Top 5 weirdest design features on golf courses - Quality Golf Destinations

As a result, many of the golf courses we visit have the same appearance. We'll look at some of the world's most unusual golf hole designs in this article. While most golf courses include similar elements such as bunkers, water, and sometimes some unusual rough, you'd be amazed what you'd discover in other regions of the world!


Golf is strange; it's full of intriguing individuals and spans the world in places you'd never guess. Some of that weirdness filters into the golf courses itself, so this week we're highlighting five holes with some of the strangest elements imaginable. Continue reading!

 

The first two holes aren't very unusual, but they could be the two oddest on the PGA Tour. The first is located in the heart of Riviera Country Club, one of the world's most prominent golf courses.

The famous 6th hole at Riviera Country Club features a bunker in the middle of the green. – photo credit: golf.com


Bunker in the middle of the green on Riviera’s 6th hole

We locate one of the weirdest holes on one of the top courses on the PGA Tour. With bunkers on the front left and back right, the 199-yard par-3 6th hole is already a difficult task. Architect George Thomas, on the other hand, didn't stop there, placing a pot bunker in the center of the green! This bunker divides the green into four areas, which is beneficial since it provides a variety of possibilities. It's also a lot of fun when players find themselves on the other side of the flag. Chipping off the green is a fun and exciting option, but the contours of this green also allow you to putt around the bunker to get fairly close to the hole.


Anywhere else, this hole might get written off as a gimmick. But at Riviera with a master creator like Thomas, we have no choice but to enjoy the drama and give him the benefit of the doubt.


The cave bunker at Mayakoba

The Mayakoba Golf Classic, which is part of the PGA Tour, has an uncommon characteristic. While El Camaleon might not have the same level of renown as Riviera, it does offer something unique! This hole (for you) has a cave, yes, a genuine cave, and during the PGA tournament, it serves as the 7th hole. Of course, there's a tale behind this terrifying cave, and you can learn more about it from two courageous people who bravely entered it here. In a nutshell, all you need to know is that it should be avoided at all costs, and you definitely don't want your golf ball near it!

Photo credit: golf.com


The mine-shaft bunker at Scottsdale National

Number 3 on our list takes us away from the PGA Tour, but not too far away from craziness! Bob Parsons’ of PXG fame,  Scottsdale National includes one of the most brutal bunkers you’ll ever come across. It's no surprise that the Mine Shaft Course has a 13-foot-deep bunker on the 15th hole, given its name. At the bottom, a tiny little pot bunker of sand with wood panels all around, almost as if you're heading into an actual mine, is a tiny little pot bunker of sand with wood panels all around, some of which can assist you get all the way down there to attempt one of the toughest shots of your life. This is the very last place you want to be in Arizona

Photo credit: PGA.com


Fossil Trace’s rock pillars

Rolling back millions of years, some things just shouldn’t be dug up and removed, and when creating a golf course, the same applies! Fossil Trace Golf Club in Golden, Colo., is set in a beautiful landscape and is where, the 585-yard par-5 12th clearly takes the top spot in terms of interest. Architect Jim Engh was faced with a problem when he discovered that large sandstone pillars were dotted around the land. Whilst many said he was crazy for leaving them as be, his solution was much more interesting. The sandstone pillars are right in the middle of the fairway, three massive sandstone formations. The pillars will come into play on your second shot, forcing you to be precise and not be blocked out for your approach into the green. Whether you hit them or miss them, you’re still going to want to go take a peek as on some of the sandstone walls around the course, you might find fossils from dinosaur footprints. Not a feature you get to see that during too many rounds of golf!

The time-zone shift at Tornio Golf / Meri-Lapin Golf Club

Photo credit: allsquaregolf.com


On to number 5 and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Tornio Golf / Meri-Lapin Golf Club is so large it spans two countries! Just kidding, it’s not as big as it sounds, it just sits right on the border of Sweden and Finland. Eleven of the holes are in Sweden while the rest are across the border in Finland. Where else can you play one round in two countries? And if that isn’t enough to amuse you, the border is also a time-zone shift! The magical moment happens on the par-3 6th hole, where the actual border sits. Ever wondered what the longest hole-in-one is?  According to their website, tee shots on this hole average about one hour and five seconds in the air, so, if you were to ace this hole, it would be the longest hole-in-one possible on Earth! Try explaining that one to your mates! Whilst there is no physical element on this course which is out of the ordinary, the time-zone aspect of it is certainly an added bit of fun and a great story to tell.

