For the course I first saw a photo and wanted to play it is sitting at the top of the Mike Devries alter of worship, Cape Wickham. I saw it and like everyone else in the golfing world I'm a sucker for gorgeous water views. Didn't disappoint and in my top 5, albeit if inland certainly would be down a ways.
Valley Club I never saw any photos of before I played it, but as a young adult always heard of the Valley Club while living in So Cal. Mentally I had heard so much of the setting in Santa Barbara, Mackenzie lineage, exclusive and impossible to get on, etc. that I had such high expectations and it didn't disappoint. The view from the patio onto the vast open array of holes atop with a view with perfect weather.... yeah love it, but it certainly doesn't need my endorsement. Love this view I found here.
Several courses I love but haven't played outside of the obvious top dogs are:Lofoten Links in Norway. How can you not want to play this one. The iconic photo I think of. FYI for those who haven't seen the northern lights,
this isn't what you see with the naked eye, but a great digital camera on specialized settings. But still love it, although somewhat false advertising.
Crans-sur-Sierre in Switzerland..... wow!
Wade Hampton... mountains look to be stunning and in the fall with the colors.
Sperone in France. Just beautiful location and views. Haven't read jack about the architecture...... it had me at hello....