Ponderosa Golf Course gets a new look
A PGA pro designs a new course as part of a $1 billion project in the B.C. Interior.
The Ponderosa Golf Course will reopen early 2012 and the plan for the surrounding area calls for 2,000 residential units with community amenities over a 15-year period.—Photo courtesy of the Ponderosa Golf Course
Golfers in Peachland may be bummed that the Ponderosa golf course is closed for redevelopment until the spring of 2012, but the finished result is sure to push the facility into an elite category as a world-class golf destination.
Of course, having PGA pro legend Greg Norman's design team on board doesn't hurt.
The current owners, Richmond-based Treegroup Developments Corp., managed to acquire an additional 400 acres and put together a plan to give the course and it's surroundings a completely new face-lift.
Vast potential
Originally a 9-hole course built in 1979, expanding to 18 in 1990, the course boasted mountainous terrain and stunning viewpoints of Lake Okanagan.
Ownership changed hands in 2005 when Treegroup Developments Corp., led by Norm Porter, bought the golf property and selected Norman's company, Greg Norman Golf Course Design (GNGCD) to create a completely new championship course.
Scott Dawson, general manager of the Ponderosa Golf Course, says Norman was immediately taken with the course potential and surrounding country and approached the project with a personal hands-on work ethic.
"That's the neat thing with Greg, he's been on-site several times, he walks every hole, he makes notes on every hole," said Dawson. "He's very involved with the design and build."
The Shark gets involved
Hailing from Australia, Norman, affectionately and respectfully known as “the Shark,” turned pro in 1976 and went on to secure his name in history as one of the greatest golfers of his generation.
With Norman's golf career spanning decades and his experience playing on courses across the globe, Dawson says Treegroup's management was excited to hear from Jason McCoy, president of GNGCD, "You've no idea what you've got here."
Norman's team went to work and designed the 7,114-yard course to wrap around nearby Pincushion Mountain, utilizing the slopes, forests and benches to offer a variety of hole lengths and challenges. Each hole will have five different tee-off boxes.
While some courses are known for a having a famous signature hole or two, Dawson believes every hole on this course will hold a special place for golfers. He admits the view coming down the final 18th, parallel to Lake Okanagan, will make it "one of the finest finishing holes in the area."
So much to offer
A new clubhouse will be the centrepiece of the course and a driving range and golf academy are in the works to provide first-rate practice facilities for golfers of all levels. Real estate planning and construction by Treegroup Development Corp. includes 2,000 residential units of various styles over a 15-year period, a luxury hotel, an Olympic-sized ice rink, tennis facilities, a cultural centre and a winery—all within Peachland civic boundaries.
The golf course and community will also feature numerous parks and a network of woodland trails designed to link up with existing pedestrian routes in the city. Dawson feels the new course and recreational facilities will benefit the city and current residents and serve as a regional draw for tourism.
Construction broke ground last April and will wrap up between fall 2011 and spring 2012.
Welcome to Copper Point Resort
Everything you need to know about an amazing opportunity in the Columbia Valley
Share time with friends and family in your fully-furnished suite.—Photo courtesy of Copper Point Resort
Slow the pace, change the scenery and bask in the moment. We identify with your longing for the great outdoors. We also appreciate that your time is so very precious; we all want more of it, especially with those we care about the most.
Copper Point Resort encourages you to invest in the opportunity to indulge in everything you want a little bit more of—whether that is dinner with the family, an exhilarating hike, enjoying the restorative beauty in yoga, an afternoon on the golf course, the glistening lake or the fresh powder on the ski hill.
Copper Point Resort will be the most sought-after property in the Columbia Valley. It will be a legacy property for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. Adventure awaits!
The suites
Solid construction, top-quality materials and unparalleled fit and finish were simply the beginning. Add to this a warm palette and the rich textures of cultured stone, granite and hardwood. Barbecue with friends and family on your private balcony. You feel like you already belong here at Copper Point Resort.
All suites include:
- Fully furnished suites
- Gourmet kitchen with five stainless steel appliances including hood fan and microwave
- Stacked washer and dryer
- Sleek granite countertops
- Hardwood and slate floors
- Fireplace with cultured stone surround in living room and master bedroom
- Wall-mounted television
- Private balconies with patio furniture and barbecues
- Air conditioning
- Window coverings included
The resort
Who says you can’t have it all? Time away has just become more attainable and balance more achievable with a property investment at Copper Point Resort.
You need a resort that will evolve with life itself. Your getaway expectations vary and so do the amenities at Copper Point Resort. Whether it is enjoying time by the pool or simply having a relaxing meal on the patio, we will ensure your experience is memorable.
Combine lasting memories of an outdoor experience along with the best event staff and facility in the Columbia Valley.