 

For more interesting courses, please check out our website and let us make you the tailored golf holiday of a lifetime.

by Neil Adams 17 April 2025
Golf enthusiasts often find themselves on a quest for the perfect course. With its rolling hills, lush landscapes, and challenging greens, Wisconsin is home to some of the most captivating golf courses in the USA. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, Wisconsin offers a golfing experience that's hard to match. In this article, we'll explore some of the top golf courses in Wisconsin, diving into what makes each one unique and worth a visit. Why Wisconsin for Golf? Wisconsin might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of premier golf destinations. However, this state is a hidden gem for golfers. With its diverse landscapes, from dense forests to tranquil lakes, Wisconsin's golf courses offer breathtaking views and challenging play. The state's commitment to maintaining and developing world-class courses has put it on the golfing map, attracting players from all over the world. A Rich Golfing History Wisconsin's golfing history dates back over a century. The state has produced and hosted some of the most prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup. With such a rich history, it's no wonder that Wisconsin is home to some of the best courses you'll find anywhere. Top Wisconsin Golf Courses Whistling Straits Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Whistling Straits is arguably the crown jewel of Wisconsin golf. Designed by the legendary Pete Dye, this course offers a links-style golfing experience reminiscent of the classic courses in Ireland. It has hosted major events like the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup, solidifying its status as a top-tier course. The course is known for its rugged terrain, with numerous bunkers and challenging winds off the lake. Each hole presents a unique challenge, requiring precise shot-making and strategic thinking. Whether you're playing the Straits Course or the Irish Course, you're in for an unforgettable round. Erin Hills Nestled in the rolling hills of Erin, Wisconsin, Erin Hills is another must-visit for any golf enthusiast. This course gained international acclaim when it hosted the U.S. Open in 2017. Erin Hills is a public course that offers a true test of golf, with its wide fairways, undulating greens, and natural fescue roughs. The course design embraces the natural landscape, making it a beautiful and challenging experience. Erin Hills prides itself on providing an authentic links-style golfing experience with a focus on walking the course. Blackwolf Run Part of the Kohler Company’s golf offerings, Blackwolf Run is another masterpiece by Pete Dye. Located in Kohler, Wisconsin, this course is split into two 18-hole layouts: the River Course and the Meadow Valleys Course. Both courses offer a unique challenge and showcase the natural beauty of the area. Blackwolf Run has been ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the United States and has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including the U.S. Women's Open. Sand Valley Located in central Wisconsin, Sand Valley is a relatively new addition to the state's golf scene but has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Sand Valley features sand dunes and prairie grasses that offer a unique links-style experience. It’s also home to Mammoth Dunes, which provides a different but equally thrilling round of golf. With stunning scenery and top-tier design, Sand Valley is a must-play. SentryWorld SentryWorld, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is known for its beautifully manicured fairways and iconic "Flower Hole." This public course offers a parkland-style layout with tree-lined fairways and strategic water hazards. Following a major renovation in 2013, SentryWorld has become more playable while maintaining its charm, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels. Golfing Tips for Wisconsin Courses Weather Preparedness: Wisconsin's weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed. Book in Advance: Tee times at top courses can fill quickly. Reserve early, especially in peak season. Walk the Course: Many courses encourage walking to enjoy the full experience and appreciate the scenery. Explore Local Attractions: Take time to enjoy the food, culture, and hospitality that make Wisconsin a great all-around destination. A Stunning Golf Experience Wisconsin may not be the first destination you think of for world-class golf, but it should be. With its stunning courses, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Wisconsin offers a golfing experience that’s hard to beat. From the rugged beauty of Whistling Straits to the serene landscapes of Sand Valley, each course provides a unique challenge and unforgettable experience. Learn more about golf in Wisconsin at Quality Golf Destinations.
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