Today marks the start of a series named TPG Golf Diaries. From world class courses, to resorts, to hidden gems and everything in between, I want to convey the authentic adventures we go on as The Pure Golfer. Starting with Fox Harb’r in Nova Scotia, Canada.
Situated on a peninsula between Pugwash and Tatamagouche, Fox Harb’r was created by Ron Joyce, co-founder of the Tim Hortons coffee chain. He later went on to merge it with Wendy’s and in the process became a billionaire. In his retirement, he created the 5 star, award winning Harb’r. Ranked #4 in Nova Scotia and #74 in Canada.
My day started at my partner’s cottage, a little under 100 km away. Weaving along the coastal road, I was excited about what would meet me at the other end. Greeted by an imposing set of front gates and beautiful flower beds, I felt like I was somewhere in the US rather than a small town on the east coast of Canada. As I drove through the gates and up the long driveway with the course on either side, I couldn’t wait to tee it up. There’s something very special about playing somewhere new.
Before hitting the greens, I had the pleasure of sitting down with a true gent, Elliott Isenor, Director of Golf. We spoke about all things golf. The Fox Harb’r story, vision for the future, and mine. It’s refreshing to meet someone who is so passionate and insightful about the game. I’m looking forward to more coffee conversations.
All of a sudden, it was only 30 minutes until my tee time, so I ran upstairs to the grand restaurant, scoffed a brekkie burrito (which was excellent), and headed to the range, which is situated right next to the first tee. Chris, the starter, gave me a good run down of what to expect out on the course and off I went.
The front nine is set inland and the back nine runs along the ocean. They are both extremely enjoyable nines and very different from each other. As I walked off the first green, I watched the diggers working hard on the second course they are building onsite. Like so many courses these days, they are growing to match the demand that’s building in the game. Not only are Fox Harb’r building a second course, they are investing heavily into their accommodation which runs parallel to the course.
The back nine was my preferred, with some of the tee shots elevated, offering stunning views across the Northumberland Strait. This course feels expansive, enjoyable to play and a real test of golf. Fun fact: when Ron Joyce opened the course, he invited Tiger Woods to play. No surprise that he still has the course record. There is a plaque on the 16th-hole where he drove his 3-wood 293 yds. Impressive stuff from the legend.
This felt like a place where I wanted to spend at least 48 hours (many come for longer stays year after year). There are fantastic facilities in addition to the golf. At the far end of the course, around hole 13, I met a guy who was outside his beautiful home. Turns out he was renting it for his wedding. I can see why, as it is a beautiful venue. I love that about golf – you never know who you will meet.
Speaking of which, after the round, I was invited to join a group from Florida for lunch. We discussed the course in detail and all agreed that it was an exceptional track. The food was excellent too and the service first-class.
It was a full day before I arrived back to the cottage, and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. I look forward to coming back in 2025.
Any questions? Leave them in the comments below.
