Largest Golf Courses
Though it has its origins in Europe for the most part of it, the popularity of golf has reached a worldwide scale. It is undoubtedly one of the fanciest sports out there. With some of the lushest golf courses popping up here and there, this stance is being solidified. Every day, the challenge increases as golf courses around the globe are enlarging their coasts. Best believe that golfers, both professional and amateur are all for it. For anyone wondering how much these athletes like to challenge themselves, here is a compilation of some of the largest golf courses; both resorts and individual courses alike.
1. The Mission Hills Golf Club China
Though it is a combination of golf courses this facility is still considered to be the largest until date. Apart from being considered the largest golf course in the world, its title expands to that of that if the largest volcanic landform golf course. The course itself is an epitome of creativity and class as it is situated on a volcanic landform known as the Chinese Hainan Island. Altogether, a total of 12 golf courses are included in the total mass. This goes a long way to attract golfers from all parts of the globe. The course itself spans across more than 20 Square kilometers. What makes it even more intriguing is the fact that it was built in a short period of 3 years.
In addition to this, there is also a country club and a golfing academy on the ground. This experience is even more wholesome than ever. All the modern infrastructure is carefully blended with lush scenery, ancient structures, and relics among other desirable sights. It may not be one whom golf course, but it definitely offers a wholesome experience.
2. Pinehurst Resort
This North Carolinian beauty is as unique as they come, consisting of a total of 9 courses in one. It offers up to users over a whopping 60000 yards of golf space and that is why it landed a position here.
The one commonly referred to as No. 3 happens to be the shortest when it comes to regulation courses in North Caroline’s Sandhills with it measuring about 5722 yards. Then course number one follows closely with about 6089 yards in total. Since it has been developed over time, up to 8 different architects can be credited with the feat of building this cluster of courses.
The area which is known as Pinehurst number 2 was recently returned to its former glory in 2014. Everything from reshaping to the inclusion of native rough areas was vividly worked on. The 7,565 portions of land have hosted about 2 Opens and gone on to host some of the best golfers of its time. As a unit, this is one of the best feats of golf architecture and still remains a landmark for golf players from around the globe.
3. Nullarbor Links Golf Course
This highly imaginative facility is located in the heart of Western Australia. All in all, the golf course spans across 1365 kilometers of land. So, while part of it is situated in Kalgoorlie (Western Australia), there’s also some in Ceduna (South Australia). The natural terrain with all its kinks and bumps goes a long way to contribute to the thrill of the game here. Its size and the distance covered altogether offers up an avenue for golfers to take in the sites of Australia.
An interesting fact is that this world-renowned course was built by truckers. Apparently, the long stretch of land appealed to them on that level. It poses as an adventure within an adventure and what’s even better is it’s the accessibility to tourists and locals alike. Despite the excitement and challenge it poses to golfers, it has the tendency to become tedious. Participants have claimed that it can take a whopping five days to complete. All in all, avid adventure seekers and golfers alike, can wear that accomplishment proudly.
4. Royal Portrush Golf Club
Northern Ireland is one of the best golf destinations and the home to this world-class facility. Its age and general design pose as a wonder when it comes to golf courses as a whole. With a total of 7143 yards to its name, it has made its way on to this list naturally. Its nooks, crannies, and elevations make for an altogether interesting experience altogether.
Particularly interesting is a part of the course people have come to refer to as Calamity. Justly named, this area consists of a climbing which happens to be 210-yards. It has an unmissable fall off located on the right and happens to be one of the greatest three-shotters worldwide till date. All in all, the architect added a great touch when he decided to route the course itself through the dunes present in the natural landscape. It just goes to show that a golf course can exist beautifully within the confines of any given terrain. Thanks to its overall unique design, it has been the host to one Open Championship which took place in 1951. Additionally, it also served as a host to the 2012 Irish Open.
5. Winged Foot Golf Club
Located in Mamaroneck, New York, this 7,264-yard golf course has made its way onto the list. What makes it so unique is the challenge it poses to golfers everywhere. Maneuvering across this span of manicure land is as challenging as can be. But the genius of the architects’ mind is clearly portrayed here. This is quite impressive since it was established in 1921 and opened 2 years later. It may not be as prestigious as it once was but this course has been the host to some major golf events.
It has hosted the U.S. Open for a total of five times and the PGA Championship once. The beauty and sheer difficulty of the course as a whole have been a source of frustration mixed with admiration for golfers worldwide. The fact that it poses a challenge to the best in the world coupled with its legendary size set this course on a level of its own.
