World’s Top 100 Golf Courses by Golfscape

By Golfscape Staff

Jan. 30, 2019

golfscape has been working with the expertise of industry leaders to put together our first World’s Top 100 Golf Courses, 2019

The golf courses that have been selected to feature in the ranking are those that offer unique, memorable, and luxury experiences worldwide. From the enchanting fairways of traditional links in Ireland to the Mediterranean greens at the glamorous destination of Marbella, we have traveled far and wide to bring you the world’s greatest golf. Join us on the countdown from 100 to 1 and find out who we have selected as a Top 100 golf course and what course managed to make it to our top spot.

100 – Longcross, Foxhills Club & Resort, UK

Foxhills Club & Resort is based in Ottershaw, Surrey and has built its reputation as an exceptional and diverse leisure experience. With two 18 hole championship golf courses, Longcross, and Bernard Hunt, the 9 hole par-3 Manor course, and a wealth of attractive dining and accommodation options – Foxhills has a lot to offer!

99 – Golf Costa Adeje, Spain

Golf Costa Adeje has been designed by integrating the natural characteristics of the area in the course. The original wall stones used to demarcate the former banana plantations located on these grounds were totally restored and added to the other original landmarks of this wonderful golf spot which boasts an 18 hole course of par-72 and a 9 hole course of par-33.

98 – Tucker’s Point Golf Course, Bermuda

World-class in its ambition and scope, Tucker’s Point Golf Course is set on more than 200 acres of rolling hillsides in Tucker’s Town and overlooks a glorious turquoise sea. The 18 hole, par-70 Tucker’s Point Golf Course is Bermuda’s premier golf experience – as scenic as it is challenging. Originally designed in 1932 by Charles H. Banks, the course was completely redesigned in 2002 by Roger Rulewich.

97 – Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, Bulgaria

Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, winner of the ‘2014 European Golf Resort of the Year’ award, boasts an excellent selection of facilities which includes private beaches, luxury lodging, and a must play signature golf course. Perched upon the striking cliffs of Bulgaria’s eastern coast, Gary Player’s masterpiece overlooks the Black Sea from every breathtaking hole.

96 – PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club, Turkey

The first golf resort in Turkey to feature 36 holes and having played host to some of the biggest names in the game, the PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club is regarded as one of Europe’s premier golfing venues. Situated across 1,350 acres in Belek in the heart of the Turkish golf Riviera, the resort features outstanding facilities including two 18 hole golf courses – the PGA Sultan and The Pasha – two five star hotels, and an extensive range of sports and lifestyle amenities.

95 – The King’s Course, Royal Bled, Slovenia

Royal Bled offers one of European golf’s most spellbinding settings. Surrounded by the dramatic mountains and sweeping valleys of the Alps, the course offers perfectly manicured surfaces and a strategic layout.

94 – Carton House Golf & Spa Resort, Ireland

Home to two championship courses, Carton House Golf Club offers breath-taking views, impeccably maintained fairways, a spectacular location, and a world-class golfing experience. Nestled in the heart of 1,100 acres of private parkland in Maynooth County Kildare, Carton House is a respite from the outside world – a peaceful outdoor space for all golf enthusiasts.

93 – Coppinwood Golf Club, Canada

Coppinwood is a golfer’s paradise located on 357 acres of rolling terrain with stunning elevation changes, in the midst of a quiet farm northeast of Toronto. Designed by Tom Fazio, the par-72 layout features five sets of tees to provide members of all skill levels with an exceptional golfing experience.

92 – Dromoland Castle Golf & Country Club, Ireland

The 18 enchanting holes sweep through 450 acres of shady woodland, open rolling pasture, feral lakes, streams with the magnificence of the baronial Dromoland Castle presiding over the estate. Redesigned in 2003 by internationally renowned course architects, Ron Kirby, and JB Carr, following their success at the Old Head of Kinsale, the result places Dromoland at the vanguard of “must play” golf destinations on the island of Ireland.

91 – El Campéon, Mission Inn Resort & Club, US

Mission Inn Resort Howey–in-the-Hills, Florida

Surrounded by an abundance of natural Florida beauty, the El Campeón 18 hole championship course was designed by Chicago-based course architect, George O’Neil and built in 1917 – with further enhancements in 1926 by Charles E. Clarke of Troon, Scotland. El Campeón is one of the South’s oldest golf courses and blends unusual Central Florida elevation changes of more than 85 feet with features of traditional golf design, including spectacular rolling fairways and undulating greens.

