The ultimate fantasy golf course in Devon takes on a classic short par 4

It is cold, wet and windy, pretty much the worst time of year to be playing golf, but spring is not too far away and the lush fairways and greens of Devon are awaiting our return.

To get you in the mood, we are taking on the challenge of building the ultimate golf course, but there are strict rules to this game.

We can only use a golf course once and their chosen hole number must correspond to the actual hole on that course. For example, the ultimate opening hole in Devon must also be the opening hole on that chosen course, and then the same course cannot be used again throughout the round.

Your challenge this summer is to play them all!

The ultimate 4th hole in Devon golf

#4 – Royal North Devon Golf Club – Par 4

The 4th at Royal North Devon, traditionally known as “Cape”, is a classic short par-4 that stands out for its bold hazard design and links character. It’s not long by modern standards, but it demands respect, precision, and strategic thinking — especially in wind.

The defining challenge here is the huge “Cape” bunker that cuts across the fairway. This massive hazard — historically lined with railway sleepers — sits roughly 170–180 yards off the tee and stretches widely across the landing zone. Golfers must carry it on the tee shot to avoid trouble.

Blind tee shot: The bunker lies across your line of play, so the best line is indicated by a marker on the tee (often with a four-marker or arrow).

Downwind opportunity: In a favourable breeze, strong hitters might even have a chance to drive the green, making for an exhilarating risk-reward moment.

If you fall short: Shots that don’t clear the Cape bunker can ricochet unpredictably, find deep sand, or leave a difficult recovery — making par far from automatic.

After clearing the Cape, the fairway is undulating and generous, but finding a flat lie is rare on these classic, naturally formed links fairways.

The approach is relatively short, but careful club selection is essential — especially with links winds and an uneven lies common. Four bunkers guard the front of the green, so favoring the centre of the putting surface is a wise play to give yourself the best chance at a two-putt par or a birdie opportunity.

Strategy & Tips

• Tee shot: Prioritize clearing the Cape bunker even if that means using more club or a fairway wood. The tee shot sets up the hole.
• Approach: Aim to the heart of the green — don’t short-side yourself. Even though the hole is reachable, attacking a tucked or tightly guarded pin can be costly.
• Wind factor: The prevailing Atlantic winds can turn this into a much tougher challenge; a headwind can make clearing the Cape a significant test.

This hole captures the pure essence of true links golf — exposed to the elements, shaped by natural contours, and rewarding bold strategy over sheer power. It’s a great example of how an old-school design uses terrain and hazard placement to create drama and strategic depth in just a mid-length par-4.

Hole number one in our ultimate Devon course

Hole number two in our ultimate Devon course

Hole number three in our ultimate Devon course