Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort - Canada’s Vancouver Island Offers Year-Round Golf

- The Vancouver Island region of British Columbia is one of North America’s top golf destinations with nearly 60 golf courses spread out over the 300 mile long island. One in particular that has captured the attention of the golfing world is the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, a master-planned community located just 20 minutes north of Victoria, the provincial capital.

This spectacular 1,500 acre property is a natural wonder of rocks, rivers, valleys, forests, and mountain peaks, costing about $1 million a hole. It was funded by a coalition of former and current National Hockey League stars, including Len Barrie and Rob Niedermayer.

Co-designed by Jack and Steve Nicklaus, Bear Mountain opened in August 2003 and has been attracting 40,000 plus golfers annually ever since. The 7,212 yard track is not for the faint of heart, or walkers for that matter. During the 18-hole round, you’ll experience elevation changes of more than 500 feet. “I think some of the holes out there are just unbelievably fantastic... there are 18 signature holes,” said Nicklaus.

For example, the par 3 number 11 measures only 152 yards. What’s stunning about this hole is its island green, and spectacular waterfall that drops more than 100 feet. The real treat on the course, however, is the 19th hole, located between the 14th and 15th holes. According to Steven MacPherson, head professional, “This was simply too spectacular of a view to pass up.” This short par 3 measures from 64 to 165 yards, and offers panoramic views of the Straight of Juan de Fuca, the Olympic Mountain range, and the city of Victoria. “With everyone taking photos, play tends to slow down a bit at the 19th hole,” MacPherson added. But the view is worth the extra time.

In addition to the golf course, Bear Mountain also features a 160,000 square foot, six-story clubhouse that overlooks the first green. There are 156 guest rooms and several dining options that include two restaurants: Panache and the Copper Rock Grill, along with a lounge, appropriately called the Masters. Across the traffic circle are two more restaurants: Jack’s Place, which is a casual-dining establishment featuring pub-style fare and a terrace that overlooks the second green of the golf course. Kuma Sushi, another restaurant next door, offers a fusion sushi menu. Kuma is the Japanese word for bear, alluding to Jack Nicklaus’ nickname: The Golden Bear. Also included in the clubhouse is the pro shop and Sante Spa.

According to MacPherson, the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa has more new introductions on the horizon. Set to open this March is a new driving range. “This will encompass a 75,000-square-foot hitting area, along with chipping and pitching areas, too,” he said. MacPherson added that later this year a second golf course – the Valley course – will open. The 6,890-yard, par 71 Valley course is projected to open this fall.

One more addition to Bear Mountain Resort in the near term will be the Nicklaus Academy. The three Jack Nicklaus Coaching Studios each employ a 1,200-point Pressure Mat System that visually displays the location of the student’s balance and center of mass before, during, and after the swing. Color mapping, weight percentages, and stance width are also vividly displayed. “This is a phenomenal training tool that golfers will truly love,” said MacPherson.

All in all, a visit to the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa in Victoria is a destination unto itself. For more information, visit www.bearmountain.ca, or call 1-888-533-BEAR (2327).