Educate, celebrate or simply gather at Copper Point Resort.
Resort amenities:
- Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs
- Fitness facility
- Restaurant and lounge
- Underground parking
- Kids playground
- Designated suites for pet owners
- Outdoor patios
- Banquet hall
- Weddings, corporate retreats, reunions
- Conference and meeting rooms
- 24-hour reception
The Columbia Valley
Delight in the fact that you are now on valley time. That small-town friendliness is what you can expect to be greeted by when strolling down Invermere’s quaint and charming Main Street. All year round, each season offers up changes that will thrill and excite you.
With the mountains, Lake Windermere and nine golf courses all within reach, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Get ready to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer.
Some activities include:
- Golfing
- Lake Windermere beaches
- Watersports
- Natural hot springs
- Downhill and cross-country skiing
- Snowboarding, heli-skiing and snowmobiling
Rohit Communities
Not simply another home builder, Rohit strives to be an active member of the Edmonton area, Fort McMurray and British Columbian communities in which we build. As a partner of the Canadian Home Builders Association and various affordable housing and sustainable community initiatives, we believe in giving back. Rohit has received multiple awards on local, provincial and national levels, including the prestigious title of Edmonton’s 2010 Home Builder of the Year. Please visit www.copperpoint.ca and www.rohitcommunities.com for contact information.
The sweetness of Sweetwater
GolfWest interviewed developer Craig McMorran about Koocanusa’s newest development
It is time for you to enjoy Koocanusa’s wonderful lifestyle opportunities—Photo courtesy of Sweetwater
GolfWest interviewed developer Craig McMorran about the new resort development opportunity at Sweetwater Lake Village at Koocanusa. He outlined the benefits of living at the centre of great recreational activities.
What does this location offer to golfers?
Sweetwater is located in the middle of golf country, surrounded by many beautiful courses including St. Eugene, Fernie Golf and Country Club, Cranbrook Golf and Country Club, Mission Hills, Shadow Mountain, Trickle Creek, Will-O-Bend, Kimberley Golf Club and Indian Springs across the border in Montana.
What other lifestyle benefits can be enjoyed by living at Sweetwater?
Lakefront opportunities including boating, fishing and water sports as well as quadding, mountain climbing, biking, hiking and whitewater rafting. Winter sports include world-class snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and some of the best downhill skiing in the world at Fernie, Kimberley and Whitefish, Montana. There is also a full casino and card room at St. Eugenes only 35 minutes away.
Please describe the setting.
The setting is in a serene valley on a 90-mile winding warm lake in an arid climate that is—most importantly—mosquito-free and only 3.5 hours from Calgary, 35 minutes from Fernie and 40 minutes from Cranbrook.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about the opportunity at Sweetwater?
The most attractive thing about Sweetwater is that each homeowner has the right to marina slip so that boating is very convenient. It is an electric golf cart community, has zero-maintenance landscaping, a full water and sewer treatment facility, first-class restaurant and marina services on site and a commercial area with stores and groceries; all starting at $349,000 for full ownership of a lot and cabin.
Boulder Creek Villas at Wildstone—complete and for sale
Enjoy carefree living at Boulder Creek’s lovely villas
Now you can enjoy carefree living at Boulder Creek—photo by Joni Krats
h3. What is the projected timeline for completion of the Boulder Creek build—right down to the landscaping? The final road works, driveways, and landscaping works are all underway, and if the weather co-operates, they will be complete in early July. At that time all 43 villas and the entire site will be 100 per cent complete. h3. Although most of these units are attached, they don’t feel like condos. Please describe how that was achieved. We worked at length with our architects and engineers to achieve that feel. You are correct that seven of the units are single detached units, but the remaining 36 are comprised of 18 duplex units. The majority of the duplexes have been designed such that the garages and entry to the units are visually and physically separated from the other side of the unit. That gives each unit its own sense of arrival as well as some degree of privacy at the entrance. h3. The project went dormant along with the golf course last year. Now that golf course construction is going full swing, please describe the impact on your development. The commencement of the completion of the golf course is of great significance to the entire development. The past couple of years have been challenging to developers throughout North America and we are no different here. We are pleased that the golf course will be completed. With the many projects that were halted or stalled as a result of the economic downturn, it is the only golf course project in Western Canada that at this time is being completed and scheduled to be opened. This is of course very important to all the existing owners at Wildstone, but also an integral part of our message as we re-launch the sale of some of the units here in Boulder Creek. Cranbrook and the East Kootenays are well positioned to lead Western Canada out of the downturn and we are hopeful that the new investment in this project in Cranbrook will position us to be a big part of that. h3. Please discuss the main-floor living concept. While all the villa units here have a full walk-out basement, we recognize that there are people who prefer not to have to go up and down stairs to live their daily lives, so these units have been designed so that you can live completely on the main