golf courses

Expert Review: Top 10 Most Beautiful Golf Courses In The World

Table of Contents

10. Barnbougle Dunes (Australia)

This is the 10 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen, Barnbougle Dunes is on the northern coast of Tasmania. The course is a par 71 and has many hills and slopes. The 4th hole needs a 230-yard drive over a big bunker. The 7th hole, called the Tasmanian Devil, is a short but tricky 110-yard par 3 with bunkers and a sloping green. T The 8th hole is the hardest. It’s 460 yards and needs both precision and power. The back nine holes look like Scottish links courses with dramatic greens and open spaces. The 12th hole is a narrow par 4, and the 13th has a three-tiered green. The last two holes, 17 and 18, are tough par 4s and challenge players against the wind.

Barnbougle Dunes is a beautiful and challenging course that golfers from around the world should visit.

Entry Barnbougle Dunes

Booking a visit to Barnbougle Dunes is simple. You can book tee times, places to stay, and caddies online. As of August 2023, it costs 152$ for one round and 207$ for all-day play (160$ and 214$ in high season). Australian residents pay less at A$134 per round in the low season, making it a great deal.

Cheak out full information: Fees & Services | Barnbougle Tasmania

9. Tara ITI Golf Club (New Zealand)

The 9 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen and one of the most popular new golf courses in 2015 was the Tara Iti Golf Club. Situated in New Zealand, it is pristine and desirable but also remote. They even have a policy of just 50 local members, you must be on-site to visit or know someone who goes regularly.

Tara Iti is reached via twisting gravel roads up to a basic wooden gate. On arrival, you’re welcomed by caddies and valet service which adds a touch of luxury. The clubhouse is warm and inviting. Tom Doak designed the course, carved out of farm fields with fescue fairways and rolling hills that are still smooth but have built up a patina that makes them equal parts amusement park and slog. Every hole is unique in its own right and you have to strategize which club will get you from point A to point B.

The greens are amazing, with different sizes and shapes that make for interesting shots and putts. The infinity greens look like they blend into the ocean, making the course even more stunning. The coastal views of Te Arai are beautiful, especially on the par-3 17th hole, which looks out over the Pacific Ocean. The natural scenery adds to the enjoyment of playing golf here.

Even though it is exclusive, Tara Iti feels relaxed and welcoming, showing the friendly Kiwi spirit. It’s a place where you can enjoy golf in a pure and beautiful setting. Tara Iti Golf Club is a must-see for any golf lover who can visit.

8. Leopard Creek Country Club (South Africa)

The 8 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is Leopard Creek Country Club, owned by Johan Rupert, is a top golf course that opened in 1996 near Kruger National Park in South Africa. It’s very exclusive, with tight security, much like Augusta National. Normally, only members and their guests can play, but visitors can also play if they stay at fancy lodges nearby, like Buhala Lodge, and pay a high fee.

Famous golfer Gary Player designed the course. It’s built into the natural surroundings, so you might hear hippos or see crocodiles while you play. The clubhouse has a thatched roof and is filled with golf history, giving it a classic South African feel. In 2017, the course was updated with a new 12th hole design and new grass that makes it easier to play all year round.

There’s also a par-3 course that copies famous short holes from other courses around the world. Since 2005, Leopard Creek has hosted the Alfred Dunhill Championship on the European Tour, and South African golfers have won the tournament several times.

One of the best parts of the course is the 13th hole, where you get a great view of the Crocodile River and Kruger Park. Even though it’s expensive to play here, it’s a dream destination for golf lovers.

7. Banff Springs Golf Club (Canada)

The 7 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is very beautiful. It opened in 1911, expanded to 18 holes in 1924, and was later redesigned by famous architect Stanley Thompson. The course is known for its stunning views and tough holes, like the famous Devil’s Cauldron, a short par 3 over a lake with a view of Mount Rundle. The course is open to the public, but the Banff Springs Golf Club membership is only for residents, with 200 adults and 75 juniors allowed. Even though there have been some changes and updates over the years, the course still follows Thompson’s original design. Set in the stunning Canadian Rockies and next to the River Bow, it’s a beautiful place that might distract you from your game. The course is always in great shape, thanks to the hard work of the groundskeepers.

6. Old Head Golf Links (Ireland)

Old Head Golf Links in Kinsale is one of the most beautiful golf courses I’ve ever played. The views are amazing, and each hole is more impressive than the last.

The course opened in 1997 and is on a narrow piece of land that stretches two miles into the Atlantic Ocean. The Cliffside holes are incredible but tricky, with little room for error. The course has a mix of par 5s and par 3s, with many holes offering incredible ocean views. The last few holes, especially the 17th and 18th, are especially memorable and dramatic. The course is always in great shape, with fast greens and well-maintained fairways.

