Travel bucket list idea:
This stunning links, tucked away north-east of Inverness in northern Scotland, is a delight both to play and look at, with widescreen views as far as the Black Isle peninsula.
Unlike many links courses, the fairways aren’t overly tight, especially off the tees, but it puts all the onus on the quality of your approach, which needs to be accurate to find the perfectly protected greens. The opening holes on both nines make their way along the water before rising up to higher ground; this is where the views really start to open out.
It’s not an old course, but it’s a regular host of the Scottish Open – and it’s not hard to see why.
The course is 7 miles east of Inverness, off the A96; it’s easy to get to. Your handicap will determine the tee you play off; to play off the tips (blacks), you’ll need to secure permission from the clubhouse (and be as close to scratch or better).
The course is open all year round, seven days a week, but it’s best played between March and September. Midweek is often quieter than weekends, but be sure to book your tee time well in advance.
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom (UK)
Magnificent mountain scenery slashed by silvery lochs and peppered with brooding castles: all laden with rich Scottish heritage, history and tradition. Drive the NC500 road trip, or ride on the spectacular West Highland Line.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Spectacular landscapes, impeccable fairways and greens, brilliantly-designed holes and plenty of golfing folklore – we asked golf expert and journalist Fionn Davenport to recommend his top 30 golf courses from around the world.
