Explore the best Canadian parks with nearby golf lodges and resorts, combining natural beauty with world-class golfing. Discover top destinations for park adventures and luxury golf stays in Canada.
Introduction
Canada is famous for its stunning parks, breathtaking landscapes, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Beyond hiking, camping, and exploring wildlife, many travelers are now looking to combine their love for nature with a luxurious and relaxing golf experience. This has given rise to a growing trend: park golf resorts in Canada. These unique destinations blend the beauty of Canadian wilderness with the sophistication of golf lodges and resorts, offering the perfect getaway for both adventurers and golf enthusiasts.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best Canadian parks with nearby golf lodges and resorts. We’ll look at the benefits of choosing these destinations, highlight their unique features, and provide tips on planning a memorable trip. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, these spots will give you the ideal mix of relaxation, adventure, and sport.
Why Choose Park Golf Resorts in Canada
When it comes to planning a holiday, travelers often look for variety. Parks offer scenic trails, fresh air, and outdoor activities, while golf resorts provide luxury, comfort, and recreation. Combining both means you get the best of both worlds.
Connection with Nature and Leisure
Park golf resorts in Canada allow travelers to immerse themselves in pristine wilderness while still enjoying access to modern amenities. The contrast between playing golf on lush fairways and hiking rugged park trails creates a balanced experience.
Stress-Free Planning for Families and Groups
For families or large groups, these destinations provide multiple activities in one place. While some guests may enjoy golfing, others can go exploring, kayaking, or simply relax at the lodge. This makes planning much easier and ensures everyone is entertained.
Year-Round Attractions
Although golf is often associated with the warmer months, many of these resorts stay open year-round. Winter transforms nearby parks into snowshoeing or skiing destinations, while the resorts provide cozy retreats. This flexibility makes them a great choice for both summer and winter holidays.
Top Canadian Parks with Nearby Golf Lodges and Resorts
Now let’s look at some of the most popular parks where golf resorts and lodges are located nearby. These destinations are known for combining the beauty of Canadian wilderness with world-class golfing experiences.
Banff National Park, Alberta
Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort
Banff National Park in Alberta is one of the crown jewels of Canada’s natural wonders. Established in 1885, it was the country’s first national park and remains a favorite among travelers for its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. Nestled within this spectacular backdrop is the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort, often referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies.” Known worldwide for its luxury and elegance, the resort offers not only an unforgettable stay but also a world-class golfing experience that appeals to both beginners and seasoned players.
The Banff Springs Golf Course, designed by the legendary golf architect Stanley Thompson, is celebrated as one of the most scenic courses in the world. Its layout weaves through the dramatic terrain of the Canadian Rockies, with fairways framed by towering peaks and holes that overlook the pristine Bow River. The 18-hole championship course is designed to challenge golfers with its elevation changes, strategic bunkers, and natural hazards, all while rewarding them with views that are nothing short of breathtaking. Every round feels like both a sporting challenge and a sightseeing tour, as golfers often spot elk, deer, and even the occasional bear from a safe distance along the course.
But the experience doesn’t stop with the golf itself. Staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs means immersing yourself in luxury accommodations and enjoying first-class amenities. The resort features elegant guest rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a rejuvenating spa where travelers can unwind after a day on the greens or exploring the park. Its reputation as a premier destination for relaxation and outdoor adventure makes it a top choice for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Nature Activities in Banff
For those seeking variety, Banff National Park provides endless activities beyond the fairways. Lake Louise, with its turquoise waters, is perfect for canoeing or simply admiring from the shore. Adventurers can hike trails like Johnston Canyon or Sulphur Mountain, each offering panoramic views that showcase the raw beauty of the Rockies. Wildlife enthusiasts are also in for a treat, as the park is home to grizzly bears, moose, mountain goats, and a wide range of bird species.
Winter transforms the park into a wonderland, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort, all within a short drive from the Fairmont Banff Springs. This means the destination is not just for summer golf enthusiasts but also for travelers who enjoy year-round outdoor adventure.
A Complete Balance of Sport and Nature
What makes Banff particularly unique is the balance it strikes between luxury and wilderness. A morning might begin with a challenging round of golf overlooking the Rockies, followed by an afternoon hike through alpine meadows or a soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. This combination of experiences allows visitors to craft a vacation that suits their personal rhythm, whether they prefer active adventures, peaceful relaxation, or a mix of both.
Ultimately, Banff National Park and the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort offer more than just a golf trip—they provide a chance to connect with nature, experience the grandeur of the Rockies, and enjoy world-class hospitality. It is a destination that proves why Canada is one of the best countries in the world for those seeking both adventure and refinement.