floor. The master bedroom—complete with closet and large en suite, kitchen, dining, great room and laundry—are all on the main floor. There is also at least one additional room that can be used as a den or additional bedroom on the main floor, along with some storage space. The deck is off the main floor, and there is a patio on the lower level off the walk-out basement. The garages access the main floor as well. h3. Please discuss the title/ownership of these homes. Are there strata fees? While these units are designed to feel more like a detached home or perhaps townhouse, for the purpose of delivering a fully maintained property it has been registered as a condo-style strata project. One of the things we consistently heard from clients is their wish for a carefree lifestyle, so that’s how this project has been developed. The strata is responsible for the insurance of the units, all exterior maintenance, all landscaping and yard maintenance and snow removal. This allows the owners to come and go at their leisure for short terms or extended periods if they like, and the unit and surrounding areas will be fully maintained, along with no worries about the exterior of the units. For this level of service we feel that the strata fees as budgeted are very reasonable at $242 per month. h3. Is there anything else you would like to say to western Canadian golfers about Boulder Creek? A number of things of course. They are located right on and overlooking the Gary Player Design Companys’ first course in Canada, which has been designed to be a great track, walkable if they wish, and designed specifically to allow a great experience for all levels of golfers from the beginner to the scratch golfer. The majority of us who are 20 plus handicappers will find it to be very playable. The intent was that it would be not only a visually rewarding round with the Rocky Mountains and Fisher Peak prominent in the design of many of the holes, but also an enjoyable experience for all. All that and as a bonus Boulder Creek is located in the middle of a mecca of great golf here in the East Kootenay region. Within an hour’s drive, owners here can enjoy more than 14 great golf courses. It is a true golfer’s paradise, to say nothing of the ample additional four-season recreational opportunities that abound all around us.
Construction moves forward in Fairmont
Homeowners build equity at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort with DIY options
These houses are designed to be flexible to your needs.—photo courtesy of Fairmont Hot Springs Resort
Following a successful sales season in 2009, construction is moving forward on home sites at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort launched its Mountainside Ridge home sites in June of last year with amenity-based incentives including golf, ski and hot springs passes. Now they are continuing to offer value for buyers with a variety of home building options. “We’re working to take the uncertainty out of building a vacation home by working with local builders to give homeowners the flexibility to choose the option that meets their needs,” said Dan Oliver, resort property specialist at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. “Our strategic partnerships allow owners at Fairmont Hot Springs to either build the luxury home of their dreams, or build on a budget and even put in their own sweat equity.”
Customizable options
One of the innovative options being offered by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is custom homes from Timko Developments. These custom homes are designed with homeowners before they are built at an Alberta plant, then the stick frame walls are transported to Fairmont Hot Springs for final construction. “Due to our manufacturing process, construction time is reduced significantly compared to other options in the Columbia Valley,” Ron Davidson, Columbia Valley project manager for Timko, says. “Home buyers also have the option to finish their homes themselves after we complete the exterior construction.” A fully constructed 1,500 sq. ft., three-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage-style home from Timko starts at $350,000. But if buyers want to finish the interior of the home themselves, the exterior and framing of the same home is only $155,000. Construction time for a fully finished Timko Home is four to six months, but the exterior shell can be completed in only two months. “Homes from Timko are very flexible and homeowners can choose anything from a complete home, to a shell, and everything in between to meet their budgets,” Oliver said. “This gives homeowners the chance to save money in areas where they may have the ability to do the work themselves, or simply stretch the time line as funds allow. Home site prices at Mountainside Ridge start at $114,900 for 1/3-acre home sites and there is a flexible construction schedule, allowing owners to break ground up to five years after purchase.
Supportive partnerships
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is also working with Ski Home, a custom home builder based in Invermere, B.C. to provide complete design and construction services for home buyers to make their dream home a reality. Construction has begun on a 2,400 sq. ft., three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom contemporary mountain style bungalow at Mountainside Ridge that is setting a new architectural tone for the Columbia Valley. The home has finishings with bamboo flooring, maple cabinets, stone and timber exterior and a steel roof. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers 45 holes of golf with Mountainside, an 18-hole par 72 CPGA, the stunning 18-hole Riverside golf course set on the majestic Columbia River with the rugged Rocky Mountains as its backdrop and Creekside, a par 3, 9-hole golf course. Located In the heart of British Columbia's Columbia Valley, on Hwy 93/95, Fairmont Hot Springs is one hour north of Cranbrook, B.C. and three hours west of Calgary.
