Just came back from Cabot late last week, so thought I'd give an update for those planning to head up there this summer.
CABOT
Course:
- Was very impressed with the conditions of both courses. Greens were faster than I expected. Can't imagine they can get much faster as they resulted in a wobbly ball or two when the wind was really up. Caddies said that the course should be running very hard and fast in 3 weeks (currently early in the season, so we weren't getting quite as much roll as you'd expect on a links course).
- I don't think I've ever had more fun on a course in 30 degree weather! Cliffs is spectacular, although I thought the Links was more fun. I'd still pick more rounds on the Cliffs though, just because it's so unique.
Off-Course:
- Downstreet Coffee Company was sold last week and is now closed. Not sure when they will re-open, but it definitely looked like it will take some time. I believe it was bought by Route 19 Brewing, which is scheduled for opening across the street from Cabot later this summer. It's still a ways off if judging by construction, but will be a real nice addition for golfers. For off-site breakfast, everyone seemed to be frequenting Robin's Donuts across the street. As an aside, the sale apparently affected the famous cookies on the first tee, as they now have to "outsource" them and only had them sparingly.
- No putting cups in the rooms or in the pro shop - bummer!
- After having visited Bandon, I found that Cabot is not the well-oiled machine that Bandon is. Understandable due to the short golf season, temporary workers, and it being early in the season, but I spent more time trying to get things done at the front desk than I ever have at any other resort. 15 mins to make a dinner reservation at Panorama, 20 mins to check-in, 15 mins to get our key after we already checked-in, etc. Never once did they pick up the phone. Obviously there for the golf, but good to have expectations in line and to give yourself extra time if you're trying to rush to a tee-time. All these things are minor though since the golf is so good.
HIGHLAND LINKS
Course:
- An absolute must-play. The stretch from 2-9 is perhaps the most unique stretch of golf holes that I have ever played - I was floored with the design, the strategy, and sheer beauty on every one of those tee boxes (not to mention we saw a moose and bald eagle in that stretch as well). The back 9 had some unbelievable holes as well, but were more interspersed.
- Would highly suggest trying to play 2 rounds out there. Knowing a bit about the blind shots is one thing. The other is that the mounding in the fairways is relentless and a shock to the system...zero flat lies. Was completely frustrated after the first round that I didn't get to hit some of the shots I wanted, simply because I was so focused on not sculling/chunking/shanking the ball. Second round was so much more enjoyable to play due to being prepared for what lies ahead.
- Conditioning was...playable. Course had only been open for a week, so there was a lot of winter kill on the greens. I have no idea how they keep that course maintained with the hills/remoteness of some of the holes, so I can't foresee it ever being in great shape (after finishing, you really appreciate how the heck they made the course even playable). I think it will be in decent shape later in the summer.
Off-course:
- Had a great stay and play rate there that included two rounds of golf per person. We were able to play early in the morning, drive the long-way around the Cabot Trail, stop for some lobster in Cheticamp, and be on the first tee of Cabot Cliffs by 4:00 pm (can't think of a better 36-hole day!). There should be enough sunlight for that through August or so. Seems like teetimes start later at Cabot, so it may not be doable the other way around.
OTHERS:
- Arrived in Halifax at 1:15 pm. That's too late to play at the above courses, so booked a (surprisingly reasonable) stay and play rate at Fox Harb'r. The back 9 has some excellent holes (and views!) and there are a few decent holes on the front as well. You'll scratch your head on a half-dozen or so architectural decisions (especially on the waterfront holes), but still an enjoyable setting and am guessing it's as good of a course as you're going to get in Nova Scotia outside of Cape Breton. Definitely not worth the rack rate though, so look into the packages.
We were definitely focused on the golf (9 rounds in 5 days), but would suggest that everyone drives the Cabot Trail at least once - note that the "can't miss" part is really between Cheticamp and Ingonish, so only go the Google Maps quick way between the two courses if you REALLY need to shave off that extra 20 minutes or so.
Hope this helps - happy to answer any questions.