HORSESHOE VALLEY RESORT (705-835-2790)
Valley Course
Review 9/26
General Information:
Horseshoe Valley in Barrie is a full season resort located just 1 hour north of Toronto that has earned acclaim as
one of the most complete resort facilities in Ontario. On property are two 18-hole championship golf courses, a
golf academy, a comprehensive practice area, a variety of upscale accommodations and dining opportunities, a
spa, entertainment, pool and fitness center, children's programs, plus year round recreational activities that are
too numerous to mention here. For photos and text featuring all that Horseshoe Valley has to offer, visit our informational page for the resort (with direct link to their website) by clicking here.
The golf facilities include a bent grass, targeted driving range and practice greens, plus separate full service pro
shops at each of the two golf courses. A variety of dining options at the resort provide golfers with opportunities
for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and showers are available at the resort health club. There is unrestricted walking
on both courses, which were designed by architect Rene Muylaert. The marking system features red, white and
blue stakes at 100, 150 and 200 yards on the fairways, plus color coded flags to indicate front, middle and back pin placements.
Valley Course review
The Valley Course is the original design at Horseshoe Valley, a par 72 layout featuring winding, tree lined
fairways that play along a varied terrain with spectacular scenery. Golfers can choose from 3 sets of tees that
play to 6204 yards/137 slope, 5776 yards 131 slope, and 5114 yards/127 slope. Seldom have we seen a
course with relatively short yardages rated with such high slopes. This is due mainly to the tightness of the
fairways and to the frequent elevation changes. Those looking for a "resort" golf experience will be surely
surprised. Thankfully, the course is relatively short, allowing for play with long irons and fairway woods off the tees
. The driver should most often remain in the bag on this course. With putting surfaces that are often raised or
perched, and with bunkers or water hazards nearby, a good short game will certainly come in handy. The
environment is serenely beautiful, with frequent views of the ski hills in the background. For golfers looking to
improve or challenge their iron game - this course fulfills the fantasy. It is also one of the tightest layouts I have
ever encountered. The Valley Course is conveniently located on the resort property - within walking distance of
most of the accommodations, and with restaurants nearby. We suggest a round here prior to play on the Highlands Course - which will seem much easier by comparison. Wonderful package deals are available
through the resort. For more info, and for a direct link to the Horseshoe Valley website, visit our page for the Valley Course by clicking here.
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