Jasper National Park, Alberta
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course
Jasper National Park, located in the heart of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, is Canada’s largest national park in the Rockies and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its pristine wilderness, glacier-fed lakes, and wide valleys, Jasper offers travelers an unforgettable blend of rugged adventure and serene landscapes. Amid this natural beauty lies the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, a legendary mountain resort that combines rustic charm with luxury. At its heart is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course, one of the most celebrated golf courses in Canada and a favorite destination for golfers who want to tee off in the midst of untouched wilderness.
The Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course, also designed by Stanley Thompson, opened in 1925 and has consistently been ranked as one of the best resort courses in the country. Its reputation stems from a brilliant design that makes use of the natural landscape—rolling fairways framed by tall pines, dramatic mountain backdrops, and holes that weave alongside sparkling lakes and rivers. The course’s 18 holes are both challenging and scenic, offering a test of skill while rewarding players with unparalleled views. Unlike urban courses, golfing here feels like stepping into a natural sanctuary, where elk and other wildlife often wander across the fairways, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.
The Lodge Experience
Staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is an adventure in itself. The resort spans 700 acres along the shores of Lac Beauvert, with a collection of charming cedar chalets and luxury cabins spread across the property. Guests can enjoy upscale dining, a full-service spa, and a range of activities that extend far beyond golf. Whether you want to relax by the lake, paddle a canoe, or take part in yoga sessions with mountain views, the lodge provides countless opportunities to unwind and connect with nature.
Outdoor Experiences in Jasper
Jasper National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond golf, visitors can explore Maligne Lake, one of the most photographed spots in the Rockies. Its deep-blue waters are perfect for boat cruises, kayaking, or simply admiring the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Hiking trails like the Valley of the Five Lakes or the Skyline Trail provide unforgettable treks through alpine meadows and glacial valleys. For thrill-seekers, the park also offers opportunities for white-water rafting, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Jasper is also home to the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, making it one of the best places on the planet for stargazing. Each year, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival attracts astronomers and visitors from around the globe who come to witness the brilliance of the Milky Way in its full glory.
Balance of Luxury and Wilderness
What sets Jasper apart is its slower pace compared to nearby Banff. The park has a more relaxed, less crowded feel, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness without the rush of heavy tourism. Pairing that serenity with the elegance of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge ensures a vacation that combines raw natural beauty with refined comfort.
For golfers, adventurers, and families alike, Jasper National Park and the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course offer an unforgettable experience. It’s a destination where you can spend the morning golfing among towering peaks, the afternoon exploring turquoise lakes, and the evening gazing at the stars from the warmth of a luxury lodge. This balance of sport, relaxation, and exploration makes Jasper one of the most unique park golf resorts in Canada.
Photo by Nunzio Guerrera on Unsplash
Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Cabot Cape Breton Golf Resort
On the rugged eastern coast of Nova Scotia lies Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a breathtaking landscape where mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, sweeping coastal views, and the world-renowned Cabot Trail, the park is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and adventure. Just beyond the park boundaries sits Cabot Cape Breton, one of the top golf resorts in the world. With its award-winning courses—Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs—it has become a must-visit for golfers looking to combine challenging play with some of the most spectacular scenery Canada has to offer.
Golfing at Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs
Cabot Links holds the distinction of being Canada’s first true links course, inspired by the classic seaside layouts of Scotland and Ireland. Its design takes full advantage of the windswept coastal landscape, with holes running along sandy dunes and overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Playing here is an authentic links golf experience—where ocean breezes, firm fairways, and natural hazards test players’ creativity and precision.
Just minutes away, Cabot Cliffs raises the bar even higher. Perched atop towering cliffs with panoramic ocean views, it has been consistently ranked among the best golf courses in the world. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the course challenges golfers with dramatic elevation changes, rolling terrain, and cliff-top holes that leave players in awe. For many, standing on the 16th tee at Cabot Cliffs—looking out over the vast Atlantic—is one of the most unforgettable moments in golf.
The Resort Experience
Beyond the courses, Cabot Cape Breton offers a luxury resort experience that makes it the perfect complement to nearby Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Guests can stay in modern seaside lodges, upscale villas, or cozy guest rooms, all designed with a balance of comfort and natural beauty. Dining at the resort celebrates the region’s culinary traditions, with fresh Atlantic seafood, local produce, and fine wines creating memorable meals after a day on the greens or trails.
