The world of golf is filled with stunning landscapes, rich histories, and unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered by avid golfers. Venturing beyond your local courses can turn each round into an epic journey, offering a perfect blend of leisure and challenge. Here we’ll explore some of the most breathtaking golf courses globally that deserve a spot on every golfer’s dream list.
St. Andrews Links: The home of golf
Known as the « Home of Golf, » St. Andrews Links in Scotland is steeped in history and tradition. It’s a pilgrimage every serious golfer dreams about making.
Historical significance
Established in 1552, St. Andrews has seen centuries of golfing history unfold on its greens. Every golfer can feel the legacy as they walk these hallowed grounds.
The Old Course
The Old Course at St. Andrews is iconic for its large double greens, deep bunkers, such as the notorious Hell Bunker, and the infamous Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole. Playing here connects golfers directly to the sport’s rich past.
- Double Greens
- Hell Bunker
- Swilcan Bridge
Augusta National Golf Club: A masterpiece in Georgia
In the United States, Augusta National Golf Club stands out not just for being the host of The Masters Tournament, but for its intrinsic beauty and challenging layout.
Prestige of The Masters
Augusta National is synonymous with The Masters, a tournament where history and future legends collide. Watching the pros navigate this course underlining its complexity and charm gives any golfer chills.
Iconic holes
The Amen Corner, specifically holes 11 through 13, offers some of the most picturesque views and intense drama in golf. Navigating Rae’s Creek adds to the thrill of playing here.
- Amen Corner
- Holes 11-13
- Rae’s Creek
Pebble Beach Golf Links: Stunning coastal views
Pebble Beach Golf Links in California provides breathtaking oceanic views combined with a challenging design, making it a top destination for many golfers.
Spectacular vistas
Perched along the rugged Pacific coastline, Pebble Beach offers players panoramic sea views that can distract even the most focused golfer, from the crashing waves to the lush fairways.
Challenging play
The small greens and strategic bunkering demand precision, particularly on holes like the par-three 7th or the daunting 18th. Each swing here feels like a brushstroke on a scenic canvas.
- Par-three 7th hole
- 18th hole
- Strategic bunkers
Royal County Down: Northern Ireland’s gem
Royal County Down in Northern Ireland features natural dunes and mythical scenery that meet the elements perfectly crafted for golf. It’s a true test for those seeking a thorough examination of their skills.
Natural beauty
Situated against the Mourne Mountains, Royal County Down boasts stunning natural duneland. The ever-changing weather conditions add another layer of challenge and intrigue.
Notable landmarks
Hole No. 9, known as one of the best holes in golf, requires a blind tee shot over a mound of gorse bushes—a nerve-wracking yet exhilarating moment in any golfer’s journey.
- Mourne Mountains
- Natural duneland
- Ninth hole
Cape Kidnappers: Dramatic cliffs and spectacular views
Located in New Zealand, Cape Kidnappers promises golfers unrivaled cliffside views and stunning panoramas that stretch far off into the horizon.
Course design
This Tom Doak-designed course does more than challenge your skills; it tests your mettle. Steep drops and undulating terrain make accuracy paramount.
Unique experiences
From traversing the rolling farmland to standing atop perilous cliffs overlooking Hawke’s Bay, each moment at Cape Kidnappers enhances the overall connection to nature and the game itself.
- Steep Drops
- Undulating Terrain
- Hawke’s Bay
Bandon Dunes: Coastal beauty in Oregon
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon offers several courses inspired by Scotland’s ancient links, complete with rugged terrain and dramatically changing weather patterns.
Multiple courses
With five distinct courses—Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, and Sheep Ranch—each offers unique challenges and all showcase extraordinary craftsmanship.
Links-style experience
Golfers who enjoy the traditional links experience will appreciate the design principles brought to life at Bandon Dunes. Expect high winds, firm fairways, and large rolling greens.
- Bandon Dunes
- Pacific Dunes
- Sheep Ranch
Whistling Straits: Wisconsin’s lakefront treasure
Located along Lake Michigan, Whistling Straits offers dramatic elevation changes and sweeping vistas, thoroughly testing even the most skilled golfers.
Course characteristics
The links-style design by Pete Dye features rugged dunes, deep pot bunkers, and stone bridges. These features embody old-world charm while demanding modern-day precision and strategy.
Signature holes
The signature hole, the par-four 18th named “Dyeabolical,” presents a challenging closing with thick rough and undulating fairway leading up to an elevated green guarded by bunkers.
- Elevation Changes
- Heavy Wind Influence
- Dyeabolical (18th Hole)