8.8

Winston Links

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
2011
GRASS
Fescue
SEASON
Year Round
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
116
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Gneven

Score

8.8
Design
40%
9.1
Conditions
25%
8.4
Desirability
15%
8.9
Scenery
10%
8.9
Fun
5%
8.3
Uniqueness
5%
8.5

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 144

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
72
$
116
$
160
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Winston Links features man-made dunes towering over 30 feet high and has repeatedly been voted Germany's best golf course.

About

Winston Links at WINSTONgolf is an 18-hole championship course designed by David Krause and styled after traditional British links. Its natural sandy hollows, towering dunes, sweeping fairways, and challenging pot bunkers create one of Germany's most authentic inland links experiences. The course regularly hosts major domestic tournaments and is known for its bold design and strategic challenge.

Caddie Tip

Stay below the hole on approaches, especially when greens are running fast. Favor conservative lines off the tee and resist attacking pins tucked behind pot bunkers—patience is key to surviving the demanding layout and swirling winds often present.

The Main Challenge

The primary challenge is navigating the dunes and mastering the ever-present winds which swirl unpredictably. Pot bunkers are deep and magnetic, penalizing offline drives and bold approaches. Precision and mental fortitude are required throughout—especially on the closing stretch.

The Good

Golfers consistently praise the authentic links experience, with wild dunes and strategic bunkering reminiscent of coastal Scottish and Irish courses. The adventurous routing and variety across holes keep every round fresh and engaging, while the bold landscape serves up exceptional visual drama throughout.

The Not So Good

The relentless challenge—narrow landing areas, penal bunkers, and heavy rough—can be daunting for higher handicappers. Some players mention the greens can be excessively firm and fast, making approaches and short game recovery particularly tough. Pace of play can occasionally lag on busy tournament days.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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The 18th is a par 4 boasting sweeping views from a raised tee, with dramatic dunes flanking the fairway and a green protected by deep pot bunkers. Accuracy off the tee is crucial to navigate the natural contours and finish on one of Germany’s most memorable closing holes.

Clubhouse

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The clubhouse features a well-stocked pro shop, refined restaurant offering local and seasonal cuisine, terrace views over the courses, spacious locker rooms, and lounge areas for relaxation after your round. The atmosphere is welcoming and the service attentive.

Practice Facilities

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Comprehensive practice areas include a large driving range, multiple short-game greens, a sizable putting green, and a par 3 academy course. Facilities are modern and ideal for sharp skill development at all levels.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Germany