Guide reveals best US golf courses

Americans really know how to build golf courses, making the United States one of the top destinations for golfing holidays.

But there are so many of them it is difficult to know where to go outside of the famous names such as Augusta, Brookline and Pinehurst.

This task is made easier by Zagat's annual survey of America's top golf courses, which has this year named Whistling Straits as America's best course, ousting last year's winner Bandon Dunes, Oregon.

Brits should feel at home on Whistling Straits. Located in Kohler Wisconsin and used for the 2004 US PGA championship, the course is designed to emulate the seaside links of the British Isles.

Elsewhere, the 2006/07 Zagat guide names Pebble Beach, California, as the most popular US golf course for the fourth year running.

But beware, maintaining the lush fairways and pristine greens to championship standard does not come cheap, and this is reflected in the prices.

Playing a round of golf at Boulders (Arizona), Greenbriers (West Virginia), or Pinehurst (North Carolina) costs well over £100, while a game at Shadow Creek (Nevada) costs nearer £300.

Those worried about cost should head to Riverdale Dunes (Colorado), which is named as the best budget course, where a round will leave you with change from £25.

Beginners and those seeking tuition to improve their golfing skills, should head to Westin Innisbrook, which is named by the guide as the best course for lessons.

Nina Zagat, co-founder of the guide said: "Whether you're planning a golf trip or looking for links near home, whether you shoot in the seventies or the nineties and whether you're playing on a budget or the company expense account, the 2006/07 guide has the everything a golfer needs to find the perfect course."