When thinking about hot golf destinations, Canada’s westernmost province of British Columbia is typically not the first location world traveling golfers think of. Often fairways enveloped by the majestic Coast and Rocky Mountain ranges, or lush greens butted against the Pacific ocean flash in the mind's eye. While there are plenty of courses with that breathtaking scenery, the interior of the BC is a showcase of the high-benchland pine forests that border the northern end of North America’s desert regions.
BC's Golf Courses Bring The Heat
Tobiano Golf Course, Kamloops
Surprising to those who do not call this spectacular region home, BC’s arid interior offers a taste of the south with a warm, dry heat enveloping you as you play lush fairways, surrounded by sage bushes and Ponderosa pines. You’ll pinch yourself when you realize that this hot golf destination is nestled in the heartland of British Columbia and so easy to get to. The variety of golf experiences surrounding the BC communities of Kamloops, Vernon and Kelowna are staggering. 16 championship calibre courses are easily accessible from the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and Kamloops Airport (YKA) making the direct jump from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Seattle or Los Angeles a simple flight away. Luxury accommodations appear around every corner it would seem. Combined with the incredible culinary tourism opportunities, it’s clear why the Thompson Okanagan region is a very hot golf destination for more than just the weather.
Destination: Kamloops
Starting in Kamloops, the striking landscape around the Tobanio Golf Club will have you double-checking the golf bag to make sure your camera is accessible. The awards are many: Voted #1 Public Course in BC, plus "Most Beautiful" and "Best Conditioned", by SCOREGolf Magazine in 2013. It was also ranked in the Top Three Public Courses in BC for "Most Fun"! Built on the site of a the historic Six Mile Ranch, fairways and greens have been carved into the rugged benchlands creating a one of a kind golf destination.
The Dunes at Kamloops | New Parallel Productions
To the East, wild fescue and wheat grass line the meticulously maintained greens and fairways of the Graham Cooke designed course - The Dunes. While, along the shores of Little Shuswap Lake, Talking Rock meanders through a sandy forest providing you with incredible views throughout your round. Regardless of chosen course, Kamloops golf courses will treat you to an excellent experience that will have you coming back time and again.
Destination: Kelowna
Heading South from Kamloops into Vernon and Kelowna, many of the golf clubs are situated on benchlands overlooking crystal clear lakes and in some cases, bordering on vineyards. In a region known for it’s award-winning wineries, this could only mean that after your round, it’s time to go on a tasting tour. Just be sure to plan some extra time on your trip to enjoy the abundance.
Predator Ridge Resort, Vernon | Colin Jewell
As one of the premier golf resorts in Canada, Predator Ridge Resort’s 36 holes of golf will entertain and leave you awestruck. After golfing the stellar Furber and Carrick designed golf courses, and relaxing in your guestroom overlooking the course, the luxury amenities of the nearby Swarovski studded Sparkling Hill Resort’s KurSpa (winner of Best Mountain Resort Spa by Senses Wellness Awards) will have you planning your return trip before you even leave.
Gallagher's Canyon Golf & CC, Kelowna
The courses of Tower Ranch, Gallagher’s Canyon and The Harvest cover a wide range of terrain with views of Kelowna, Lake Okanagan or the rolling grass-covered hills. With simple and quick access from downtown hotels and a nightlife to keep you active in the evenings, choosing to golf in Kelowna is an easy decision for the perfect golf vacation. No matter how you look at it, when planning your next golf trip, the Canadian golf hot spots of Kamloops and Kelowna will have you panting for more.
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