The five best golf courses in New Brunswick

The history of golf in New Brunswick is a story deeply rooted in the province’s rich tapestry of culture, community, and the natural environment. As one of Canada’s maritime provinces, New Brunswick’s unique landscapes, from rugged coastlines and rolling hills to vast forests and rivers, have provided a picturesque backdrop for the development of the sport within its boundaries. The evolution of golf in New Brunswick reflects both a deep respect for the tradition of the game and a commitment to making golf accessible and enjoyable for all.

Golf’s journey in New Brunswick began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by the sport’s growing popularity among Canadians and the establishment of golf clubs across the country. In New Brunswick, the sport was initially embraced by British expatriates and local enthusiasts who sought to recreate the golfing experience of Scotland’s ancient links. The early golf courses in New Brunswick were modest affairs, often laid out with little more than natural obstacles to challenge players. Despite their simplicity, these courses laid the foundation for a flourishing golf culture in the province.

As the interest in golf grew, so did the desire for more formal golfing facilities. This led to the establishment of organized golf clubs throughout New Brunswick, many of which are still in operation today. These clubs became hubs of social activity, bringing together members of the community to share in the enjoyment of the game. The development of these clubs coincided with a period of economic growth and social change in New Brunswick, reflecting the province’s evolving identity and the increasing accessibility of golf to a broader segment of the population.

Throughout the 20th century, golf in New Brunswick continued to expand, with the creation of numerous courses designed to meet the growing demand for the sport. These courses varied widely in design and setting, from scenic coastal links to challenging inland layouts that made use of the province’s natural terrain and beauty. The diversity of golf courses in New Brunswick speaks to the creativity and ingenuity of course architects who have sought to blend the sport with the province’s unique landscapes.

In recent years, golf in New Brunswick has seen further innovation and development, with courses designed to appeal to golfers of all skill levels and preferences. The province has also become known for hosting regional and national golf tournaments, drawing attention to New Brunswick’s vibrant golfing community and its contribution to the sport in Canada. Moreover, the golf industry in New Brunswick has embraced sustainable practices, recognizing the importance of preserving the natural environment that makes golf in the province so special.

Today, the history of golf in New Brunswick is not just a chronicle of the sport’s growth but a reflection of the province’s commitment to community, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved pastime, golf in New Brunswick continues to be a source of joy, challenge, and connection for those who play the game.

New Brunswick, with its diverse landscapes ranging from coastal cliffs to river valleys and dense forests, offers a variety of challenging and scenic golf courses. Among these, several stand out for their exceptional design, breathtaking settings, and the quality of the golfing experience they provide. Here’s a detailed overview of five of the best golf courses in New Brunswick, each offering a unique experience that highlights the natural beauty and golfing tradition of the province.

The Algonquin Golf Course in St. Andrews by-the-Sea is one of New Brunswick’s most prestigious and historic courses. Originally designed in the early 20th century and later redesigned by Thomas McBroom, this course offers stunning views of Passamaquoddy Bay and the surrounding maritime landscape. The course is known for its challenging layout, featuring undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and greens that demand precision. The signature hole, a dramatic par-3 over a coastal inlet, is just one example of how the Algonquin provides golfers with an unforgettable experience that combines the beauty of New Brunswick’s coastline with the challenge of championship golf.

Kingswood Park in Fredericton is a modern classic, recognized for its innovative design and outstanding natural beauty. Designed by Graham Cooke, Kingswood leverages the area’s natural topography to create a varied and challenging course. With water features, rolling hills, and natural wooded areas, the course offers something for golfers of all skill levels. Kingswood’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its maintenance practices, ensuring that the course blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Royal Oaks Golf Club in Moncton is New Brunswick’s first and only course designed by U.S. Open Architect Rees Jones. Opened in 2000, Royal Oaks offers a unique links-style golf experience, featuring wide fairways, imposing bunkers, and challenging greens. The course’s design takes advantage of the natural wetlands and mature forests, providing a strategic challenge while also showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Royal Oaks is known for its excellent conditioning and has hosted numerous professional and amateur tournaments.

Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club near Bathurst is one of the province’s most scenic and challenging courses. With breathtaking views over the Bay of Chaleur, Gowan Brae’s layout features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and elevated greens that test golfers’ skills and strategy. The course’s natural beauty, combined with its challenging design, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Fox Creek Golf Club in Dieppe offers a blend of natural beauty, strategic challenge, and superb conditioning. Designed by Graham Cooke, Fox Creek opened in 2005 and quickly gained a reputation as one of New Brunswick’s premier golf destinations. The course features a mix of open and wooded holes, with water hazards and strategic bunkering adding to the challenge. The careful integration of the course with its natural surroundings makes for a memorable golfing experience that reflects the best of New Brunswick’s landscapes.

These golf courses, with their distinctive designs and settings, embody the essence of golf in New Brunswick. From the historic charm of the Algonquin to the modern challenge of Fox Creek, each course offers a unique experience that reflects the natural beauty and golfing heritage of the province.