11 Worst Courses To Play When It’s Windy

Royal County Down Golf Club -- Newcastle, Co. Down, Northern Ireland -- No. 4: Par 3, 228 yards After seeing a photo in the early 1980s of this stunning one-shotter, I vowed that one day I would experience that unforgettable panorama. In May 1996, I checked it off from my golf bucket list, the hole having lived up to every expectation. From the elevated back tee, you're greeted by a sea of gorse, bursting brilliant yellow in spring, nine bunkers, mountain peaks and a hotel spire -- with the sea and its pesky breezes looming to the left.

The course was developed by Bandon Dunes's Mike Keiser and Ben Cowan-Dewar.

Seven Opens have been played on the burly links, which Scottish golfers have voted the toughest in the country. The best players in the world will head back to Carnoustie for the 2018 Open.

Also known as Royal Liverpool, Hoylake hosted the 2014 Open after making its return to the rotation in 2006 after a 40-year absence.

A sign on the 16th hole warns players of the dangers at Blackwolf Run.