Now it’s time to let the world know as the snow recedes from Canada’s second-largest ski terrain, Sun Peaks evolves as a destination for insanely great mountain biking and hiking trails attracting visitors from the near and far and where one will discover a truly memorable golf course that should be on everyone’s wish list.
It is springtime in the mountains the final vestiges of winter are now being supplanted by blossoming trees, mountain flowers and green grass. Throughout the valley, the sound of mowers can be heard fashioning the eighteen fairways and greens in preparation for golfers to experience the championship Graham Cooke-designed, The Course at Sun Peaks Resort.
The Golf Course at Sun Peaks is the “highest of the highest” golf course in British Columbia. This is rarified air golf! A place where the air is fresher and a golf ball flies further than you ever imagined.
Incorporating numerous mountainous features, descents and ascents with the splendour of the valley floor below The Golf Course at Sun Peaks Resort has been designed for golfers to just enjoy their day. The course is a welcome respite in the summer season as temperatures can be 10C cooler compared to the hot dry desert-like courses around Kamloops and the Thompson/Okanagan region, less than an hour away.
Though not considered long by many at 6400 yards the course is a fine test of golf, no matter your ability. The front and back nines are contrasts in character “Show me some accuracy and course management and I will grant good scoring” the front nine prescribes; forests that visually define many of the fairways with water intruding on eight of the first nine holes, necessitating a game plan from tee to green.
The back nine appears more welcoming as fairways appear wider, a forest that looks further away creates the expectation that you can just “rip it”. Hit it long and a short iron is all that will be required nevertheless be wary as water hazards have been strategically positioned on six holes, everpresent are the tactically located diversity of sand traps.
Now as you walk from the 15th green you ascend to the par 4-16th, 1,333 meters [4,353 feet] above sea level. Standing on the tee you have reached “the summit” of British Columbia’s highest elevated tee and “signature hole” for the Resort’s course. Remember the moment!
This is a course that is certainly playable for all levels of golfers, manage the altitude and your attitude and you will experience a really fine day of golf.
Following your round, Sun Peaks Resort offers plenty of venues to enjoy a cold beverage and reflect on your day with your playing partners or newfound friends.
No matter your length of stay it will be difficult to hit every bar and restaurant as the Resort offers eighteen distinct restaurants and bars. Shopping, anyone? Stroll the village and boutique-style shops are there
Need a room? Though the Resort boasts nine hundred and sixty places to stay many with “stay and play” golf packages it is recommended to reserve in advance.
If you are into biking, mountain or street, bring it with you as Sun Peaks is the home to an internationally regarded Bike Park. Can’t be bothered to transport your wheels then rent from the numerous rental shops scattered around the village; High-tech, standard or electric you will find them here with training and guide packages available. In February the Resort announced an additional 1.5 million dollars will be invested for a new summer chair lift and thirty-one additional kilometres of world-class biking and hiking trails.
Time does seem to go quickly at Sun Peaks Resort as one cannot possibly become bored; golf, biking, shopping, dining, oh yes there are eighteen hiking trails from, moderate to more difficult all with outstanding views that are at the doorstep of the Village. Not feeling as active today time to explore the weekly farmers’ markets, craft fairs, outdoor concerts or perhaps a spa.Everything about Sun Peaks Resort is at a different level!
