Last Updated on November 19, 2023
Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. But what makes a golf course truly great? We’re about to find out as we explore which courses are considered to be the best on earth. From championship links courses in Scotland to picturesque resort layouts in Hawaii, there’s no shortage of spectacular places to tee off around the globe. So let’s take a look at some contenders for the title of “what is the best golf course in the world!”
Features of an Ideal Golf Course
An ideal golf course should have a well-thought-out and aesthetically pleasing design. The overall layout of the course should provide a challenge to all levels of players while still providing a fun experience for those who are just beginning to learn the game. It is important that there be multiple tee options so that each golfer can customise their round according to their skill level.
The course should also feature various water hazards and bunkers which will increase difficulty but not take away from the enjoyment of playing. Additionally, green size plays an essential role in creating an enjoyable experience. Greens must be large enough to allow for plenty of pin placement variety and challenging putts but small enough so as not to detract from the pace of play.
Popular Golf Courses Around the World
The world is full of incredible golfing destinations, each offering its own unique experience. From luxury golf courses to stunning greens and views, one can easily find the right course for their preferences. Golf course reviews are available online and in magazines to help narrow down which course might be best suited for a golfer’s game.
Golf course ratings take into account the overall layout, condition of the course, challenges presented by certain holes, and amenities offered on-site. Some may prefer a challenging round while others may opt for a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of room off the fairway to practise shots or warm up before tee time. The most highly rated courses typically offer both challenges and comfort options so that all types of players can enjoy their day out on the links.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Golf Course
Choosing the best golf course can be a difficult decision. There are many factors to take into consideration, from layout and difficulty level to amenities and conditions. Here is what you should consider when selecting a golf course:
- Golf Course Layout: The size of the holes and tees, as well as the design of the fairways and greens, will determine how challenging the round will be for experienced players versus beginners.
- Course Difficulty: Look at how long each hole is, if there are any hazards or water features that could affect play, as well as any other elements that might make it more technically demanding than your average course.
- Course Amenities: Do they offer things like practise facilities, a pro shop, dining options, and the like? Also, look at whether they provide carts or caddies if needed.
- Course Conditions: Pay attention to whether the fairways are in good shape and free of debris if there’s enough grass on the greens so putts roll true, and if sand traps have been properly maintained.
- Course Rating: This rating system evaluates courses based on their overall playing difficulty compared to par on a scale from 0-100. Courses with higher ratings tend to challenge even professional players, while those with lower ratings may be more appropriate for beginner golfers.
By taking all these factors into account before making a final decision about which golf course is right for you, you’ll ensure an enjoyable experience no matter where you decide to hit up some links!
Top 10 Golf Courses in the U.S.
The United States is home to some of the best golf courses in the world. With its wide range of climates and landscapes, there are plenty of options for all kinds of golfers. Here are the top 10 golf courses in the USA:
- Pebble Beach Golf Links – California
- Pinehurst Resort & Country Club – North Carolina
- Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – Oregon
- Whistling Straits – Wisconsin
- Shadow Creek – Nevada
- Harbour Town Golf Links – South Carolina
- Streamsong Resort (Blue Course) – Florida
- Trump National Doral Miami (Blue Monster) – Florida
- TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course) – Florida
- Chambers Bay – Washington
These courses offer some of the most challenging layouts in America, as well as stunning views and luxurious amenities that can only be found at a high-end resort course or private club setting. From championship links-style tracks to picturesque parkland settings, these top 10 golf courses provide an unforgettable experience for any level of golfer looking to take on one of the best golf courses in America!
Top 10 Golf Courses in Europe
Europe is home to some of the best golf courses in the world, offering stunning scenery and challenging gameplay. When considering where you should head for an unforgettable round of golf, these are the top ten European courses according to rankings from professional players and amateur enthusiasts alike.
The Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland tops the list; it’s a legendary course that has been around since 1552 and remains one of the most iconic spots for any golfer. It’s closely followed by Valderrama Golf Club in Spain, which hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup – known as ‘the greatest match ever played’. Then there’s West Sussex Golf Club at Pulborough in England with its beautiful views across South Downs National Park. In Ireland comes Portmarnock Links near Dublin while Monte Rei Golf & Country Club takes first place among Portugal’s offerings.
In Italy, Circolo del Golf Bogogno gives players sweeping countryside vistas along with plenty of challenges on their 18-hole course. Moving eastward into Germany, Gut Lärchenhof wins out with its rolling fairways bordered by woods and meadows full of wildlife. Denmark is represented by Himmerland Hills & Resorts outside Aalborg while Sweden offers PGA Sweden National in Malmo. Last but certainly not least is Panorama GC located in Bulgaria – perfect for enjoying balmy summers surrounded by mountainsides and lush greenery.
