Fox Harb’r Resort in Canada is preparing to open a new championship course designed by two of the country’s top golf architects, Doug Carrick and Tom McBroom.
The opening of the Ocean Course in May will mark the first phase of a major golf transformation at the Nova Scotia-based resort, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025.
Founded in 2000 by Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist Ron Joyce, co-founder of Tim Hortons, Canada’s largest coffee chain, Fox Harb’r Resort was built along Nova Scotia’s picturesque Northumberland shore. Today, under the leadership of his son, Steven Joyce, the resort has embarked on a multi-million dollar expansion programme that includes the construction of two golf courses, with the second, The Vineyard, set to open in 2027.
Opening this spring, the Ocean Nine kicks off the first phase of the resort’s golf transformation, offering players a thrilling new coastal experience. To ensure a full 18-hole round, the Ocean will be paired with an existing nine holes for the 2025 season. This temporary routing allows golfers to experience the new coastal holes designed by Carrick and McBroom while the final phases are completed.
Inspired by Scotland’s legendary links, the layout delivers a refined yet exhilarating challenge, blending dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and oceanfront views along the rugged Northumberland Strait.
“The Ocean Course will unfold like a journey, building anticipation from inland terrain to commanding coastal vistas,” says Carrick. “By the time golfers reach the elevated 5th tee, they are met with a spectacular panorama of the Northumberland Strait and Prince Edward Island — one of the course’s most awe-inspiring reveals.
“From there, the layout fully embraces the oceanfront, flowing through the par-four 6th, which plays into the backdrop of the Strait. The journey continues with the scenic par-three 7th and the rolling par-five 8th, winding along the cliffs before rising to the final hole. It’s a routing that seamlessly blends challenge, beauty, and strategy, ensuring that every round is both exhilarating and unforgettable.”
Complementing the Ocean Course, the Vineyard Course will feature a heathland-style layout weaving through forests, open meadows and alongside the resort’s award-winning vineyards. With its sheltered fairways framed by fescue and heather, the course will offer a strategic playing experience.
“With both the Ocean and Vineyard Courses, Fox Harb’r will be one of the most diverse golf destinations in North America,” says Toth. “Players will encounter two entirely different challenges —from dramatic oceanfront holes to the refined, inland vineyard layout.”
Spanning 1,400 acres, Fox Harb’r Resort offers a luxurious experience, with accommodations for up to 200 guests. Beyond golf and the new spa, visitors can enjoy a deep-water marina, kayaking, sport shooting, archery, axe throwing, award-winning conference facilities, fine dining, and more.
The resort also features a private 5,000-foot runway, allowing guests to arrive with ease.This spring, the first phase of a new community of 18 town houses will also be unveiled.
“With Nova Scotia emerging as a must-visit golf destination, Fox Harb’r Resort brings something unique to the province’s golf landscape,” says Toth. “Our coastal setting, championship course, and luxury amenities offer guests an experience that is both world-class and deeply relaxing. Whether it’s a round of golf, a weekend retreat, or a chance to unwind at the spa, we provide a destination where guests can truly escape and recharge.”