Ontario is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, but it's also a golfer's paradise. From rolling hills to pristine lakeshores, the province offers a diverse range of golfing experiences that cater to players of all skill levels.
Whether you're looking for a challenging course or a relaxing getaway, Ontario golf resorts have something for everyone.
With over 800 golf courses in Ontario, choosing where to play can be challenging. So, to help you plan your next golfing adventure, we've compiled this list of Ontario's 9 best golf resorts on the Ask Genie blog, showcasing the perfect blend of exceptional courses and luxurious accommodations.
The Best Golf Resorts to Visit in Ontario
Ontario's golf scene is a testament to the province's natural beauty and rich sporting heritage. The region's golf resorts seamlessly combine world-class courses with top-notch amenities, creating unforgettable experiences for golf enthusiasts.
From the picturesque Muskoka region to the shores of the Great Lakes, Ontario's golf resorts offer diverse landscapes and playing conditions. Golfers can enjoy courses that wind through dense forests, overlook sparkling lakes, or challenge them with dramatic elevation changes.
Many of these resorts also boast a rich history, with some dating back to the 20th century. During this time, the courses have evolved and now blend traditional elements with modern design to create truly unique golfing destinations.
1. Muskoka Bay Resort
In the heart of Ontario's cottage country, Muskoka Bay Resort is a golfing gem designed by legendary architect Doug Carrick. This course is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging in the province.
The 7,367-yard golf course winds its way through the Canadian Shield, featuring dramatic elevation changes, rocky outcroppings, and dense forests. Golfers face a true test of skill, with each hole presenting unique challenges, from precise tee shots to tricky approaches on undulating greens.
What sets Muskoka Bay apart is its seamless integration with the natural landscape. The resort offers luxurious resting places, including cliff top villas, providing stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
Guest prices start at $189, and resort guests can reserve tee times concurrently with their stay.
2. Deerhurst Resort
With a history dating back to 1896, Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville is one of Ontario's oldest and most respected golf destinations. The resort features two distinct courses: the challenging Highlands and the more forgiving Deerhurst Lakeside Golf Course.
Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course, redesigned by Thomas McBroom in 1990, is a par-72 championship course that stretches over 7,011 yards. It's known for its dramatic elevation changes, offering breathtaking views of the Muskoka landscape. The course demands accuracy and strategic play, particularly on its signature 10th hole, a par-5 with a 100-foot elevation drop from tee to green.
Deerhurst Resort isn't just about golf; it offers a complete vacation experience with ample suite and room choices, dining options, a fitness center, indoor rock climbing, and activities for everyone.
Green fees for the Highlands course start at $105 for 18 holes, and resort guests can take advantage of package deals.
3. Cobble Beach Golf Links Resort
Situated on the shores of Georgian Bay, Cobble Beach Golf Links Resort opened in 2007 and quickly earned a reputation as one of Ontario's premier golf destinations. Designed by Doug Carrick, the course offers a links-style experience reminiscent of Scotland's famous coastal courses.
The 7,134-yard layout takes full advantage of its location, with several holes offering stunning views of Georgian Bay. Players face a constant challenge from the wind, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the already demanding course. The immaculate conditioning of the fairways and greens is a point of pride for Cobble Beach.
The resort features a boutique inn and spa, allowing guests to unwind after a day on the links. Its proximity to Owen Sound makes it an ideal getaway for those seeking a blend of golf and small-town charm.
Green fees start at $109 after 3:00 pm, with play and stay packages also available.
4. Taboo Muskoka
Opened in 2002, Taboo Muskoka quickly established itself as one of Ontario's must-play courses. Designed by Ron Garl, this 7,340-yard masterpiece weaves through the rugged Muskoka terrain, offering a unique and challenging golfing experience.
What sets Taboo apart is its dramatic use of the natural landscape. Towering trees, and significant elevation changes come into play on nearly every hole, making this a picturesque challenge for golfers of all experience levels. The par-3 17th, with its island green reminiscent of TPC Sawgrass, is a particular highlight.
