The Machrie, Islay
DG SCOTLAND 2024 Editor, Kevin Markham
There’s no doubt that part of the remarkable Machrie experience begins long before you reach the course. A ferry brings you to the island of Islay, and such remoteness has its own rewards. This is a breath-taking location that now boasts a revitalised classic links
(designed by Willie Campbell in 1891). The original links was renowned for its many blind shots over cavorting dunes of all shapes and sizes beside the Bay of Laggan… but the new design has rerouted holes so that most of these blind shots have been
removed. Most… but not all. Who doesn’t love that little bit of intrigue that focuses your mind and demands laser-like accuracy.
The greens have been changed too, although some of the majestic old green sites were reused. Golf course designer DJ Russell has exploited the potential of this revered old site to turn an old classic into a modern tour de force… and one that contains but a
handful of bunkers. And remember, the island of Islay promises some of the best whisky in the world.
Did You Know?The golf course is part of the Machrie Hotel and Golf
Links so why not turn this into a full-on luxury golf
experience? The ‘new’ hotel re-opened in 2018, and is
nestled beside seven miles of pristine beach.