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Golf Season Is Here: Some of Our Favorite Courses to Play and Visit in Ontario

May 8, 2025

It’s the moment golfers across Ontario have been waiting for — the 2025 golf season is finally upon us! The clubs are polished, the fairways are calling, and it’s time to tee off on some of the most beautiful courses the province has to offer. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just love a relaxed day on the greens, there’s no better way to kick off the season than by exploring some of our favorite resort courses.

Here are a few must-visit destinations to check out this spring and summer:

 

Golf Course

Opening Status

Cobble Beach

Now Open

Bellmere Winds Golf Course

Now Open

Friday Harbour/The Nest

Now Open

Ironwoods Golf Course (Calabogie Peaks)

Now Open

Hockley Valley

Now Open

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa/ The Rock


Now Open

Nottawasaga Resort/Ridge & Valley Course

Now Open

Glen House Resort/Smuggler’s Glen Golf Course


Now Open

The Briars Resort and Spa


Now Open

Living Waters Resorts/ Cranberry Golf Course 


May 9th

Rocky Crest Golf Resort

May 9th

Blue Mountain/Monterra


May 15th

Horseshoe Valley

May 16th

Muskoka Bay Resort

May 16th

Deerhurst Golf Course

May 16th

Deerhurst

From the moment you step onto the first elevated tee overlooking Fairy Lake, you know you’re in for something special. Designed by Robert Cupp and Thomas McBroom, Deerhurst Highlands is a par-72 masterpiece carved into the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield — like stepping straight into a Group of Seven painting.

Rated as one of Canada’s top 59 public golf courses by SCOREGolf, the Highlands course is famous for its dramatic granite outcroppings, bold elevation changes, and unforgettable signature holes. For a slightly gentler game, the 9-hole Deerhurst Lakeside course offers a scenic, relaxed alternative that winds around Peninsula Lake.

Whether you’re challenging yourself on the Highlands or soaking up the beauty of the Lakeside Course, Deerhurst is a Muskoka golf destination you don’t want to miss.

Bellmere Winds Golf Resort

Set along the north shore of Rice Lake near Peterborough, Bellmere Winds offers an amazing blend of relaxation and recreation. Their 18-hole course is approachable for all skill levels, with a front nine that feels like the links of Scotland and a back nine that’s more forgiving with an elevated 10th hole with the 11th and 12th playing along the lakeside resort.

Beyond the course, Bellmere is a family-friendly resort with a pool, fireworks, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re looking for a serious game or a relaxed round followed by lakeside lounging, Bellmere Winds is an awesome spot to start new family traditions!

Calabogie Peaks

If you prefer a more laid-back round, the 9-hole walking course at Calabogie Peaks Resort is perfect. Located on the shore of Calabogie Lake with scenic views of the Dickson Ski Mountain, it’s an ideal course for beginners and intermediate players who want to take in the beautiful cottage country vibe while getting a round of golf in.

This walking-only course is casual and fun — bring comfortable clothes, embrace the relaxed pace, and enjoy a great day outside. It’s a fantastic spot to introduce friends or family to the game or just to fine-tune your own skills without any pressure.

Horseshoe Valley/ Horseshoe Valley Golf Club

Nature lovers, this one’s for you! Horseshoe Valley Golf Club is tucked into a beautiful forested valley, offering tree-lined fairways, curved bunkers, natural ponds, and plenty of wildlife sightings.

Following major enhancements last season, Horseshoe Valley now features a premier 18-hole layout designed to challenge your skills and reward smart, strategic play. Whether it’s your first round of the season or you’re working on your handicap for tournament play, you’ll love the mix of classic design and fresh updates here — and if you are golfing in the late afternoon you are probably going to see a beautiful sunset!

Muskoka Bay Resort

Muskoka Bay Resort is where serious golf meets serious scenery. Masterfully designed by Doug Carrick, this championship course cuts through Canada’s wetlands and rugged ridges, featuring dramatic elevation shifts, rolling fairways, and greens that demand precision.

It’s one of those courses that is a true test for golfers of all skill levels — challenging yet always rewarding. Add in luxury accommodations, spa services, and gourmet dining, and it’s easy to see why Muskoka Bay is a bucket-list destination for golfers across Ontario.

Rocky Crest Golf Course

Perched on the rugged granite of the Canadian Shield, Rocky Crest Golf Resort is home to one of Muskoka’s most celebrated golf experiences. Designed to challenge and inspire, the course takes full advantage of its natural surroundings with dramatic elevation changes, exposed rock outcroppings, and lush forested fairways.

As part of the ClubLink family of championship courses, Rocky Crest is known for its strategic layouts, immaculate conditions, and stunning scenery at every hole. It’s a true shot-maker’s course — rewarding accuracy, smart play, and a good eye for reading the landscape.

After your round, relax at one of Rocky Crest’s three on-site restaurants, offering everything from casual bites to fine steakhouse dining — the perfect way to finish a day on one of Ontario’s premier golf courses.

Cobble Beach

From the opening drive to the final putt, few courses rival the stunning views found at Cobble Beach. Located along shores of Georgian Bay, each of its 18 holes highlights the area’s natural charm, creating a memorable experience for golfers of every skill level.

