By Oliver Orthen

1.         Oakmont Country Club (Pennsylvania, USA) – One of the most iconic and challenging golf courses in the world, Oakmont has hosted 10 U.S. Opens and is know as the toughest course in championship golf. Known for its fast greens, reaching 15 on the spirometer in match ply, and relentless design, Oakmont features 168 bunkers – the most of any course on the PGA Tour. Its infamous “Church Pew” bunker between holes 3 and 4 is one of the most difficult hazards in golf and has caused many rounds to be ruined. Despite being a par-71 course, many players say it feels more like a par-80 because of its brutal difficulty. Even though the course is difficult, its breath-taking beauty is immersive once you accept you might shoot one of your worst rounds!

2.         TPC Sawgrass (Florida,USA)- This course is home to one of the most iconic holes of golf- the 17th hole. With the island green only 132 yards from the tee box, this would usually be a simple wedge shot. However, the course is designed in a way that punishes any mishit. Completely surrounding the green is a lake, which has ruined the rounds of many players who attempt this shot. Many great players have failed to hit the green with their tee shot, so you will be in good company!

3.         Augusta Nation golf club (Georgia, USA)- This is the pinnacle of the golfing world. Every golfer dreams of having the privilege of playing here. This course hosts the yearly master’s tournament, a competition with massive prestige and influence, as only 80-90 players are permitted to compete here. There are many picturesque views and holes, in particular the Amen’s Corner (holes 11,12,13) where the feared ‘Golden Bell’ par 3 is situated. Getting a tee time here is nearly impossible, but it is definitely worth any journey.

4.         Pebble beach (California, USA)- One of, if not the most famous courses, in West of the USA, this scenic beachside course is not the most challenging on this list, yet its holes demand precision, making it a formidable challenge. The most notable hole is the 7th, a stunning par 3 with some of the most beautiful oceanfront beach views available in world golf. Pebble beach has hosted many golf tournaments, such as the prestigious U.S open 6 times (most recently in 2019). This being a public course (meaning anyone can play there).

5.         St Andrews (Fife, Scotland)- The home of golf. There is no other place on earth with such a rich golfing history, dating back to 1552, when the course first opened. The 7300 yard course is currently undergoing changes, to make it even more difficult to play. This prestigious course is considered to be the birthplace of modern golf, and every golfer should definitely consider playing the course. It contains the so called ‘Hell’s bunker’ on the 14th hole, which is one of the most famous hazards in golfing history. St Andrews has hosted The Open tournament over 30 times, and players consistently rate it as one of the nicest courses to play at.