90 – Blue Monster, Trump National Doral Miami, US

Home to the world-famous Blue Monster, Trump Doral is Miami’s unparalleled golf experience with 4 championship courses open for play. Designed by Gil Hanse, The Blue Monster has hosted prestigious PGA Tour events for the last 55 years. The 18th hole is ranked as one of the Top 100 Holes in the World.

89 – Golden Golf Club, Canada

The Golden Golf Club is in a natural setting with no residences or boundary markers and has spectacular views from every hole. Truly one of the finest places to tee off in the Canadian Rockies.

88 – Parnu Bay Golf Links, Estonia

Pärnu Bay Golf Links is a links course in the true sense of the word: a coastal stretch of land with sandy soil and fescue grasses – a true test of every golfer’s abilities. The course was designed by architect Lassi Pekka Tilander with Mick McShane as the lead shaper, best known as the lead shaper for world-famous St. Andrews Links’ Castle Course and Kingsbarns Golf Links.

87 – Hanazono Golf, Japan

Hanazono Golf has 18 holes to challenge, fascinate, and entertain golfers. Set in a beautiful natural setting featuring a spring water creek and natural birch forest it also offers stunning vistas of Mt. Yotei and the surrounding Annupuri mountain range.

86 – The East Course, Verdura Resort, Italy

Since opening in 2009, Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte hotels resort, has quickly established itself amongst Europe’s premier contemporary exclusive golf and lifestyle destinations. Players from all over the world come to enjoy the two 18 hole championship courses and a 9 hole par-3 course, with all three links-style layouts designed by world-renowned golf architect Kyle Phillips, built to the highest specifications and playable all-year-round.

85 – Denarau Golf & Racquet Club, Fiji

Denarau Golf & Racquet Club is a name that has been synonymous with world-class golf in Fiji. The course is set in an idyllic tropical setting, surrounded by swaying palms that the golfers play around, and across a waterway that meanders through the course.

84 – Castletown Golf Links, Isle of Man

Castletown Golf Links is unique, in that there are views of the Irish Sea from all tees and fairways. Originally laid out by Old Tom Morris in 1891 and later updated by Mackenzie Ross (who also designed Turnberry Ailsa) – the course certainly has pedigree. Add to this the beautiful location, fresh air, and a good variety of challenging holes and you have a must-play course.

83 – Copperhead, Innisbrook Golf Resort, US

Innisbrook offers 4 championship golf courses and is a veritable golf paradise with each course demanding a different strategy to score well. Golfers will never need to touch their clubs in between rounds as the resort has mastered the art of making sure a cart awaits every golfer on each course, complete with clubs which have been cleaned between rounds

82 – The Links, Royal Isabela Golf Course, Puerto Rico

The Links at Royal Isabela extend dramatically along cliffs 200 feet above the ocean and drop to areas of natural sand dunes along the Atlantic. Royal Isabela Golf Course is alive with plants, birds, and butterflies native to Isabela, Puerto Rico. Sod-faced bunkers add a Scottish flair to this island gem. All of these elements, along with trade winds that are friends one moment and enemies for the next, shape the course’s character and captivate the golf purist.

81 – Ghala Golf Club, Oman

Ghala Golf Club is the oldest and most popular golf club in Oman. Established in 1971 by Colonel Cooper, the club started out as a modest 9 hole sand course. It has since grown to 250+ members, more than any other club in Oman, and has an 18 hole, fully-grassed course. Under the presidency of His Highness Sayyid Taimur Al Said, the course and club are going from strength to strength.

80 – Furnace Creek Golf Course, Death Valley, US

Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley is a USGA sanctioned 18 hole course located in a true American oasis within the three million acres that is Death Valley, National Park. While all links have challenges and house rules, some of the hazards include coyotes that like to one-way fetch golf balls and the perplexing fact that golf balls don’t travel as far as 214 feet below sea level as they do at sea level.

79 – The Royal St Kitts Golf Club, St Kitts & Nevis

The Royal St. Kitts Golf Club is a spectacular Caribbean golf course. Originally opened in 1976 and recently renovated, Royal St. Kitts is one of the best conditioned and most scenic golf courses in the Caribbean. The magnificent layout has 125 irrigated acres of lush grass and allows golfers to play two full holes on the Caribbean Sea and three complete holes on the Atlantic Ocean.

78 – Humewood Golf Club, South Africa

Humewood Golf Club is “The Only True Links in Africa”. The beautifully sculpted layout is a world-renowned championship course with breath-taking views of the ocean. A true test for any golfer with natural rolling hills and perfectly positioned bent grass greens. A must play, bucket list course for every golfer.

