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Top 10: Most scenic golf courses from across the globe

published: Jul 19, 2016

|

updated: Oct 3, 2023

Top 10: Most scenic golf courses from across the globe

James BroadhurstLink

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From Ireland to New Zealand, there are some breathtaking golf courses to be found across the world…

Most scenic golf courses

Table of Contents

Jump to:

  • a chicken, a barrel, and nelson mandela? the weirdest golf trophies you’ll ever see…
  • quick 9: memorable moments at sawgrass’ 17th
  • quick 9: greatest chip shots in golf

Who doesn’t love a good brag about the best courses you have played? Dissecting every nook and cranny of a course with your mates and making a note of the ones you haven’t played but your friend has is a great clubhouse conversation. However, your golfing bucket list isn’t complete until you have tried some of the world’s most scenic golf courses from the list below.

Enjoy!

10. Reynolds Lake Oconee, Georgia, USA

Most scenic golf courses

Reynolds Lake Oconee is a golfer’s dream – 117 holes of golf, towering pine and oak trees as far as the eye can see and gorgeous views of Lake Oconee.

There are no fewer than six courses to tackle. What more could you ask for?

9. La Quinta, California, USA

Most scenic golf courses

The majestic backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains and the various water features mean nearly angle on one of La Quinta’s five courses is worthy of a picture. One of the best golfing experiences California has to offer.

8. Corales Puntaca, Dominican Republic

Most scenic golf courses

A game of golf in the Dominican Republic you say? Yeah, why not.

Several of the holes run alongside the ocean and the course culminates playing the Devil’s Elbow, Corales’ last three holes. The Devil’s Elbow features the 18th hole with a dramatic carry over the Bay of Corales.

7. Kauri Cliffs, New Zealand

Most scenic golf courses

Comparisons will always be drawn between Kauri Cliffs, just north of Auckland, and its sister course Cape Kidnappers, which is located 500 miles to the south.

Kauri Cliffs, as the name suggests, is set along the coast and isn’t short on dramatic views. Sheer drops to the ocean below, tight fairways and undulating greens – concentration and accuracy are paramount.

6. Crans-sur-Sierre, Switzerland

Most scenic golf courses

Wow! This is the word you will probably hear yourself exclaiming time and time again at Crans-sur-Sierre in the Swiss Alps.

The high altitude course, which apparently means you should be able to hit the ball further, is the host venue for the European Masters.

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5. Old Head, Kinsale, Ireland

KINSALE, IRELAND - JUNE 07: The par 3, 16th hole at the Old Head of Kinsale Golf Links on June 07, 2016 in Kinsale, Ireland. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)

The ever-changing sea breezes make Old Head Golf Links, near Cork, a real challenge. But being able to concentrate on your game at hand is, for me, the true test. Rugged cliffs and feeling like you’re at the end of the world with the Atlantic Ocean spreading out before you will have you reaching for your camera constantly.

4. Pebble Beach, California, USA

Most scenic golf courses

Pebble Beach needs little introduction – it is one of the most iconic golf destinations in the world. It hugs the rugged coastline and has wide open views of Carmel Bay, opening to the Pacific Ocean on the south side of the Monterey Peninsula. It’s a must-play for every golfer.

3. Banff Springs, Canada

Most scenic golf courses

O Canada!

The Canadian Rockies provides the backdrop for Banff Springs and is within a National Park – a jaw-dropping setting in a beautiful country.

Check out the majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, also known as the Castle in the Rockies.

2. Thracian Cliffs, Bulgaria

Most scenic golf courses

The Gary Player-designed Thracian Cliffs course is a truly magical experience.

The setting, which winds its way along the cliffs and enjoys views of the sea from every hole, is pure theatre.

1. Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand

Most scenic golf courses

Breathtaking is the best way to describe Cape Kidnappers, which stretches along the beautiful coastline at Hawkes Bay.

Many of the holes are on fingers of land with drops down to the ocean below.

It’s as stunning as it is hard.

Weird golf trophies

A chicken, a barrel, and Nelson Mandela? The weirdest golf trophies you’ll ever see…

Read full article - A chicken, a barrel, and Nelson Mandela? The weirdest golf trophies you’ll ever see…
sawgrass 17th

Quick 9: Memorable moments at Sawgrass’ 17th

Read full article - Quick 9: Memorable moments at Sawgrass’ 17th
short game

Quick 9: Greatest chip shots in golf

Read full article - Quick 9: Greatest chip shots in golf

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