Golfing in the Okanagan
from WorldWeb.com Travel Guide

Kelowna first gained the nickname "Florida of the north" because of its fruit and vegetable export, but Canada's "fruit basket" has more in common with the Sunshine State than just apples and oranges. Like its southern counterpart, golfing is a huge industry in this region and with over 50 golf courses, ranging from championship 27-hole courses to recreational par threes, the Okanagan is one of Canada's premier golf destinations.

The *Okanagan is truly enchanting and unique from any other region in Canada. The area's varied and naturally carved landscape is incorporated into each course. Forests, mountains, orchards, water and massive sand dunes combine to create beautiful scenery and challenging obstacles. Add a little sunshine to this perfect mix and you have the ultimate recipe for courses that call out to golfers throughout North America. Les Furber, a renowned course architect, once joked about one of his Okanagan treasures as being "designed by nature, discovered by Les Furber". Golfing in the Okanagan isn't just a game - it's an experience.

Golf course owners throughout the region take their guests' golfing experience very seriously. Every course in the Okanagan, whether it is a championship or recreational course, is meticulously kept and guests are treated well. The Okanagan abounds with golf courses and golf experts ready to meet any need.

CLIMATE : WHEN TO VISIT

	Map of the Okanagan

Almost any time of year is great to visit the Okanagan and each season has its own personality.

Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon and Kamloops are the four major cities making up the Okanagan. Combined, they have a population of approximately 156,000 people - nearly half the entire population of the region.

The Okanagan Valley runs north and south between two high plateaus. The Okanagan Lake to the south, and the Shuswap Lake to the north, moderate the weather throughout. Consequently, the Okanagan enjoys some of the mildest weather in Canada year-round. Even in January, typically the coldest month of the year, the temperature averages more than -5ºC (23ºF) in the northeastern, most frigid part of the region. The golf season is much longer here then almost anywhere in Canada as a result. Although most courses are not open year-round, the average golf season extends from approximately the beginning of March to the end of November, weather permitting. The shoulder season is the best time to take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds. It can be difficult to plan a vacation around the shoulder season, however, because it is virtually impossible to predict.

The central part of the region, encompassing Kelowna and Peachland, enjoys an average of 2000 hours of sunshine annually and approximately 11 inches (28cm) of rain. During the summer months the climate is usually hot and dry, reaching temperatures up to the high 30ºC (86ºF to 102ºF) range. In other words, visitors should not set foot on the green without a good supply of sunscreen and a bottle of water - some of the areas are unforgiving and have little shade. Although it's not typical, rain has been known to surprise even the weathermen during the summer and golfers should come prepared for this by packing a raincoat. The fairways are always busy during this season and it is a good idea to book tee-times well in advance in order to avoid disappointment.

In a semi-arid climate, Kamloops is the epitome of hot and dry in the dead of summer. Kamloops on a hot day will leave visitors begging for air-conditioning. Don't be caught outside without a hat from June to August. Mild best describes the winters, with little precipitation.

Further north, closer to the Shuswap and Salmon Arm, the weather is more moderate. Summers are warm, averaging about 23ºC (73.4ºF), and winters are cool with lots of snow - there isn't much fluctuation either way in this part of the region, which sees an average of one-and-a-half metres of powder per annum.

The southern end of the Okanagan, including Osoyoos and Penticton, is the northern tip of the Great Basin Desert. This area boasts an almost tropical climate. Even bananas grow in this part of the region. Travellers beware: this region can get hot.

	Okanagan Peaches

With autumn's changing colours, fall is one of the most visually spectacular seasons in the Okanagan and a perfect time to enjoy a mid-afternoon round - especially for those who aren't partial to the summer's heat. The weather isn't as predictable at this time of year so packing some extra clothes will be in order, but it's worth it just to enjoy fewer crowds on the green. Fall is also harvest time in the valley and visitors can enjoy some of the freshest fruits and vegetables available. If possible, vacationers will want to stop off at one of the many roadside stands and bring some home with them.

EQUIPMENT AND RENTALS

Many of the golf courses have a fully equipped rental shop and pro shop on site. Pro shop staff should be able to help with any golfing need but guests should be prepared to pay top dollar here for their golf equipment. Depending on the establishment, it may be worthwhile to look in town for a local sporting goods shop - they are ordinarily less expensive and may offer the option of longer rental periods.

TOURS AND PACKAGES

For many golfers, signing up for a golf tour is one way to enjoy some of the best courses in the area without having to spend the time and energy to plan the trip. There are plenty of businesses that offer golf tours and packages; most of these companies have preferential tee-times and are well versed with all courses in the region and beyond. In addition to set packages, many offer the flexibility of customized packages. From basic one-day bookings, to deluxe bundles including airfare, vehicle rentals and accommodations, these companies pride themselves on providing the best experience possible to keep golfers coming back.

