Destination Golf Scotland 2017 * | Page 46

Forfar Elie A crafty, cunning and quirky links, Elie has been entertaining golfers for generations. None other than James Braid began his golf here and, after Old Tom Morris extended the course to 18 holes in 1895, it was Braid who later revised it. This is the sort of links that plays with the golfer’s ambition: it is not long but it requires the utmost respect. There are blind shots, perfectly positioned and treacherous bunkers, and large greens with surfaces like glass. There are stunning views, too, both from high up and down next to the Firth of Forth. There are 16 par fours and two par threes but you won’t have time to notice… you’ll be far too focused on Elie’s thrills. Enjoy the periscope in the starter’s hut… how’s that for quirky? Forfar An unsung hero, Forfar has unique traits that make it a very special place indeed. Is it heathland or parkland? What about those rolling links-like fairways? It is a sweet combination of elements that promises a quality golf experience. Now throw in the names of Old Tom Morris and James Braid, and you know you’ll need to play some smart golf. Scots pines line the fairways, channelling you around the course, but that heathland feel is never far away as you enjoy tight, bumpy turf. It is not long, but Forfar’s bunkering proves deceptive especially around generous greens. 44 Dunfermline The golf course at Dunfermline is a gentle and charming parkland, routed around the old Halkett estate. Indeed, the clubhouse embraces its 15th century heritage (Pitfirrane House) so there’s a certain elegance to it all. The course moves over a lightly rolling landscape and between the trees, which can certainly present problems on the doglegs. The course was designed in the 1950s (the club dates back far longer) and the five par fives and five par threes add a little twist to your round, especially as three of those par fives are in your last four holes. The course is well known for the thrills of its par threes with the 16th (‘Myrend’) proving a favourite. Arranged in two loops of nine and promising a short par 72, this is as relaxing a day’s golf as you could ask for. Edzell (Old) The tall trees stretch elegantly across this landscape to give Edzell its easy air and pace. The highly regarded firm of Mackenzie and Ebert upgraded the course in 2015, but there’s little doubt that the masterful design came from James Braid in the 1930s, and Bob Simpson before that. The course combines heathland and parkland traits, with tree-lined corridors framing holes while still offering a generous enough width to make driving a pleasure. The quality of the course’s presentation is also worth noting and the gently contoured greens will appeal to everyone. Located between Aberdeen and Dunfermline, the Angus Glens create a backdrop that’s easy on the eye and helps to establish the rhythm of the golf course.