77 – Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club, Canada

Stanley Thompson, Canada’s master golf course architect, displayed some of the finest work of his career with this design. The 18 hole layout offers elevated tee boxes, dramatic bunkering, and holes aligned with distant mountain vistas. Few golf courses in the world can match the rugged majesty of this national treasure, nestled between sparkling lakes, pristine forest, and rocky peaks.

76 – Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links, Ireland

Built upon the original family home of the iconic Jameson Dynasty, Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links is the perfect combination of Irish history and luxury. A classic Links course, the Portmarnock Links encompasses all the characteristics that a golfer seeks when playing Links golf; deep pot bunkers, challenging roughs, and unpredictable coastal wind. The round of golf, albeit potentially challenging, is made worthwhile by the stunning hotel amenities.

75 – Real Club Sevilla Golf, Spain

Renowned for its superb golf, Real Club Sevilla Golf is recognized as one of Europe’s greatest golf courses. Major worldwide events support its prestige, consolidating it as one of the best international golf courses. The course was designed by Jose Maria Olazabal (Integral Golf Design), it is a 6,529-meter course, par-72. It has a balanced layout able to accommodate any type of competition, both amateur, and professional.

74 – Golfclub Adamstal, Austria

Golfclub Adamstal is located in Lower Austria’s Alpine foreland in Ramsau and is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful and spectacular golf courses. A spectacular setting – Lower Austria’s Alpine foreland provides the ideal surrounding for impressive views and also has unmatched scenery. A dedicated architect – the Canadian Jeff Howes, a disciple of Jack Nicklaus, who gave Adamstal its unique design.

73 – La Playa Beach & Golf Resort, US

At the luxurious La Playa Beach & Golf Resort, golfers are invited to tee off amidst the resort course’s lush, meticulously manicured fairways dotted with colorful sprays of bougainvillea. Designed by Robert Cupp, the 18 hole links golf course is both scenic and challenging and is steeped in Florida’s natural beauty, featuring gently rolling hills, 14 sparkling lakes, and water features and plenty of opportunities to spot native wildlife.

72 – Monte-Rei North, Monte-Rei Golf & CC, Portugal

Set in a private estate, spanning over 1000 acres of glorious countryside in Algarve, Portugal, Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is firmly established as one of the jewels in the crown of European golf. The centerpiece of Monte Rei’s attractions is its Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, Monte Rei North. Each hole is a design triumph, blending effortlessly into the natural canvas.

71 – Chateau des Vigiers, France

Chateau des Vigiers is a 27 hole course, designed by Donald Steel – one of the best golf course architects. Since it first opened in 1992, the course still holds its title as one of the top courses in South West France. The 18th hole has a vintage and picturesque feel, as the round ends in front of the Chateau.

70 – The Dunes Course, Costa Navarino, Greece

The multi-award winning Costa Navarino, in Greece, has two golf courses – The Dunes and The Bay courses – and will add two spectacular José María Olazábal-designed tracks at Navarino Hills, in 2021. The par-71, 6,018m, Bernhard Langer and EGD-designed Dunes Course offers spectacular sea and river views and incorporates links-style features in areas closest to the sea, while occasionally venturing into olive and fruit groves

69 – Tralee Golf Club, Ireland

Tralee Golf Club was designed by Arnold Palmer in 1984. The stunning 1st and 2nd holes of the course were the locations of the beach scenes in the 1970 movie Ryan’s Daughter, which won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. The golf course setting represents a true paradise for those willing to take on the challenge, at what is widely acclaimed as one of the most famous links courses in the world.

68 – Falsterbo Golfklubb, Sweden

Falsterbo is one of few true classic links courses in Continental Europe. It is located in the southernmost tip of Sweden in a nature reserve. The club was founded in 1909 and is among the oldest in Scandinavia. The layout remains the same even when renovation work on the course is done every winter. Each of the 116 bunkers is handmade revetted. With the wind from the sea, a round at Falsterbo is always great fun and a challenge.

67 – Great Northern, Denmark

Great Northern is created with inspiration from some of the world’s best golf courses and built up with respect for the local area’s countryside and history. Nordic generosity at Great Northern is enjoyment, inclusiveness, a shared passion for the sport, and a firm conviction that golf should be a social activity.

66 – Durban Country Club, South Africa

A combination of lush vegetation, sand dunes, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean make this course one of the most unique, and challenging, in all the world. One of the defining characteristics of Durban Country Club is the massive undulations in the fairways, especially the 5th, 8th, and 17th.