WHERE TO STAY

The Okanagan is brimming with accommodation possibilities. Everything from bed and breakfasts, motels and inns to four-star luxury hotels - there's no shortage of possibilities here. Resorts are more expensive, but offer full facilities and plenty of recreational possibilities. Those with golf courses usually extend discounted rates to guests.

For those on the move, many courses offer the convenience of an RV park as well as stay and play packages. Like golf courses, RV parks can be busy so it's best to research the area and keep alternative locations in mind. Visitors shouldn't rule out camping either - there are a multitude of campgrounds and many offer full facilities.

Being one of the largest cities and close to the centre of the Okanagan, Kelowna is one of the more popular summer destinations and therefore a little more expensive than some of the outlying areas. Visitors on a budget with access to a vehicle may want to consider staying outside of Kelowna. Any accommodation, regardless of where it is, should be booked well in advance just to be safe.

TRANSPORTATION

The Okanagan has several major highways running through it and therefore accessible from all directions. Penticton has a regional airport with daily non-stop flights to and from Calgary and Vancouver. Kelowna has an international airport, serviced by a nation-wide carrier and Kamloops is also equipped with flight service. Those travelling by plane may want to rent a car upon arrival, especially when staying a few days, this enables visitors to explore the region and travel between golf courses freely. Bus service is also available and terminals are spread throughout all major cities and most of the smaller outlying towns.

	Gallager's 6th Hole Photo Courstesy Gallagher's Golf & Country Club

Rail tours are a great way to explore the Okanagan in style. In addition to taking the guesswork out of discovering the best views in the area, most are reasonably priced and worth every penny. Many of these trains also feature wine cars and local wineries are showcased here. As travellers move through the mouth of the valley they can catch a glimpse into nature's soul. Majestic mountains, crystal blue creeks and a skyline that seems to stretch forever, most will agree that this is no ordinary trip.

GOLF COURSES

For the Avid Golfer
For the more discerning and experienced golfer, the Okanagan area is thriving with championship 18-hole courses offering a challenge for even the most seasoned player. These courses are more expensive than any others in the area, but they offer full facilities and top-notch service. Each is equipped with a clubhouse, pro shop and high-quality dining. Visitors can expect to pay anywhere from CDN $45 to $95 for one round. Bringing a camera while at any of these courses is a must - they all offer some of the most spectacular views of the area. Most of these clubs also have a dress code so visitors will want to leave the t-shirts and jeans in the suitcase. Generally, the best rule for dress is slacks and a golf shirt. Many courses have footwear restrictions as well. Enquire with each one individually.

Gallaghers Canyon Golf and Country Club is highly rated as one of the best in the country. This championship 18-hole, par 72 course was designed by Les Furber and Bill Robinson. Located close to Kelowna, an amazing view greets golfers at the 7th tee while playing along the edge of a canyon. This course also offers a smaller, less challenging 9-hole course, the Pinnacle, which is great for a quick round or a warm-up before the big game.

Predator Ridge, just south of Vernon, has won many accolades including the #3 best golf resort in Canada in 2000, by SCOREGolf Magazine. It was also the 2000 host of the Export "A" skins game featuring golf pros Mike Weir, Fred Couples and Sergio Garcia, to name a few. Upgrades over the last few years have contributed to its recent success. In addition to great golfing this resort features hiking trails, a world-class golf academy, swimming pools, hot tubs and much more.

Another Furber creation, the Salmon Arm Golf Club is revered as one of the jewel courses among golfers craving a challenge. The course circles the base of Mount Ida, an extinct volcano, and there are plenty of natural hazards to negotiate. The fairways and greens follow the contours of the natural surroundings, lined by towering fur and pine trees.

	Enjoying a meal on the deck Photo Courtesy Osoyoos Golf & Country Club - Gord Wylie

Three distinct 9-hole courses make up the Osoyoos Golf and Country Club situated in the Okanagan's south. Park 9, the most established of the three courses, flaunts lush fairways lined with mature trees and surrounded by a mountain backdrop. Photo opportunities abound as wildlife can often be viewed on this course. The Meadows Nine demands accuracy and long drives to make par. Sagebrush and rock bluffs make for a challenge on Desert Nine, the final of the three courses.

The Rivershore Estates and Golf Links has been called one of the best championship courses in Kamloops. The host of the 1999 RCGA Men's National Amateur Championship, Rivershore has received many accolades including a 4-star rating for Places to Play in Golf Digest. This course was designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones and is situated above the South Thompson River. Sagebrush covered hills and a naturally challenging terrain will keep most golfers coming back again and again.

