It has been nearly three years since Hurricane Fiona carved a path of destruction across Nova Scotia. The storm devastated much of Northumberland’s forested landscape, once a defining characteristic of the course.
The course in Stouffville was designed by Rene Muylaert and the private equity club was created with a vision to maximize member enjoyment.
If you had never played the Northumberland course prior to the ravages of Hurricane Fiona last September, you would find this 18-hole, seaside layout to be a very pleasant, challenging and open design.
The ‘New to Me Tour’ continues with a visit to hilly Duntroon Highlands on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment.
Stephen Young fashioned this pretty layout on 250 acres, using the Niagara Escarpment as a backdrop and the natural wetlands adjacent to Batteaux Creek to craft a very playable routing.
This is one of McBroom’s earlier designs and it definitely defines the themes that you see at his other Muskoka projects like Deerhurst, Ridge at Manitou and Rocky Crest.
With several tee decks on each hole, Simoro is appropriate for any skill level. Even long bombers will be challenged by the short-game requirements and tricky greens.
Overall, the course is player friendly and would be fine for any skill level. I plan on a return visit this summer to play the North nine and hopefully get my revenge on a few holes that didn’t treat me well.
The 18th hole on the Torrey Pines South course is a nifty little par-5 where the pros certainly expect to have a chance at birdie, maybe even eagle. Over the years, the 18th has been the site of some memorable moments.
