2018 Summertime Suggestions

Some golfers don’t mind blazing temperatures and reap the rewards of low-season deals. Stay and play rates in Florida and Arizona are generous as thermometers approach 100F/38C. Others gladly pay a premium for cool mornings and mild afternoons in summertime destinations such as Nova Scotia or Ireland.

The WBGD team has visited more than 30 countries in the last 12 months – here are some places we suggest for summer 2018 golf getaways.

Fox Harb’r Resort; Wallace, Nova Scotia, Canada
We ran into Sidney Crosby fresh off a Stanley Cup win last summer when we were at Fox Harb’r Resort. Crosby’s from Cole Harbour near Halifax, the resort is a two-hour drive to the north. Resort owner Ron Joyce walked over to Crosby’s table to shake his hand at dinner. Out of respect for Mr. Joyce, Crosby stood as he approached. A Canadian legend in his own right, Joyce is the co-founder of Canadian’s most popular and beloved fast food chain Tim Hortons. Indeed, it was a brilliant Canadian moment.

Suites overlook the Northumberland Strait – Prince Edward Island is visible on clear days. The golf course is pristine and the bent grass greens are worth the voyage alone. Lobster is available at breakfast, lunch and dinner and highly recommend – the lobster roll is phenomenal.

In addition to golf, there is sport shooting, hiking, fishing, spa, sea kayaking, horseback riding, a spa, evening campfires, culinary events and a visit the Jost Vineyards is a must.

The golf course is a joy, the food and drinks are delicious, but it’s simple pleasures that always steal the show. Rooms are equipped with full-size coffee pots and of course, Tim Hortons coffee. Cool mornings and fresh coffee on the balcony in Nova Scotia is as good as it gets.

Visit: foxharbr.com

Dublin, Ireland
The area’s mix of remarkable golf and legendary Guiness-fueled nightlife is hard to beat. Golf makes more sense after rounds at The Island Golf Club and County Louth Golf Club. These golf courses have been there forever, then some good lads came along in the 1800’s and mowed fairways, placed tee markers, cut holes and legendary links were revealed. Other tracks to play are The European Club, Portmarnock Golf Club, Portmarnock Golf Links, Royal Dublin Golf Club, K Club, Woodenbridge Golf Club and Corballis Links Golf Club.

Visit: ggolfireland.org

Prince’s Golf Club; Sandwich, England
Prince’s remains one of the greatest courses in the country in a corner of Kent renowned for quality golf. Royal St George’s is right next door and Royal Cinque Ports is just a little way along the beach. There’s nothing a few Euros can’t sort and the present owners have generously invested in the course and facilities. And all this comes at a fair rate – certainly better than others in the area.

There are three nines – Himalayas, Shore and Dunes – which provide flexibility and interesting options. All three nines have in abundance the essential linksy qualities so beloved by those with a feel for the games’ origins and traditions.

With its springy turf, sea breezes and almost sensuous contouring, links golf is in a class of its own. Add flawless greens, 27 tremendous holes, remarkably modest green fees and a warm and welcoming atmosphere and you can understand why we love Princes. Its proximity to the charming seaside towns of Sandwich and Deal further enhance its appeal. Be sure to stay in the lovely Lodge and enjoy all that this glorious place has to offer.

Visit: princesgolfclub.co.uk

Tegernseer Golf Club; Tegernseer, Germany
Tegernseer Golf Club is one of our favorite tracks in Europe. There are drastic slopes and amazing views of the lake and mountains. The golf course setting is as beautiful as any in the world. Nuns once tended to the cattle that roamed the beautiful green grass fields. The grass is a vibrant green — it’s moist and lush. Prayers are needed to hit the tight fairways here. Conveniently, a late 19th century small prayer alter has been converted into a snack shack just behind the eighth green. With its cozy proximity to Munich — Oktoberfest and Tegernsee make for a brilliant and convenient two destination vacation.

It’s a challenging golf course from the tee with small greens – a lethal combination. The putting surfaces are smooth. The area has been a holiday destination for Germany’s mighty for centuries – this isn’t changing.

Visit: tegernseer-golf-club.de

Kokanee Springs Resort; British Columbia, Canada

West of our friends in Nova Scotia is the breathtaking region of Crawford Bay in the beautiful West Kootenays. Few places in the world compare to the beauty of British Columbia and it truly shines in the summer. The golf here is a joy, but there’s so much to see and do in the area: hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, biking and more. And after the round, Labatt on draft at Woody’s Pub and Grill is ice cold.

Visit: kokaneesprings.com

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