A true classic, 'old style' course, it is the golf experience that truly sets Rideau View apart from the competition. A magnificently manicured championship course in a mature, tree-lined setting, with rolling terrain and spectacular vistas, it offers a peaceful golf atmosphere, not encumbered by residential development or noisy traffic.
Howard Watson, one of Canada's foremost golf course architects, was hired to design the first nine holes, and the official sod turning took place on June 23, 1957. The first nine holes opened for play in June 1958. The clubhouse was built on the highest point of land on the property, to offer the best view. In 1961, construction began on the second nine holes, which were designed by C.E. "Robbie" Robinson, also an eminent Canadian course architect. By 1963 the 18-hole course was complete.
Having recently completed a total renovation of all its bunkers, under the direction of renowned Canadian architect, Ian Andrew, a number of local golf experts have stated that Rideau View is simply the best golf course in the region. With six sets of tees ranging from 4,970 yards to 7,000 yards, the course offers playability, challenge and exceptional shot-value for golfers of all skill levels.
For the past 10 years, Rideau View has retained the services of noted Canadian golf architect, Ian Andrew, to develop a 5-year plan for the golf course and oversee and advise on major on-course projects such as the bunker renovation. Ian has recently partnered with Mike Weir as the lead golf designer for Weir Golf Design. Ian offers the following comments on Rideau View…
"One of the keys to the golf course is how both Howard Watson and Robbie Robinson used the central spines in the routing. The ridges have been utilized throughout to offer a series of wonderful elevated tee shots where the player can see all the challenges set out before them. They also used the ridges to place a series of green sites up into the hillsides to create some complicated but beautiful settings for approach shots.
My favourite hole on the Robinson nine is the 8th. In order to score, the player must flirt with the right fairway bunker to gain the ideal approach angle. But the canted fairway steers everything left and out towards a pair of waiting bunkers. Most shots have to be played from the left side which requires carrying a deep green side bunker to reach an elevated green site set beautifully into the hill. Even then the challenge is not over since this tricky green can lead to some tough putts.
"The 9th is simply a bear. Every course needs one demanding hole that truly tests a golfer's ability to hit a great shot. The tee shot is played from an elevated high tee down into the valley between a series of well-placed bunkers. The approach is back up to a well-bunkered elevated green. The key to the hole is to stay below the pin since the green is sharply pitched from back to front. Missing wide or long is a disaster."
More of Ian Andrew's commentary…
"My favourite hole on the Watson nine is the 13th. The tee shot is from an elevated tee with the player knowing that they must flirt with the creek in order to gain the best angle of approach. The approach to this well bunkered elevated green is usually played into the wind demanding only the very best approach will be rewarded."
"The 18th is a spectacular finisher. The tee shot must avoid a tangle of bunkers in the landing area in order to set up the second shot. The second shot must flirt with the right fairway bunker to set up an approach into the opening between the bunkers. Play from the left side will leave an ominous carry over three very deep bunkers to reach this elevated green site."
