Growing up with both my parents in the golf and hospitality industry, I’ve been fortunate to tee it up on some truly spectacular courses, both near and far. Yet, my top five selections aren’t just about prestige or difficulty. They’re about the unforgettable moments, breathtaking scenery, and pure joy the game has brought me. These favourite golf courses hold a special place in my heart. And not just for their beauty, but for the memories they’ve created along the way.
Source: Top 100 Courses Kevin Murray
5. Old Course at St. Andrews
Location : St.Andrews, Scotland
The Home of Golf needs no introduction. Walking the fairways of the Old Course at St. Andrews is a pilgrimage for any golfer. From the iconic Swilcan Bridge to the daunting Road Hole, every step is steeped in history. The undulating fairways and massive double greens provide a unique challenge. And the unpredictable Scottish weather only adds to the drama. The course required a steady hand and major focus, but at times, the nerves were hard to control! The only reason this isn’t higher on my list is that I played it during winter repairs and had to hit off mats—though that did lead to some interesting shot-making and extra spin on the ball!
Source: Heritage Golf Group – TPC Tampa
4. TPC Tampa Bay
Location – Lutz, Florida, USA
A former Champions Tour venue, TPC Tampa Bay delivers a challenging yet enjoyable test of golf. It was a last-minute tee-time decision—we hadn’t even researched the course. But upon arrival, we were greeted by pristine fairways, gleaming white bunkers, and the natural beauty of Florida’s wetlands. The friendly, welcoming staff added to the experience, and the clubhouse had some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind merchandise, including gear inspired by NFL legend Tom Brady. I still have my Brady-themed hat to this day! If TPC Sawgrass is fully booked, this course is a fantastic alternative just a short drive away.
Source: Las Colinas Golf
3. Las Colinas Golf & Country Club
Location – Alicante, Spain
Las Colinas holds a special place in my heart—it was one of the first full 18-hole courses I ever played. Nestled in the hills of Costa Blanca, this championship course is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic layout. The Mediterranean setting, peaceful atmosphere, and world-class facilities make it no surprise that Las Colinas is consistently ranked among Spain’s top courses. From a young age, every visit felt like an adventure, filled with great holidays, family memories, and incredible experiences on the course. With my golf ability changing over the years, I was facing new challenges every time I played (and I might have been a little too young to drive the buggy back then, but what a great time that was!).
Source: Top 100 Golf Courses
2. London Golf Club – Heritage Course (England)
Location – Kent, England
Set in the rolling Kent countryside, the Heritage Course at London Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus design that rewards strategic play. Not only have I had the pleasure of playing the course multiple times, but I also worked at the venue for six spectacular years. During that time, I was part of two Senior Tour events and a European Tour competition, experiencing the course in every possible condition. The balance of beauty and difficulty makes it a memorable challenge, but for me, it’s the late summer rounds, the amazing people I met, and the memories I made that truly make London Golf Club special.
Source: Top 100 Golf Courses – Patrick Koenig
1. Dumbarnie Links (Scotland)
Location – Leven, Scotland
A modern links masterpiece, Dumbarnie Links offers breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth, with wide fairways, dramatic dunes, and exciting risk- reward holes. This course is an absolute thrill to play. Beyond the incredible golf, the experience was elevated by the American-style clubhouse and bar, which provided the perfect setting to relax before and after the round. Sharing food and drinks while overlooking the course made for an unforgettable memory. Dumbarnie was the ideal way to round off a St. Andrews trip. I wish this could be a Top 10 or even a Top 20—there are so many incredible courses, unforgettable experiences, and amazing people I wish I could thank and praise. To every course that has welcomed me, thank you, and I’ll see you soon.
Joakim is VPAR’s Events Manager.
With golf and hospitality in his blood, growing up in the industry was inevitable. His first taste of the professional golf world came through an internship at London Golf Club, an experience that led to a six-year career at the prestigious venue.
On the course, he enjoys a steady 14.1 handicap, embracing the art of bogey golf while still chasing the dream of single figures.
After an amazing time in club operations, he made the leap into the events and tournament world with VPAR, where he has spent the past two years helping deliver over 400 golf events across the UK and Europe. With each event bringing new experiences and incredible people, the journey is just getting started—let’s see what year three has in store!
