Often known for the Calgary Stampede or the City's proximity to the world class ski resorts of the Rockies , The City of Calgary rarely gets the recognition it deserves as a golf destination. Over the last decade or so that has all changed. In recent years Calgary has experienced a golf explosion, in both the number of courses being built as well as the number of golfers hitting the links each year.
With a population nearing one million people, Calgary has the highest percentage of golfers in the world as well as the highest per capita spending on golf in Canada . And with the number of quality golf courses in the area who could blame them? With the Majestic Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, the City of Calgary actually has 2 very distinct natural surroundings.
To the east the city is somewhat flat with very little in the way of hills. This side of the city hosts some of the finest links style courses you will find this side of Scotland . In the nearby town of Carseland , architect Gary Browning crafted Calgary 's newest golf masterpiece, Speargrass Golf Club. Carved out of 150 acres of Alberta Prairie, This links style course lives up to its billing as an enjoyable but tough test of golf with 4 of the toughest finishing holes you will play.
To really appreciate what Calgary has to offer the golf traveler, you need not go any further than the west side of the city. As the western limits unfurl into the foothills, the number of beautiful golf courses at your fingertips seem endless. Whether it be another new track such as Riverspirit Golf Club, a new 27 hole facility or Bragg Creek's gem Wintergreen Golf Club, there will never be a shortage of great golf to build great memories on. And with none of these courses even coming close to approaching the 100 dollar price tag most high end courses seem to charge, you can be sure to have some extra cash in your pocket.
To the South of Calgary you have 2 of the city's best in Heritage Pointe and D'arcy Ranch. Located mere minutes south of the city limits just off highway 2 is Heritage Pointe Golf Club. A 27 hole facility that architect Ron Garl calls “his finest course.” If you continue south on highway 2 another 15 minutes you will find the town of Okotoks and D'arcy Ranch golf club. With outstanding mountain views and the small town atmosphere, its easy to lose your concentration out here. Weaving through coulees and ravines, coupled with tough green settings and well thought out bunkering this course can give you all you can handle making it easily one of the best in the Calgary area.
So if it's quality golf courses you are after, or panoramic mountain views, or both, make Calgary your next vacation destination. You will be pleasantly surprised.