65 – The Royal Dublin Golf Club, Ireland

The Royal Dublin Golf Club, Ireland’s second oldest golf club, was established in 1885 and is home to one of the finest links courses in Ireland. Located on North Bull Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it combines nature at its finest with a stunning backdrop of Dublin City. Designed by the legendary Harry Colt and host to numerous championships, it is a must-visit for any golfer looking for a true links experience.

64 – The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, Canada

Carved out of the slopes of the Coast Mountain range in British Columbia, this magnificent Whistler golf course allows nature to dictate the path without constraints of commercial influence. The mountain course traverses creeks, ponds, stands of ancient Douglas fir, and granite rock. Elevation changes of more than 400 feet overall create an impressive golf opportunity and a naturally spectacular BC golf experience.

63 – Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka

Spread across a vast coconut palm plantation, the par-70, 18 hole golf course at Shangri La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, with distinctive challenges for both beginners and seasoned players. Designed by Rodney Wright, the globally celebrated designer, the course offers lush fairways and challenging bunkers.

62 – Brautarholt Golf Club, Iceland

At Brautarholt Golf Course you will enjoy a terrific landscape: the golf holes are perched atop dramatic clifftops and the waterfront location offers unique views to Reykjavik city and in the distance to Snæfellsjökull glacier. Each hole is different, weaving in and out of the lava formations and alongside the ocean cliffs. In June and July, the course offers midnight golf! There is something magical and enlightening about playing golf in the midnight sun.

61 – Mount Juliet Estate Golf Course, Ireland

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Mount Juliet Estate golf course first opened in 1991 with a friendly match between Jack Nicklaus and Christy O’Connor Snr. Since then, the course has established itself as a premier venue for all levels of golfer. Set in the rolling pastures and woodland of Ireland’s sunny South East, the course is both captivating and memorable.

60 – The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, US

Home to one of the world’s floating, movable Island green, The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, located in scenic North Idaho, boasts views of Lake Coeur d’Alene from nearly every hole. Although the par-3 14th hole, the floating green, is the iconic golf hole recognized worldwide, The Coeur d’Alene sets itself apart with services and amenities.

59 – Kingsbarns Golf Links, Scotland

Kingsbarns Golf Links is a traditional Scottish links course located alongside the picturesque North Sea coastline, where each hole embraces the sea. Kingsbarns co-hosts the annual European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship together with the Old Course at St Andrews and Carnoustie.

58 – Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, New Zealand

The host of 12 New Zealand Opens, Paraparaumu Beach Golf Course has long been regarded by many as the spiritual home of New Zealand Golf. Designed in 1949 by Alex Russell, whose design credits include the world-famous Royal Melbourne golf course, Paraparaumu Beach is a regular inside the World Top 100 Golf Course lists and is considered one of the best links courses in the Southern Hemisphere.

57 – The European Club, Ireland

The European Club is unique in the world of golf in that it is owned by the person who built and designed its fine links. It benefits greatly from more than three decades devoted to refining every design aspect to ensure that the links are aesthetically stunning, that it interfaces strongly but very fairly with modern golfers of all standards, and is as perfect as possible in all respects. The golfer even gets to play alongside the sea on holes 12 through 15 and some even leave the country when hitting a stray shot onto the beach or out into the water!

56 – Punta Espada Golf Club, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Espada Golf Course is the first of three Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses to be developed at Cap Cana. It incorporates all the paradise-like characteristics of Cap Cana throughout its 18 holes, 8 of which are oceanfront and all the rest have a view of the sea. From all points of Punta Espada, golfers are blessed with extraordinary views of the Caribbean, where the sea contrasts against the emerald fairways and the perfect greens.

55 – Tranquilo Golf Course, Four Seasons Golf & Sports Club, US

Set amongst abundant wildlife and protected wetlands, Tranquilo Golf Course presents a world-class experience – allowing golfers to escape and truly connect with nature. Recently renovated, the Tom Fazio designed course offers an unparalleled 18 hole journey into the game of golf.

54 – Castle Stuart Golf Links, Scotland

This stunning championship course opened in 2009 but already has a remarkable history, hosting some of the world’s leading golfers in the European Tour’s Scottish Open on four occasions. Designed by Mark Parsinen and Gil Hanse, it is regarded as a model for modern golf architecture, being fun, engaging, and playable for every-day players of all abilities, but also a challenge for the very best.

