Destination Golf Scotland 2017 * | Page 3

Welcome Welcome to the first edition of the Destination Golf Guide to Scotland’s Top 100 Courses. Many golfers would say that Scotland is the greatest golfing destination on the planet… and who are we to argue! Golf started here, the original rules were formed here and, from here, golf spread to the rest of the world. The greatest early designers came from Scotland – names such as Old Tom Morris (1821-1908), Willie Park Jr (1864-1925), James Braid (1870-1950), and Donald Ross (1872-1948) spring to mind – and their legacy can be found on every fairway you walk because their creations helped to influence the generation of designers that followed. ‘The Home of Golf’ says it all. In this guide you will find 100 exceptional courses from Scotland’s stock of close to 600*. 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 litter the coast. Rich pickings are to be had and your toughest decision will be choosing where to start? The Old Course at St. Andrews, perhaps… like so many others before you! Or do you venture north to Aberdeen or up into the Highlands? Courses have been divided into six regions. I have my favourites but wherever I’ve played I have always been thrilled by the courses Scotland 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 trip 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. Kevin Markham Editor Destination Golf Media Ltd. * Please note that due to the exclusivity of Loch Lomond, one of the UK’s best inland courses has not been included in this guide. If, however, you receive an invitation to play it, drop everything and go. 1