Above the shoreline of Kamloops Lake, only a three-hour drive from bustling Vancouver and trendy Whistler, lies a unique paradise of polished greens and luxurious accommodations within the dramatic Thompson-Okanagan Region of British Columbia.

Tobiano has received significant national and international recognition within two years of opening. It was awarded “Best New Course in Canada in 2008” by both Golf Digest and SCOREgolf Magazine, followed by SCOREgolf’s “Best Conditioned Course in British Columbia” and “B.C.’s Best Public Golf Course” in 2009. However, Tobiano offers much more than award-winning golf, with lakeside amenities on one of Canada’s most scenic lakes and unique equestrian and outdoor opportunities across 17,000 acres of spectacular backcountry.

“There is a ‘Live, Rest, Play’ lifestyle at Tobiano,” says developer Michael Grenier. The community caters to the aspirations of healthy, active families and individuals seeking to get the most out of life. “We offer an ‘all-inclusive’ living experience,” Grenier confirms. “People move here to live their resort lifestyle on a year-round basis.”

Tobiano’s growth in four short years is remarkable. The marina’s boat launch, observation pier and refueling station will soon be complemented with a 220-slip harbour and breakwater, promising afternoons filled with waterskiing, boating and day-sailing. Nearby, a developing equestrian centre and existing trail network offers guests the opportunity to enjoy both English and Western riding.

“We often think of play in terms of children,” says Grenier. “[But] adults need to play too; they need to let their hair down – even those who don’t have much left! They need to laugh; they need to have a smile on their face.”

One of the things that sets Tobiano apart is the spectacular view of the surrounding bluffs, mountains and lakeside.  Designed by renowned course architect Thomas McBroom, Tobiano boasts greens that appear suspended over the bluffs (known as “infinity greens”) and fairways that lead golfers down a funneling canyon path.  The overall impression is one of stunning vastness.

“It’s a remarkable thing when you can stand at one end of the golf course and see all 18 holes unfolding across several kilometres,” says Grenier.

A public resort course, Tobiano’s manicured greens and fairways provide the complete spectrum of difficulty: Avid golfers can enjoy a challenging and spirited round, while new-to-the-game couples and families can take part in a relaxing and entertaining social experience.

Tobiano’s well-trained staff are sure to direct golfers to the tee box best suited to their handicap. Tees are labeled Sage, Lake, Spur, Iron or Tour to encourage golfers to interact with Tobiano staff from the get-go. “We’re in the entertainment business,” says Grenier. “It’s important to us that guests leave this course saying, ‘I really enjoyed that. I had a wonderful time.’ Getting them off on the correct tee is key to a great day.”

The Golf Academy provides a similarly tailored experience. Lessons take place at a practice tee set privately at the far end of the public driving range. This allows for uninterrupted instruction and a one-on-one feel to enhance learning. Additional chipping and putting greens allow all aspects of the game to be developed.

The award-winning clubhouse, designed in the Tobiano stone, wood and contemporary architectural style, provides a comfortable setting for a post-18th meal or drink prepared by celebrated head chef George Moutsos, whose impressive resume includes the Fairmont Chateau in Whistler. Golfers have the alternative to grab on-the-fly cuisine before heading back to the 10th hole.

The resort community offers a three-pronged series of recreational activities: golfing, water sports and riding. The latter was discovered by Grenier during a vacation to Cape Cod in the ‘90s. “I saw people riding their horses through their subdivision, and two things struck me: Horses are such a noble animal, and you don’t have to be an equestrian to enjoy watching them,” he says. “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to capture that recreational amenity?”

Tobiano residents can ride horses through the equestrian neighbourhood on designated trails that parallel the paved roads, and at times veer off for a private adventure that takes riders through 17,000 acres of pristine wildlife past the associated Six-Mile Ranch. Here, riders can catch a glimpse of the 200 head of local cattle. A planned multi-phase equestrian centre within walking distance of neighbouring homes will feature indoor and outdoor riding facilities, a tack shop and in time, a guest ranch hotel.

While Tobiano’s rural ambiance flows seamlessly into its dramatic natural surroundings, guests enjoy a top-of-the-line urban living experience – truly the best of both worlds. “There are the underground electrical, water, wastewater and natural gas services, a fibre-optic high-speed Internet network, a municipal-grade water treatment plant and reservoir, volunteer fire department, decorative streetlights, the urban standard of paved roads, boulevards and sidewalks – all situated within a spectacular rural setting,” Grenier explains.

Nearby, residents can visit the city of Kamloops, which offers a state-of-the-art hospital, airport, major retailers and the acclaimed Thompson Rivers University.

“A lot of folks are relocating from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto,” says Grenier. “They’re visiting their secondary homes, or moving into their primary homes. Many business owners and professionals who work in Kamloops are choosing to live here.”

Tobiano offers four distinctive neighbourhoods that promise stunning views, environmental design and sophisticated finishes. Design guidelines ensure new homes complement an active life with well-planned walkways and riding paths that connect residents to the golf course, developing marina, equestrian centre and pedestrian-friendly village. From golf greens to lakeside amenities, equestrian trails and luxury living, Tobiano lives up to its reputation as the place to Live, Rest and Play.

Giddy-up partner, you have a tee time at four, and lakeside cocktails at sunset! •

Photo courtesy Tobiano