Golfing Scotland’s Western Isles
When golfers flock to Scotland in their thousands, they’re likely to travel in the direction of St Andrews and the surrounding area, perhaps the golf coasts of East Lothian and Ayrshire, or maybe even the many wonderful courses found in the Highlands. But for those of a more adventurous disposition, there is much to discover and savour across Scotland’s western islands.
The courses here are generally rugged, quirky and boasting the most spectacular of views. They’re also generally extremely affordable and present a purer, most quintessential form of the game that that will leave an indelible mark in your memory. Many of the courses are nine holes which can be played twice for a full eighteen experience.
Also, the islands and communities they represent offer a unique experience of their own, providing a true escape from the pressures and excesses of modern life.
Arran
Often referred to as Scotland in Miniature, the spectacular Isle of Arran boasts a major Highland landscape courtesy of the Highland Boundary Fault. Visitors can access the island via a ferry from Ardrossan in
Corrie Golf Club
This is an absolute GEM. A must play if you are on the island of Arran. views are absolutely incredible. Food also brilliant.”
Lamlash Golf Club
Not a long course, but some of the prettiest holes you’re likely to play anywhere. This is especially true of the holes heading back towards the town and the backdrop of Holy Isle.”
Machrie Bay Golf Club
The setting beside the sea in Machrie is superb, looking out towards The Mull of Kintyre.
Shiskine
Fabulous blind shots, great mix of holes, Great little pro shop and clubhouse.
Whiting Bay Golf Club
An interesting mainly hilltop course, which is a golf test of golf – especially your short game. A magnificent setting on a clear day.
Bute
Perhaps the most easy to reach of Scotland’s major islands, Bute is located in the Firth of Clyde and is a short journey from Glasgow, with a regular ferry service (taking around 35 minutes) from Wemyss Bay to the main town of Rothesay, which was a Victorian resort. There are three golf courses on the island, which is known for its sandy beaches and the remarkable Mount Stuart House.
Bute Golf Club
Bute is little course with stunning scenery. Much improved now it’s not shared with the cows and sheep
Rothesay Golf Club
Excellent course in fantastic condition. Staff and all connected to club highly rated
Harris
The southern part of Lewis and Harris, this is an extremely rural place to explore, but there is much to relish when you see the scenery and beaches.
Isle of Harris Golf Club
Simply stunning location in a more picturesque setting.”
Islay
Known as The Queen of the Hebrides, Islay is one of Scotland’s largest islands and is accessed via a regular ferry from Kennacraig. Here you can play The Machrie, which was brought back to life by designer DJ Russell and opened for play in 2017, with a stunning hotel attached to the venue.
The Machrie
Fabulous links course in immaculate condition. Really friendly and welcoming in the pro shop.”
Mull
One of Scotland’s largest islands, Mull’s most significant settlement of Tobermory is instantly recognisable, which can be reached via a ferry from Kilchoan. But most visitors will travel on the regular crossing from Oban to the village and port of Craignure. Both courses here , like many in the western isles, are nine holes
Craignure Golf Club
Very testing course with sea on one side and gorse on the other in places, but nevertheless an excellent course with fantastic views down the Sound of Mull.
Tobermory Golf Club
This course is a must for pure golf nuts
Skye
One of Scotland’s most famous islands, Skye is accessible to the mainland courtesy of the Skye Bridge, linking Kyle of Lochalsh to Skye. There is much history, culture, scenery and wildlife to discover here, making it a must-visit destination for anyone.
Isle of Skye Golf Club
This may be the prettiest golf course in the world. Nestling by the sea on the Isle of Skye, you’ll be distracted by gorgeous views in every direction.
Skeabost Golf Club
A gem, take your clubs to Scotland as they are easy to find in these isolated locations
South Uist
The beautiful island of South Uist is a highlight of the Outer Hebrides and much of its population still speak the Gaelic language. The Askernish course was created by Old Tom Morris back in 1891, but was lost for many years before being rediscovered to offer a truly unique experience.It is 18 holes
Askernish Golf Club
An utterly unique golfing experience. A very organic links which works with the ecological balance of the stunning environment it is part of. The course is quite a golfing riddle so will take a few rounds and a bit of patience to get close to a good score, but it won’t take much to get hooked and find yourself wanting to keep coming back for more! Facilities are fairly basic but hospitable and in keeping with the setting. At the very least a once in a life time golfing experience.
Tiree
The most westerly island in the Inner Hebrides, Tiree can be reached via a Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Oban, while there are Loganair flights available too from Glasgow.
Vaul Golf Club
A great course (albeit a challenging one when you factor in the wind and the sheep!) on a great island.
With thanks to Golfshake
Destination: Scotland
