The clubhouse is extremely impressive. Once you arrive you will never forget the first look you got of the clubhouse. Generally the course is pretty wide open with the exception of a few holes that are tree lined and play tougher because the rest of the holes lull you into a false sense of security.

The pro shop is well stocked with typical proshop prices. They have one of the best selections of leather tour bags that I have ever seen anywhere! The staff is very nice and helpful.

The practice area is very impressive. The driving range is well stocked with nice balls and lit in the late evening. The putting green is a little on the small side and too close to the first tee but presents a good opportunity to get in a few putts before the round begins. It is indicative of the greens on the course.

An irritating local rule forbids golfers from entering environmental areas. I understand that golf carts should not be brought into these areas but I think it is a little ridiculous to have fescue and wild grasses growing right next to the fairway and then ask a golfer (most of which will be right or left of the fairway 75% of the time) to not trample into it searching for his/her ball because the club is calling it an 'environmental area'.

Generally this is a decent course that better golfers should be looking to score well on and average golfers will find thoroughly enjoyable. It is adequately challenging yet also forgiving enough to ensure that you don't lose a dozen balls a round. The fairways were a little chewed up in places which took away from the overall appeal of the course. The fairways did appear to be well watered and cut properly. The greens ran true and looked beautiful in the late afternoon sun. Sandtraps were well raked and manicured around the edges.

Our foursome appreciated the numerous water stations that are so often lacking at other courses. Southern Ontario summers require good hydration and management at Cardinal seems to have recognized this. The beverage cart came by on at least five separate occasions and the girl driving it was very nice. Further, she understood golf etiquette and did not speed up to us while on the tee deck and waited quietly off to the side of the green while we putted out. Well done!

Best Hole: #1
Why: This short par five starting hole is relatively wide open off the tee but it is important to hit it well and stay on the right side of the fairway so as to have an opportunity to hit into the elevated green on your second shot. If a clear shot is not possible the safe thing to do is lay up to the end of the fairway on the right side. Long hitters will be able to hit a short iron into the green on their second shot but unless the drive is well placed the approach can be treacherous. The green is raised about 40 feet above the fairway and off to the left. It is well protected by bunkers that you cannot see from the fairway. Birdie is possible but par is a good score.