Links golf courses are a distinctive and historic style of golf course, originating in the coastal regions of Scotland, where the sport itself was born. Characterized by their natural, rugged terrain, these courses are typically located along coastlines, with sandy soil, dunes, and sparse vegetation. Unlike the manicured fairways and lush greenery of parkland courses, links courses embrace the natural landscape, often featuring firm, fast-running fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable weather conditions that challenge golfers.
The term “links” comes from the Old English word “hlinc,” meaning rising ground or ridge, reflecting the undulating topography of these courses. Playing on a links course offers a unique and traditional golfing experience, emphasizing strategy, creativity, and adaptability to the ever-changing elements.
What is a Links Golf Course?
The term “links” comes from the Old English word “hlinc,” meaning rising ground or ridge, which perfectly describes the undulating, rugged terrain typical of these courses. Unlike the manicured fairways and lush greenery found in parkland courses, links courses are shaped by the natural landscape. They are typically located along coastlines, featuring sandy soil, rolling dunes, and sparse vegetation. The fairways are often firm and fast-running, with deep bunkers strategically placed to test a golfer’s skill and decision-making.
Unpredictable weather is another hallmark of links golf. Coastal winds can dramatically affect the flight of the ball, requiring players to adapt their strategy on the fly. Rain and fog are common, adding to the challenge and mystique of playing on these courses. Links golf is not just about power and precision; it demands creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the course’s natural elements.
A Journey Through History
Links courses are where golf’s story began. The Old Course at St Andrews, often called the “Home of Golf,” is the most famous example. Established in the 15th century, this historic course has hosted the Open Championship, the oldest major tournament in golf, more times than any other venue. Playing on such a course is like stepping back in time, walking in the footsteps of legends who have shaped the game.
The minimalist approach of link design, where the course is crafted more by nature than human intervention, harks back to the game’s origins. Early golfers had to contend with the land as it needed modern landscaping technology. This natural, unaltered beauty is a significant part of the appeal for modern players who seek an authentic and challenging experience.
The Modern Appeal of Links Golf
While link courses are steeped in tradition, they are highly regarded in modern golfing. Their challenge is timeless, appealing to amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals. Many of the world’s top-ranked golf courses are links courses, including Royal County Down in Northern Ireland, Royal Dornoch in Scotland, and Ballybunion in Ireland.
For many golfers, playing on a links course is a pilgrimage, a chance to test their skills against the same elements that have challenged golfers for centuries. The courses offer a purity of play that is difficult to find elsewhere, where the focus is not on overpowering the course but on working with it, using strategy and skill to navigate its natural features.
The Links Experience
Playing a round on a links course is more than just a game; it’s an experience. The scenery, with sweeping views of the coastline, the sound of the sea, and the feeling of the wind, creates a connection with nature that enhances the game. The challenge of adapting to the ever-changing conditions, from the wind’s direction to the fairways’ firmness, makes every round unique.
Links courses also foster a sense of camaraderie among golfers. The shared experience of battling the elements and the course creates a bond between players. Whether it’s a casual round with friends or a competitive match, the links environment brings out a spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect that is at the heart of golf.
How to Play Links Golf
Playing links golf requires a different approach than playing on other types of courses. You have to be prepared to adapt to the terrain and its elements, such as wind and weather conditions.
To succeed on a links course, you need to focus on accuracy, distance control, and shot shaping, rather than simply relying on brute force.
Here are some tips and strategies to help you play your best game on a links golf course:
- Use the bump-and-run technique: Links courses typically have firm, fast fairways that make it difficult to hold the ball on the green with a high shot. The bump-and-run technique involves using a low trajectory shot with a lot of spin to get the ball to land on the front of the green and roll towards the pin. This technique requires good timing and accuracy, but it can be very effective on links courses.
- Pay attention to the wind: The wind is a significant factor on link courses and can greatly affect the trajectory and distance of your shots. Before swinging, take note of the wind direction and speed, and adjust your shot accordingly. Hit into the wind and allow the wind to carry the ball, when the wind is behind you.
- Practice your putting: Links courses typically have large, undulating greens that can be challenging to read and putt. To improve your putting on a links course, practice reading the slopes and speed of the greens. Take note of the contours and how they will affect the direction and speed of your ball.
- Get creative: Links courses often require creative shot-making to navigate the natural hazards and terrain. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shots and techniques to get around the course. Sometimes the unconventional shot is the best option.
Famous Links Style Golf Courses
Links golf courses have been an important part of the game for hundreds of years and have produced some of the greatest moments in golf history. Their historical significance and the unique challenges and breathtaking views they offer make these some of the most highly regarded and iconic courses in the world.
Here are just a few of the most famous links-style golf courses that every golf enthusiast should know about — and even consider visiting at least once in their lifetime.
1. St. Andrews Links, Scotland
Often considered the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews Links in Scotland is home to the oldest golf course in the world. The links are made up of seven golf courses, including the world-famous Old Course, which has been played since the 15th century. As a many-time host for the Open Championship, it is known as one of the most challenging courses in the world.
