Welcome to the 2024 edition of Destination Golf Scotland .
I apologise for mentioning Covid in the first sentence … but when Covid first arrived many foresaw a difficult path for golf . Now that the worst of it is behind us we can reflect that the opposite was the case . The numbers playing golf has increased and Scotland has shown particularly positive signs in terms of participation . And the golf tourism bounce-back
While it may not be a result of this growth , the development of new courses in Scotland has certainly picked up the pace with three big developments underway ( Trump Aberdeen , the Jack Nicklaus Stonehaven project and a Tom Doak course at Cabot Highlands ) and more in the pipeline . The Coul Links , not far from Royal Dornoch , looks like a possibility once again while Machrihanish Dunes is looking at a second course and a new hotel .
These all emphasise the destination that Scotland has become and the level of golf and luxury that travellers desire .
These new courses will not appear in this guide – not yet , at least – but our 2024 guide does include 100 exceptional courses *. 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 sprinkle the coastline like confetti . Rich pickings are to be had and your toughest decision will be choosing where to start .
Scotland boasts six excellent golfing regions . I have my favourites , just like any golfer , but wherever I ’ ve played I have always been thrilled by the courses this country 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 visit 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 .
* Due to the exclusivity of Loch Lomond , Renaissance and Archerfield , we have decided to exclude these courses from the guide . If , however , you receive an invitation to play one , drop everything and go .
Kevin Markham Editor Destination Golf Media Ltd .
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