These ten spectacular golfing venues offer something special for everyone who visits them, so why not plan your next holiday around one or more of these incredible European destinations?
Top 10 Golf Courses in Asia
Switching gears from the top 10 golf courses in Europe, we now look at some of the best golf courses found in Asia. From challenging course designs to luxurious amenities and beautiful scenery, these Asian gems have something for everyone. Here are our picks for the top 10 golf courses in Asia:
| Course | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kauri Cliffs Golf Course | New Zealand | 18-hole championship course with a great view of the sea & mountains |
| Banff Springs Golf Course | Canada | Mountain backdrop & lush greenery everywhere |
| The Els Club Desaru Coast | Malaysia | 18-hole championship course with a great view of the sea and mountains |
| Mission Hills Haikou Resort & Spa | China | World’s largest golf resort spanning more than 2,500 acres! |
| Jeju Island Country Club & Resort | South Korea | Beautifully landscaped rolling hills and stunning ocean views |
These Asian gems offer players an unforgettable experience on and off the green. For example, Kauri Cliffs Golf Course is located in New Zealand, providing avid golfers with breathtaking views of Matauri Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Banff Springs Golf Course is nestled between majestic snow-capped Rocky Mountains – perfect for nature lovers who also love playing a round or two of golf.
The Els Club Desaru Coast in Malaysia offers a challenge to all levels of players while you enjoy its magnificent sea and mountain vista. Mission Hills Haikou Resort & Spa is renowned as one of China’s most luxurious destinations featuring world-class accommodations across 2500 acres. Finally, Jeju Island Country Club & Resort boasts beautifully landscaped rolling hills with spectacular coastal views that simply take your breath away!
Best Value for Money Options
For those of us who are on a budget, finding the best golf courses for our money can be difficult. Thankfully, there are some great value-for-money options out there that offer excellent quality and playability without breaking the bank:
- Pinehurst Golf Club – North Carolina, USA: This is one of America’s oldest golf clubs and offers an affordable round with no distractions from nature or other players.
- La Manga Club Resort – Murcia, Spain: With over 45 holes to choose from at this resort, you will find something to suit all abilities and budgets.
- Gleneagles Hotel & Golf Course– Perthshire, Scotland: Offering three unique championship courses as well as luxurious accommodation packages, this is a great option for anyone looking for a full experience without spending too much.
- Turnberry Resort – Ayrshire, Scotland: One of Britain’s most iconic links courses is surprisingly cost-effective to play if booked in advance.
- Mission Hills Country Club – California, USA: An outstanding array of facilities make this club ideal for groups wanting to enjoy a budget-friendly game together.
Whether you’re playing alone or with friends, these economical yet high-quality courses provide the ultimate opportunity to practise your game while having fun!
Most Challenging Courses
The world’s longest and toughest golf courses are a testament to the skill and determination of their designers, who strive for the ultimate challenge. The most difficult holes often require precision shots and expert navigation through treacherous terrain. From sand traps to water hazards, from windy bluffs to narrow fairways, extreme golfers flock to these courses in search of an unforgettable round.
One such course is the Old Head Golf Links in Ireland, which sits atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the ocean. With its blind tee shots and seaside greens situated amidst towering cliffs, it has become one of the most sought-after courses on earth. Another renowned course is Scotland’s Carnoustie Championship Course, famously known as “Car-nasty” due to its lengthy roughs and tight fairways that make errant shots almost unavoidable.
Most Scenic Locations
When searching for the best golf course in the world, one of the most important considerations is its scenic quality. The golfing scenery at a course can make or break an experience, and many players are looking to find beautiful courses with picturesque views. Luckily, some of the top-rated courses in the world offer stunning vistas that can take your breath away while playing 18 holes.
Some prime examples include Pebble Beach Golf Links in California, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon, Royal County Down in Northern Ireland and Fancourt Links Course in South Africa. All these iconic locations have incredible backdrops featuring natural landscapes made up of rolling hills and sweeping coastal cliffs. From tee to green on any of these courses, you’re sure to be surrounded by serene beauty as well as challenging terrain – it’s no wonder why they’re considered amongst the best golf courses anywhere! So if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable round of golf then consider visiting one of these spectacularly scenic sites.
Conclusion
So, what is the best golf course in the world? In a nutshell, no matter where you live or which style of play makes you tick, there are plenty of amazing options when it comes to finding great golf courses on the planet – each offering players a unique set of experiences they won’t forget anytime soon!
