We all have tick-lists...Restaurants we have to eat at, hotels we have to stay in, things we have to do. For golfers, it's the tick-list of "Courses I have to play before I die (and preferably whilst I can still get round a golf course under 100)".

I've been lucky enough to play golf on five of the six continents (Australasia here I come!) and have always travelled with my clubs since the age of nine. Over the years I have seen amazing variety in golf course design - I calculate that I've played circa 1,500 golf clubs and I don't want to know how many balls I've lost! It was inevitable that I've played golf courses that would be better used as cow fields and others that I could play for the rest of my life. Some of the golf courses' architecture is flattering on the handicap and others make you think hard, struggle some more and eventually abandon all thoughts of posting a decent medal card. Nevertheless, if the course can beat you up and still entice you back for more, it must be good. Here's my top 10 golf courses that provide a difficult challenge.

Kingbarns

Wow, this golf course's design is good. Off the coast to the west of Saint Andrews, it's quite a new course but you certainly couldn't tell and the test is relentless. Stunning links golf with large greens, thick wispy rough and views to take your breath away. You need a good caddy, a strong drink and concentration. Deservedly rated by many Pro's as their favourite course in that part of the world. [Read more...]