I was just flipping though the great book "True Links" and saw several omissions, in my opinion. Although I would clearly defer to Mr. Peper and many on this site to say what is and isn't a true links, I feel there are a few missing here and would like to know others opinion as well.
Firstly, and most importantly, to me, is the omission of El Saler in Spain. Although it is played through a forest for half of the round (as do Formby and Noordwijkse), it is played entirely on sandy linksland. To me, it is as good as many of the classics played over generally interesting terrain. It has played very firmthe few times I have visited and can be best played on the ground.
I think the case could be made for Troia in Portugal as well. Although it is a relatively modern design, it is played along the ocean. In fact for several holes, the ocean is in view. The biggest problem I have with Troia is that it does not play firm.
Also in Portugal, is Praia d'el Rei that also plays on sandy soil for much of the round. There are several holes that are hard against the sea and dunes come into play as well. I do think the course suffers from over development too near the playing corridors. And unfortunately, like Troia, it doesn't play like a links in that the ball doesn't run like it maybe should.
There are a few others in Portugal that may be considered links as well ie; Estrella, Oporto. Also one that comes to mind in France is Dinard. I haven't been to these three, so I cannot offer a proper opinion on them.
Does it preclude a course from being a "true links" if the surface doesn't play firm? Curious to your thoughts...