The east Course at Saunton is regarded as Devon's best and according to the late Sunday Times golf correspendant Henry Longhurst, is "the best course never to have held an Open Championship."
It may look short on paper - there are no holes that measure over 500 yards - but it is extremely difficult. The first hole 'The Gullpit', a 470-yard par 4 is so tough that the view from the elevated tee atop a sand dune will scare off anyone nursey a ropey long game. The par 3 5th named 'Tiddler', might seem a birdie chance at just 113 yards but finding the green flanked by deep pot bunkers is like trying to drop a ball on a sixpence.
On a calm day you can score well but don't turn up to Saunton expecting a light zephyr. As with most links courses when the wind blows it shows teeth. But this really is a fair, well-designed track and as it hasn't yet reached Open rota status it won't inflict too much damage on your wallet.
Best Hole: The opening hole is one of the most daunting in the game. A long accurate tee shots is a must.
Web: www.sauntongolf.co.uk
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