The five best golf courses in Newfoundland

The history of golf in Newfoundland, like the island itself, is unique and filled with character, weaving through the fabric of its rugged landscapes and vibrant communities. Golf’s journey in Newfoundland began in the early 20th century, a bit later than in some other parts of Canada, reflecting the island’s remote location and the logistical challenges of establishing sports facilities in such an environment. Despite these challenges, the sport found a welcoming home among the residents, who embraced it with enthusiasm and a sense of community spirit.

In the beginning, golf in Newfoundland was a modest affair, with courses often crafted from the natural landscape without the refined features seen in more established golfing regions. These early courses were the result of local initiative, built and maintained by groups of golfing enthusiasts who were determined to enjoy their favorite sport against the backdrop of Newfoundland’s stunning natural beauty. The simplicity of these early golf courses did not detract from their appeal; rather, it added to the charm and challenge of playing golf in such a unique setting.

As the 20th century progressed, the popularity of golf in Newfoundland began to grow. This was reflected in the gradual development of more formal golf clubs and courses across the island, many of which took advantage of the dramatic landscapes for which Newfoundland is renowned. Clifftop fairways, ocean vistas, and windswept greens became hallmarks of golf in Newfoundland, offering players not just a game, but an experience deeply rooted in the natural beauty of their surroundings.

Despite the slower development of the sport compared to other Canadian provinces, Newfoundland has made significant contributions to golf, particularly in terms of the unique challenges and experiences its courses offer. The rugged terrain and variable weather conditions require a level of resilience and adaptability from golfers, making the game here distinctively challenging and rewarding.

In recent years, golf in Newfoundland has seen further growth, with investments in course development and maintenance ensuring that the province’s golf offerings continue to improve in quality and accessibility. Today, Newfoundland boasts a variety of courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels, from scenic public courses to more challenging private clubs.

Moreover, the community aspect of golf remains strong in Newfoundland, with clubs serving as social hubs and the sport acting as a means of bringing people together. Tournaments and charity events are common, reflecting the ongoing importance of golf in fostering community spirit and engagement.

The history of golf in Newfoundland is a testament to the perseverance and passion of its golfing community. From humble beginnings on makeshift courses to the development of scenic and challenging layouts that attract players from near and far, golf in Newfoundland has carved out a unique niche in the Canadian golf landscape. It stands as a celebration of the sport’s ability to adapt to and enhance the natural beauty and community life of this remarkable island.

In Newfoundland, where the rugged natural beauty of the landscape is as much a part of the island’s character as its history and people, golf courses offer unique challenges and breathtaking views. The best golf courses here are defined by their integration with the natural terrain, providing golfers with an experience that is as much about enjoying the stunning scenery as it is about the game itself.

Humber Valley Resort is celebrated for its scenic design, which takes full advantage of the picturesque Humber Valley and the shores of Deer Lake. The course, designed by Doug Carrick, is known for its elevation changes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Each hole presents a different challenge, with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards that demand precision and strategy.

The Wilds at Salmonier River blends seamlessly into the natural environment of the Avalon Peninsula, offering golfers a chance to play amidst the province’s unique flora and fauna. The course navigates through wetlands and forests, featuring undulating greens and fairways lined with native trees. The Wilds is known for its commitment to preserving the natural habitat, making for an eco-friendly golfing experience.

Terra Nova Golf Resort boasts two courses: the Twin Rivers and the Eagle Creek. The Twin Rivers course, designed by Robbie Robinson, is particularly notable for its challenging layout, which takes golfers through dense forests and along the banks of the Terra Nova River. The course’s signature holes offer dramatic river views and elevation changes. The Eagle Creek course, while shorter, provides a fun and challenging round with its well-designed holes that make the most of the rolling terrain.

Admirals Green at Pippy Park in St. John’s offers a blend of accessibility and challenge, set within one of Canada’s largest urban parks. The course provides stunning views of both the city and the natural landscape, including Signal Hill and the Atlantic Ocean. Its fairways and greens are meticulously maintained, offering a pleasant round for golfers of all skill levels.

Clovelly, also located in St. John’s, features two courses: the Osprey and the Black Duck. The Osprey course is the more challenging of the two, with a layout that demands strategic thinking and accurate shot-making. The Black Duck offers a more forgiving round but is equally enjoyable, with wide fairways and fewer hazards. Both courses are known for their scenic beauty and the wildlife that frequents the area, including moose and various bird species.

These courses exemplify the best of golf in Newfoundland, offering diverse challenges and settings that range from river valleys and forests to urban parks and coastal views. Golfing in Newfoundland is not just about playing the sport but experiencing the unique beauty and rugged charm of the island, making each round an adventure in its own right.