What Makes a Links Course

A true links sits on sandy soil between farmland and sea, shaped by wind rather than machines. Firm turf, few trees, deep pot bunkers and greens that accept the running shot define the style.

The great links of Scotland and Ireland were routed over land too poor to farm, which is precisely why golf has them. Courses like Cypress Point and Barnbougle show the style travels, even when built by hand..