7 Fall Golf Experiences You Can’t Miss on Cape Breton Island

Story by: Team Destination Cape Breton

As the crisp air of autumn descends upon Cape Breton Island, the landscape transforms into a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. It’s the perfect season to explore the Island’s world-renowned golf courses, where the beauty of the surroundings is matched only by the quality of the game. Here’s a guide to experiencing the best fall golf on Cape Breton Island, where each course offers a unique blend of challenge, history and breathtaking scenery.

1. Experience Authentic Links Golf at Cabot Links

Nestled along the rugged coastline, Cabot Links is a golfer’s dream. As Canada’s first authentic links course designed by Rod Whitman, this masterpiece offers stunning sea views on every hole. The five holes that play right beside the beach make you feel as though you’re walking the storied fairways of Scotland but with the raw beauty of Cape Breton Island as your backdrop, making every round here an unforgettable experience.

golf course by the ocean on cape breton island

2. Play Coastal Golf at Cabot Cliffs

Just a short drive from Cabot Links lies Cabot Cliffs, another gem in Cape Breton Island’s golfing crown. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Cabot Cliffs is carved into the Island’s breathtaking landscape, offering a unique linksland experience. The course’s rolling fairways and dramatic cliffside vistas create a spectacular setting for those who dream of playing the game against nature’s finest backdrop.

3. Tee Off Amidst the Fall Foliage at Cape Breton Highland Links

Cape Breton Highland Links is the course to play for those seeking a connection with nature. The legendary Stanley Thompson designed this 18-hole, par 72 course that winds through the pristine Cape Breton Highlands National Park. As you navigate the course, every turn offers breathtaking views of the highlands ablaze with fall colours. The sense of tranquillity and the deep connection to nature makes golfing here a truly special experience. It’s not just a round of golf; it’s a journey through one of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes.

Golf course on cape breton during autumn

4. Golf Through History at Bell Bay Golf Club

In the historic village of Baddeck, Bell Bay Golf Club offers a unique blend of maritime history and golfing excellence. The course’s holes are named after famous ships that once sailed the bay, adding a historical dimension to your game. With views overlooking the bay where record-setting hydrofoil feats and Alexander Graham Bell’s innovations took place, Bell Bay is a course that invites you to reflect on the Island’s rich past as you play. In the fall, the crisp air and colourful foliage create a picturesque setting that enhances the historical ambience.

5. Discover Dramatic Elevations at The Lakes Golf Club at Ben Eoin

The Lakes Golf Club at Ben Eoin offers a golfing experience like no other, with every hole presenting a distinct postcard view. Designed by architect Graham Cooke, this course challenges golfers with its dramatic elevation changes, rock outcrops and crashing streams. As you navigate the course in the fall, the sweeping vistas and vibrant foliage create an exhilarating and visually stunning round of golf. It’s a place where nature’s beauty and the thrill of the game come together in perfect harmony.

6. Embark on a Sunrise Golf Adventure at Dundee Resort & Golf Club

For early risers, Dundee Resort & Golf Club offers a golfing experience that begins with the sun. Tee off at dawn and watch as the morning dew glistens on the greens and fairways. Located on South Mountain, the course offers captivating views that become even more inspiring as the fall colours set in. The serenity of the early morning combined with the breathtaking scenery makes this a truly unique way to experience golf on Cape Breton Island.

7. Experience Golf and Culture at Le Portage Golf Club

Le Portage Golf Club, located in the heart of the Acadian community of Chéticamp, offers more than just a round of golf. Set on a plateau overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the course provides majestic views of the Cabot Trail and the surrounding landscape. The fall season brings a burst of colour that enhances the course’s natural beauty while the Acadian region’s rich cultural heritage adds depth to your experience. After your round, take the time to explore the local culture and immerse yourself in the vibrant community.

Bonus The Nest

Perched atop Cabot Cliffs, The Nest is a Par 3, 10-hole course that offers a unique golfing experience. Designed by Rod Whitman and Dave Axland, this course can be played quickly, making it perfect for those looking to squeeze in a round on a travel day. The fall season adds an extra layer of magic to the experience as you play amidst the colourful foliage. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, it’s a fun and memorable way to enjoy the game.

Cape Breton Island in the fall is a golfer’s paradise, where the beauty of the season enhances every aspect of the game. Whether you’re seeking the authenticity of links golf at Cabot Links, the dramatic landscapes of Cabot Cliffs or the cultural richness of Le Portage, there’s a course for every golfer to enjoy. So pack your clubs, embrace the season and experience the unforgettable fall golf that awaits on Cape Breton Island.

Team Destination Cape Breton

Our team at Destination Cape Breton is always exploring our beautiful Island. We love discovering our hidden gems, working with partners, and putting our Island on the pedestal it deserves!

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