Often regarded as a sport of precision and patience, golf transcends mere recreation at the world’s most prestigious courses. For golf enthusiasts, playing at a world-class course is the ultimate dream. The most prestigious golf courses offer not only challenging play but also a glimpse into the sport’s rich history and tradition. Here’s a look at 10 of them that might inspire your next visit.
The Turnberry Resort in Scotland
On top of a dramatic headland along Scotland’s rugged coastline, Turnberry Resort’s Ailsa course is known for its challenging yet picturesque layout. Designed by Willie Fernie and later restored by Mackenzie Ross, it offers golfers sweeping views of Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran amidst rolling fairways and strategic bunkers.
Royal Birkdale Golf Club in England
Royal Birkdale Golf Club offers a quintessential links golf experience with its windswept dunes and strategic layout. The course, known for its straightforward yet challenging design, provides clear views from elevated tees, enhancing the golfing experience. With its iconic clubhouse and 18-hole course, playing here promises scenic beauty and a memorable round.
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Australia
Coming up in the late 19th century, The Royal Melbourne Golf Club has hosted numerous international tournaments. Membership is exclusive, but visitors can play through reciprocal agreements with affiliated clubs or by booking through the club’s limited visitor times. You’ll experience a prestigious golfing experience steeped in tradition and excellence when playing here.
The Old Head Golf Links in Ireland
Developed by golf legends like Dr. Joe Carr and Eddie Hackett, Old Head Golf Links opened in 1997 on a stunning narrow headland extending two miles into the Atlantic. It’s also 300 feet above sea level, and the tees offer breathtaking views where golfers can experience the crashing waves and soaring seagulls in a truly exhilarating setting.
The Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina
As the resort’s crown jewel, Course No. 2 stands out among its nine distinct golf courses. Course No. 2 has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open. Pinehurst offers a blend of classic Southern charm, world-class golfing facilities, and luxurious accommodations.
Royal County Down in Northern Ireland
Royal County Down Golf Club, situated within Northern Ireland’s Murlough Nature Reserve, offers golfers a breathtaking setting against the Mountains of Mourne. Its links course winds along Dundrum Bay, featuring a layout that zigzags strategically to showcase stunning vistas from every hole.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, USA
Acclaimed as the top public course in the United States, Pebble Beach Golf Links has a storied history in golfing excellence. This course stands as a venue with the most U.S. Opens over the past half-century. Future plans include hosting major championships for women and remaining a regular stop for the PGA TOUR’s AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, a tradition dating back to 1947.
St. Andrews Links, Scotland
A charter granted by Archbishop Hamilton in 1552 established St Andrews Links as the site of the world’s oldest golf course, the Old Course. The 1974 Links Act entrusted management to the St Andrews Links Trust, ensuring the preservation of its historical significance as common ground, owned and overseen by local and governmental authorities.
Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA
Since its founding in the late 19th century, Augusta Country Club has become a global icon on the golf scene. Famous for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament since 1934, Augusta National is known for its meticulously manicured grounds, challenging course design by Alister MacKenzie and Bobby Jones, and revered traditions like the green jacket ceremony.
Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, USA
Whistling Straits, part of Destination Kohler in Wisconsin, USA, is a premier 36-hole links-style golf destination. The Straits Course, stretching over 7,790 yards with a par of 72, mirrors traditional seaside links of the U.K. and Ireland. Lastly, it’s set along Lake Michigan’s shores and features dramatic elevation changes, Scottish Blackface sheep, and challenging elements like deep bunkers and windswept dunes.
