The Links of GlenEagles | Golf Course Review

Course: The Links of GlenEagles
Location: 100 GlenEagles Drive, Cochrane, Alberta
Phone: 403-932-1100
Website: http://www.gleneaglesgolf.com
Architect: Les Furber

Those who know me know that I love to golf.  Though I’m a passionate golfer, I have to admit, I’m a bit of a golf snob – I like to play great courses.  It is important to note here that “great” doesn’t necessarily mean expensive.  I’ve been fortunate to golf some really incredible courses throughout Canada and the United States(expensive and inexpensive).  Recently, I was asked to provide my feedback on, what I consider to be, a pretty great course – The Links of GlenEagles in Cochrane.  What follows are my thoughts:

Why I Like GlenEagles:

• I’ve played The Links of GlenEagles on a number of occasions before, but I have to admit, the panoramic mountain views from pretty much every hole never get old.  I played the course recently with a group of friends from Ontario who were awe-struck by the incredible views – there’s nothing like golfing on a crystal clear day with the Rockies your backdrop.
• As I’ve commented to people before, the defining reason I continue to golf GlenEagles is the unique combination of interesting holes, enjoyable elevation changes and risk / reward opportunities all without sacrificing playability.  In my opinion, for the price, it’s difficult to beat.  Sure, there’s some pretty incredible golf in Canmore that meets the above criteria, but when you factor in the price differential and the drive, GlenEagles is a pretty attractive alternative
• Related to the above point, though the prospect of golf in Cochrane may be daunting for some stay-at-home Calgarians, the course is surprisingly quick and easy to access from virtually anywhere in Calgary.  The Links of GlenEagles is a very manageable commute (just 10 minutes from Northwest Calgary) and a worthwhile investment for this terrific golfing experience
• The course was in great condition (as it usually is) with the exception of some hill-side erosion on a few of the holes, but it didn’t affect course playability overall.  I quite enjoy the greens at GlenEagles – undulating and fast but true and fun to play.  Couple this with the fact that that the pin placements are typically challenging – it makes for quite a golf test
• Hole 16.  Though people either love it or hate it (it seems there is no in-between), I am a fan.  The views from this hole are incredible and the elevation change is like nothing that most golfers have ever experienced.  The scorecard pegs it at 188 yards from the blue tees, but a playing partner’s rangefinder (with slope adjustment) suggests the hole plays closer to 150 yards.  Some may find it gimmicky, but I enjoy the challenge.

Why I Don’t Play GlenEagles More Often:

• Though it is likely a non-issue for most, I’m not a fan of the 180-yard aqua range.  I typically like to hit a few balls with my driver before a round and that’s just not a possibility here
• When given the choice, I prefer to walk when I golf.  GlenEagles may be walk-able for some, but for most a cart is a must
• The one downside of being situated on the crest of a ridge is that wind tends to be a bit more of a factor out here than at some other courses

Overall, as is probably already obvious, I enjoy golfing The Links of GlenEagles.  For a golf course of this caliber I have no qualms paying the posted green fees (and I routinely do). Having said that, I suggest you sign-up with The Links of GlenEagles to receive their weekly email; the email details some incredible rate breaks and promotional offers that are absolutely worth checking out!

Course Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars