Golfing in Kimberley: Play your heart out

These scenic Kootenay courses are enough to keep the most avid golfer entertained

A preferred destination for golfers, Kimberley is a small B.C. community that is bursting with life. If you come to this buzzing little town, make time to play all of these quality local golf courses.

Trickle Creek Golf Resort

With some of the most competitively priced stay and play packages available, Trickle Creek Golf Resort attracts plenty of visitors each season. Guests can stay at the deluxe Trickle Creek Lodge, and golf at the on-site course for a reasonable rate, while enjoying other amenities such as outdoor hot tubs, a heated pool and dining at Montana's Cookhouse. There are a number of packages available, with seasonal specials announced on a regular basis, so keep an eye on the resort website to find the right deal for you. Keep in mind that guests staying at the Trickle Creek Lodge receive priority access to tee times, reduced green fees at the Trickle Creek Golf Course, and they can also book tee times at all other major golf courses throughout the region.

Trickle Creek Golf Course was designed by Les Furber, and has won awards for being one of the top resort courses in Canada. Golfers can play 18 holes, leading them through alpine terrain and presenting a challenging yet fun experience. For more information, accommodation arrangement or to book your tee times, call 1-877-754-5462.

Bootleg Gap

Another 18-hole Les Furber masterpiece that will take your breath away, Bootleg Gap is one of Kimberley's finest courses. Golfers can play along the riverside, and soak up mountain views while they seek their next hole-in-one. If you work up an appetite, the Bootleg Grill is located on site, serving up a delicious menu for guests to enjoy between games. The restaurant offers hearty breakfast options, appetizers, healthy sandwiches, wraps, burgers and more - there is even a kids menu. In addition, there is a pro shop selling all the latest men's and ladies' golf apparel and equipment, so you can be well prepared to hit the green.

If you would like to brush up your skills, Bootleg Gap offers lessons with Trevor Simkins (Head Golf Professional) or Aaron Nelson (Associate Golf Professional). You can either get private instruction, or take lessons with a small or large group. Junior lessons are available for golfers 16 years and under, for an affordable rate.

To book your tee time, visit the Bootleg Gap website or call 250-427-7077.

Kimberley Golf Course

Originally created in 1924, the Kimberley Golf Club has a rich history and a well-earned reputation for being one of the most visually appealing and challenging courses in B.C. If you dream of playing amidst ponderosa pine trees and navigating rolling greens against a mountain backdrop, you are in the right place. Join the Yard Card Club, and you can enjoy discounted green fees, complimentary bag tag, a dozen golf balls and free first round, discounts on golf cart rental and pro shop purchases, and points for each dollar spent among other rewards.

The course hosts numerous events, including golf clinics, junior camp events and tournaments, to name a few. Some of the events are for members only, but you can easily fill out a membership application, which can be found on the course website.

All 18 holes of the course are immaculately maintained, and each has its own set of engaging challenges. Begin your game with the par-4 Chi-chi, a tricky hole that appeals to long hitters. Play your way through other exciting areas, such as the Ponderosa, Sidewinder and Newton's Pride - then end the game with Comin' Home - a tree-lined green with deep bunkers on either side.

You can book your tee times online, or call the course toll-free at 1-877-427-4161.