Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Loch Lomond
(
01436-655555;
www.lochlomond.com
;
Luss)
On the shores of the famous loch, this has a pic-
turesque, romantic location - including Scotland's most impressive clubhouse and a ruined castle by the 18th
green - but is a real test, with plenty of water hazards and cunningly placed sand traps. Not a links course.
Royal Troon
(
Click here
)
This classic seaside venue along the dunes could define a links course. The short 8th
is known as the Postage Stamp for its tiny, protected green.
Royal Dornoch
(
Click here
) A long way up north, the sumptuous Championship course rewards the journey
with picture-perfect links scenery and a quieter pace. If this was near the southern population centres, many would
rate it Scotland's best course.
Machrihanish
(
www.machrihanishdunes.com
)
On the Kintyre peninsula, this is one of Scotland's most scenic
courses. There's no easing into your round here; strike long and clean on the 1st or you'll be on the beach - liter-
ally.
Muirfield
(
01620-842123;
www.muirfield.org.uk
; Duncur Rd, Muirfield, Gullane)
In easy striking distance of
Edinburgh, this course on land reclaimed from the sea is private but allocates some tee times to the public. Hosts
the British Open in 2013.
Gleneagles
(
Click here
)
Three brilliant courses and a five-star hotel with truly excellent service make this a top
destination for a golfing break. Hosts the Ryder Cup in 2014.
Trump International Golf Links
(
01358-743300;
www.trumpgolfscotland.com
;
Balmedie, Aberdeenshire)
Donald Trump's environmentally controversial new course near Aberdeen features spectacular high-dune scenery.
Practical Tips
»On many courses, a handicap certificate is not needed, but bring one just in case, along
with a letter of introduction from your home club if you plan to play any of the more up-
market clubs. Some courses have a minimum handicap requirement.
»Dress regulations aren't generally too rigorous - think smart casual as a norm. Most
places prohibit jeans, trainers and T-shirts, and several don't look kindly on shorts. In gen-
eral, mobile phone use on the course is frowned upon. Stricter dress regulations may ap-
ply for parts of the clubhouse.
»Club hire is available at most courses, but it's not cheap (up to £60 on elite courses), so it
may be worth bringing your own bag.
»Motorised golf carts are available at many courses, but aren't used as much as in the
USA or Australia, for example. In Scotland, they tend to be hired only by people with mo-
bility difficulties. They are prohibited on some courses.
»It's worth booking rounds at desirable courses well ahead - many months ahead in the
case of prestige links like the Old Course at St Andrews.
