Whiskey Creek Golf Club

Whiskey Creek Golf Club must be one of the world's only golf courses with a house in the middle of the final fairway. If that doesn't spark your interest, then maybe the whiskey that was once distilled in the ruined house will. Designed by J. Michael Poellet and Ernie Els, Whiskey Creek is understandably one of the highest-rated public access courses within a 100-mile radius of Washington D.C.

The wonderfully crafted layout is contained within a quiet and natural woodland environment, where busy roads and real estate play no part. With scenic tree-clad hills constantly in view, and plenty of pristine woodland around the course, the holes themselves enjoy a predominantly open feel.

Whiskey Creek makes excellent use of its pleasantly rolling terrain, with a few pronounced elevation changes along the way. The excellent variety of straight and doglegging holes are played through a mix of woodland and more open spaces.

Stylish bunkering and mounding are much in evidence, so too woodland copses, rocky outcrops and a few threatening ponds. Always easy on the eye, this handsome layout ensures fairness and challenge are kept nicely in balance.

Pick of the holes: the wonderful closing par-5 plays from an elevated tee, over (or round) a stone ruin, which stands in the middle of the fairway. Having navigated past the house, and a tall elegant tree that stands alongside it, the hole sweeps down to the final green, with water to cross before the safety of the putting surface is reached. An inspired hole to close out your round on a much revered golf course.