53 – Danang Golf Club, Vietnam

Located alongside one of South East Asia’s most beautiful beachfront, the Dunes Course at Danang Golf Club is undoubtedly one of the most compelling courses to play in the region, if not the world. The Dunes course, designed by Greg Norman “The Shark,” puts Vietnam on the map as a premier golf destination. The new Nicklaus Course is Asia’s first truly bulkhead course and creates a stunning contrast to the Dunes Course.

52 – St Francis Links, South Africa

St Francis Links, nestled in the dunes above the Indian Ocean, in the village known as St Francis Bay, combined the great design skills of Jack Nicklaus and the great land he was provided with. The Championship 18, features strong par-5, short and long fours with par-3 that can be played from 90 to 210 yards. The more you play golf here in the dunes, the more you embrace the challenges and the rewards. Jack Nicklaus said the course would evolve with time and it has in so many ways.

51 – Ile Aux Cerfs Golf Club, Mauritius

Designed by the famous golf player Bernhard Langer, the golf club is accessible to players of all levels. The course covers 38 hectares on the southern half of the Ile Aux Cerfs with holes snaking up and down the length of the island. All 18 holes of the tropical course are complete with magical views of the ocean.

50 – Angkor Golf Resort, Cambodia

The award-winning Angkor Golf Resort is undoubtedly Cambodia’s premier golfing venue, claiming numerous awards since opening in 2008. The immaculate Faldo design is one of South East Asia’s hidden gems. The golf course is located on the doorstep of the spectacular Angkor Wat Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Siam Reap is a must-visit destination for traveling golf enthusiasts.

49 – The Old Links, Ballyliffin Golf Club, Ireland

The Old Links at Ballyliffin Golf Club is renown for its outstanding facilities, spectacular setting, and hospitality. As one of the finest links in Ireland, players enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside, the coastline, and the ocean. With a glorious natural terrain, the course presents an enjoyable challenge and an unforgettable memory.

48 – South Cape, South Korea

The world’s most artistic golf resort, South Cape Spa & Suites, is a healing resort located on the island of Cheongsando, off the south coast of Korea. The Kyle Phillips designed golf course is the centerpiece of the high-end golfing community, also boasting truly spectacular coastal views.

47 – Handara Golf Resort, Bali

Handara Golf & Resort is a world-class mountainous golf course located in Bali near Bedugul. The course is named after the youngest daughter of the course founder, Ibnu Sutowo (1914-2001). The course is one of the coolest in Bali as it’s situated up in the Balinese highlands, nestled inside the crater of an extinct volcano.

46 – The Oconee Course, Reynolds Lake Oconee, US

The Rees Jones-designed Oconee Course is a true risk/reward layout. Located along the scenic Lake Oconee shoreline in the US, the course offers inspiring lake views while presenting options to play shots over inlets or carry corners of tree-lined doglegs.

45 – Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, Wales

The Royal Porthcawl Golf Club is known for magnificent setting sloping down to the seashore. The absence of sand hills, (usually found on links courses), enables the golfer to see the sea from every hole and to enjoy memorable views to Somerset, Exmoor, Swansea Bay, and to the Gower Peninsula. With holes facing into every point of the compass, golfers are always tested by the wind and will most likely need every club in their bag!

44 – The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, Canada

Located in Alberta, The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is a challenging layout set in the magical setting of Canada’s Rocky Mountains. This incredible course is a combination of two simple features, breathtaking views in every direction, and a magnificent layout for all golf skill levels. From holes designs to optical illusions created by surrounding mountains, this is definitely one to add to the bucket list!

43 – Heritage Golf Club, Mauritius

Designed by South African, Peter Matkovich, Heritage Golf Club is a multi-award winning championship golf course, five-time winner of “Indian Ocean’s Best Golf Course.” Located in the southern part of the beautiful island of Mauritius, the course is set on an idyllic piece of land between rolling mountains and the turquoise lagoon of the Indian Ocean. Accompanied by beautiful vistas from every green and tee, it is one of the most spectacular golf courses in Mauritius.

42 – El Camaleón Riviera Maya Golf Club, Mexico

Located on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, just 30 minutes from Cancun Airport and 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Mayakoba is an ecological complex on the coasts of the Mexican Caribbean. The complex also offers a spectacular 18 hole golf course designed by renowned architect and PGA TOUR legend Greg Norman. The golf course is home to the Mayakoba Golf Classic, Mexico’s historic first-ever PGA TOUR event.