Breaking ground
The first phase of building lots at Whiskey Jack is now available for purchase
These generously-sized lots are situated in the midst of excellent golf and recreation.—Photo courtesy of Whiskey Jack
Whiskey Jack, the 18-hole Fred Couples course near Sparwood, B.C.—which is slated for completion in November 2011—has now released its first phase of single-family dwelling lots. h3. Mountain living Situated in the Elk Valley, in the midst of the Rockey Mountains and near the Elk River, the property offers a lot for year-round recreationists. Four-hundred thousand hectares (one million acres) of Crown land, and endless opportunities to hike and explore, back the property. Realtor Frank Hughes said that the 268-hectare (6700-acre) parcel will offer lots up to a generous .2 hectare (half an acre). “You’ve got valley and mountain views,” said Hughes. “It’s a great site.” h3. Construction underway A few foundations are in already, and Hughes anticipates that the showhomes will be completed shortly. The sewer and water systems are in place, with hydro and natural gas underway. Purchasers of a lot at Whiskey Jack will be committed to build within a five-year window after purchase, and must have their chosen builder approved by the Homeowners Association. The property offers 119 lots, and the development is approved for 1,000 units in total. More information on this offering can be found at "www.sparwood.com(Sparwood website)":http://www.sparwood.com.
Big changes, big results
Jason Lowe is managing Arbutus Ridge Golf Club during an exciting time
Arbutus Ridge has a slope of 123 —Photo courtesy of Jason Lowe
In areas rich with golfing opportunities, such as Vancouver Island, it is important for a club to differentiate and stand out from the pack. Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, located in Cobble Hill, has been doing just that, undergoing a number of improvements in 2009 and planning more for 2010. The competition may be fierce but Arbutus Ridge is keeping its competitive edge sharp. h3. The goods and the greens “The most noticeable change is the 18-foot fountain that we’re putting on Hole 18,” said Jason Lowe, the general manager at Arbutus Ridge. “It’s such a high exposure spot—you’ll be able to see it from the Sunlight Bar and Grille that we have in the clubhouse. When guests putt out, it’ll leave a lasting impression and a feeling of tranquility. It has the wow factor.” The wow factor is present in many of the club’s improvements. From the 52 new trees and greenery that have been planted, to the rebuilt tee houses and new cart pathways, the changes that are happening at Arbutus Ridge are noticeably adding to a visitor’s experience. The club’s members agree. A guest survey indicated that 2009 was Arbutus Ridge’s best year yet and there has been an increase in member referrals. “Obviously these improvements are working,” said Lowe. “Members are proud to bring guests and are happy with the general friendliness and down-to-earth staff,” said Lowe. h3. Chopping down the carbon output Another thing the club has been focussing on is being eco-friendly, something Lowe said is a personal passion of his. Arbutus Ridge has the distinction of being one of only five clubs in Canada that has had a full carbon footprint work-up, and is now working on becoming carbon-neutral. Guests will notice bird houses and bee hives around the property, and Lowe said that the ecosystems found on the course have been catalogued to ensure preservation. High-efficiency light bulbs are replacing fluorescent ones, and alternative energy sources are being investigated. “It’s a feel-good moment for the people working here,” said Lowe. “It aligns with their values and beliefs, and our guests are going to expect it more and more in the future. It’s the right thing to do long term.”
Incredible discounts on golf homes have been well received
There is undeniable value in these sale-priced lots at The Rise
Beautiful Mediterranean-influenced homes like these are available at drastic discounts at The Rise, a master-planned golf community in Vernon. —photo courtesy The Rise
Since stimulating the Vernon housing market with drastic discounts on golf home building sites in June, The Rise has seen an eager response from real estate buyers. Eleven lots have sold, and some buyers have purchased more than one upon realizing the exceptional value of their investment. The 30 per cent reduction has caused lots that were initially priced at $500,000 to go for $350,000. Many of these sites are overlooking Lake Okanagan, and are situated within a master-planned community that includes a Fred Couples signature golf course, vineyards and a beach club. The golf course is open, amid rave reviews.
Exciting new challenges
Greg Norman Golf Course Design will create a championship golf course in Peachland, B.C.
