Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/309816
The Columbia Valley Golf Trail is home to eight golf courses located between Radium Hot Springs and Fairmont Hot Springs in the Columbia Valley region of British Columbia. The Trail's spectacular courses each offer unique golf experiences – from charming to world class, and all within a 35 minute drive. EIGHT OF THE THE BEST THE 14TH AT RADIUM RESORT THE 9TH AT RIVERSIDE THE 1ST ON COPPER POINT'S RIDGE COURSE THE 3RD AT WINDEMERE VALLEY THE 18TH AT EAGLE RANCH THE 4TH ON COPPER POINT'S POINT COURSE THE SPRINGS THE 14TH AT MOUNTAINSIDE Travel the Trail: At the north end of the trail on Highway 93 sits the Village of Radium Hot Springs, where you will find The Springs and the Radium Resort Course. Drive south through the Valley for 15 minutes towards Invermere- on-the-Lake and you will reach Eagle Ranch, Copper Point, and The Ridge at Copper Point. Windermere Valley is approximately five minutes south of Invermere on Highway 93. At the southern-most end of the trail, and about 15 minutes from Invermere, you'll find Riverside and Mountainside golf courses located in the quaint village of Fairmont Hot Springs. The Courses: The Springs has been 'wowing' golfers for over 25 years. With go-for-broke par-5s, heroic tee shots over ravines and a terrific quartet of par-3s, this compelling layout never gets old. Accordingly The Springs has earned its reputation as one of Canada's premier golf destinations. Recently included in the list of top 59 public courses in Canada, The Springs offers exceptional golf in a spectacular setting. The Resort Course at Radium Resort has entered an exciting new phase, with three incredible new holes and reconfigured routing. The course, which now boasts four sets of tees and a par of 71, features dazzling vistas, exceptional conditioning and the player-friendly attributes you've always loved. Be sure to put the Resort course on your golf schedule this year. You will be glad you did. Eagle Ranch Resort engages you in unique experiences that far transcend the ordinary. The Resort's centrepiece: eighteen magical holes of golf with open fairways and 360-degree views of the valley, perched along ancient bluffs overlooking the Columbia River – a stirring setting made even more dramatic by its Rocky and Purcell Mountain views. Eagle Ranch consistently receives high ranking among the Top 100 Courses in Canada and the Top 59 Canadian public courses. Copper Point – The Point is a natural, lay-of-the-land route with numerous 'classic' elements, such as roughly-hewn bunkers and excellent use of existing hills and ravines. The architectural merit of this design warrants play on its own, but, what will really sell you on Copper Point is the pristine setting, beautiful conditions, and complete amenities - not to mention the spectacular views of the Kootenay Rockies from nearly every hole. Copper Point – The Ridge takes full advantage of its character-filled terrain. The innovative design features full length par three and four holes that maintain the perfect blend of playability and challenge, appealing to every level of golfer. The entire layout wraps around the spectacular new Copper Point Resort, offering magnificent views in every direction. Windermere Valley exudes those rare elements of total relaxation and unpretentious golf in a first- rate setting. While Windermere may be shorter than average in length, it's definitely not short on character or beauty. The picturesque valley location and wonderful conditioning will ensure golfers of all skill levels will have fun. With excellent teaching programs, a fully-stocked pro shop, restaurant, and a laid-back atmosphere that will definitely win you over, Windermere makes for an enjoyable golf experience. Mountainside golf course, which is part of Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, has been satisfying guests for over 40 years. The course is pressed against the sunny, west-facing slopes of the Rockies, with velvety fairways and a host of riveting holes that will test every club in your bag. As one of the original golf courses in the Valley, Mountainside has been the proud recipient of numerous accolades and awards. Also in Fairmont Hot Springs is the Riverside golf course. 'A river runs through it' truly describes this spectacular course located near the headwaters of the mighty Columbia River. The river meanders gracefully throughout the contemporary-designed course which is laced with memorable golf holes that showcase the striking nature of this property. Between the golf courses you are sure to discover warm-water lakes, beautiful beaches, hot springs, adventure and a great golf vacation. For more information, email andrea@cvtrail.com or visit columbiavalleygolftrail.com/ig/ BY JEFF SUTHERLAND GOLF TRAIL PROFILE Between the golf courses you are sure to discover warm water lakes, beautiful beaches, hot springs, adventure and a great golf vacation. ALL IMAGES CREDIT golfshots.com / COURTESY CVGT THE 14TH AT RADIUM RESORT