The Top 25 Most Exclusive Golf And Country Clubs In The World

The winners of the 2018-2019 Platinum Clubs® of the World awards have set the standard for excellence among private golf and country clubs worldwide. 700 Golf & Country Clubs voted on these prestigious accolades, and the Platinum status is the highest achievement in the private clubs industry. The awards are presented in five categories: Country Clubs, Golf, City, Athletic, and Yacht Clubs, recognizing the exceptional quality and amenities these establishments offer.

Attaining Platinum status requires meeting strict criteria, including universal recognition, excellence in amenities and facilities, exceptional staff and professional service levels, high-quality membership, effective governance, fiscal management, adaptability to changing times, and an overall exceptional experience for members.

In the current year, the Top 100 International Golf & Country Clubs hail from 30 different countries. Notably, Asia boasts 14 clubs that have received Platinum status, while Great Britain and Ireland are home to 10 distinguished clubs. Continental Europe adds another 11 clubs to the list, with an additional 13 new Golf & Country Clubs joining the ranks of the Top 100.

In this blog, we will look at the top 5 Most Exclusive Golf And Country Clubs In The World Honored With Platinum Status. So, let's dive into the details of these exclusive golf clubs that have the status of platinum clubs.

Augusta National Golf Club (Georgia)

Historically recognized as a male-only golf club, Augusta National Golf Club has made a significant change by welcoming women as members. This groundbreaking decision included notable figures such as former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, former banking magnate Darla Moore, and IBM CEO Ginni Rometty. With an exclusive membership limited to only 300 individuals, including prominent names like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, Augusta National stands as a pinnacle of golfing excellence. It is the most prestigious and vintage club and can be considered the most exclusive club.

The Augusta National Golf Club is renowned for hosting the prestigious Masters tournament, one of the most revered events in the golfing world. Designed by the legendary golfer Bobby Jones in collaboration with Dr. Alister MacKenzie, the golf course at Augusta National country club is hailed as a masterpiece among all the golf courses in the world. Its immaculate fairways and challenging layout provide an unparalleled golfing experience.

Membership at Augusta National country club comes with a hefty price tag, with initiation fees ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. This investment grants access to a world-class golfing facility and the privilege of being part of Augusta National Golf Club, which has been voted the number one in the United States.

Pine Valley Golf Club (New Jersey)

Pine Valley Golf and Country Club has earned a reputation as one of the premier golf courses worldwide, often regarded as one of the best. The exclusivity of the Pine Valley Golf Club is reflected in its unique membership process, as the board of directors personally extends invitations to potential members. Unlike traditional application-based systems, Pine Valley country club membership is not open for general applications.

Pine Valley Golf and Country Club has historically maintained a men's-only policy, but there is an exception. Male members are permitted to bring women as guests, but this privilege is limited to Sundays only, allowing for a specific arrangement to accommodate the presence of women at the golf club.

The esteemed status of Pine Valley country club is further exemplified by its recognition as the fifth-best golf and Country club in the United States, a testament to the exceptional quality and experience it offers to its members.

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (New York)

Shinnecock Hills Golf and Country Club, located in Southampton, New York, holds a prestigious reputation as the host of multiple US Open championships. Access to this exclusive club is limited to being accompanied by a member, making it necessary to establish a connection within the club's community. Securing a tee time at Shinnecock Hills can be challenging, as availability often requires booking months in advance due to high demand.

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a private golf club located at Shinnecock Hill, New York. For those fortunate enough to secure a tee time and play golf here, the green fee at Shinnecock Hills is set at $350 per round. It is important to note that walking the golf course is mandatory, further enhancing the traditional golfing experience. To fully appreciate the golf course and navigate its challenges, players are required to hire a caddy who will accompany them throughout their rounds.

The exceptional standards and renowned golf course design have earned Shinnecock Hills the distinction of being ranked as the eighth-best golf and Country club in the United States, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier destination for golf enthusiasts. It is one of the world-class golf courses.

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (Scotland)

Established in 1754, The Royal and Ancient Golf and Country Club of St Andrews is the oldest and most prestigious golf club globally. This is a true vintage club. Situated in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, it is revered as the "Home of Golf." For over two centuries, the golf and country club maintained a male-only membership policy, but in 2015, it made a historical change by welcoming its first honorary female members, including notable figures such as Princess Anne and professional golfers.

Membership at The Royal and Ancient Golf and Country Club is an exclusive honor, as it is strictly by invitation only. With a global reach, the golf and country club boasts a membership of approximately 2,400 individuals hailing from various parts of the world. This international representation further highlights the club's significance and appeal among golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Merion Golf Club (Pennsylvania)

Nestled in Haverford Township, Pennsylvania, bordering Philadelphia, Merion Golf and Country Club stands as a renowned private golf and Country club. One of its standout features is its exceptional locker rooms, including a two-level men's locker room that boasts legendary showers. These state-of-the-art facilities enhance the overall experience for members.

Merion Golf and Country Club membership is exclusive and requires a member referral for consideration. Initiation fees for prospective members begin at $70,000, with annual dues amounting to $6,000 and above for this golf club. These fees ensure access to the club's prestigious amenities and exceptional golfing facilities.

The exceptional quality and offerings at Merion Golf Club have garnered its recognition as the third-best golf and Country club in the United States, further solidifying its status as a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts.

Other Renowned Golf Clubs

Some other private golf clubs that have made it to the list are:

• The Royal Melbourne Golf Club (Australia)

• Muirfield-The Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers (Scotland)

• Cypress Point Club (California)

• Golf de Morfontaine (France)

• Baltusrol Golf Club (New Jersey)



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