Outdoor Adventures in Cape Breton Highlands
For those looking to explore beyond the resort, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers endless adventure. The Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Canada, leading visitors along a dramatic headland where views stretch across the Gulf of St. Lawrence and whales are often spotted offshore. Other trails wind through Acadian forests, highland plateaus, and river canyons, providing options for every skill level.
Wildlife is abundant in the park, with chances to see moose, bald eagles, and even black bears. For culture lovers, the surrounding area is rich in Celtic heritage, with live music, community festivals, and traditional storytelling woven into local life. Driving the Cabot Trail itself is a highlight—an iconic road trip with twists and turns that reveal one jaw-dropping vista after another.
A Complete Maritime Escape
What makes Cape Breton so special is the seamless way it combines world-class golf, untouched natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences. Visitors can spend their mornings teeing off at Cabot Cliffs, their afternoons hiking the Skyline Trail or exploring fishing villages, and their evenings enjoying live fiddle music at a local pub. The balance of luxury and authenticity makes Cabot Cape Breton and Cape Breton Highlands National Park a destination unlike any other.
For travelers seeking a golf getaway that is as much about the journey as it is about the game, Cape Breton delivers in every way. It is not just a resort stay or a park visit—it is a full Maritime escape where the spirit of Nova Scotia shines through every experience.
Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island
Brudenell River and Dundarave Golf Courses
Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada’s smallest province, is known for its red sandstone cliffs, rolling green fields, and pristine beaches. At the heart of this coastal beauty is Prince Edward Island National Park, a protected stretch along the island’s north shore. Famous for its sandy beaches, dunes, and wildlife, the park offers a peaceful natural escape that pairs perfectly with PEI’s growing reputation as one of Canada’s premier golf destinations. Just a short drive away, the Rodd Brudenell River Resort provides visitors with direct access to two of the island’s most celebrated courses—Brudenell River and Dundarave. Together, they make PEI a must-visit destination for those looking to blend seaside relaxation with championship golf.
Brudenell River Golf Course
The Brudenell River Golf Course is a scenic, player-friendly layout that winds along the tranquil Brudenell River. Designed with wide fairways and gently rolling terrain, it offers a forgiving yet engaging round of golf, making it ideal for players of all skill levels. Known for its six par-threes, six par-fours, and six par-fives, the course provides a balanced and unique experience. The views of the river and surrounding countryside create a sense of calm and connection with nature, making each hole a pleasure to play.
Image by 999kasya999 from Pixabay
Dundarave Golf Course
Just next door, Dundarave Golf Course presents a more challenging test. Designed by Canadian architects Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, this course contrasts sharply with Brudenell’s gentle flow. Its layout is marked by bold bunkering, wide fairways, and strategic water hazards, all set against the backdrop of PEI’s iconic red sandstone. The natural setting of Dundarave makes it both a visual delight and a serious challenge, attracting golfers who want to test their skills on a championship-level course.
The Resort Experience
Guests who stay at Rodd Brudenell River Resort enjoy more than just golf. The resort sits on the tranquil riverside, offering a full-service spa, swimming pools, and multiple dining options that highlight PEI’s famous seafood. Fresh lobster, mussels, and oysters are often featured on the menu, giving guests a true taste of the island. Accommodations range from comfortable hotel-style rooms to spacious cottages, making the resort appealing to both couples on a romantic getaway and families seeking a relaxing holiday.
Park and Coastal Adventures
Beyond the fairways, Prince Edward Island National Park offers plenty to explore. Visitors can walk along sandy beaches, cycle the Gulf Shore Parkway, or hike trails through coastal dunes and forests. Birdwatchers flock to the park to see species like the piping plover, while history enthusiasts can visit Green Gables, the inspiration for L.M. Montgomery’s famous novel Anne of Green Gables, located just outside the park.
The island’s small size makes it easy to explore further afield as well. Scenic drives lead to fishing villages, lighthouses, and farmers’ markets, while the island’s vibrant culture is celebrated in music festivals and artisan shops throughout the summer months.
A Coastal Golf and Nature Retreat
What sets Prince Edward Island apart from other golf destinations in Canada is the way its courses blend seamlessly with the coastal landscape. Brudenell River and Dundarave, combined with the beauty of PEI National Park, create a retreat where travelers can enjoy golf, nature, and culture all in one place. Whether it’s a morning on the greens, an afternoon on the beach, or an evening enjoying fresh seafood by the water, the island offers a balanced and memorable escape.
For golfers who also crave the calm and beauty of the ocean, Prince Edward Island provides a unique opportunity to enjoy both. It is a destination where relaxation and recreation are woven together, making it one of Canada’s most charming park golf resorts.
