loading...
PO BOX 960
Banff, Alberta
T1L1J4
Region: Canadian Rockies
(403) 762-6801
Established: 1929
Classification: Resort
Holes: 27
Designer: Stanley Thompson
Arguably the most expensive golf course ever to be built when it opened in 1929, Banff Springs is regarded as one of the best created by designer Stanley Thompson.
Be sure to play the so-called “Stanley Thompson 18,” rather than the more modern – and significantly less impressive “Tunnel” nine that was added by Bill Robinson in the 1980s.
The lure of Banff is a wide, impressively bunkered course which flirts with the Bow River and rests under the majestic peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle.
Its most famous hole is its fourth (previously the eighth hole before the routing change), called the Devil’s Cauldron (see right). A one-shot par three played over a crystal clear glacial lake to a green bounded by treacherous bunkers on all sides. At 200-yards, the hole is as deceitful as its name suggests.
But the Cauldron is only one reason to see the course. Though recent changes, including a rerouting of holes in 1998 to allow for the inclusion of a new clubhouse and a small range, have not always been well considered, Banff Springs’ aesthetic charm and challenge means it continues as one of the best mountain golf courses in the world.
Perhaps the most overrated golf course in NA. If you want to go play a very average golf course (except Devil’s Cauldron), with exceptional views and don’t mind taking 5 hours to do it, Banff Springs is the place.
loading...
The most stunning course I have played. Amazing views on almost all the holes. Neat seeing elk everywhere too.
loading...