I would like I would like to introduce you to another golf course that belongs on the category German bucket list courses. I had the opportunity to play and photograph the Marienburger Golf Club Köln on my journey back home to southern Germany. Even though, to be honest, I didn’t get to play because I couldn’t stop marvelling.

Such a wonderful golf course full of tradition on the edge of Cologne’s city centre – God knows I wasn’t expecting it. I knew that this nine-hole course was good and was very curious as I had already celebrated every course associated with Christian Althaus Design in advance. However, I was not even remotely aware that it was this good.

I have never seen a par 3 in Germany as brilliant as hole 4 at the Marienburger Golf Club in Köln. The entire green complex with its 5 bunkers, the heavily undulating green and the tall trees that make this gem of a par 3 look like an avenue are more reminiscent of one of the large and well-known courses in the States. The large terraced tea boxes with the distinctive tea markers are something special. It’s a style you only really know from the island. In addition, the respect and the way golf is understood at the Marienburger Golf Club Köln is simply something special.

Admittedly, hole 4 is my highlight, but it is in no way inferior to the other 8 holes. The old trees, the diverse and varied bunker shapes typical for Christian Althaus and the outstanding condition of the Marienburg Golf Club Köln are simply worth a visit.

The club itself describes the 9th as its signature hole. The par 4 is indeed a tricky business and requires a lot of strategy and nerves of steel to bring your score home. The shot into the higher green is particularly scary as the green is once again defended by beautiful but deep bunkers.

A special feature of the Marienburger Golf Club is that it is located just six kilometres south of Kölner Dom. The classic parkland course with its old trees provides plenty of shade in the hot summer and is a real feast for the eyes in autumn with its colourful leaves. Christian Althaus has really mastered the redesign and has made the Marienburger Golf Club Köln a real must for every golfer in Germany. The old clubhouse has its own charm and, in addition to the 9-hole par 72 championship course, there is also a par 3 short course with the same character.