A Golfing Trip to Scotland

29th March 2024

Scotland is a bucket list destination for golfers looking to play a round on the most historic courses in the world. As the country of origin, a golfing trip to Scotland is a way to connect with the roots of the sport. As well as the history, there is also a thriving, modern golf scene. We hope you are inspired by some of the highlighted golf experiences below:

Muirfield – Lothian

Upon arrival in Edinburgh, only a short trip along the coast is needed to begin your golfing expedition. Found in the small town of Gullane, Muirfield is a legendary links golf course steeped in history and tradition. Renowned for its challenging layout, Muirfield has hosted numerous prestigious golf championships, including The Open Championship. Designed by Old Tom Morris and later modified by Harry Colt, the course features undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens that demand precision and strategy from players. Surrounded by sweeping views of the East Lothian coastline, Muirfield offers a quintessential Scottish golfing experience that is both challenging and unforgettable.

Slightly further along the coast, the Marine and Lawn North Berwick Hotel is a delightful place to stay and unwind. As well as comfortable and beautifully decorated rooms, the hotel also has a spa where guests can enjoy a breadth of rejuvenating treatments. The hotel’s bar and restaurant are ideal places to partake in a tipple and refuel after a day of golf.

Kingsbarns – Fife

Often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” St. Andrews holds a sacred place in the history of the sport. There are records of golf being played here dating back to the 15th century. A visit to the town where it all began is akin to a pilgrimage for many golf lovers across the world.

Haar Restaurant in St. Andrews offers a culinary experience that blends traditional Scottish flavours with modern techniques, all within an elegant and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of the town, Haar Restaurant showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood from nearby waters and seasonal produce from the surrounding countryside. Led by acclaimed chef Dean Banks, the restaurant’s innovative menu features creative dishes that highlight the richness of Scottish cuisine while also embracing global influences.

The nearby Kingsbarns is a world-class, modern links golf course and a firm favourite amongst Away from the Ordinary clients. Kingsbarns gained acclaim for its design which consciously highlights its stunning location on the edge of the North Sea. This course promises an excellent golfing experience and should be on your list for your next trip to Scotland.

Dornoch – The Highlands

Travelling into the North East Highlands, the Royal Dornoch Golf Club is celebrated as one of the world’s most revered courses. With a history dating back to 1877, this historic club boasts two stunning courses, the Championship Course and the Struie Course. The Championship Course, designed by Old Tom Morris and later refined by Donald Ross, is renowned for its natural beauty, challenging terrain, and spectacular views of the Dornoch Firth. The Struie Course, nestled among wild heather and gorse, offers a more forgiving yet equally enjoyable round.

Dornoch is a lovely little town with lots of unique and independent shops and attractions. Just a stone’s throw away from the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Links House is a beautiful boutique hotel with Scottish charm and elegant modern comforts. The hotel restaurant ‘MARA’ offers up delicious fine Scottish seafood and Highland fayre from the wild to your plate. Links House is the place to stay while golfing in Dornoch.

Machrahanish – Kintyre

On the way to the Kintyre peninsula, a stop at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar is a must. Situated on the banks of Loch Fyne in Cairndow, it is renowned for its exceptional seafood. Established in 1978, this iconic restaurant started as a humble roadside stall selling fresh oysters from the loch. Over the years it has evolved into a true culinary destination known for its commitment to serving the finest quality seafood sourced directly from the loch and the surrounding waters. Guests can indulge in a variety of freshly shucked oysters, smoked salmon, mussels, and other delectable dishes. The restaurant’s stunning loch-side location provides the perfect ambience for a memorable dining experience and offers a taste of Scotland’s bountiful coastal treasures.

Machrihanish Golf Club, situated on the remote west coast of the peninsula, is a cherished gem among golfing enthusiasts. Founded in 1876, it boasts one of the most exhilarating opening holes in golf, where players must drive over the Atlantic Ocean to reach the fairway. The course meanders through dunes, offering expansive views of the coastline and surrounding islands. This championship course, designed by Old Tom Morris, is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking a true links experience.

Ardfin – Jura

Only a short boat journey away from Kintyre, the isle of Jura is home to a very special hotel. Ardfin Golf Course and Hotel offers a luxurious and exclusive retreat for travellers seeking unparalleled natural beauty. The golf course, designed by acclaimed architect David McLay Kidd, seamlessly blends into the rugged terrain and enjoys panoramic views of the Paps of Jura and the sound. The accompanying hotel boasts world-class accommodation, blending traditional Scottish elegance with modern comfort. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining featuring locally sourced ingredients. Ardfin promises an unforgettable escape amidst the wild landscape of the Scottish Isles.

Whilst on the island, a visit to the distillery is a must. An exclusive tour of the Jura Distillery provides guests with a behind the scenes look into the art of whisky-making. Along the way, you can learn about the unique characteristics of Jura whisky, influenced by the island’s beautiful landscape. The tour culminates in a tasting session, where guests can experience the complexity that defines the distillery’s many creations.

There is a plethora of golf experiences spread across Scotland and choosing the right ones for each client is our speciality. To start planning your dream golfing trip to Scotland, get in touch with Away from the Ordinary today.