Situated in upstate New York amidst a icy backdrop sit the Geometric Twin Houses, designed by the architects at WOJR. The two houses face each other and are constructed from various shapes

Only a fortunate few have experienced teeing off at the world’s most exclusive golf clubs, where membership fees can range north of US$160,000. These clubs vehemently guard their privacy and non-members only rarely make it past the front gates.

It doesn’t matter which country you’re in — the more impressive the course is, the more exclusive it becomes. Condition, variety, design and, in many cases, scenery, all contribute to make the dream course. There is one recurring theme in many of these clubs: golfing architect Dr Alister MacKenzie. Even if he didn’t actually design the course, it is very likely that he will have played some part in inspiring the person who did.

With so many golf courses worldwide, picking the top 10 most desirable is a difficult — and perhaps controversial — task. In conjunction with our own analysis, Billionaire.com has gathered a panel of independent expert golf enthusiasts to construct our list: Tenniel Chu, vice-chairman of Mission Hills Group (which includes Mission Hills Golf Clubs); John Sabino, golf course critic; and Kay Hwa Tang: executive director of The Dàlat at 1200 Country Club and Private Estate, a golf course resort.