Arriving at The Ridge at Manitou is just the beginning of a fantastic day as you prepare to experience better golf in gorgeous surroundings.
The friendly and very welcoming staff get us started on the right foot. From the starters to the grounds crew to the pro shop staff to the chef and everyone in between, there is a can-do and will-help attitude that is a level above most.
That alone is a reason to book a tee time at the famous course that is easy-to-reach but feels quite secluded. And therein lies the second reason: you feel like you’re on a far away golf vacation but still close to home.
It’s all part and parcel of Purposeful Golf’s vision of bringing The Ridge at Manitou back to its original glory – and even taking it to new heights.
Co-founders Chris Gale and Ryan Dewey are avid golfers who want to provide an enhanced experience to those who also love to play the sport.
Designed by the renowned Thomas McBroom, the course itself has a fantastic layout, rolling along with the terrain and using the naturally existing hazards such as granite outcrops and marshes to full effect.
There is a perfect mix of challenge and playability. Even on a busy day, with the way the course is designed and plenty of time between groups, you’ll feel like you’re alone on the course.
“We have a golfer-first approach to everything we do, including tee times,” says Ryan. “That’s part of why we increased time intervals from 9 mins to 12 mins this year.”
It’s indeed noticeable, as is the fact that we ran into several Muskoka cottagers at the halfway house who were all enjoying their time at The Ridge at Manitou. They explained it was worth the relatively short drive (less than an hour for them).
Those looking to enhance their experience can take advantage of The Ridge at Manitou’s fly-and-play option. Their plane will pick you up at your dock and drop you off right at the course with plenty of room to fit a foursome comfortably.
It’s all part of the elevated experiences the new owners have implemented at the course.
“When The Ridge opened in 2006, it was ranked by Golf Digest as the Best New Course in Canada,” recalls Chris. “Our mission is to bring back that world-class golf experience.”
Anyone who has visited recently will tell you they’re on the right track.
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