Graham Cooke was the mastermind behind The Harvest Golf Club, located in Kelowna - a course challenging enough for even the most ardent golfer, but whose front tees welcome individuals making their debut in the sport. This course weaves through 285 acres of orchards. Golfers lucky enough to play this course during the spring are rewarded with a great view of the orchards beginning to flower.

Also in Kelowna, the Okanagan Golf Club, is one of the busiest and a favorite amongst the locals, especially the retired population. The Club is comprised of two distinct 18-hole championship courses, each with their own challenges. The Bear - modeled after Jack Nicklaus' Golden Bear Design - presents a lush and varied layout. This course goes through a number of elevation changes enhancing the experience. The Quail, a Les Furber creation, was designed to challenge and inspire. The forward tees welcome all levels of play.

	The Quail Golf Course Photo Courtesy of Okanagan Golf Club

For the Intermediate Golfer
There are many golf courses in the Okanagan that offer a challenge for experienced golfers with enough flexibility to accommodate players who are new to the sport. These courses are also, for the most part, easier on the pocketbook but still offer most of the same amenities. Green fees for these courses range from approximately CDN $30 to $85. A majority of Okanagan courses fit into this category.

When it opened in 1997, Golf Digest named The Dunes "Best Course in Western Canada". Designed by golf architect Graham Cooke, The Dunes is situated over massive sand dunes in Kamloops, some reaching depths of over 25 feet. Natural hazards make this an enjoyable but challenging course. Sun Rivers, also in Kamloops, is truly a course designed for all levels of play. More than 2,000 yards (1,820 metres) separate the back tees from the front. Those wishing to improve their long game will enjoy this course. With a combined total yardage of over 7,000 (6,370 metres), it is sure to offer a challenge to anyone.

The Sunset Ranch Golf and Country Club, located close to Kelowna, is another course noted for its ability to cater to all levels of play. Accommodations and a variety of outdoor and indoor activities make the Lake Okanagan Resort a well-rounded vacation. Other popular courses include: Fairview Mountain Golf Club, located in Oliver, 28 km (17 mi) of Osoyoos; Ponderosa Golf Club, located close to Peachland and the Vernon Golf and Country Club. Eaglepoint Golf and Country Club, located in Kamloops, offers five tees per hole and is sure to accommodate the level of all players.

Family Golf Excursions
Vacationing with the family does not have to be devoid of golfing. The Okanagan is full of possibilities that will keep everyone happy. For children who can hold their own with a pitching wedge, Sunpeaks Resort and Golf Course, north of Kamloops, welcomes players aged 10 and over and offers discounted family passes. Sunpeaks boasts a 9-hole course situated at the bottom of the valley intertwined with forests. Additional holes are being added in the future. Kelowna is home to Lake Okanagan Resort, another course displaying a welcome mat for families. Although these courses may be too challenging for the little ones, there are plenty of other "kid friendly" activities within the resort.

The Okanagan is home to a plethora of golf courses offering the convenience of an RV park for visitors on the move. Many of these courses, including the 18-hole Lacarya Golf Course, located just south of Clearwater, can cater to reunions, tournaments and large family excursions. Additional courses equipped with an RV park include: the Royal York Golf Course and RV Park, situated close to the Armstrong area, 20 km (12mi) north of Vernon, within minutes of Mara and Shuswap; and the Birchdale Par 3 Golf Course, located in the quiet community of Grindrod, 20 km (12mi) southeast of Salmon Arm. the Coldstream Golf Course, located in the Lumby area just 24 km (15mi) east of Vernon, offes a campground. All of these courses offer some equipment rentals and most have a practice green and driving range.

Playing a round of mini golf is a great way to spend an afternoon with the family and there are plenty of options in the Okanagan. Kelowna's 19 Greens Fun and Sport Centre offers more then just mini golf. Even the most serious of golfers can work on their short game at one of the two 18-hole putting courses. Kids not into golf at all? Visitors will also find an array of other activities here, including a climbing wall and x-treme bounce. Scandia Golf and Games, located off of highway 97 North in Kelowna, is a total family fun centre featuring indoor and outdoor mini-golf, large arcade with over 130 games, billiards, theatre, batting range, bumper cars, restaurant and more. Other mini-golf courses include Rattlesnake Canyon Adventure Golf, located on Main Street in Osoyoos and McArthur Island Golf Centre in Kamloops, which also has a 9-hole executive course, pro shop and restaurant.

	The 13th Hole of The Bear Photo Courtesy of Okanagan Golf Club - The Bear

In addition to being family-oriented, most of these courses are reasonable priced, costing anywhere from CDN $6 to $27. Resorts will cost more and it is best to inquire with each one separately.

Whatever the level of play, there are so many golf courses in the Okanagan it's hard to choose between them. So grab that 9-iron and stay a few days - it is worth it to experience more than just one of these amazing courses.

* Okanagan refers to the Okanagan and Thompson-Okanagan regions.