Greg Norman is a highly respected golfer. —Submitted photo
Greg Norman, a legendary golf professional who is respectfully known as The Shark, will be designing a championship golf course on the former fairways of popular Ponderosa Golf Course—in a new, village-oriented development in Peachland. This new $1 billion Ponderosa planned community is situated on 400 acres within the charming town of Peachland along the southeast slope of Pincushion Mountain. Treegroup Developments Corp. in collaboration with the Westbank First Nation, will be developing Ponderosa—which will feature spectacular views, a village centre, winery, tennis facilities, golf academy, hotel and up to 2,000 new homes over a 15-year period. Ponderosa is a multi-layered community that will have homes for everyone—from affordable housing to luxury living and everything in between. The first release is anticipated for sale by spring, 2010. h3. Challenges for all The Greg Norman Championship Golf Course will provide exciting new challenges for all levels of golfers. “The character of the site gives us an enormous opportunity to provide a signature course with breathtaking views from all aspects,” said Norman. “It’s our goal to utilize the natural features of the site, such as the calm backdrop of Lake Okanagan, the Ponderosa pines and the spectacular views to create a unique golf experience.” Treegroup selected Greg Norman Golf Course Design to create a golf course worthy of hosting world-class golf events and tournaments, generating additional tourism dollars for the area. The course is scheduled for an official opening in spring of 2011. h3. Support for the community “This is an amazing opportunity to bring new jobs to the Peachland area,” said Norm Porter, CEO of Treegroup Developments Corp. “Ponderosa is expected to create over 200 commercial and service industry jobs as well as thousands of skilled jobs, most notably in construction, over the next decade. Also, the existing services and amenities of Peachland will compliment the new community of Ponderosa beautifully. It’s a perfect combination.” In 2007, nearby Kelowna was identified as the fastest growing municipality in BC and among the ten fastest growing cities in Canada. As the gateway to the province’s express Coquihalla Highway to the Lower Mainland, Peachland is an enviable location for residents seeking the excitement of nearby metropolitan amenities while living in a relaxed, four-season environment.
Golf development opportunity for savvy buyers
Property liquidation prices at The Rise in Vernon may not last
This elite golf home at The Rise is suddenly more affordable—photo courtesy of The Rise
If you dream of living in a luxury home at a world-class Fred Couples signature course near a vineyard on Lake Okanagan, perhaps now is the time to make a bold move. Several neighbourhoods at The Rise in Vernon are now being liquidated at up to 40 per cent discounts. Having hit a rough patch during the economic downturn, the developers of The Rise sought creditor protection and are now letting homes and properties go at extreme discounts in order to straighten out their accounts. Since The Rise may be bought out by flush investors, the liquidation might be available for only a limited time. The Rise turned to liquidation specialists Land Launch Project Marketing who have been successful with selling off properties for other high-end developments that were in a similar predicament. The course has been open since April, and golfers are thrilled. Clearly the $14 million invested in the course has created a challenging and beautiful end result. The course includes a practice area with a 4,000-square-foot putting green. The pro shop is open, offering golf merchandise, and has just started a coaching program for new players. Freddy’s Patio Restaurant is open and serves breakfast, lunch and brunch. Homeowners at The Rise will also have exclusive rights to The Beach Club—a private beach—on Lake Okanagan.
Just bring your clubs
Sable Ridge at Radium makes final release of fully appointed suites
There are just a handful of these fully appointed suites left. —photo courtesy Sable Ridge
h3. What does Sable Ridge offer golfers? Sable Ridge offers two-bedroom condos ranging in size from 841 square feet to 930 square feet with full ownership starting from less than the cost of daily green fees. For a limited time, ownership at Sable Ridge is available from $48.63/night, including GST and a complete furniture package. Suites are fully accessorized…all you need to bring are your clubs. In addition to spacious interiors and contemporary finishings, residents of Sable Ridge enjoy a 1,600-square-foot clubhouse with full kitchen, year-round outdoor hot tub and seasonal pool. This is a great weekend escape that can also be a source of income when not in use; nightly rentals go for up to $189/night. h3. Which courses are near by? Sable Ridge offers golfers their own oasis with 14 golf courses within a 45-minute drive. The Les Furber-designed Springs Golf Course is within walking distance from the development. Eagle Ranch Golf Course was voted Best Conditioned Course in B.C. and awarded 4.5 stars from Golf Digest. Greywolf Golf Course is ranked in the Top 10 courses in Canada. Also conveniently accessible: Radium Resort Golf Course, Copper Point, The Ridge at Copper Point, Windermere, Riverside and Mountainside, just to name a few. h3. What is available and at what price points? There are only a handful of suites in this final release; all move-in ready. All are two-bedroom, two-bathroom, ranging in size from 841 square feet to 930 square feet, at varying elevations and exposures. Take advantage of low interest rates; until June 15th, Sable Resorts is offering special financing, GST and a full furniture package, which works out to $48.63/night. Take advantage of 2.49% financing and 5% down—that’s less than $15,000 to own at Sable Ridge. The display suite is open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-5 p.m. at 7495 Columbia Avenue, Radium, B.C. More information is available at h3. Will there be package deals available? Make the most of your golf season; Sable Ridge is ready for you, just bring your clubs. For a limited time, furniture packages and GST are included—a $30K value. h3. Is it full or fractional ownership? This is a full ownership development. There are no restrictions on co-purchases with friends or family; make payments even more affordable and buy with people you already know. Owners have the option to rent their suites when not in use.
