local food and drink, and friendly hospitality, it starts to sink in: this could be home.

Consider the advantages. It’s a quick 20-minute flight from Vancouver or just over an hour from Calgary or Edmonton. That’s less time than it takes many people to get to work.

It’s beautiful here — really beautiful — whether you are golfing the fairways, strolling the beaches, or cruising the waterways. And the weather? A healthy lifestyle is so much easier to adopt when you can golf, kayak, hike, and cycle 12 months of the year.

Island communities offer plenty to interest urbanites: exclusive shopping, decadent spas and resorts, renowned wineries and craft breweries, and some of the best restaurants you’ll ever experience.

But what seals the deal is finding your perfect home in a neighbourhood you love.

At Bear Mountain, just west of Victoria, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation every day of the year. Two world-class golf courses, a gorgeous resort with great dining and a Santé Spa, mountain biking and hiking, and an excellent range of real estate opportunities.

Last September, renderings and floor plans were released for 18 villas at Bear Mountain’s Cypress Gates, each a perfect complement to the natural environment with stunning views of Mount Finlayson and the Mountain Course. Then there’s Cypress Mews, bordering the fifth hole of the Mountain Course and featuring 15 resort homes, each notable for its clean lines, extensive use of glass, and natural materials.

Coming soon, Elevate is an architecturally significant building overlooking the 18th holes of both golf courses. It’s a modern approach to luxury condo living, combining flexible space design with an all-inclusive amenity package.

Get the details at www.bearmountain.ca.

Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community is located in the bountiful Comox Valley, a paradise of pristine beaches, hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, and sailing, as well as skiing and snowboarding at Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

An 831-acre residential neighbourhood with a year-round, championship golf course as its centrepiece, Crown Island offers a variety of real estate options: single-family lots where you can build your dream home, new and resale family homes, condominiums, and low-rise patio homes, as well as fractional ownership in The Villas at Crown Isle, an ideal option for a vacation home.

Every property is carefully integrated throughout this master-planned golf community and follows West Coast-style building guidelines to ensure consistency and quality in keeping with the overall vision, while maintaining property values. A spectacular resort centre offers meeting and conference space, dining facilities, and the luxurious Hotel Villa.

And at just six kilometres from the Comox Valley Airport, Crown Isle is ideal for weekend getaways, vacations, and full-time residents.

Go to www.crownisle.com for more information.

GOLF PACKAGES 1.877.307.5566

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Live.

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Whether you are an empty nester or a growing family, the community at Crown CrownIsle Isleisis Whether yourultimate ultimatehome homebase base.. From From kayaking, kayaking,fishing, fishing,diving diving or or boating, boating, to to biking, biking, hiking hiking your and skiing, skiing, the the Comox Valley region offers recreational activities from ocean to and alpine and and everywhere in between. A vibrant local cultural cultural scene scene means means you you are are never never alpine short for for an an excellent excellent place place to to eat, eat,drink drinkor ormake makenew newfriends. friends. short From condominiums condominiums and and patio patio homes homes to to single single family family ranchers ranchersand andfairway fairwayestates, estates,our our From community offers easy access to recreational activities, shopping & amenities including the airport, airport,hospital hospitaland andschools. schools. the

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Each of these eighteen villas enjoys stunning views of Mount Finlayson and offers its owners the prestige of living in one of Bear Mountain’s most desirable gated communities.

B E A R M O U N TA I N . C A / L I V E H E R E V I S I T O U R P R E S E N TAT I O N C E N T R E IN THE WESTIN, OR CALL: 250-391-6100

Bordered on the west by the 5th hole of our prestigious Mountain Course, you’ll find Bear Mountain’s newest neighbourhood and the fifteen resort homes of Cypress Mews.

Our Graham Graham Cooke-designed 18-hole Our championship golf golf course is is playable playable championship for golfers golfers at at all all skill skilllevels. levels. for

The Timber Timber Room Room Bar Bar&&Grill Grillisisperfect perfect The for an an aprés aprés golf golf bite or an intimate intimate for family dinner. The Resort Centre offers banquet rooms rooms for for catered catered events events banquet including weddings, corporate including functions, banquets banquets and and meetings. meetings. functions,

Come for a tee time. Stay for a lifetime. www.CrownIsle.com www.CrownIsle.com

REAL ESTATE ESTATE INQUIRIES INQUIRIES 250-703-5054 | realestate@c realestate@crownisle.com REAL rownisle.com GENERAL INQUIRIES INQUIRIES 250-703-5000 | info@crownisle.com info@crownisle.com GENERAL

THE VANCOUVER ISLAND GOLF TRAIL Everything you need to enjoy Canada’s Best Golf Trail We will make sure to recommend Golf Vancouver Island to any of our friends who are travelling to the island. Thanks again for making our trip worry free.

We loved Vancouver Island and will be sending some friends your way to arrange a trip for them!

JENNIFER M.

SHIRLEY J.

We had a fabulous golf holiday. The courses were perfect and the accommodation was luxurious. We will be calling you again!

TERESA M.

Everything you lined up for us was great, the golf rounds, the hotel, and especially the beautiful sunny weather... nice work.

We will definitely be coming out again.

MARTIN M.

We had a fabulous trip. Thank you very much for the great golf, great accommodation, and fabulous weather.

We look forward to booking next year with you.

MICHAEL D.

“I’ll come back here on vacation, it’s that good.”

Scott McCarron, PGA TOUR Champions

…one of the continent’s best values…

Customize your Golf Experience

1.877.307.5566

www.golfvancouverisland.travel

JENN DYKSTRA

GOLF MAGAZINE