Gare

Our Stroke Index 1, Gare is widely regarded as the toughest hole on the course — and for good reason. From the tee, dunes and out of bounds run the entire length of the right-hand side, placing immediate pressure on the drive. The ideal line is closer to this danger, as the further right you can safely position your tee shot, the more of the green will be visible for your approach. Those who bail out too far left may find the rough, which is not the worst place to miss, but it does leave a much more difficult and often blind second shot. The challenge continues with the approach to one of the most distinctive greens on the course. Perched amongst the dunes, the putting surface resembles an upturned saucer, shedding indifferent shots away from its edges and demanding both accuracy and imagination. While Gare may be the most scenic hole on the course, with a truly natural links setting, it is also one of the most demanding. Every shot requires commitment, and a par here will feel hard-earned. A true championship test and a hole that can have a major influence on any scorecard.