A fun challenge
GolfWest publisher Keith Powell rediscovers the flagship of Kootenay golf courses
The master plan for Kokanee Springs Golf Course includes cottages, clubhouse villas and much more.—photo by Keith Powell
Tee’er up and let it rip—that’s the type of golfing Kokanee Springs is designed for and that was the game we brought to the venerable course in early August 2008. The course plays long and yet graceful with a few tricky par 3’s sprinkled throughout to test your irons and give your Big Berthas a breather. Kokanee Springs Resort, a stone’s throw from beautiful Kootenay Lake at Crawford Bay, is often referred to as the flagship of Kootenay golf courses. In fact, it is one of the original resort destination courses in the Kootenays. I had the opportunity recently to renew my acquaintance with this magnificent 18-hole track while vacationing just north of Riondel. And yes, Kokanee Springs still plays challenging on every hole while offering spectacular and varied scenery with every fairway. My son-in-law, Jonathan Momy, and I had the pleasure of teaming up with local Gray Creek residents Irv and Leone Lund to play the immaculately groomed course. The Lunds, who play Kokanee Springs several times a week, were gracious and knowledgeable hosts. They were diligent in recommending the best landing target on every fairway and the break on every green—now if only my driver and putter would have followed these well-intentioned instructions. Without question, Kokanee Springs Resort is one of Canada’s finest championship 18-hole courses. Every hole is framed by spectacular panoramic views of the Kokanee Glacier and surrounding area. Kokanee Springs is a Norman Woods original, characterized by its long driving fairways, immense rolling greens, immaculate course upkeep and ability to interest and challenge golfers at all levels. Kokanee Springs is set to undergo a major transformation with its new Kokanee Springs Resort Club development. As you walk off the 18th fairway, there is a brand new discovery centre, which maps out the exciting new resort master plan. Real estate experts Al and Vivian Pollard said the new development plan includes the Big Bend Cottages along the famous 12th fairway and the Clubhouse Villas to be perched on the highest point at Kokanee Springs, just off the first tee box. Resort club membership will include access to a pool and hot tubs, a marina, a mile of lakefront and the resort village lifestyle. If you haven’t played Kokanee Springs in a while, take the time to drive to this magnificent course and you may just end up owning a bit of the legend as well. A glance at the 114 on my score card reminds me how tough Kokanee Springs plays and why golf is the ultimate ego buster.
Live, rest and play
Tobiano is an impressive destination community and resort wrapped into one
Lake Star features the best in western contemporary architecture.—photo courtesy Tobiano
Tobiano is located on Six Mile Ranch—a century-old working cattle farm just 15 minutes west of Kamloops on picturesque Kamloops Lake. This unique property combines three distinct lifestyles—equestrian, marina and golf. When complete, the property will ultimately consist of the Thomas McBroom championship golf course, a 1,000-acre lakeside luxury residential and recreational development surrounded by 17,000 acres of ranchlands, a 100-slip marina, an equestrian centre, and a 40,000-square-foot shopping village full of cafes, restaurants and shops. Tobiano is a breed of spotted horse, so it is fitting that plans call for an equestrian centre, complete with stables and training facilities. This $500-million development is spearheaded by Pagebrook Inc., a real estate development company that is well respected within the industry. The homes will offer the very best in environmental design, architecture and landscape planning, with pedestrian walkways and riding paths connecting residents to the golf course, marina and equestrian centre. “The equestrian lots are close to the equestrian centre. The bridle trails that wind through the development will be large enough for the horses to ride side by side,”said Mike Vopni, director of sales and marketing with Sotheby's for Tobiano. “In addition to the trails, there will be an underground tunnel that will take you from the resort side across the highway to an open ranchland called the Backcountry.” There are four distinct neighborhoods consisting of over 1,000 homes. This elegantly customized community offers the best in environmental design, architecture and landscape planning. Special features include sophisticated finishes and superior amenities that complement an active lifestyle. Homes at Tobiano are grouped into four distinctive neighbourhoods, which span across a gently sloping hillside overlooking beautiful Kamloops Lake. Every home promises a view. Tobiano will also include guest lodgings and well-planned landscaped walkways and riding paths connecting residents to the golf course, marina, equestrian centre and a vibrant pedestrian-friendly village. “There has been a lot of interest in the property, where most of our buyers are local and have come from the Lower Mainland and Alberta,” said Vopni. “The properties seem to be a mix of both recreational and primary residences. “Lake Star sold all 52 lots in a very short time”, he said. “Construction will soon be underway for Summers Landing—with 95 golf course homes and townhomes nestled amongst seven of the picturesque Tobiano Fairways—which has sold over 50 percent and continues to sell.” The marina will feature a wharf with a gas float boat ramp. Engineering requirements have just been finalized for the construction of a breakwater, which will start later this season. The Tobiano golf course is spread across a picturesque hillside, featuring rolling bluffs and canyon-cut ravines. Opening in July, 2007, this beautiful property overlooks the spectacular Kamloops Lake and captures the essence of B.C.'s scenic Thompson-Okanagan golf region. Designed by Thomas McBroom, Canada's premier golf architect, Tobiano is a par 72, 18-hole championship resort course playing 7,328 yards from the pro tees. The 18-hole championship golf course opened last season to rave reviews and is said to be unlike any other golf resort. The front nine plays across the clay bank dunes and the eerie hoodoos, with impossible looking leaps across gorges. The back nine rises, dips and then rises again, with uninterrupted views of the lake and the mountains. Even the practice facilities are first-class. There's a 450-yard double-ended range featuring nine bent grass target greens, a white, silica-lined chipping green and two full-sized putting greens. There is a full length, start to finish, paved cart path. Each hole has a minimum of four tee boxes with some holes having as many as six tees. When complete, this community will include three hotels and, for the high-flyers, three helicopter pads. And on the other side of the Trans-Canada Highway, Tobiano controls 8,000 hectares of wild backcountry where guests will be able to fly fish for the muscular brown trout on one of its five isolated lakes, or play cowboy on its horseback trails.
