Spoiled for choice

Planning a golf vacation? Try the Canadian Rockies golf-and-resort consortium

North America is full of touted golf destinations, but golfers in the western provinces and states will find that some of the continent’s best courses are located close to home. The Canadian Rockies golf-and-resort consortium (CRG) is comprised of six of the best golf courses found in Alberta. These courses have won multiple awards praising their high-quality golfing experiences. “The Canadian rockies aren’t the first place people think of when planning a golf vacation,” said Gordon Schultz, spokesperson and chief secretary for the CRG. “The most common feedback I hear from golfers is, ‘I had no idea this was here.’” h3. The fairways at Fairmont and more “Each course has a unique look,” said Schultz. “The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course, designed by Stanley Thompson in 1925, looks radically different than the Canmore Golf & Curling Club, designed by Les Furber.” Other clubs in the CRG include the Fairmont Banff Springs, Kananaskis Country Golf Course, Silvertip Golf Resort and Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club. What do the clubs have in common? Mountains towering above the fairways, panoramic views, wildlife sharing the fairways with golfers, Audubon certification and unforgettable golf. The courses vary in difficulty; Schultz said that Silvertip is the most difficult of the courses, with a slope over 150, while Canmore might appeal to more casual golfers looking for a challenge. With the exception of Jasper, the courses are located within easy driving distance of each other, so it is easy to plan a tour of the CRG’s courses. The CRG is about more than just golf; other factors make a visit all the more enjoyable. Schultz gave an example of the vast number of restaurants in the Banff and Jasper area. Silvertip has its Rustica Steakhouse, a well-regarded place to grab a bite to eat. There is also a historic aspect to Banff and Jasper, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. “The CRG speaks to the quality of golf in the area and gives wonderful variety,” said Schultz. To learn more about the CRG, visit "www.canadianrockiesgolf.ca(http://www.canadianrockiesgolf.ca)":http://www.canadianrockiesgolf.ca.