41 – Troia Golf Resort, Portugal

Designed by golf architect Robert Trent Jones Senior, Troia Golf Resort’s 18 hole championship course is located between Sado Estuary and Arrábida Mountain, with magnificent views over the sea. Robert Trent Jones Senior considered Troia Golf as one of the best courses he ever designed.

40 – Lofoten Links, Norway

Lofoten Links is a true links course situated directly along the sea open to the north and the midnight sun. A beautiful design close to nature, complete with some challenging and truly world-class holes. Experience midnight sun golfing during mid-May until the end of July. The northern lights also make a visit to the course from mid-August until close.

39 – The Links Course at Fancourt, South Africa

Situated within the greater precinct of the Fancourt Estate is the private and exclusive golfing phenomena known as The Links. The Links is a private club for members and accompanied guests. Sculpted into what Gary Player has described as his greatest feat as a course designer, The Links is the golfing hallmark of the Fancourt Estate.

38 – Alferini Golf Course, Villa Padierna Golf Club, Spain

Alferini Golf at Villa Padierna Golf Club is considered to be one of the most challenging and competitive courses in the South of Spain. This 18 hole, par-73 course was designed by Villa Padierna’s greenkeeper, Cristóbal Guerrero. Alferini Golf is the ideal course to hold competitions and big tournaments.

37 – Real Club Valderrama, Spain

Real Club Valderrama is located in Sotogrande, Andalucia, the largest and southern-most region of Spain. Valderrama’s fairways have been described by top pros and leading golf writers as the best in Europe, if not the world. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior in 1974 and has been home to many major tournaments over the years, including the prestigious Andalucia Masters.

36 – Dubai Hills Golf Club, Dubai

Designed by Gary Johnston, the new Dubai Hills Golf Club is sculpted out of the desert, in true Arabian style. The golf course is set on land nearly the size of 63 football fields, complete with meandering wadis. Playing a round of golf on this stunning course is accompanied by magical views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

35 – The Serapong, Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore

The Serapong course at Sentosa Golf Club is known as one of the best championship courses in Asia. Open since 1982, the course is the creation of the world-renowned golf course designer Ronald Fream. The course underwent a huge revamp in 2007 which resulted in boosted configurations and bunker complexes, as well as faster and more challenging greens.

34 – Bali National Golf Club, Bali

Located in the Maj Nusa Dua, Bali National Golf Club is the perfect course for all skill levels, whether you are a beginner or a casual weekend golfer. With only a 20-minute drive from Nguarah Rai Bali International Airport, Bali National Golf Club offers visitors a truly luxurious golfing experience.

33 – Le Château, Terre Blanche, France

Located on the eastern side of Provence, Terre Blanche spreads out over 750 acres of lush nature, facing hilltop medieval villages and the Provencal countryside. The two 18 hole golf courses, both designed by former Ryder Cup player Dave Thomas, are set in stunning surroundings and bring together performance and love for the game. Le Château runs over 6,616-metres with bunkers, water hazards, and greens worthy of a championship course.

32 – Golfclub Am Mondsee, Austria

The course of Golfclub Am Mondsee is situated in a marvelous setting at the lakes Mondsee and Drachensee, only 30 kilometers from the city of Salzburg. Outstanding course design, high-quality course care, and harmonious integration into the scenic landscape, make each round of golf a feast for all the senses.

31 – West Cliffs Golf Links, Portugal

West Cliffs Golf Links’ remarkable rise to fame has seen the course establish itself as one of the world’s most exciting new venues and is on its way to becoming Portugal’s new number one. Located on Lisbon’s Silver Coast, the par-72 course is making a name for itself in the golfing world.

30 – West Links Course, North Berwick Golf Club, Scotland

Since the 17th century, golf has taken center stage at the historic West Links course. With breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth and Islands of Bass Rock, there are few golfing destinations in the world that can beat these phenomenal views. West Links is a championship course that provides an unforgettable, true links experience.

29 – Waterville Golf Links, Ireland

The earliest structured golf at Waterville dates back to 1889 and the course is just as popular today. Waterville Golf Links underwent a revamp with the assistance of international golf architect, Tom Fazio. The Fazio Renovation and ongoing Coastal Management Program is an important feature to the entire Links and it’s perimeter, keeping Waterville a premier golf destination in Ireland.

28 – The Highland Course, Primland, US

Located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is Primland Resort. Nestled in Primland’s 12,000 acres is the must-play Highland Course carved directly into the mountainous landscape, which combines breathtaking views and dramatic elevation changes attracting play of all skill levels.

