For enthusiasts searching for a new experience in Canada, consider the East Coast golf destination of Prince Edward Island.
PEI is a scenic wonder, where rolling landscapes and vibrant colors have come together to create the perfect setting for golf. As a matter of fact, it’s one of Canada’s top golf destinations, not only for the mix of backdrop and challenge but also for the affordability.
It wasn’t always so, the development of the sport on the East Coast actually was rather slow. However, the inception of the Thomas McBroom-designed Links at Crowbush Cove in 1993 opened the door to the type of laid-back seaside courses that avid golfers typically flock to and remain loyal.
Here are just a few of the courses that deserve highlighting:
Mill River Golf Course – As seen in the lead photo above, this is a Robbie Robinson-designed course, set in the Western Region and overlooking the Mill River. As a matter of fact, the river runs through the 7th hole and creates a situation of dual fairways. Watchers of the Golf Channel might remember this course from the series “Big Break.”
Dundarave Golf Course – Set in the Eastern Region, Dundarave is a modern course that opened in 1999 with Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dany Fry as its architects. Located adjacent to its sister course of Brudenell River (featured below), golfing here includes some of the most interesting bunkers the golf world has to offer. This club hosted the 2006 Legends of Golf event that highlighted top players of the caliber of Jack Nicklaus, presenting them with unique sandstone scenery and a memorable challenge.
Brudenell River Golf Course – Located in the Eastern Region, this course is named after the river it is built around. As a classic design, this yet another course built by Robbie Robinson, with its opening in 1969. Beautifully landscaped with gardens and water hazards in the form of ponds and small lakes, the bunkers are stark white in comparison to the red soil which creates a unique visual. The course offers six par 3s, 4s, and 5s.
Links at Crowbush Cove – Found on the North Shore, this well-respected course is among the Top 10 designs in Canada and is conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Charlottetown. Built by Thomas McBroom, the scenic course overlooks the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is reminiscent of courses found in Ireland or Scotland.
Green Gables Golf Club – Located in the Cavendish Region, Green Gables is a course rich with history. Designed by Canadian architect Stanley Thompson in 1939, the course later received updates and reshaping by Thomas McBroom, in 2007. Nevertheless, McBroom purposely retained the beautifully original tree-framed design – a treeline that seamlessly separates each hole and effectively makes them private. The infamous Anne of Green Gables house can be seen close by, giving golfers yet another reason to visit and soak up the magic that is PEI.
For more info on golf in PEI visit www.golfpei.ca