The resort offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a spa and several dining options. Its location on Lake Muskoka provides opportunities for water activities when you're not on the course.
Green fees start at $121, with various stay-and-play packages available from $259 per person.
5. Rocky Crest Golf Resort
Situated on the shores of Lake Joseph in the Muskoka region, Rocky Crest Golf Resort opened its Thomas McBroom-designed course in 2000.
Rocky Crest's best feature design is its player-friendly nature. While challenging for those with a low handicap, the course offers generous landing areas and multiple tee options, making it accessible for less experienced players.
The resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom villas, perfect for golf groups or couple getaways. On-site amenities include a spa, multiple dining options, and water activities on Lake Joseph.
Green fees range from $110 to $165, depending on the season and time of day. Last-minute specials and various golf packages are also available.
6. Horseshoe Resort
Just an hour north of Toronto, Horseshoe Resort has been a favourite destination for Ontario golfers since 1974. The Valley was designed by Rene Muylaert and can be played in 9, 12 or the entire 18-hole course.
Known for its tight fairways and small greens, The Valley demands accuracy and course management, testing even experienced players.
Horseshoe Resort is a true four-season destination, offering skiing in the winter and a range of outdoor activities in the summer. Its proximity to Toronto makes it ideal for a quick golf getaway.
Green fees start at $37 for 9 holes, while 18 holes can cost up to $89. Stay-and-play packages are available for the 12 and 18-hole courses.
7. Nottawasaga Resort
Located in Alliston, about an hour north of Toronto, Nottawasaga Resort has been a staple of Ontario golf since its first course opened in 1986.
Fast forward to today, and the resort features two 18-hole courses, the Valley and the Ridge.
There's even a driving range, so you can practise teeing off.
With the Nottawasaga River flowing through the resort, the Valley and Ridge courses offer stunning scenery and tricky water hazards, which pose an exciting challenge for any golfer.
Elsewhere, the resort offers a range of accommodations and amenities, like an outdoor pool and sports bar, making it a perfect space to unwind after a day on the greens (or in the rough).
Green fees for a full 18 holes on both courses, including a shared cart, cost $83. Unlimited golf stay-and-play deals, including breakfast, are also available.
8. Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club
Situated in Orillia, Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club opened its first 18 holes in 1990, with an additional 18 added in 1998.
With a total of 45 holes, including two 18-hole courses (The Timber and The Meadow) and an executive 9-hole course designed by Ted Baker (The Island).
Each course offers its own challenges, with The Timber boasting the highest elevation through the estate and The Meadow featuring no shortage of water hazards.
These picturesque courses were designed to be enjoyable for all skill levels while still providing a challenge for experienced players.
While not a traditional resort, Hawk Ridge partners with local hotels, like the Fairfield Inn Orillia, to offer stay-and-play packages. Its location near Casino Rama is a popular destination for those looking to combine golf with other entertainment options.
Green fees start at $69 + taxes for 18 holes, with various package options available. Cart rental costs $20 + taxes for 18 holes.
9. Wooden Sticks
Rounding out our list is Wooden Sticks, located in Uxbridge, just northeast of Toronto. Opened in 2000, this course offers a one-of-a-kind golfing experience in Ontario.
What sets Wooden Sticks apart is its tribute holes. 12 of the 18 holes are inspired by famous holes from around the world, including St. Andrews' Road Hole and Augusta National's Amen Corner. This design allows golfers to experience some of golf's most iconic holes without leaving Ontario.
The course also features a unique all-inclusive pricing model, which includes breakfast, lunch, and unlimited golf. Although its accommodation offering isn’t as grandiose as other locations in this list, Wooden Sticks offers quaint on-site cabins and access to the dining room for stay-and-play experiences.
The all-inclusive rate starts at $210 per person for a twosome. This includes a shared cart, post-game meal and use of the practice facilities.
Discover Canada with Spin Genie
Canada's a big place, which is why we spend so much time crafting content to help you see some of its best bits. Get a taste of everything this great nation has to offer with our Ask Genie guides.
Explore Canada's 10 best golf courses to see more of the nation's exceptional golfing resorts and opportunities.
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