Highlands Links
The Highlands Links Golf Course, is a public golf course located near the village of Ingonish Beach in Nova Scotia, Canada. Highlands Links is located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and is owned and operated by Parks Canada.
History
Highlands Links was designed by Stanley Thompson, and opened in 1941. It was originally a nine hole course but was quickly extended to an 18 hole course.
The Course
The course is an 18 hole, par 72, course measuring about 6600 yards. It has a slope rating around 140, making it a difficult golf course for bogey golfers.
Current status
Over the years, subtle changes in course layout, the addition of golf cart paths, and the growth of vegetation have all contributed to Highlands Links no longer providing a true reflection of Stanley Thompson's original design. In 2008, Ian Andrew, a restoration specialist, was hired to provide a master plan that will return Highlands Links to its former glory. Progress is under way.
Ranking
- In 2002, Scoregolf rated Highlands Links the best golf course in all of Canada.
- In 2003, Golf Digest rated the Highlands Links the 64th best golf course in the world.
- In 2007, Golf Magazine rated the Highlands Links the 38th best golf course in the world.
- In 2013, Links Magazine rated Highlands Links 66th best golf course in the world.
- In 2013, Golf Digest rated the Highlands Links 7th best golf course in Canada.