Welcome to the 2024 edition of Destination Golf Scotland.
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I apologise for mentioning Covid in the first sentence… but when Covid first arrived many foresaw a difficult path for golf. Now that the worst of it is behind us we can reflect that the opposite was the case.
The numbers playing golf has increased and Scotland has shown particularly positive signs in terms of participation. And the golf tourism bounce-back.
While it may not be a result of this growth, the development of new courses in Scotland has certainly picked up the pace with three big developments underway (Trump Aberdeen, the Jack Nicklaus Stonehaven project and a Tom Doak course at Cabot Highlands) and more in the pipeline. The Coul Links, not far from Royal Dornoch, looks like a possibility once again while Machrihanish Dunes is looking at a second course and a new hotel.
These all emphasise the destination that Scotland has become and the level of golf and luxury that travellers desire.
These new courses will not appear in this guide – not yet, at least – but our 2024 guide does include 100 exceptional courses*. Some are clustered together to the point they run into each other, while others sit miles from anywhere, clinging to a peninsula or tucked away on the islands that sprinkle the coastline like confetti.
Rich pickings are to be had and your toughest decision will be choosing where to start.
Scotland boasts six excellent golfing regions. I have my favourites, just like any golfer, but wherever I’ve played I have always been thrilled by the courses this country has to offer – indeed, many of them don’t even appear in this Top 100, emphasising the country’s quality in depth.
Scotland is not only about golf. It is a stunningly beautiful place to spend time and explore, and it boasts a proud and rich history… and even richer whisky. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to combine all of these on one visit and sometimes on one course, so use this guide to map out the perfect golf trip. The people of Scotland will welcome you with open arms.
EDITORS CHOICES 2024:
South West / Ayrshire: Irvine – Western Gailes – Kilmarnock Barassie – Prestwick.
Islay: Machrie.
Perthshire & Hearthlands: The Dukes – Dumbarnie – Montrose – Forfar.
South East / East Lothian: Royal Musselburgh – Glen – Longniddry.
North East / Aberdeen: Trump International Aberdeen – Murcar.
Highlands / Inverness: Muir of Ord – James Braid Trail – Highlands Golf Escapes.
To view all of our Golf Guides, visit: www.destinationgolf.travel or follow our travel on social media @DGgolfguide
Kevin Markham – Scotland Editor.
Destination Golf Media Ltd.
