As the 2014 golf season winds to a close across Canada and the Northern USA, I was thankful to have the opportunity to squeeze in one more late season golf course visit. Nestled away at the south end of the Bruce Peninsula (two hours northwest of the Greater Toronto Area), sits Cobble Beach, one of the most serene golf communities I've ever visited. This four season waterfront resort and residential enclave, is an undiscovered slice of paradise on the shores of the stunning Georgian Bay. Although the days of the golf season have all but dwindled away, as one season comes to a close, another is set to begin, with plenty of year round activities to keep visitors and locals entertained.With an abundance of beautiful lakes in the area, it might seem surprising to hear that Cobble Beach is one of very few golf courses to boast a waterfront location. The views of the Georgian Bay are worth the trip alone, and Cobble Beach has exploited the areas natural beauty to its fullest potential. The overall layout of the golf course and the community as a whole, is one of its greatest features. With the obvious beauty of the holes running in parallel with the shoreline, Cobble Beach has ensured that those views are not short lived. I was pleasantly surprised to find that every hole on the golf course offer water views, a constant reminder of the natural surroundings, which I can only describe as paradise.
As the image above clearly illustrates, despite being at the tail end of the season (November 2nd) the golf course was in impeccable condition. My hat goes off to the legendary Doug Carrick for designing this masterpiece of a links-style golf course. Cobble Beach has everything I look for in a golf course, including a variety of bunker and water hazards, beautifully shaped fairways, and subtle undulation and elevation changes. Coupled with the waterfront location, this is one of a handful of courses that I would never get tired of playing. See for yourself in the below video, showcasing the signature hole at Cobble Beach, a stunning par three hole that captures the essence of the entire course.
Although visions of sunshine glistening off the Georgian Bay as I stripe a tee shot down the fairway will surely keep me daydreaming year round, the excitement at Cobble Beach isn't restricted to the summer months. With a plethora of winter activities, including over 18 kilometers of groomed cross country trails, show shoeing, skating on the outdoor skating rink, and a new indoor golf facility with HD golf simulator, Cobble Beach is a true year-round resort. The Nantucket-style clubhouse feels like a home away from home, featuring a five-star restaurant, bar, resort-caliber spar and fitness center as well as 10 tastefully-appointed guest suites at The Inn at Cobble Beach.
Opened in 2007, the full vision of the Cobble Beach community is still coming to fruition. As such, there are still opportunities available to get a slice of this waterfront paradise for yourself. The newly released Blue Bay Villas provide the opportunity to live within this prestigious four season resort community with access to uncommon amenities, making every day seem like a vacation. Prices start in the mid 300's. These waterfront townhomes are built for entertaining – inside and out.
I implore you to add Cobble Beach to your travel list for either the upcoming winter season, or for the 2015 golf season, I guarantee you won't regret it. Cobble Beach is a slice of paradise that will leave you daydreaming until your next visit.
About Cobble Beach
Just outside the city of Owen Sound, two hours northwest of the Greater Toronto Area, Cobble Beach is one of Canada’s top golf destinations and most sought-after residential enclaves. The 600-acre development on Ontario’s stunning Georgian Bay opened in 2007, anchored by a thrilling, Doug Carrick-designed, links-style course with omnipresent water views.
Cobble Beach’s diverse mix of year-round and seasonal detached homes includes villas, townhomes and luxury estates linked by a pedestrian friendly network of streets and sidewalks. More than 14 kilometers of hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing trails promote symmetry between work, play, indulgence, health and wellness.
A Nantucket-style clubhouse features a five-star restaurant, bar, resort-caliber spa and fitness center, and 10 tastefully-appointed guest suites at The Inn at Cobble Beach. Guests also have access to The Cottages at Cobble Beach, each with two bedrooms, wet bars and living rooms. The Cottages offer the luxury of an all-inclusive resort with the relaxation and privacy of home.
For more information visit: www.cobblebeach.com
