Every golfer dreams of someday making the pilgrimage to Scotland , golf’s original home, and playing a round on one of the oldest and most revered golf courses in the world. The Old Course at St. Andrews features large in the fantasies of those who enjoy golf vacations and golf trips, but there are many other Scotland golf destinations that an avid golfer should visit and enjoy. These represent some of the top golf courses in Scotland . Any golf vacation should include a round or two on at least a few of these courses.
St Andrews
The Old Course is venerated above all other courses in the world, and as would be expected, it’s booked well in advance. If you want to take your turn teeing off at the course where golf was born, be sure to book your tee time well before you go. In fact, you may even want to hold off on setting the particulars for your golf vacation so that you can plan it around your booking at the Old Course.
Gleneagles Golf Resort
Host of the Ryder Cup matches in 2014, Gleneagles Golf Resort features three championship courses that offer challenging play and stunning scenery. You can choose to play The Kings, The Queens or the Wee Course, which is a nine hole course. Whichever you choose, the experience will be unforgettable.
Turnberry Resort
Located on the southwestern coast of Scotland, the course at the Turnberry Resort offers stunning views of the Sleeping Warrior – better known as the Isle of Arran. The Turnberry Course is links golf at its most challenging and the area offers a number of other courses you can play while you’re in the area. It’s a very popular spot for luxury golf vacations, and you can expect to find luxurious lodgings, world class dining and some of the best golf to be had anywhere in the world.
Solway Links Golf Course
If your golfing trip includes your entire family, or you want a break from the intensity of playing the high challenge of courses like Turnberry, stop in at Solway Links, located between Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest Lakes District. The pay for play course is informal, inexpensive and designed to be fun for the entire family.
Royal Troon
Founded in 1878, Royal Troon is one of the oldest and best-known courses in all of Scotland, and its reputation has made it a choice destination for golf trips and golf vacations. The majestic course is located just four miles from Prestwick Airport , making it easy to reach, but it’s not so easy to play. You’ll need to book your tee time well in advance, and present a certificate of handicap in order to play on either of their challenging courses.
If you’re hoping to golf the Old Courses at Royal Troon or St. Andrews , now is the time to start planning your 2012 golf vacations. Make your plans early and you’ll be sure to enjoy the best of Scotland golf.