Head North…
The Highlands is possibly Scotland’s most defining region, with rugged coastlines, stunning landscapes and golf that is truly something to behold.
The much heralded links of Royal Dornoch is the jewel in the crown. Before Tom Watson said – “One of the great courses of the five continents. I have played none finer, a natural masterpiece” – the legendary Old Tom Morris described his love for Dornoch, writing – “There canna be better for gowf”. The definition of ‘linksland’ is the high ground linked to the low ground, and you will see no better example than stood on the 3rd tee at Dornoch.
Further South, Nairn Golf Club boasts being one of just nine venues to have staged all of the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, The Amateur, and Women’s Amateur. Dating back to 1887, the Championship Course is amongst the finest in the UK – with a halfway house that is surely the most iconic in golf.
In more modern times, Cabot Highlands (what was Castle Stuart) has been added to the plethora of fine golf courses in the Highlands. In 2025, Tom Doak designed Old Petty, turning the venue into 36 holes of unbelievable links golf, with stunning views across the Moray Firth.
One of James Braids finest works, Brora Golf Club is a stunning links course offering a perfect balance between challenge and fun – a great test for golfers of all levels. In 1924 and for the princely sum of £25 plus travelling expenses, Braid submitted plans for a redesigned 18 hole layout. This was largely implemented as he suggested, and remains mostly unchanged to this day.
However, there are many, many more courses in the Highlands that deserve equal praise. Tain, Golspie, Fortrose & Rosemarkie, Reay and Nairn Dunbar, amongst others.
The rise and fall of the land in the Highlands makes it so appealing to those seeking a different type of golfing experience.