Thracian Cliffs, Bulgaria. Images: Jacob Sjöman
When it comes to capturing the most picturesque courses on the planet, few know them better than professional golf course photographer Jacob Sjöman; we asked him to round up his favourites
1. Thracian Cliffs, Bulgaria
The expert view: “One of the most spectacular courses I’ve ever come across; a true masterpiece by Gary Player. Golfing along cliff sides right next to the Black Sea with stunning scenery wherever you turn. Most of the holes here would easily qualify as a signature hole on other golf courses.”
The details: With two villages offering two-, three- and four-bedroom villas, not to mention studios, there’s plenty of accommodation options. A one-bedroom studio in low season starts from as little as £85 with green fees from £75.
2. Brautarholt, Iceland
The expert view: “This special golf course is surely worth waiting for. The adrenaline rush when you’re stepping up on the first tee is incredible. A short season and the alluring Icelandic weather just adds up to a really memorable, special experience.”
The details: There are numerous options but for something unique play midnight golf, with prices ranging from £115, including collection from any hotel in Reykjavik.
3. Augusta National, USA
The expert view: “I can confirm, it really is a golfers’ heaven. When I was visiting earlier this year I had some very high expectations, but the course still just left me speechless. Enough said.”
The details: Unfortunately you can’t play Augusta without qualifying for the Masters or being invited to become a member.
4. Lofoten Links, Norway
The expert view: “One of the few courses I’ve been to that looks nice in 360 degrees anywhere on the course. Hole number two is one of the best-looking par threes I’ve ever seen. Just to reach Lofoten Links is a big adventure of its own, playing there’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
The details: There are two types of lodge options for accommodation, with prices starting at £95 per person. Green fees start from around £85.
5. Yas Links Abu Dhabi, UAE
The expert view: “You’ll probably lose a lot of golf balls while playing here but that doesn’t change the fact that this is an excellent golf course. Breathtaking seaside holes and a course that offers some real eye candy for everyone.”
The details: There are seven hotels nearby and, with green fees starting from around £60, there’s no excuse not to add this to your bucket list.
6. Trump International Golf Links, Scotland
The expert view: “Whether you like the name or not, this course has a wow-factor that’s out of this world and it’s one of the most dramatic landscapes you can find. Beautifully designed by Dr Martin Hawtree and located just outside Aberdeen.”
The details: There are always plenty of stay-and-play packages on offer, which are highly recommended, but low-season fees start at £95.
7. Anahita GC, Mauritius
The expert view: “An outsider in this league but I really like this course; Mauritius is a breathtaking setting. Very beautiful holes and if I had to play a par five over and over for the rest of my life, I might very well pick the fourth here.”
The details: Part of the five-star luxury Anahita Golf & Spa Resort, golf on both 18-hole courses is free to guests. Visitor green fees start from £150.
8. TPC Kuala Lumpur, West Course, Malaysia
The expert view: “I’ve met leguans, pythons and monkeys here while trying to capture the essence of TPC KL. The West Course is always in pristine condition and I really like the feeling of hitting golf shots in the middle of a jungle. And, if I look a bit higher up, I see the impressive skyline of Kuala Lumpur, which reminds me that I’m still very close to the city centre.”
The details: As a TPC course, you can get cheaper green fees if accompanied by a member, but otherwise they range from £75 on weekdays and £115 at weekends.
9. Buenavista Golf, Spain
The expert view: “Severiano Ballesteros designed this jaw-dropping course running along the Atlantic Sea on the north end of Tenerife. I still remember the insane views here and how the beautiful mountains surround the course. The last nine here’s a joy to play and the sun will set right into the ocean if you’re lucky with the weather.”
The details: Numerous packages are available. Green fees begin around the £70 mark, but check the website for details.
10. Bro Hof Slott Stadium Course, Sweden
The expert view: “Since I’m a Swede, I’ve got to include at least one course from my home country. Bro Hof Slott Stadium Course, just outside Stockholm, is always in great shape and the last four holes (15, 16, 17 and 18) are just brilliant. A tough challenge for many but strikingly beautiful holes in Swedish nature.”
The details: There are two courses, both designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, with green fees starting from around £80.
11. Castle Stuart Golf Links, Scotland
The expert view: “Modern golf links with hidden valleys and great character. Overlooking the picturesque Moray Firth, combined with a stunning landscape, this is a course that will remain in passionate golfers’ memories forever.”
The details: Off-season green fees begin at around £140 and peak at £190. But 36-hole tickets offer some discount.
