In ‘500 or less,’ author Alex Hunter discusses a golf course in 500 words or less to provide a quick overview. Furthermore, the series introduces a “star rating,” which is based off an opinion on fun factor/repeatability, walkability, routing/design aspects, plus cost & conditioning. Check back in next month for the next instalment of the series!
- Lachute, Québec
- Semi-Private
- Stanley Thompson (1949)
- 99th best golf course in Canada + 38th best public golf course in Canada
Located in Lachute, Québec, roughly one hour from Montreal and 1.5 hours from Ottawa, Lachute offers golf from two prolific architects: Stanley Thompson, and Howard Watson.
The Course
The Thompson course features a ton of character amongst its rolling fairways, a great set of bunkers, and greens. The course began its life in 1923 as a nine hole course from Albert Murray, before Thompson renovated it in 1949 to produce the championship golf course we see today.
The Thompson course is a true hidden gem in Canadian public golf, although this website now ranks it the 38th best public course in the country. Perhaps the secret is out.
Holes & Features of Interest
Lachute begins with a very strong, engaging first five holes offering a challenging and entertaining start. The variety of micro and macro fairway undulations combine nicely with a great set of greenside bunkers here, which makes it a treat to play.
The opening hole is a 465 yard par 4 brute of a two-shot hole. The greenside bunkers are full of character and provides a good introduction to the theme of the golf course.
Like most Thompson golf courses, the one-shot holes are the major highlights. Amongst the set, the 2nd, long 5th, and short 13th are the standouts. I think these three par 3’s, in particular, can stand among some of the best in Canadian public golf.
Also, the par 3, 9th has a unique two green setup.
The three-hole stretch beginning at the 11th is also fantastic, beginning with a gently rolling par 5 with some massive bunkers.
The 12th is a par 4 that doglegs slightly to the right. The tee shot asks you to hit it through a chute of trees, or should I say, lachute.
The short par 3, 13th is a real pleasure. With nothing more than a wedge from the tee, the green is guarded short and long with bunkering.
The short par 5, 4th
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not mention the short par 5, 4th. After playing the challenging opening three holes, the course throws you a bone. The landing area is blind from the tee as the fairway diagonally crests a ridge. There is a periscope to see the landing area (neat!). With trees lining both sides of the fairway, this is a more challenging hole than you would think.