Mont-Tremblant National Park, Quebec
Mont Tremblant Golf Resorts
Set in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, Mont-Tremblant National Park is one of Canada’s most beloved outdoor destinations. Known for its vast forests, sparkling lakes, and towering peaks, the park offers year-round adventure for travelers who enjoy hiking, canoeing, skiing, and wildlife watching. Just outside the park sits the vibrant Mont Tremblant Resort, home to some of the province’s best accommodations and two world-class golf courses—Le Diable and Le Géant. This combination of natural beauty and challenging fairways makes Tremblant an essential stop for golfers looking to combine sport with exploration of Quebec’s wilderness.
Le Diable Golf Course
Le Diable, meaning “The Devil,” lives up to its name with a bold and demanding layout. The course stretches across vast fairways bordered by red-sand bunkers and dense forest, creating both visual drama and strategic challenges. Designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, Le Diable rewards long hitters but punishes poor accuracy, making it a favorite for golfers who enjoy risk-and-reward play. The striking scenery of the Laurentians provides a stunning backdrop for every hole, ensuring that even the toughest rounds feel unforgettable.
Le Géant Golf Course
In contrast, Le Géant—“The Giant”—offers a more forgiving yet equally scenic experience. Designed by architect Thomas McBroom, this course is known for its elevated tees and panoramic mountain views. Golfers are treated to sweeping vistas of Tremblant Lake and the surrounding peaks as they make their way through rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Le Géant’s design blends seamlessly with the landscape, giving players a sense of immersion in the natural beauty of Quebec while still offering an engaging test of skill.
The Tremblant Resort Experience
Staying at the Mont Tremblant Resort means much more than just playing golf. The resort’s pedestrian village is filled with shops, restaurants, and activities that keep visitors entertained long after the final putt. Accommodations range from cozy lodges to luxury hotels, and dining options highlight Quebec’s culinary heritage—from classic French-Canadian dishes like poutine and tourtière to fine dining experiences featuring local ingredients.
For relaxation, the resort offers spas and wellness centers where guests can recharge between outdoor activities. Families particularly love Tremblant because it caters to all ages, with kids’ programs, adventure parks, and seasonal festivals bringing energy to the village atmosphere.
Outdoor Adventures in Mont-Tremblant National Park
Beyond the fairways, Mont-Tremblant National Park provides endless opportunities for exploration. Canoeing and kayaking on Lake Tremblant are popular in summer, while the park’s extensive trail system offers hikes ranging from gentle walks to challenging ascents. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter deer, beavers, and even black bears in their natural habitats.
In winter, Tremblant transforms into a ski paradise, boasting one of the top ski resorts in eastern North America. Snowshoeing, ice climbing, and dog sledding add to the variety of activities available during the colder months, making it a true four-season destination.
A Four-Season Golf and Adventure Retreat
What makes Mont-Tremblant unique is the way it blends outdoor adventure, golf, and culture in one compact, easily accessible location. A visitor can spend the morning golfing at Le Géant, the afternoon paddling a canoe through Mont-Tremblant National Park, and the evening enjoying live music in the pedestrian village. This balance of activities makes it a versatile destination for couples, families, and groups of friends.
For travelers who want a golf vacation that combines luxury, natural beauty, and cultural richness, Mont-Tremblant stands out as one of the best choices in Canada. It is not just a golf resort—it is a complete four-season escape where every day offers new possibilities.
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
Golf Resorts Around Algonquin
Algonquin Provincial Park, located in central Ontario, is one of Canada’s most iconic natural destinations. Covering nearly 7,700 square kilometers, it is renowned for its dense forests, sparkling lakes, and rich wildlife. Known as a gateway to the wilderness for both Ontarians and international visitors, Algonquin attracts hikers, canoeists, and campers seeking a deep connection with nature. While the park itself does not feature golf courses, its surrounding regions—particularly Muskoka and Huntsville—are home to some of the province’s best golf resorts. The combination of Algonquin’s rugged wilderness and Muskoka’s refined hospitality makes this area a perfect destination for those who want to balance outdoor adventure with luxurious golfing experiences. A standout option is Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, offering two excellent courses just a short drive from Algonquin’s gates.
Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course
The Deerhurst Highlands course is widely regarded as one of Ontario’s premier golf destinations. Designed by Robert Cupp and Thomas McBroom, it features dramatic elevation changes, rocky outcrops, and holes carved into the natural Muskoka landscape. Golfers are treated to wide fairways that roll through forests and around granite cliffs, with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The design emphasizes strategy, requiring accuracy and creativity, making each round both challenging and rewarding.
