Sandals St Lucia

The lush fairways of the course at Sandals Golf & Country Club are set within the scenic rolling hills of Cap Estates on the northern tip of the island in a layout designed by John Ponko, a member of legendary Robert Trent Jones's staff in the 1970s. Opening in 2001, this 18-hole course plays to a par of 71 and you’ll need every stroke of your handicap to match that score as it’s a demanding track that takes no prisoners.

Unfortunately, despite the course being routed high up on the tumbling terrain of Cap Estates, there are precious few panoramic views of the coastline – with only the occasional glimpse of water in the distance – but that’s the only real disappointment to be found at St Lucia as there are plenty of blind shots, elevation changes, twisting fairways and sloping greens to sustain your interest from first tee shot to last putt.

The meaty, par five opening hole grabs the attention immediately as the tee shot is played from the first of many elevated tees to a fairway that doglegs right to a raised green. And by the time you play across water to the par three 18th hole, you’re certain to have enjoyed a real Caribbean golfing treat.