Twin Lakes to get a facelift
With plans for a $3 million upgrade, the future of this golf course is bright indeed
The golf course and resort is situated in a scenic valley surrounded by towering rock cliffs.—photo courtesy Twin Lakes Golf Resort
The new owners of Twin Lakes are planning to spend more than $3 million on improvements and enhancements to the popular local golf club. Located 15 minutes south of Penticton, the club features a championship 18-hole, par 72 course. “We see a tremendous future for golf in this area,” said Chris Couzelis, managing director of Twin Lakes Golf Resort. “Twin Lakes is already a highly playable and enjoyable golf course. Our goal is to make it even better and to become a vital part of the golfing experience in the Southern Okanagan.” In addition to continuing to provide outstanding golfing opportunities for local golfers at favourable prices, Couzelis said the club is also targeting the growing interest in the South Okanagan as a golf destination. “The exceptional scenic beauty of the area, its sunshine, its many wineries and the top-notch golf courses in the region are drawing ever-increasing numbers of vacationers and new residents,” said Couzelis. “The changes being made to the Twin Lakes club will enhance our participation in this exciting new market.” Planned improvements to Twin Lakes include upgrades to the irrigation system and clubhouse, as well as the golf course itself. Discussions are underway with well-known Canadian golf pro Dick Zokol and top course designer Armen Suny to provide expertise on the upgrades. Their firm, Suny, Zokol Golf Design Ltd., is currently building the exclusive Sagebrush Golf & Country Club, a championship course located in the Nicola Valley near Merritt, B.C. Sagebrush is scheduled to open this fall. The B.C.-based owners of Twin Lakes are also moving forward with plans to build a new residential development on a hillside looking over the golf course. Approximately 230 lots in the as-yet-unnamed project are expected to go on the market in 2009. A limited number of memberships in the Twin Lakes Golf Club will be made available to those purchasing lots. See "www.twinlakesgolfresort.com(Golf course website)":http://www.twinlakesgolfresort.com for more information.
Poised for growth
Meet the team who are bringing the Redstone Resort and Rossland Golf Course into the future
Well manicured greens and lush forest lining the holes add to the natural beauty of the Rossland Golf Course.—photo by Andrew Zwicker
“We originally came for the skiing, to have a place in the snow, and to enjoy the mountains. Now we hardly ski at all,” said Robert Felsch, co-owner of Redstone Resort. Sitting down to a fabulous four-course dinner prepared by Redstone’s new chef, the effervescent Michelle Germain, outdoors on the clubhouse patio with five of the Redstone family, it’s easy to see where the course gets its genuine laid-back and friendly feel. Originally from Australia, Robert Felsch and his wife Robin, or Rob and Rob as they’re better known, make great company over dinner as their bubbly personalities play off one another like a broadway show, exhibiting their strong ties and welcoming nature. The couple had been coming over to Rossland to ski Red Mountain and ended up buying a parcel of land at the base of the ski area and developing the first ski-in, ski-out condos at the mountain. Through his integrity on the ski area development Rob won much community support before ultimately getting involved in the Redstone development. The other half of the ownership story is Cary Fisher, a hockey player at heart; the sport took him to Alaska where he played at the university level. A planned land purchase at the mountain, which didn’t go through, led Fisher to Rossland and an unexpected career move to managing community futures and strengthening their loans program. Fisher, knowing Robert for his development at the ski area, tried on several occasions to convince Robert to buy the course. Eventually Rob accepted a whereinFisher would take on the operations with the help of Robert’s financing. “You know I never appreciated how much of a visual experience golf was until I really started playing,” said Rob as we teed up on the short par three 17th hole. The pond running between hole 16 and 17 is a prime example of Redstone’s passion for a visually stunning course with its natural looking stone-lined rim. Around each corner of the course, there are different views looking up to Rossland perched on the hillside above or further up to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Roberts, Record Ridge, OK and Red Mountain. The blend of forest lining the holes makes for three seasons of beautiful foliage. The fruit trees and willows spaced around the front nine bloom in the spring, the aspen and alder leaves fill in the gaps among the spruce and cedars, and in the fall the forest comes ablaze with streaks of orange, red and yellow glowing hemlocks livening up the landscape as the golf