CLIENT FEATURE

Canada's number
one golf destination

WHISTLER, BC, CANADA (APRIL 11, 2005): With the help of the announcement of its hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler, British Columbia has become a destination known around the world for its spectacular mountains, unsurpassed skiing, limitless outdoor adventures and charming alpine village. What is less well-known is its world-class golf! Set amidst the province's coastal mountain range, just 120 kilometres/75 miles north of Vancouver, this picturesque valley, surrounded by immense, snow-covered peaks, pristine lakes and glacier-fed streams, is home to four of Canada's top 100 golf courses. Golf Digest has rated Whistler as one of the "Top 50 Greatest Golf Destinations in the World" and Canada's Golf Course Ranking Magazine slotted Whistler in the top spot as the "Number One Golf Resort in Canada."

Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Robert Cupp have each created masterpieces in this magnificent setting. The Jack Nicklaus signature designed Nicklaus North Golf Course is the only golf course in the world to which Jack has been inspired to add his name. This course's captivating location on the edge of Whistler's Green Lake, sets the scene for one of the country's most picturesque playing fields. This year, Nicklaus North will play host to four of the world's top players in the 2005 Telus Skins Game.

Arnold Palmer's Whistler Golf Club is nestled in the Whistler Valley surrounded by Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain's snowy peaks and is home to much of the valley's wildlife, including black bear, coyote and beaver. The spectacular setting makes it easy to understand why Palmer chose this location for his first Canadian design.

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, designed by Trent Jones Jr., is cut from the flank of Blackcomb Mountain, revealing incredible natural features such as waterfalls, ravines, mountain ledges and an elevation change of over 400 feet that provides dramatic elevated views of the Whistler valley. The course also features the David Leadbetter Golf Academy.

Just 25 minutes north of Whistler, Robert Cupp designed the spectacular Big Sky Golf and Country Club. Set at the base of the magnificent Mount Currie, this course must be experienced to be appreciated. This peaceful yet dramatic setting garners consistent rave reviews year after year.

Beyond championship golf however, the amenities of this pristine, four-season resort destination have helped turn Whistler into a golf mecca. Luxury accommodation, delectable dining, sensational shopping and rejuvenating spas are just a taste of what Whistler has to offer. Whistler's golf season runs from May through October with golf and stay packages starting as low as $101/night.

Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.