By Martyn Landsborough, Head Professional.

The fact that any golf course has no bunkers immediately gives you the impression that your day is going to be less stressful than usual. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The mixture of heather, gorse and undulating fairways on the Old Course gives your game the complete examination.

The key to a successful round is a solid start. Although the first hole is a short par 4, the combination of a two-tiered green and a sloping approach can easily lead to frustration.

The 128 yard par 3 6th hole is a gem. Accuracy is everything, with a stream ready to ensnare the mis-hit or misdirected shot. Safety is not even assured if your ball lands on the upturned saucer-shaped green.

Your tee shot on the 249 yard par 3 11th hole demands straightness and distance as the hog’s back approach can take the off-centre hit away from the intended target. Enjoy the view from the tee for this point indicates a challenging homeward stretch.

The 12th is the longest hole on the course. Anyone reaching the green in two has had to hit both shots with authority and precision to cover the 568 yards.

Concentration needs to be maintained, particularly over the closing holes, with perhaps the second shot to the 17th hole being crucial to a successful finish to your round.

Click here for a hole by hole tour of the course from Virtual Caddy.

Behind the 14th green on the Old Course