Golf year-round in the Gulf Islands

Courses on Salt Spring, Gabriola, Galiano and Pender islands

For golfers wanting a little variety in their sport, golfing on the Gulf Islands is the answer.

Salt Spring, Gabriola, Galiano and Pender island courses are in the middle of a small paradise, which is ideal for people on holidays and those who want to experience something different from the usual busy urban golf course.

The courses are challenging and demand a different set of skills, but you can still relax and enjoy the unique environment each course offers. Nature abounds with deer on the fairways and eagles soaring above — to mention just a few of the courses' regular visitors.

• Salt Spring Island Golf and Country Club boasts tree-lined rolling fairways and well-manicured greens located in spectacular countryside. The nine-hole, par 36 course is open all year-round, and is centrally located near Portlock Park, not far from the island's main town of Ganges. The course also has a full-service clubhouse, driving range, practice green and licensed Falconshead Grill restaurant. Club and cart rentals are also available.

• Blackburn Meadows Golf Club was Canada's first organically maintained golf course. Set on picturesque Blackburn Lake on Salt Spring Island, the nine-hole course is open from March through the end of October, offering a full range of rentals, including clubs and power carts, and a clubhouse for snacks and drinks.

• Gabriola Golf and Country Club has rolling fairways overlooking beautiful Hoggan Lake, with well-manicured greens that provide challenging putts. A driving range, practice green, power carts, club rentals and a full-service clubhouse are available.

• The Galiano course offers water hazards, bunkers, lush fairways and giant trees, providing "serious but enjoyable challenges and fun for players of all ability levels." A clubhouse, licensed cafe, practice green, power carts and club rentals are also part of the package.

• Pender Island's course includes four elevated tee boxes that afford expansive views of the challenging shots ahead. The setting is peaceful, and facilities include a licensed cafe and lounge, pro shop, club and power cart rentals.