season winds down. h3. Contagious enthusiasm Having the pleasure of playing several rounds of golf with Barry McLean and John Reed, the managers of Redstone in operations and sales/marketing respectively, I began to pick up their enthusiasm and camaraderie over the resort and real estate project they are deeply involved in. Talking about their course like proud fathers of a son or daughter, the two pointed out all of the subtleties of the course that give it its personality, such as the massive natural stone bench along the cart path on the back nine, or certain tough spots on the course that will be fixed up to make it more playable. “Now I always seem to end up caught up in those few trees sticking out there. Hey John, get a saw and clean that area out, will ya,” said McLean with his trademark laugh and Nova Scotian heritage showing through. Born and raised in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, McLean has maintained his low-key, good-humoured Maritime charm throughout the travels life has taken him on. After a stint in Grand Forks, McLean moved down under with his Australian wife where he set up shop running a backpacker’s inn, coincidentally enough, just next door to Rob and Rob’s place. Rob soon asked if McLean had heard of a little place called Rossland, and McLean brought him on board with the project. Now splitting his time between Australia and Rossland, McLean is helping build a great golf course, and helping create the fun atmosphere of the course. A natural host, John Reed got involved with Redstone after a career in tourism that brought the Ontario native out to the West Coast before settling into Rossland. Before taking on the marketing and sales for Redstone, Reed ran an adventure tourism business out of Squamish, and still keeps his finger in that world today, putting together the Winter Quest event here in the Kootenays. “The hospital here was great with our children and we just really wanted to give something back,” said Reed, filling us in on his mini eco-challenge style event that raises money each year for the neo-natal unit at the Trail Hospital. Although golf is a relatively new sport to him, he’s clearly had some good tips and lots of practice. His good-natured friendly attitude has served him well—both on the course and in passing along the family atmosphere among the Redstone staff. Many of Reed’s golf tips I’m sure have come courtesy of one of the top women’s amateur players in the region—Loretta Bulfone—who has only recently given up her amateur status to teach professionally. “You’ve really got a beautiful swing, Roseanne; with just a bit of refinement you’ll really have something there,” said Bulfone of our golf partner’s swing. Bulfone displays such a casual and calm demeanour that is so easy to accept her advice and instruction. Anyone who has ever had a negative golf experience with an overbearing partner spewing tips and advice should say hello to Bulfone and let her reintroduce the love of the game to them. Playing a few holes with Bulfone, I quickly gained respect for her relationship-building skills that allow her to get into the mind of her students and bring the best out of their game. h3. A perfect ending After finishing another delicious meal from Chef Germain’s newly introduced menu—including a slice of down under in the Aussie burger complete with fried egg end and beetroot on the lunch menu, and salmon, stuffed chicken and other culinary treats on the dinner menu—the softly lit outdoor patio was the perfect place to relax with a glass of port. For several hours we all chatted away the evening over good wine, better dessert and under a near full moon rising over Lake Mountain which cast shadows on the new residential development on the hill overlooking the course. After chatting about everything from mackerel fishing to the future prospects of the town and golf course, we said our goodbyes. The future of Redstone seems strong as they have a solid foundation of good people creating a family that is sure to grow. For more information on Redstone Resort, go to "www.redstoneresort.com(the resort website)":http://www.redstoneresort.com or phone 1-877-362-4555.
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Invermere, BC
Slow the pace, change the scenery and bask in the moment.
Own your piece of adventure with a resort condominium in Invermere, British Columbia. Nestled in the heart of the Kootenays, between the Purcell and Canadian Rocky Mountains overlooking the The Ridge at Copper Point, Copper Point Resort is more than your ordinary destination property. With easy access to premier golf courses, world renowned skiing and the picturesque Lake Windermere, Copper Point Resort offers year round attractions. With a condo at Copper Point Resort, you can enjoy all the amenities of a five-star hotel at home, including a full service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness facilities, restaurant, lounge and much more. Whole and fractional ownership is available.