|
TM
Furry Creek Golf & Country Club
A Great Place to Sink a Putt…or Tie The Knot
By Jane Cassie
From the promontory bluff, panoramic vistas are shared with bald eagles and other migratory birds. A strip of meticulous fairway cascades to the golf green below. Stands of uniformed evergreens flank each side of this dreamscape as they march down the mountainside. Backed by ocean waters and snow tipped mountains, it's a setting that is picturesque to a fault and truly
epitomizes the axiom, Super Natural British Columbia.
The dramatic Howe Sound and coastal mountain vistas spoil us from every verdant fairway as we enjoy a round of links at Furry Creek Golf and Country Club, situated halfway between Vancouver and Whistler. We can see why this par 72 course has been rated BC's most scenic. Pathways weave around the spectacular grounds like satin ribbons and bridges cross over turbulent rivers to connect us with slope side links. Strategically placed sand traps, dog legs, and rocky granite outcroppings are deterrents that test my skill. Ravines and undulating greens provide additional challenges, and I feel grateful that we have been paired up with a father and son who both have the patience of saints. Although we aren't privy to sightings this trip, the black bear and white tailed deer are known to make the occasional appearances. And I'm not the least bit surprised, as most of this course is like a walk in the wilderness. Needless to say, though, it's great to be guided by our GPS golf cart along the hilly terrain instead of my hiking boots.
In the midst of it all, shimmering in 33,000 square feet of splendour is the award-winning clubhouse. The impressive post and beam structure combines the elements of nature and the influence of Japanese and West Coast design. Exceptional cuisine is offered at the Sea To Sky Grill, where we dine after our game and watch others finish theirs while enjoying views of the eighteenth green. Anchoring the clubhouse at one end is the spectacular Creekside Room where, from within windowed walls, views of cascading waterfalls and forested canyon walls create the feeling of being at one with nature. The floor to ceiling fireplace creates a cosy interior - and as we find out later, is a perfect location for a small wedding.
As we round fairway twelve and tee up at thirteen, we have sightings of Inlet View B&B, our home away from home while visiting Furry Creek. And what a welcoming home it has been. Pauline and Derek Milne have the right B&B philosophy by inviting guests to enjoy their home as if it were their own. The contemporary design lends a spacious feel and expansive windows depict how the B&B got its name. There's no need to close our penthouse suite drapes, where the only onlooker might be an owl or an eagle. And from our entire abode, including the pillows from our comfy king, we enjoy scenic views that stretch from one end of Howe Sound to the other. The main floor 'Fairway' suite overlooks fairway number four, and from its tranquil setting offers the pampering perk of a Jacuzzi tub.
Pauline
and Derek share a few stories, one about a couple from Australia who had
initially made plans to stay on their honeymoon. "It started out with just a one
night booking," shares Derek, "and by the time the date came, we had coordinated the entire wedding, and all via email."
The ceremony had been performed in their living room where scenic views captured the moment, and the reception carried on for thirty some odd guests in the Creekside Room at the clubhouse. The Milnes had made all of the arrangements, right down to ordering the flowers and wedding cake. The couple chuckles about it now as if it was not a big deal and we realize that in their humble way, they have a true knack for providing genuine hospitality. It is also evidenced in the delicious breakfast spread that has re-fuelled us for this round of golf. Fresh out of the oven blueberry scones followed by sausages and Belgium waffles topped with strawberries and cream are enough to get anyone through eighteen holes!
The hillside greens on the front nine lead into the woodland back half, and the impressive jut of land, also
recognized as the signature fourteenth, is a favourite site for golfers as well as the occasional wedding party. Although a different vista from The Milne's living room, the velvety carpeted ground cover accompanied by lapping waves, backed by majestic summits provides a pretty sensational setting to sink a putt…or tie the knot!
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Furry Creek Golf and Country Club (one of the Golf BC group)
150 Country Club Road
Furry Creek, BC Canada
Toll Free 1-888-922-9462
Fax: 604-896-2327
Pro Shop: 604-896-2224
Inlet View B&B
Phone: 604-896-1517
E-mail: dmilne@mountain-inter.net
Photographs by Brent Cassie
Back to
TravelLady Magazine |