This celebrated links-style course, designed by Doug Carrick, combines immaculate fairways with striking elevation shifts and well-placed challenges—from native fescue to closely mown collection areas around the greens. Whether you’re out for a relaxed round, a weekend getaway, or a high-stakes tournament, Cobble Beach offers award-winning golf in one of Ontario’s most scenic and inviting locations.

Blue Mountain/Monterra

Monterra Golf is an inviting course where players of all levels are encouraged to push beyond their own expectations, starting from the very first swing. Set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop, the course winds through rolling bent grass fairways, 86 strategically placed bunkers, natural ravines, meandering creeks, and serene lakes—all leading to elevated tee shots that make every round unforgettable.

They handle the finer details—like GPS-equipped carts—so you can keep your eye on the game and fully enjoy the experience.

Friday Harbour/The Nest

The Nest is another course crafted by renowned golf course architect Doug Carrick, which offers 18 holes of pure beauty along the shores of Lake Simcoe. Designed with graceful dips and natural hollows that test accuracy and reward strategy, this premier semi-private course delivers breathtaking scenery from every angle.

With a front 9 that leads you out and a back 9 that brings you home, The Nest is perfectly suited for that classic “after work” Friday round—leaving plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your evening at Friday Harbour Resort.

Hockley Valley

Set against the rolling hills of southern Ontario, this 18-hole championship course—designed by acclaimed Canadian architect Thomas McBroom—offers a golf experience that’s as striking as it is challenging. With emerald bent grass fairways woven seamlessly into the untouched landscape, the course is naturally framed by sweeping fescue-covered terrain that adds both beauty and bite.

Every hole brings its own test, where precision pays off and pars feel like triumphs. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just soaking in the scenery, this is a course you’ll want to play again and again. Shared power cart included; HST additional. Be sure to pause for refreshments at 5 & 12!

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa/ The Rock

Carved into the rugged landscape of Muskoka and overlooking the pristine waters of Lake Rosseau, The Rock is a standout golf destination designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo. This 18-hole, 6,649-yard course harnesses the region’s wild beauty—delivering a thrilling round that rewards focus, creativity, and finesse.

Tight, tree-lined fairways. Sloping, unpredictable greens. Towering hardwoods, exposed rock, and dramatic elevation changes—every hole at The Rock brings a new challenge. The question is: are you ready to take it on?

Living Waters Resorts/ Cranberry Golf Course

Visit the newly revitalized Cranberry Golf Course. With three redesigned holes, modernized bunkers, five tee options, and a brand-new fleet of carts, this 6,557-yard championship layout still brings the heat—especially on those Par 5s, so don’t forget your driver.

Sharpen your game at Collingwood’s only full driving range and practice facility, open to both members and guests. Take things further with expert guidance from PGA of Canada pros, then wind down at Station on the Green. With live music, great food, and sweeping views of the course and escarpment, it’s the perfect way to finish the day.

Nottawasaga Resort

Tucked into the heart of the scenic Nottawasaga Valley, Nottawasaga Resort is one of Ontario’s rare gems—offering not just one, but two distinct golf courses designed to challenge and inspire players of all levels. Whether you’re a dedicated golfer or just out for a relaxed round, you’ll find beauty, variety, and unforgettable moments across both courses.

The Valley Course demands precision, guiding you through mature woodlands and along the winding Nottawasaga River. Meanwhile, the Ridge Course showcases dramatic elevation changes, towering trees, and expansive, undulating greens that reward strategy and skill alike. With a full driving range, practice green, and a well-stocked Pro Shop, every aspect of your game is covered.

Planning a tournament or group outing? Their expert team takes care of every detail—from setup to scoring to post-round dining—so all you have to focus on is enjoying the game.

Glen House Resort/Smuggler’s Glen Golf Course

Smuggler’s Glen Golf Course is a standout 18-hole championship layout in the heart of the world-famous 1000 Islands. Opened to the public and members in 2005, this scenic course is the latest offering from the Seal family—longtime owners of the Glen House Resort and veterans of the hospitality world since 1962. With over five decades of experience and a passion for the region, they’ve created a destination where natural beauty and great golf come together.

Winding through untouched forest and overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the course offers wide fairways, subtly contoured greens, and a setting that feels both peaceful and exhilarating. Crisp white bunkers, rolling elevation, and refreshing river breezes make every hole a new experience—one more reason to fall in love with the 1000 Islands.

The Briars Resort and Spa

Just an hour from Toronto, set along the shores of Lake Simcoe, The Briars Golf Club offers a private escape with a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere. Pristine greens, thoughtfully paced rounds, and a setting that feels a world away make it the perfect retreat—whether you’re teeing off solo or sharing the day with friends and family.

Designed by the legendary Stanley Thompson and Robbie Robinson, the course winds gracefully through cedar hedges, towering evergreens, and elegant birch stands. With water hazards, well-guarded greens, and sweeping views of the Black River, every round here is a quiet challenge wrapped in natural beauty.

 

Ready to Plan Your Ontario Golf Season?

There’s no better feeling than that first perfect swing of the season — and Ontario’s best resort golf courses are ready to welcome you. Whether you’re looking for championship-level challenges, scenic lakeside rounds, or a casual day on the fairways, there’s a course (or two) with your name on it. From Muskoka’s legendary layouts to hidden gems tucked beside lakes and forests, it’s time to dust off your clubs, gather your foursome, and make this golf season unforgettable.

⛳️ Explore even more incredible golf resorts and plan your next round through our Trip Planner tool!

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