Old Head is a unique and unforgettable golf experience. It feels like you’re on the edge of the world, and it’s worth every penny.

5. Cape Kidnappers Golf Course (New Zealand)

The 5 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is Cape Kidnappers is an amazing golf course on dramatic clifftops. Cape Kidnappers is designed by Tom Doak, it offers stunning views and tough holes. The course starts away from the ocean, building up to the beautiful seaside holes. The front nine features a mix of challenging and scenic holes, while the back nine shows off the incredible Cliffside views. The course is well-designed with tight fairways and tricky greens. Even though the views are breathtaking, the course is playable and well-kept. The greens are smooth, and the few bunkers are deep and difficult. The course is in a remote location, adding to its special feel.

Overall, Cape Kidnappers is a top golf experience with a great mix of scenery and design. It’s worth playing for any serious golfer.

4. Cabo del Sol (Mexico)

The 4 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is Cabo del Sol is one of the top 100 golf courses in the world, as ranked by Golf Magazine. It’s a golfer’s paradise with beautiful greens overlooking the Sea of Cortez. The course features a 40,000 sq. ft. hacienda-style clubhouse, offering a great atmosphere, and a Golf Shop stocked with top accessories, equipment, and fashion. This course winds through desert landscapes and canyon-like arroyos, offering beautiful ocean views from every hole. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, it’s both challenging and scenic. Cabo del Sol is often called the “Pebble Beach of Baja California” because of its rugged land and stunning ocean views. The 17th hole (par 3, 178 yards) is especially challenging, with a green on a large rock by the sea. It’s a course you’ll want to play more than once due to its demanding nature.

What You Get:

  • 18 holes of golf, practice balls, shared golf cart.
  • TaylorMade clubs available for rental.

3. St Andrews Links (Scotland)

The 3 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is St Andrews, called the Home of Golf, is one of the best places to play golf. Only the Old Course needs a handicap to play. The Old Course is famous for hosting top golfers, but it’s also open to the public. The St Andrews Links Trust manages it, and you need a handicap of 36 or less. You can try to get a spot by entering a lottery, booking through an Authorized Provider, or playing in the winter when it’s less busy. The New Course offers a good links golf experience. It’s not as historic or challenging, but it’s still fun with a mix of hole lengths and fewer tricky spots.

Golf has been played on the Old Course for over 500 years. In 1764, the course was changed to 18 holes, setting the standard for golf courses worldwide. Bobby Jones is the only golfer who won both The Open and the Amateur Championship at St Andrews.

Booking:

To play the New Course, you can book online if it’s more than two days ahead, or call to check availability. Green fees range from £65 in winter to £130 in summer (as of July 2023).

Cheak Full Information For Booking: Offers & Packages – St Andrews Links : The Home of Golf

2. Augusta National Golf Club (Georgia, USA)

The 2 no most beautiful golf courses I have seen is Augusta National Golf Club (Georgia, USA)

Bobby Jones, a famous amateur golfer from Georgia, and Clifford Roberts, an investment banker from Iowa, founded Augusta National Golf Club. They bought a 365-acre property called Fruitland Nurseries in Augusta in 1931 and hired architect Alister MacKenzie to design the course. The course opened in January 1933, and the first Masters Tournament was held in 1934. Over the years, other architects like Perry Maxwell, Robert Trent Jones, and Tom Fazio made changes to the course. Augusta National is known for its beautiful grounds, flower beds, and challenging slopes. Each hole is named after a plant or tree, and famous spots like Amen Corner, Butler Cabin, and Rae’s Creek add to its charm.

The Masters, which began in 1934, is one of the four major golf tournaments. It was first called the Augusta National Invitation Tournament but became known as the Masters in 1940. It is held every April and is the first major of the year. The Masters has between 75 and 100 players. Famous winners include Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Arnold Palmer.

The Day of the Round

The morning of my round felt unreal. I packed my golf clothes and kept the invitation close by. After a restless night, I went to Augusta National. The car ride down Magnolia Lane was magical.

At the club, I was shown to the Champions Locker Room and given Phil Mickelson’s locker. I met my friend Sady Bhai, who was friendly and knew the course well.

Starting the Round

The 1st tee was exciting and nerve-wracking. Despite shaking hands, I managed a decent shot. I faced some early challenges, including a double bogey and a tough bunker shot on the 6th hole. Despite the difficulties, I tried to stay positive.

