1.  Instagram vs. Reality – ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

The drone shots don’t lie. Sirocco looks stunning online—rolling fairways, moody pine backdrops, panoramic mountain views—and in person, it delivers. No filters needed. The elevation shifts, especially on the back nine, are as dramatic in real life as they are on your feed.

2. Clubhouse/Pro Shop Vibes ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perched on a hill overlooking the course, it offers sweeping views and a well-run operation. The pro shop is clean and functional, if not flashy. Service? Top-notch.

3. Greens Personality  ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

The greens at Sirocco are sneaky tough. They’re large, well-kept, and roll true, but the undulations and speed will mess with your confidence if your approach isn’t dialed. Fast and firm in dry weather, with enough slope to reward smart placement and punish poor lag putting.

4. Fairway Forgiveness  ⭐⭐⭐½

Sirocco is a thoughtful test of golf. It’s not a grip‑it‑and‑rip‑it track, accuracy matters. Mid‑handicappers should bring a few extra balls, as the native tree lines and Pine Creek don’t offer many second chances. But it's this challenge that makes the course engaging and rewarding.

5. Pace of Play Reality   ⭐⭐⭐½

For a course this challenging, pace was surprisingly solid. We played on a Sunday afternoon and were waiting a few minutes on each hole, but that's expected every weekend now in July isn't it?

6. Snack Shack Score  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The menu is broad and the service is efficient. The house smoked brisket beef dip definitely deserves some love, and the beer selection isn’t half bad either.

7. Signature Hole Swagger ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The 18th hole is everything you want in a finisher...dramatic, scenic, and challenging. A 438-yard par 4 that requires two precise shots over Pine Creek. You’ll talk about it on the ride home, especially if you card a par.

8. Scorecard Survivability    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Breaking 90 at Sirocco is well within reach. The course rewards smart play so keep your tee shots in check and manage the greens and you’ll steer clear of those big numbers. The hazards add challenge but are fair, making every hole feel exciting. Stay disciplined, and you’ll post a solid score.

9. Best Par 3    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The 14th is a stunner: a pond-side beauty with a tucked pin and wind that always seems to swirl. It demands precision off the tee and gives you that “Am I playing a PGA course?” moment. Bring your A-game and your phone for the photo op.

10. Wallet Worthy ⭐⭐⭐⭐

For a public course with this kind of conditioning, layout, and views, Sirocco delivers strong value. Calgary isn’t exactly overflowing with elite public golf, and this course sits firmly near the top without charging full resort-course prices.

11. Brag-Ability Bucket List    ⭐⭐⭐½

While it may not have the worldwide clout of a Banff Springs or Cabot Links, Sirocco is absolutely one you’ll brag about to your Alberta golf buddies. The combination of setting, challenge, and overall vibe makes it a worthy play for Western Canadian golf.