Golf

Vancouver-area golf courses offer golfing with fantastic scenery. Most are open year-round. Three championship golf courses (including serene Fraserview) are operated by the city, meaning they are more affordable. To reserve up to 30 days in advance, contact the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation (www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/golf-activities.aspx). The Vancouver Park Board also operates three 18-hole pitch-and-putt sites, including one right in Stanley Park and one in Queen Elizabeth Park.

Last Minute Golf. For advance tee-time bookings at about 20 Vancouver area courses, or for a spur-of-the-moment game, call Last Minute Golf. The company matches golfers and courses, sometimes at substantial greens-fee discounts. 800/684–6344; www.lastminutegolfbc.com.

Fraserview Golf Course. The most celebrated of Vancouver's public courses, the 18-hole Fraserview Golf Course sits on 91 heavily wooded hectares (225 acres) overlooking the Fraser River. It has a tree-lined fairway, a driving range, and a lovely clubhouse. There's a golf institute staffed with instructors who teach players of all levels. Golf carts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 7800 Vivian Dr., South Vancouver, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5S2V8. 604/257–6923; www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/fraserview-golf-course.aspx. C$60–C$66.

Northview Golf and Country Club. In the rolling terrain southeast of Vancouver, this lovely golf club is home to two Arnold Palmer–designed courses. The Ridge Course crosses meandering streams, while the Canal Course has wide fairways and undulating greens. An optional cart at either course costs C$45. There's not a strict dress code, but presentable attire is expected. 6857 168th St., Surrey, British Columbia, V3S3T6. 604/576–4653; 888/574–2211; www.northviewgolf.com. C$75–C$85.

University Golf Club. In Point Grey's Pacific Spirit Park, this challenging 1929 public course includes a clubhouse and restaurant and is home to the British Columbia Golf Museum. The course's narrow fairways, lined with old-growth trees, appeal to golfers of all skill levels. 5185 University Blvd., Point Grey, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T1X5. 604/224–7799; www.universitygolf.com. C$69.