A good walk unspoiled: The 10 best golf courses in the world to walk

July 30, 2019

We asked our raters to name the courses where carts are best left in the barn. Here’s how they voted. Note: Courses were given 60 points for a first-place vote, 50 for a second, 40 for a third, etc.

1. Cypress Point Club (U.S.)
Total points: 1,120
First-place votes : 17

“Cypress will always be No. 1 with me. Forests, dunes and then the ocean, all in a building crescendo of visual elegance and beauty.”

The 17th at Cypress Point.

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2. Old Course at St. Andrews (U.K.)
Total points: 820
First-place votes: 6

It's hard to top the history behind the Old Course at St. Andrews.

Fred Vuich

3. Old Head Golf Links (Ire.)
Total points: 460
First-place votes: 2

“No matter how you’re playing, the views at Old Head — the ocean, the cliffs, the fog — will take your breath away. One of my favorite places in the world.”

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4. Fishers Island Club (U.S.)
Total points: 400
First-place votes: 0

Fishers Island golf course

LC Lambrecht

5. Royal Dornoch Golf Club (U.K.)
Total points: 360
First-place votes: 0

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6. Tara Iti Golf Club (N.Z.)
Total points: 320
First-place votes: 1

7. Cape Wickham Links (Aus.)
Total points: 210
First-place votes: 1

Gary Lisbon

8. Augusta National Golf Club (U.S.)
Total points: 170
First-place votes: 0

There's nothing like Magnolia's blooming, spring beginning and the shot of Augusta National ushering in golf's most prestigious event.

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9. Highlands Links Golf Course (Can.)
Total points: 160
First-place votes: 2

“Nova Scotia’s Highlands Links is a fabulous walk with ocean views, a long riverside stroll, wetlands and highlands. There’s even a brief walk through part of the charming village.”

When you're at Highland Links, ditch the cart.

10. National Golf Links of America (U.S.)
Total points: 90
First-place votes: 1