Highlands Links, Golf course in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Canada
Highlands Links is an 18-hole golf course in the Cape Breton Highlands that uses the natural topography of hills, forests, and coastal cliffs throughout its layout. The course constantly shifts between different landscape types, creating varied playing conditions on every hole.
Stanley Thompson designed this course in 1941, skillfully incorporating the existing landscape features into his design. It represents one of the few North American golf courses created by this renowned Canadian golf architect.
The course is experienced as a place where local golfing traditions remain living and the immediate connection to Nova Scotia's wild surroundings shapes every shot. It bridges players directly with the land in a way that sets it apart from typical golf courses.
The course operates from late spring through early fall within a national park setting, offering equipment rentals, practice areas, and a pro shop on site. Visitors should expect changeable weather and plan for the physically demanding walks across the hilly terrain.
While playing, golfers cross through multiple distinct ecosystems within the national park, from dense forest sections to open coastal areas. This variety of habitats within a single course is particularly rare for the region.
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