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One of these exceptional golf courses is set on a beautiful island with volcanic rocks and mangroves
Inspired by big hitter Bubba Watson, who just beat South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen in the US Masters?,Would like to try out that new 3 wood driver you recently purchased? Here are five remarkable golf courses every golfer ought to tee off on.
Legend Golf & Safari Resort, South Africa
Golfers are spoilt with two courses here: the Signature Course was designed by 18 of the world’s top golfers, while the Tribute Course recreates 10 world-famous holes, including the 16th hole at Augusta and the 11th at St. Andrews. The most unique challenge, however, is the Extreme 19th, a par three set atop the Hanglip Mountain, accessible only by helicopter and played to an Africa-shaped green 400 metres below.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort, Idaho
Located in the northwestern US state of Idaho, Lake Coeur d’Alene is beautiful indeed, but the star attraction is its namesake golf course. More specifically, the 14th hole is where you’ll find the world’s sole floating green, drifting 150 yards offshore. The putting surface is 15,000sqft and each golfer gets two attempts to land safely on the island before boarding the dedicated Putter Boat shuttle to finish the hole on the island.
Wolf Creek Resort, Nevada
Just an hour outside Las Vegas, lush greens and rocky soils make for a visual feast around the Mesquite canyons. Expect plenty of carting up and down rugged cliffs as you make your way around the challenging 18-hole course. Bring a few extra balls, too, as the slightest of winds can swerve wayward shots into rocks before they disappear into the ravines.
Le Touessrok Resort, Mauritius
Designed by two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer, Le Touessrok’s 18-hole course is set on its own Robinson Crusoe-esque island, the Ile aux Cerfs (“island of deer”). Despite its name, you won’t have to worry about any game obstructing your game. What you will have to watch out for: volcanic rock outcrops and mangrove marshlands, not to mention three holes requiring tee shots across sea inlets to the fairways.
World Ice Golf Championships, Greenland
Adventure golfers across the world head north of the Arctic Circle to Uummannaq for the World Ice Golf Championships, where the nine-hole course is laid out on gigantic glaciers and icebergs in sub-zero temperatures. The rules remain the same as regular golf, only the ice course is a little shorter, the green becomes white, fluorescent orange balls are in play and there’s an added risk of frostbite – so dress warm!
www.greenland-guide.gl/icegolf
Read our interview with 22-year-old US Open champion Rory McIlroy here.