With its sprawling fairways, deep bunkers, and unforgiving rough, a round at St. Andrews can be an intimidating (but rewarding) undertaking. The Old Course features several unique and challenging features, including the Road Hole — a 495-yard par-4 that requires golfers to drive over a stone wall.
2. Royal County Down Golf Club, Northern Ireland
Located in Newcastle, Northern Ireland, Royal County Down Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, with its incredible views of the Irish Sea and the Mountains of Mourne.
However, don’t let its beauty fool you. The course is also among the most challenging in the world, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable winds.
3. Royal Birkdale Golf Club, England
Royal Birkdale Golf Club, located in Southport, England, is one of the most iconic and challenging links courses in the United Kingdom. It has hosted The Open Championship 10 times — most recently in 2017 when Jordan Spieth won his third major.
The course features deep bunkers, tall grasses, narrow fairways, and towering dunes that make it a true test of any golfer’s skills. One of the most challenging holes on the course is the par-3 12th hole, which requires a precise shot over a large dune to reach the green.
4. Pebble Beach Golf Links, California
Pebble Beach Golf Links, located on the Monterey Peninsula in California, is one of the most famous and picturesque golf courses in the world. The course is set on the rugged coast of the Pacific Ocean and has hosted many prestigious events, including the U.S. Open and the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
With its iconic scenery and world-class golfing experience, Pebble Beach is an increasingly popular choice as a Millennial and Gen Z golf destination.
5. Royal Portrush Golf Club, Northern Ireland
Located in Portrush, Northern Ireland, Royal Portrush Golf Club is the only course outside of Scotland and England to have hosted The Open Championship. The course features unbeatable views of the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its challenging terrain and unique features, including a par-3 hole that requires golfers to hit over a chasm.
Royal Portrush Golf Club is home to two links courses: the Dunluce Links and the Valley Links. The Dunluce Links is widely regarded as one of the most challenging courses in the world, with its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable winds. The course hosted the 2019 Open Championship, won by Shane Lowry.
How To Plan a Trip to a Links Golf Course
If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation experience, why not plan a trip to a Links golf course?
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose your destination: The first step is to choose your destination. Consider factors such as the location of the course, the quality of the course, and the overall experience available in the area.
- Book your accommodation: Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to book your accommodation. Many links courses offer on-site accommodation, which can provide a convenient and immersive golfing experience. Links Golf Club members enjoy partner discounts on golf vacation packages, equipment, and more — more on that below!
- Plan your itinerary: While playing on a links golf course may be the focus of your vacation, consider visiting local attractions, sampling the regional cuisine, and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Many golf vacation packages also include transportation, sightseeing tours, and other activities to help you make the most of your time.
- Book your tee times: Once you’ve chosen your destination, accommodation, and itinerary, it’s time to book your tee times. Links courses can be popular and busy, so be sure to book your tee times well in advance to get the times and dates you want.
- Pack accordingly: Playing on a links course means you’ll be dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, so it’s important to pack the right gear to stay comfortable and dry. Be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and pants, a windproof sweater or vest, and a hat to protect your head and face from the sun and wind. You may also want to bring a pair of waterproof golf shoes to help you maintain traction on wet, sandy terrain.
- Study the course: Before you play on a links course, take some time to study the course layout and any course-specific rules or hazards. Links courses are often designed to follow the natural contours of the landscape, which can make it difficult to see hazards and other obstacles from the tee box. Be sure to take note of any hidden bunkers, blind shots, or other challenges that may be unique to the course.
- Stay mentally sharp: Playing on a links course can be mentally taxing, as you’ll need to constantly adjust your game to account for the changing weather and terrain conditions. Stay mentally sharp by staying hydrated and taking breaks as needed to rest and refocus. Remember to take in the natural beauty of the landscape and enjoy the unique experience of playing on a Links golf course.
What is a Links Golf Course? Your Next Travel Destination With Links Golf Club
A links golf course is a traditional style of golf course, originating from the coastal regions of Scotland, where the game was first played. The term “links” refers to the natural, undulating terrain found along coastlines, characterized by sandy soil, dunes, and sparse vegetation. Unlike the manicured parkland courses, links courses are shaped by nature, with firm, fast fairways and deep bunkers that challenge golfers’ skills and strategy.
These courses are often subject to unpredictable coastal weather, with wind and rain adding to the difficulty, requiring golfers to adapt their game on the fly. The rugged landscape and natural hazards make every round on a links course unique, demanding creativity and precision.
Links golf courses are deeply rooted in the history of the game, with famous examples like the Old Course at St Andrews, known as the “Home of Golf.” Playing on a links course offers an authentic and challenging experience, making it a sought-after destination for golfers worldwide who want to connect with the sport’s origins and embrace the timeless challenge of the links.
Conclusion
Links golf courses offer a truly unique and authentic golfing experience that connects players with the sport’s rich history and tradition. The rugged, natural terrain and unpredictable coastal weather create a challenge that tests both skill and strategy, making every round an adventure. For any golfer seeking to experience the game in its purest form, a visit to a links course is a must. Whether you’re walking the storied fairways of St Andrews or exploring other iconic links destinations, you’re sure to find a golfing experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.
