Top 5 Island Golf Courses
‘Island hopping’, as it is known by the
more adventurous locals, is the perfect way to experience some of
the ‘Home of Golf’s’ most treasured golf courses.
Whether it is the rare opportunity to play a
seemingly forgotten gem tucked away in a remote fishing village, or
even walk a windswept links set beside a long, sandy beach,
Scotland’s islands have all the ingredients for a golf experience
unlike any other.
Experience the ‘wild side’ of Scottish golf - it
is undeniably the best way to play the most remote, beautiful and
untouched golf courses Scotland has to offer.
Whalsay, Shetland
The most northerly 18 holes in the British Isles,
Whalsay occupies a beautifully natural environment. One of three
golf courses in Shetland, this is a very exposed moorland course
with spectacular cliff top scenery. If the wind picks up you can
face some rather tricky shots from the tees. All in all, this is a
great experience and one unlike any other.
Stromness, Orkney
A wonderful, exposed links that boasts wonderful
views of Scapa Flow. The main competition in the Stromness golfing
calendar is undoubtedly the Stromness Open, which, for the last 25
years or so, has attracted an entry list of up to 132 from all over
the UK, with some even making the trip from Kenya, Canada, South
African and Australia.
Askernish, South Uist
Without doubt one of Scotland's true hidden gems,
this little nine-holer is simply too good to miss. Found in the
Outer Hebrides, Askernish was designed by Old Tom Morris in 1891
and is considered one of the most natural courses in the world. The
welcome from the locals is memorable and the views are second to
none.
Machrie, Islay
A true delight for any self-respecting golfer,
The Machrie was laid out in 1891 by pioneering designer Willie
Campbell and has changed little in over 100 years. In 1901 it
hosted its very own Open Championship where a trio by the name of
Harry Vardon, John Taylor and James Braid competed for a £100 first
prize.
Shiskine, Arran
One of seven courses on offer on Arran, Shiskine
is a unique 12-hole course nestled below Drumadoon Cliffs at
Blackwaterfoot with splendid views to the Mull of Kintyre.
Virtually every hole has a blind shot either from the tee or for
the approach to the green and sometimes both. This is a great
example of why an island golfing escapade is so rewarding - where
the courses are generally very quiet in terms of numbers and the
price of green fees is exceptional.
