Deerhurst Resort

In the late 1980's, golf architect Robert Cupp ventured north from Atlanta, where he had called Augusta National home for so many years, and teamed with leading Canadian course designer Thomas McBroom to create a new kind of Canadian golf course, the Deerhurst Highlands. Figuring that since nature had already done a fairly magnificent job in Muskoka, they wisely, and with a stroke of brilliance, let the course follow nature's lead throughout dramatic terrain dotted with granite and teeming with dense woods.

The flagship Deerhurst Highlands has spawned a veritable golf boom in Muskoka, with high-end courses, many of which are private, popping up throughout Muskoka. A new tourism entity, the "Muskoka Golf Trail" has been formed and the region is now marketed internationally as a Canadian golf mecca.

And yet, the Deerhurst Highlands remains the standard, its classically well-balanced design offering one of the purest golf challenges you'll find anywhere. Bold granite outcroppings and dramatic terrain shifts are optimized at the signature hole, #10, where elevated tee areas are perched above a 30' natural rock wall bordering a fairway that seems like a mirage far below. Dense, mature forests characterize most of the course while holes 4, 5 and 6 break out into an open links-style swirl that can leave you feeling like you've just ridden a slow moving roller coaster. Each nine consists of five par 4's, two par 3's and two par 5's in a traditionally well-balanced design.

Golf at Deerhurst Resort has come a long way since the days when guests were shuttled by boat to the local 9-hole golf course on the lake. Today, Deerhurst Resort has blossomed into one of Canada's top-rated golf destinations, boasting two 18-hole courses and a comprehensive golf academy. The resort's original course, the Deerhurst Lakeside, was initially designed by C.E. Robinson in 1966, and then reconfigured by Thomas McBroom in 1990 to offer a gentle but surprisingly challenging round for all skill levels. With eight Par 3's, nine Par 4's and one Par 5, this course will test every club in your bag.

The front nine starts off skirting Peninsula Lake and ventures off into a rolling valley. The back nine leaves from a cliff and swings through another valley, finishing with a demanding hole over the bay. You'll find that slick undulating greens, strategic water hazards and deep bunkers make this golf course rewarding for all playing abilities.

The Deerhurst Lakeside offers an ideal track for corporate events and beginner or intermediate players, while offering a compelling test of golf for avid players who want to enjoy a quick round. A driving range and practice green are available and lessons can be arranged through the Pro Shop.

A soaring ceiling of Douglas Fir beams. Vast picture windows overlooking the lake through a curtain of trees. A menu rich with the fusion of regional and international influences, created by a culinary team that includes eight chefs with experience at the executive level. Choose from a wine list that boasts 175 selections, earning the restaurant the prestigious WineSpectator Award of Excellence for three consecutive years. All this in a family friendly atmosphere, with natural smiles at your service.

Our signature restaurant is pure Canadiana, with intimate dining rooms tucked in a romantic log-house ambience designed for adult dining. Featuring only the best Angus beef, the weekly market fresh menu focuses on fine steaks, delicate seafood and other favourites from the grille. An extensive selection of VQA and international wines have earned Steamers the internationally recognized WineSpectator Award of Excellence as well.

A quick bite, a lazy beverage. A satisfying meal that hits the right spot. The Pub at the Pavilion is an ideal place for families and sports enthusiasts to relax.

When it's summertime and the living is easy, enjoy an icy beverage or casual meal al fresco. Located conveniently by the Lodge pool and overlooking Penn Lake, the pool deck is open during July and August.