It all began in the early ‘80s. Don Noseworthy returned from a trip to Pebble Beach CA and its world-renowned golf course, convinced that the time had come for a premier private club in Ottawa’s east end.
The “original threesome” of Noseworthy and Phil and André Gagnon turned that dream into a reality. They opened Camelot in 1991. The club has since grown into one of the finest private golf facilities in Canada.
Camelot features towering pines and majestic views of the Ottawa River and the Gatineau Hills. A top-notch 18 holes designed by decorated Canadian architect Thomas McBroom takes advantage of the rolling landscape to test any golfer’s mettle. Camelot is ranked as one of the top three courses locally and in the top 100 nationally. The goal is to continue climbing the list to the top 50, with upgrades to Camelot’s greens nearing completion.
Camelot has always been known as an “equity” club, with a member ownership structure. That structure was recently revamped to ensure the club remains well-funded and can continue to make the capital improvements and deliver the premium amenities that its members rightly expect.
The future is not just about golf
While there is a rich history that warrants reflection after 30 years, Greg Richardson, Camelot’s general manager and chief operating officer, is focused on the decades to come.
“We are really looking to see the entire family more involved with the club, and see kids and grandkids coming out,” Richardson said. “But as a private club, we are also maintaining our membership limits, to attract the top echelon of members and ensure we can always have tee times reasonably available.”
Camelot continues to invest in new amenities to be a true year-round country club. It now features high-end indoor simulators that allows for play on over 100 courses, outdoor trails groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and winter festival events are hosted featuring tobogganing, sleigh rides and maple syrup taffy. Plans call for the addition of new indoor and outdoor recreational activities to further enhance the club’s offerings.
There is also a focus on “sustainability, nature and being good stewards of the land,” Richardson added.
The property includes protected wildlife habitats. Members can enjoy treats like maple syrup, honey and crab apple jellies, all sourced and produced onsite.
“All these things are what make Camelot a club you can be proud to join, and not just a course,” Richardson said.
Are you ready to be part of the legend?
With the pandemic, Camelot has enjoyed a surge in activity. Its members are teeing off more often than ever before – golf is a great way to get outdoors while maintaining safe distancing. Camelot has also expanded its patio dining, which features the best views in the city overlooking the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills, not to mention several holes of the golf course.
There are a limited number of individual and corporate memberships available, and an increase in their entrance fee is coming June 1, so now is the time to join. To learn more, please visit camelotgolf.ca or email membership@camelotgolf.ca.
Not the same as that other capital city
“Before visiting Ottawa, I had pondered if our country’s capital would have a similar golf scene to Washington, D.C., whereby the clubs are plentiful and represent the high society of the city…When I arrived at Camelot, I was happily taken back! There was no stuffy vibe or elitist culture. What I did find was good vibes and a laid-back club — we were off to a good start.”
— Freelance golf writer Andrew Harvie, April 20, TorontoGolfNuts.com
“A wonderful golf course, great shape and very challenging. The views of the Ottawa River are the best in Ottawa.”
— Member Robert B.
“Excellent service, great food and an amazing environment/atmosphere!”
— Member Bill W.
“Beautiful facilities/grounds, good food, great service and great staff. All present a very professional and inviting atmosphere.”
— Members David & Pollyanne B.
“Excellent service, food, atmosphere and no other area course beats our views.”
— Member Gerry G.
