Still growing strong. That's the scouting report on Kelowna Springs Golf Club, a water-logged layout in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley that -- just like the orchards and wineries that this area is famous for -- is becoming proof that good things come to those who wait. The trees add definition, but it's the wet stuff that brings danger to this 6,256-yard, par-71 layout.
If you're looking for an old-school layout, you're at the wrong place. In fact, you're probably in the wrong part of the world. What you'll find at the Golf Club at The Rise, in British Columbia, is four hours of golf that won't remind you of any place you've been before. Every hole is a bit of an adventure. Like a roller coaster, the ups just build excitement for the next plummet.
The big news for spa buffs is the debut of Sparkling Hill Resort in the Okanagan Valley, a dazzling property with a must-see-to-believe spa. Sparking Hill was designed in the mold of a European wellness hotel. Guests are encouraged to come for an extended stay. Nearby, Predator Ridge Golf Resort has its own smaller, functional spa and salon, recently remodeled and run by AVEDA.
Sibling rivalry is bound to ensue at Predator Ridge Golf Resort in Vernon, B.C., after the opening this year of the Ridge course. It complements the established Predator course, long an institution on the Canadian scene. The new 18 holes were built with scenery and playability in mind. And architect Doug Carrick added a landmark step to the resort's growth.
The Ridge course at Predator Ridge Golf Resort is a brand new design in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley. Opened in the summer of 2010, the course was designed by Canadian architect Doug Carrick. Compared to the original Predator course at Predator Ridge, the Ridge is a bit less penal, with more forgiving fairways and greens.
With the new Ridge course opening in 2010, the original course at Predator Ridge Golf Resort is now the Predator. The Les Furber design opened in 1991 and soon became known as the most difficult test in the Okanagan Valley, a half hour north of Kelowna, the main airport of the region. It is host to many of the area's professional events.