27 – PGA Catalunya Resort, Spain

Designed by Ryder Cup star, Neil Coles MBE and former Spanish Open winner Ángel Gallardo, the Stadium layout at PGA Catalunya Resort, has been recognized as Spain’s No.1 Course since 2012. In a year in which it celebrates its 20th anniversary, the 7,333-yard layout has also been consistently ranked amongst the 10 best golf courses in Europe since opening in 1999.

26 – Cape Wickham Links, Australia

Cape Wickham Links is an unforgettable pure links golf course cleverly routed around Cape Wickham Lighthouse. Every hole on the course has an ocean view, which is extremely rare, and no two holes are the same. The undulating course normally plays firm, allowing the imagination to go wild with limitless shot-making possibilities.

25 – East Course, Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club, South Africa

Located to the east of Johannesburg, Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club is one of the most esteemed golf clubs in South Africa boasting a rich 128-year history with two superb 18 hole golf courses, The West Course and the Championship East Course. The Club received its Royal charter in 1932 and is regarded as South Africa’s’ home of golf.’

24 – Streamsong Black, Streamsong Golf Resort, US

Designed by Hanse Golf Design (Gil Hanse), Steamsong Black course, located in Florida, plays to a par-73 layout with five par-5s and extends to 7,331 yards. Streamsong Black stands alone and stretches across a much larger landscape than the other two courses (Red and Blue).

23 – New South Wales Golf Club, Australia

Located in the Sydney suburb of La Perouse, The NSW Golf Club is flanked by the rugged cliffs of Henry Head and the prominent headland of Cape Banks. The golf course is often named ‘La Perouse’ and is set amongst scrub covered sand hills and valleys that slope down to the Pacific Ocean at secluded Cruwee Bay.

22 – Green Monkey Golf Course, Sandy Lane, Barbados

Sandy Lane offers some of the best golf in the world, with three world-class golf courses – The Old Nine, The Country Club and the world-renowned Green Monkey which is exclusive to Sandy Lane’s guests. Wherever you play, you will be enchanted by the spectacular natural beauty of the terrain and the stunning views of Barbados’ platinum coastline.

21 – Hamilton Island Golf Club, Australia

Hamilton Island Golf Club offers a unique and challenging 18 hole, par-71 course with spectacular views from every angle. The island’s natural, mountainous landscape offers incredible 360-degree views across secluded beaches, coves, and islands. Designed by the legendary Australian golfer, Peter Thomson, the course is strung along the ridges and steep valleys of Dent Valley.

20 – Leopard Creek Country Club, South Africa

Situated on the southern bank of the Crocodile river forming the natural border of the world-renowned Kruger Park lies one of Africa’s golfing jewels – Leopard Creek. Golfing hazards take on a new dimension at Leopard Creek, for much of the water is home to the magnificent creatures for which the river is named, crocodiles.

19 – Osprey Point, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, US

What began as a members-only golf course on Kiawah Island has evolved into a championship-level course with a world-class layout that was completely renovated in 2014. Course architect Tom Fazio takes full advantage of ample water and sweeping vistas throughout this course noted for its playability, making it one of the resort’s most popular courses. The course is marked by four large natural lagoons, salt marshes, and mature maritime forest.

18 – Thai Country Club, Thailand

Open to the golfing world in December 1996, Thai Country Club was developed as one of the finest golf clubs in Asia. The design adapts from everyday casual play up to a very tough challenge for the finest players in the world. This beautiful course is known for its immaculate conditions, neo-classic design, and a variety of holes.

17 – The Old Course, Ballybunion Golf Club, Ireland

Ballybunion Golf Club is located on the northwest coast of County Kerry, on a beautiful stretch of sand dunes complete with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Old Course exudes a majestic feel that simply cannot be compared to any other course on Earth.

16 – Finca Cortesin, Spain

Nestling in an exclusive corner of Andalucia, Finca Cortesin is globally renowned for providing one of Europe’s most unforgettable experiences. The harmonious relationship between the natural Mediterranean landscape and environment on the resort’s world-class 18 hole championship course make for a most attractive design.

15 – Yas Links Golf Club, Abu Dhabi

Designed by Kyle Phillips, Yas Links Golf Club is the first true Links course in the region. Yas Links brings the noble heritage of a traditional Links experience to Abu Dhabi, a course that combines unparalleled visual glory with the thrill of golf’s ultimate test.

14 – Bandon Dunes, US

Bandon Dunes is true to the spirit of Scotland’s ancient links. Players can immerse themselves in the traditions of a timeless game and the grandeur of Oregon’s rugged coast. Sweeping, untamed shores stretch for miles.

