Considering that Cape Breton Island is the birthplace of golf in Nova Scotia, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that some of the best golf courses in the province can be found on the island. From the first humble round played on a former Sydney pasture in 1895, golfing in Cape Breton has evolved into a premiere golf destination, attracting golfers from around the globe. Cape Breton Island has been recognized by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine as one of the best golf destinations in the world, with courses that both challenge and delight.
The Spectacular Six - Cape Breton’s Golf Courses
The most famous of Cape Breton’s golf courses, also known as the Spectacular Six, are:
Cabot Links
The Cabot Links course is set in a rugged, oceanfront landscape, on linksland running firm and fast. Cabot Links, Canada’s only authentic links, where the holes ‘link’ the village of Inverness to the sea. Five of Cabot Links’ holes play directly adjacent to the beach and every hole offers an ocean view.
Highland Links
Located amongst the breathtaking vistas of the Cabot Trail and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park at Ingonish Beach, Highland Links has been named Canada’s number one public course by both SCOREgolf and Golf magazines.
Bell Bay Golf Club
When it opened in 1998, Bell Bay Golf Club, in picturesque Baddeck, was recognized as the “Best New Course in Canada” by Golf Digest and, more recently, as the 40th best course in Canada by SCOREgolf magazine.
Le Portage
Le Portage owes both its name and its scenery to the quaint Acadian village of Cheticamp, on the western shore of Cape Breton Island, where its courses overlook the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and are framed by the Cape Breton Highlands mountain range.
The Lakes
The Lakes Golf Club has become Cape Breton Island's most played course in just two seasons. Graham Cooke's world class design features stunning views of the Bras d'Or Lakes as shifts in elevation and wind direction challenge the golfer.
Dundee Resort and Golf Club
Rounding out the ‘Spectacular Six’ is Dundee Resort and Golf Club, where almost every hole offers a spectacular view of the nearby Bras d’Or Lakes.
Cape Breton Golf Courses
Cape Breton is home to a number of impressive 9- and 18-hole golf courses including:
Cape Breton Golf Packages
Many Cape Breton golf packages include a round of golf at one or more of these popular courses, with dining and accommodations at a nearby inn or bed and breakfast. So, while you’re experiencing some of the best golf in the world, those in your family who prefer activities off the green can easily spend the day experiencing the beauty of Cape Breton. It’s the perfect vacation for any golf lover!