Domburgsche Golfclub

Domburgsche Golfclub: genuine seaside links courses are few and far between in mainland Europe. The Netherlands offers some of the continent's best. Located on the "island" of Walcheren, close to the mouth of the River Scheldt, the nine-hole Domburgsche is an excellent example of these "true" links courses.

Established in 1914, this classic seaside links is mainly tucked down behind an impressive line of dunes. Journeying out and back from its modern clubhouse, the layout tapers towards "the turn" at the par-3 5th.

With the wind usually playing its part in proceedings, the challenge is to stay on the tightish rolling fairways and out of the penal rough that lies in close attendance. The tumbling fairways rarely offer up a flat lie, while the excellent greens also follow the terrain's natural ebb and flow.

Although World War II took its toll on the course at that time, several bomb craters dotted around the course were opportunely converted into grass bunkers, and are still much in evidence today. The greens here are generally fast and true, thanks to excellent quality greenkeeping and plenty of salty air carried along on those North Sea breezes.

Given the natural drainage of the dunes, this popular and ever-challenging course remains playable throughout the year. Originally designed by golf professional E.C. "Charles" Warren in the early-1900s, Domburgsche provides a unique golfing opportunity for both local residents and the many tourists who visit this holiday area.

Pick of the holes: with its panoramic sea view from the tee, the par-4 1st captures the spirit and challenge of Domburgsche. From the elevated tee you play down to a not overly wide fairway, flanked by rough that's well worth avoiding. Then it's a short approach up to the rolling elevated green.