13 – Majlis Course, Emirates Golf Club, Dubai

The Majlis is the first grass course in the Middle East, taking its name from the Arabic word for ‘meeting place.’ Home to the Omega Desert Classic, the world-class course at Emirates Golf Club features challenging holes, undulating greens, and hundreds of indigenous species of flora and fauna.

12 – Spyglass Hill Golf Course, US

Located in California, the Spyglass Hill Golf Course is a links golf course part of the Pebble Beach Company. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior, the course is renowned for the fourth hole, with Robert Trent Jones called his favorite par 4.

11 – Kingston Heath Golf Club, Australia

The host of the 2016 World Cup of Golf, Kingston Heath Golf Club is widely recognized as one the world’s finest golf courses. Located in the southeast suburbs of Melbourne, the course was designed by Dan Soutar with the help of Alistar MacKenzie, who provided the bunkering strategy during his visit to Australia in 1926.

10 – Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, New Zealand

Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 6,510 meters and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, the spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape complete with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean top dramatic cliffs.

9 – Adare Manor, Ireland

The Golf Course at Adare Manor is unmatched in world golf. Re-designed by Tom Fazio, constructed to the highest of standards and opened by four Irish golfing stars: Rory McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley, and Shane Lowry. A remarkable construction story set against Ireland’s finest resort destination, Adare Manor is one of the world’s best-golfing experiences.

8 – Cabot Cliffs, Cape Breton, Canada

A great compliment to its sister course Cabot Links, Cabot Cliffs in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, provides an incredible golf experience. Designed by the decorated team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the course meanders through coastal dunes and along ocean-side cliffs. An even mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s offers golfers a wide variety of golf shots. With an ocean view from every hole on the course, postcard-worthy panoramas are par for the course.

7 – Meadow Links, Mission Hills Haikou, China

The Meadow Links Course at Mission Hills Haikou is part of the enormous and extraordinary Mission Hills complex in China which spans 22 golf courses across two locations, making it the largest golf facility in the world, as recognized by the Guinness World Records. The Brian Curley-designed Meadow Links layout features lay-of-the-land sensibilities and somewhat geometric shapes in both bunkering and fairway lines.

6 – Ailsa, Trump Turnberry, Scotland

Home of four Open Championships, the legendary Ailsa course has hosted some of the most iconic names in golf. Reborn in June 2016 at the hands of the renowned architect, Martin Ebert, the transformation enhanced the world-class playing experience. Located alongside the glorious Ayrshire coastline, with Arran and Ailsa Craig as a stunning backdrop, Trump Turnberry is one of the finest golfing destinations in the world.

5 – West Course, The Royal Melbourne Golf Club, Australia

With so many write-ups on the West Course at The Royal Melbourne Golf Club, the world-class course simply comes down to the combination of great design and construction. The course is full of dramatic undulation, fertile sandy soil, and a natural rugged appearance.

4 – Pebble Beach Golf Links, US

Pebble Beach Company Photography

Since 1947 Pebble Beach has hosted a PGA Tour event, rolling out its green carpet fairways for the game’s best golfers and Hollywood stars. Pebble Beach Golf Links is full of breathtaking beauty from stunning seaside holes to dramatic cliffs. The course finishes with two of the most beautiful holes in golf. Pebble Beach is also home to the picturesque but perilous Cliffs of Doom, awaiting heroic golfing shots.

3 – Royal County Down Golf Club, Ireland

Regularly rated as one of the best golf courses in the world, Royal County Down is located in one of the world’s most naturally beautiful links settings against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Morne. The world famous ‘beaded’ bunkers feature overhanging lips of marram, red fescue, and heather. The ninth hole is one of the most photographed holes in golf.

2 – Royal Dornoch, Scotland

Royal Dornoch is a spellbinding golf club and many golfers from all over the world make the pilgrimage to the natural links at some point in their lives. It’s wild, isolated, and at the same time, absolutely beautiful. There is also a blaze of color in early summer when the gorse is in flower. Raised or sloping greens are a characteristic of the Championship Course, as well as elevated tees so the target is well presented although rarely easy to reach.

1 – The Old Course, St Andrews, Scotland

The oldest and most iconic golf course in the world. The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are recognized across the globe, yet the greatest feature of the Old Course is that despite its grand status it remains a public golf course, open to all.

“I fell in love with it the first day I played it. There’s just no other golf course that is even remotely close,” – Jack Nicklaus, Open Championship 1970, 1978.