Curator’s statement
Scotland is a golfer's paradise. The birthplace of golf boasts over 550 courses amid breathtaking landscapes. Scottish courses challenge players with natural elements and unpredictable weather. Think of it as a chance to enhance your skills! Windswept links, stunning coastlines and a ruch golfing culture makes it the perfect place to plan your next golf trip. You may even find that there is equal enthusiasm for the 19th hole! In THE home of golf, we will review four different itinerary options that allow you to maximize your golf time, minimizing travel time.
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Option 1: based in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is an easily accessible city with many international flights. Base yourself in Edinburgh for the week and spend your time exploring the old and new towns after golf. You can find many restaurant options just by walking out of your hotel (or maybe even in your hotel).
Stay at Gleaneagles Townhouse, The Balmoral, Intercontinental Edinburgh The George or Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Any of these hotels are well-located and have perfectly comfortable accommodations, as well as stellar service.
Day One: Dunbar Golf Club
Day Two: The Renaissance Club
Day Three: Gullane Golf Club – No 1
Day Four: Muirfield Golf Club
Day Five: North Berwick Golf Club
Option 2: based in St. Andrews
St. Andrews needs to explanation or reasons why to stay when speaking to a golfer. The Old Course is on every golfer's bucket list. While there and getting views of the Old Course from the hotel, check out some other exceptional courses nearby.
Stay at The Old Course Hotel or Rusacks. Both hotels have views of the Old Course and the North Sea and are walking distance to the town of St. Andrews, with plenty of restaurants, bars and coffee shops. With the prestigious university, you may even find some good or rare books.
Day One: St. Andrews – Jubilee Course
Day Two: Carnoustie Golf Links
Day Three: Dumbarnie Links
Day Four: Gleneagles – The PGA Centenary Course
Day Five: Kingsbarns Golf Links
Day Six: St. Andrews – Old Course
Option 3: based on the West Coast
Staying on the west coast of Scotland, you'll find rugged beauty, pristine beaches and majestic mountains.
Stay at Trump Turnberry. This historic resort offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience. About an hour from Glasgow, you'll be impressed by opulent accommodations, views of the Ayrshire coastline and amazing golf courses.
Day One: Turnberry Golf Club – Ailsa Course
Day Two: Prestwick Golf Club
Day Three: Western Gailes Golf Club
Day Four: Dundonald Links
Day Five: Royal Troon Golf Club
Option 4: based in Aberdeen & Scottish Highlands
Now, we are looking at a larger area and this will mean changing hotels midway. The highlands aren't to be missed.
Stay at the Ness Walk Hotel for three nights, then move to Malmaison Aberdeen or Marcliffe Hotel.
Day One: Castle Stuart Golf Links
Day Two: Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Day Three: Nairn Golf Club
Day Four: Cruden Bay Golf Club
Day Five: Trump International, Aberdeen
Day Six: Royal Aberdeen Golf Club
Need to know
Making golf travel plans, especially when you are with a group and want to play multiple courses, can be tricky. Leave it to a travel advisor to ease the stress and to help you plan a memorable trip (in the best hotels, of course)!
Travel Advisor
Whitney Ellis
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to England. Looking for more Scotland magic? Check out Fora Travel Advisor Annie Decker's guide, Experiencing the Magic of Scotland in 7 Days.