Finishing the Round

The final holes were challenging. I had trouble with the greens and made several bogeys and double bogeys. However, I had a memorable moment on the 16th hole, where I hit a great shot and came close to a hole-in-one.

As I played the 18th hole, I felt a mix of tiredness and joy. My final score was 98, higher than usual, but that didn’t matter. The day was about more than the score—it was about living a dream and feeling grateful.

Read The Full Blog: Augusta National Golf Club Tour (sinceregolfer.com)

1. Pebble Beach Golf Links (California, USA)

The 1 no most beautiful golf courses playing that I at top American golf courses can be tough. Augusta is off-limits, but Pebble Beach is a great choice. It’s the top public course in the USA, so you can play where legends have, though it’s pricey. The putting green was excellent, but the first hole was a letdown with sanded fairways and a temporary green. For the cost, this was disappointing. Check the course conditions before booking. The early holes were typical, but the later ones by the ocean were special. The 6th hole was tough but manageable, the 7th was windy and challenging, and the 8th with its canyon shot was memorable. The 17th and 18th holes were fantastic, despite my 4-putt on 18. Overall, it was enjoyable but not as amazing as I hoped.

Booking the Course

Pebble Beach costs $625 for green fees plus cart and caddie fees. You can only book in advance if you stay at the hotel, which requires a minimum two-night stay and costs around $1100 per night. We managed to get a tee time a week ahead, possibly because the course was in poor shape.

Cheak out more details: Pebble Beach Online Golf Vacation Planner (pebblebeach.com)

Pebble Beach Resorts

Pebble Beach Resorts offers stunning views and luxury stays. The Lodge at Pebble Beach™ has rooms with garden, fairway, or ocean views. Other features include:

Dining: Stillwater Bar & Grill for Californian food, Pèppoli for Tuscan dishes, and Roy’s for Hawaiian-fusion cuisine.
Golf Academy: Top facilities for swing analysis and club fitting.
Practice Facilities: Driving range, putting green, and short-game areas.
Spa: Luxury treatments at The Spa at Pebble Beach™.
Other Facilities: Pool, fitness center, equestrian center, and access to the Beach & Tennis Club™.

Getting There

Pebble Beach is 15 minutes from Monterey, 50 minutes from Santa Cruz, 2 hours from San Francisco, 75 minutes from San Jose, and 5 hours from Los Angeles.

These courses offer exceptional golfing experiences and showcase some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whether planning a golf trip or just dreaming about it, these scenic courses will inspire you.

FAQS

1. What are the top golf courses featured in this list?

  • The list includes Barnbougle Dunes (Australia), Tara ITI Golf Club (New Zealand), Leopard Creek Country Club (South Africa), Banff Springs Golf Club (Canada), Old Head Golf Links (Ireland), Cape Kidnappers Golf Course (New Zealand), Cabo del Sol (Mexico), St Andrews Links (Scotland), Augusta National Golf Club (USA), and Pebble Beach Golf Links (USA).

2. How can I book a tee time at Barnbougle Dunes?

  • You can easily book tee times, accommodations, and caddies online. As of August 2023, green fees are $152 for one round and $207 for all-day play, with discounts for Australian residents.

3. What makes Tara ITI Golf Club unique?

  • Tara ITI is an exclusive course with only 50 local members. It’s designed by Tom Doak and offers stunning coastal views, making it both a beautiful and challenging golfing experience.

4. Can visitors play at Leopard Creek Country Club?

  • Yes, visitors can play if they stay at nearby lodges like Buhala Lodge. The course is known for its natural surroundings and the possibility of encountering wildlife during your round.

5. What is the history of Banff Springs Golf Club?

  • Opened in 1911 and redesigned by Stanley Thompson, Banff Springs is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and its challenging holes, including the famous Devil’s Cauldron.

6. How is Old Head Golf Links different from other courses?

  • Located on a narrow piece of land jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Old Head offers dramatic cliffside views and a challenging layout with a mix of par 5s and par 3s.

7. What amenities does Cabo del Sol offer?

  • Cabo del Sol features a hacienda-style clubhouse, a well-stocked golf shop, and stunning ocean views from every hole, providing a luxurious golfing experience.

8. How can I play at St Andrews Links?

  • The Old Course requires a handicap of 36 or less. You can book via a lottery system, through Authorized Providers, or by playing in the less busy winter months.

9. What is special about Augusta National Golf Club?

  • Augusta National is famous for hosting The Masters, has a rich history in golf, and features beautiful landscapes with each hole named after a plant or tree.

10. What can I expect at Pebble Beach Golf Links?

  • Pebble Beach is a top public course with stunning coastal views. Green fees are $625, and booking requires a minimum two-night stay at the hotel.

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