INEVITABLY, YOU’LL BE taken aback by the awe-inspiring view known as Bear Mountain. The sheer size of the project includes luxury-style community living and a Westin-operated hotel. Currently, the jewel on the property is the Jack and Steve Nicklaus-designed Bear Mountain. With five sets of tee boxes, the golf course can be played from the Cinnamon tees at 5,014 yards to the Golden tees’ 7, 212 yards.

Typically Nicklaus in flavour, the generous landing areas provide plenty of room for those who prefer to hit their driver. The scenic par-3 4th requires a full carry to a large and sloping green, framed by the backdrop of the Malahat Mountain Range. On the inward nine, the unique 19th hole is set on the edge of the property where a panoramic view of the city of Victoria awaits. Bear Mountain will test your ability to focus on each shot as the breathtaking scenery and majestic Arbutus trees can easily distract the well-intentioned.

TOTAL YARDS: 7,212

NUMBER OF HOLES: 19

LONGEST HOLE: 18th, par-5, 603 yards

APRÉS-GOLF: Relax in the Masters Lounge overlooking the 18th green, enjoy a massage at the Sante Spa or take a dip in the outdoor heated pool at the Mountainside Athletic Club. 

Green fees are $40 to $79, depending on the day.

bearmountain.ca