West Kilbride
Shiskine
The experience of Shiskine starts with the ferry trip to the Isle of
Arran, an inspiring trip from the Ayrshire mainland. Then there’s the
12 holes… and the claim that this is the best 12-hole course in the
world! It is certainly one of the most beautiful you will play with
views spilling across the Kilbrannan Sound to the Mull of Kintyre.
The golfing test comes in all shapes and sizes with links holes moving
over rollercoaster terrain. Two burns also interrupt proceedings. In
all, there are seven blind shots so expect a riotous day’s golf as you
head up and down… and get shaken side-to-side on occasion. And,
with 12 holes, what better opportunity to play two rounds with an
enjoyable pause for lunch.
Southerness
For a par of 69, with five par threes (two over 200 yards) and one
par five, this 6,566 yard course will test the best. The middle tees are
more manageable at 6,110 yards. This links dates back to the 1940s
and, in addition to the traditional links challenges of wind, swales
and slopes – you’ll encounter heather and gorse to snatch your ball.
Views are endless – the mountains in the Lake District are clearly
visible as is the Isle of Man – and you get very cosy with the shore
on several holes, starting on the 8th. Here the dunes ensure the
most traditional of links-like traits, and the par four 12th, also beside
the water, is the signature hole. Greens are, in a word, slick.
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West Kilbride
Set on the edge of the Firth of Clyde, with the Isle of Arran
always in view, West Kilbride is a links exposed to the elements.
Holes start up high and slide down gradually to the sea, across
gently ribbed linksland. From the clubhouse – also up high – you
can see much of the course and the avenues of gorse which
divide holes. It is a serious test in the wind, whichever way it
blows, for holes typically move in one of two directions… which
means you’ll know exactly what awaits as you walk to the next
tee. The back nine keep you close to the water and you finish
with six intriguing par fours. The course is located at the northern
end of Ayrshire’s fine stretch of links.
Stranraer
If you’re a fan of James Braid’s designs then Stranraer should hold
a particular attraction. It was the last course he designed and it
opened for play in 1952. The course sits on the shores of Loch Ryan
and views over the loch and out to Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran
all add to the occasion of playing this highly regarded parkland. Set
up high and with a smart layout, visitors will find plenty of gorse and
dense stands of trees (especially on the back nine) to trouble them.
This is a stern test of golf, epitomised by the glorious par four 5th:
from a high tee you drive down to the loch with no forgiveness if
you miss the fairway. It is little surprise that the hole is regarded as
one of the toughest – and best – in Scotland.