Deerhurst Lakeside Golf Course
For those seeking a more relaxed round, Deerhurst also offers the Lakeside Course. This shorter, nine-hole layout is family-friendly and ideal for beginners or travelers looking for a quicker game. While less demanding than Highlands, it still offers beautiful scenery, with views of Peninsula Lake and Muskoka’s forested hills. It’s a great option for casual golfers who want to enjoy the sport without the intensity of a championship course.
The Resort Experience
Deerhurst Resort itself is a destination worth visiting even beyond its golf courses. Guests can stay in comfortable lakeside accommodations and enjoy a wide range of amenities, from fine dining to a full-service spa. The resort’s restaurants highlight Ontario flavors, with locally inspired menus that often feature farm-to-table ingredients. Outdoor activities are plentiful, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and horseback riding, making it an excellent choice for families or groups with diverse interests.
Classic Algonquin Adventures
Algonquin Provincial Park provides the wilderness counterpart to Muskoka’s refined resort experience. Visitors can spend the morning hiking through dense forests on trails such as Booth’s Rock or Centennial Ridges, where views of lakes and rolling hills stretch for miles. Canoeing is perhaps the park’s most iconic activity, with thousands of interconnected lakes and rivers offering endless paddling routes. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight—moose, wolves, and beavers are frequently spotted in their natural habitats.
In autumn, Algonquin becomes one of the best places in Canada to experience fall foliage. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows draw photographers and nature lovers from around the world. Winter transforms the park again, offering snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even dog sledding for those who want to experience its beauty year-round.
A Perfect Balance of Wilderness and Golf
What makes Algonquin and Muskoka so appealing is the balance they provide. Travelers can immerse themselves in the raw, untouched wilderness of Algonquin during the day and then retreat to the comfort and luxury of a golf resort in Huntsville or Muskoka by evening. This duality allows visitors to customize their trip—one day might include a morning paddle through Algonquin’s lakes followed by an afternoon round of golf, while another could combine hiking trails with an evening spa treatment at Deerhurst.
For travelers seeking a vacation that offers both rugged adventure and refined recreation, Algonquin Provincial Park paired with Muskoka golf resorts delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy Canada’s wilderness without giving up the comfort and leisure of world-class golf.
Benefits of Staying at Park Golf Resorts in Canada
When you choose a park golf resort, you don’t just get a place to stay—you gain a complete experience.
Relaxation and Adventure in One Trip
Instead of choosing between a rugged outdoor vacation and a luxury holiday, you can have both at once. Golfing in the morning and hiking in the afternoon provides an ideal balance.
Culinary Delights and Local Culture
Many resorts feature restaurants that showcase local Canadian flavors, from Alberta beef to Atlantic seafood. Staying at these destinations also allows you to engage with regional cultures and traditions.
Comfort After a Day Outdoors
After a long day of activities, returning to a cozy lodge or a luxurious resort ensures comfort and rest, which is often missing in traditional camping trips.
Tips for Planning a Park Golf Resort Vacation in Canada
Planning ahead can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Choose the Right Season
Summer and early fall are the best times for golfing, but winter resorts offer skiing, skating, and snowshoeing. Your choice of season will determine the type of experience you’ll have.
Book Early for Popular Resorts
Destinations like Banff, Jasper, and Cape Breton fill up quickly during peak seasons. Booking early helps you secure the best accommodations and tee times.
Balance Your Itinerary
Don’t spend all your time on the course. Explore the nearby parks to fully experience Canada’s natural beauty. A balanced itinerary makes for a more memorable vacation.
Look for Package Deals
Some resorts offer packages that include accommodations, golf rounds, and even guided park tours. These can provide better value for travelers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best destinations can disappoint if not planned properly.
Ignoring Park Rules and Permits
Each national park has its own regulations, and ignoring them can lead to fines or missed opportunities. Always check entry requirements and activity permits.
Overpacking or Underpacking
Golf and park activities require different gear. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for both.
Forgetting to Reserve Tee Times
Courses near major parks are often in high demand. Failing to reserve your tee time could mean missing out on the golfing experience entirely.
Conclusion
Canada offers a unique combination of natural beauty and luxury when it comes to park golf resorts. From the iconic Rockies in Alberta to the coastal cliffs of Nova Scotia, each destination provides a blend of world-class golfing and breathtaking park adventures. By choosing the right season, planning ahead, and balancing activities, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience that satisfies both your love for the outdoors and your passion for golf.
If you’re looking for a vacation that combines wilderness exploration with refined relaxation, park golf resorts in Canada are the perfect choice.
Also read our recent blog – Best Portable Gazebo for Camping and Park Adventures
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