Including Nelson's own Granite Pointe, there are three, 18-hole golf courses within a half-hour drive, and a fourth on the east shore of Kootenay Lake – just a ferry ride further away. They all boast excellent courses and views.
Granite Pointe
While almost every golf course in the Kootenay Rockies can claim fabulous scenery as a significant attribute, Granite Pointe Golf Club has the added advantage of being close to the cultural and gastronomical delights of Nelson. Dropping steeply towards the city, with the West Arm of Kootenay Lake stretching off into the distance, the 16th hole has been rated one of BC's 10 best.
Balfour Golf Course
Designed by Canada's top golf course architect Les Furber, Balfour Golf Course offers wide fairways, flanked by lots of trees, some very steep terrain on the back nine and, for those who have trouble keeping their head down, terrific views of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains. Osprey, a variety of fish eagle, can often be seen flying overhead.
Kokanee Springs Golf Resort
Given its somewhat remote location on the east shore of Kootenay Lake, it is surprising to find such an exceptional course. The journey from Nelson to the Kokanee Springs Golf Resort involves driving half an hour along the West Arm to Balfour, and then taking the 40-minute free ferry ride across Kootenay Lake. Getting there is half the fun. Awarded four stars by Golf Digest, this tough championship course features a number of big water hazards, including a sometimes raging mountain river, and some huge elevation changes from tee box to green. Novices may find Kokanee Springs a little intimidating.
Equipment and rentals can be found at the courses as well as in town at local suppliers, including the Golf Doctor on Front Street.