Australia
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Australia’s main attractions are its great weather, thousands of pristine beaches, and vibrant cities. But those in the know recognize that the golf courses of Australia may be its greatest asset. Presumably, the Aussies themselves recognize this fact as they have made golf the number one participant sport in the country.
Considering the size of Australia, it is quite amazing that the best courses are mostly within a small area outside of Melbourne known as The Sandbelt. The terrain and sandy soil are absolutely ideal for golf and the artful bunkering is a trademark of the area. It is here where you’ll find Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath, both ranked in the top 20 courses in the world. No more than a stones throw from either course are other top-notch Sandbelt courses such as Victoria and Metropolitan. A little further down on the Mornington Peninsula are two relative newcomers that play very much like a links, Monnah Course - The National Club and St. Andrews Beach. Both can be beasts if the wind kicks up. |
The small island of Tasmania has recently become a must-stop in Australia with the development of Barnbougle Dunes. The original course is worth the detour alone, and now that its sister course, The Lost Farm, has opened for play it makes it a no-brainer to skip over to the island. These two links courses are like playing in Ireland, only with warmer weather.
The city of Sydney wins the beauty award with ease. The gorgeous harbour weaves its way into the downtown skyline and past the Sydney Opera House, and the coast is lined with incredible beaches.
If you can be torn away from the city, the local golf scene has some real beauties as well. New South Wales enjoys an enviable setting perched on the cliffs just south of the city. It plays very much like a links course and is a world top 50 course. The Lakes has recently been renovated by Mike Clayton and Geoff Ogilvy and drew rave reviews from pros when the Australian Open was held there from 2010-2012.
The city of Sydney wins the beauty award with ease. The gorgeous harbour weaves its way into the downtown skyline and past the Sydney Opera House, and the coast is lined with incredible beaches.
If you can be torn away from the city, the local golf scene has some real beauties as well. New South Wales enjoys an enviable setting perched on the cliffs just south of the city. It plays very much like a links course and is a world top 50 course. The Lakes has recently been renovated by Mike Clayton and Geoff Ogilvy and drew rave reviews from pros when the Australian Open was held there from 2010-2012.
