THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
Aided by improved transport links, the Highlands is a must-visit venue. Royal Dornoch, where golf has been played for over 400 years, is regularly ranked among the world’s best, while modern classic Castle Stuart – a Scottish Open venue – has been a fine addition.
The James Braid Highland Golf Trail, created in 2016, weaves it’s way through the region, featuring the “Magnificent Seven” courses at Boat of Garten, Inverness, Muir of Ord, Fortrose and Rosemarkie, Golspie, Brora and Reay, a truly fine mix of links and inland tests, while Nairn and Nairn Dunbar co-host The Amateur Championship in 2021 to highlight their standing.
Explore all the Highlands has to offer. Watch our films, read our short stories and view our hotel and recommended tour operator packages listed below.
VIDEOS from the SCOTTISH HIGHLANDs
Take a look at our selection of short films featuring some of the most loved golf courses in the Scottish Highlands. Join Cookie Jar Golf as they delve into the history and people behind Royal Dornoch, Brora and Castle Stuart in the ‘Story of a Golf Club’ series. Watch three episodes from the “Trails Where Golf Began’ and episodes from our ‘Scotland’s Less Obvious’ series by The Average Golfer all highlighting the diversity of great golf in the Highlands.
Click on any image box below to play!
Stories from the SCOTTISH HIGHLANDs
WHERE TO NEXT - GOLSPIE
BY MURRAY BOTHWELL
5 MINS
“When James Braid was in the prime of his course designs in 1926 it would have taken him some time to reach Golspie from Fife. It’s much quicker now to reach this town on the North Coast 500, readily accessible by road and rail.”
A HIGHLAND ADVENTURE
4 MINS
Setting off on a golf trip in the Scottish Highlands is an unforgettable journey through pristine landscapes and historic courses that define the essence of the sport. The Highlands, adorned with rugged beauty and renowned for its golfing heritage, offers a tapestry of experiences for enthusiasts seeking the perfect swing amid nature's grandeur.
PLAYING ROYAL DORNOCH
BY MURRAY BOTHWELL
5 MINS
“ As a whole, these links are perfection; seamlessly mixing designs from the old and the new, whilst effortlessly lifting you up and easing you down through stunning natural contours that seem to flow like melting Highland toffee across the landscape.”
Hitting the High Road
BY ED HODGE
4 MINS
“The Highlands has that kind of pull on people, with the hospitality off the course as friendly as the welcome on the 1st tee.”
The Perfect Match
BY ED HODGE
3 MINS
“Not only did we Scots give the game of golf to the globe, we gave those who took it up a dram to enjoy at the 19th hole afterwards”
A TRIP TO SCOTLAND
BY PATRICK KOENIG
8 MINS
“The golf in Scotland is so good that it will actually change the way that you view the game.”
highland golf accommodation
Check out some of our recommended accommodations partners
dornoch station
Situated in Dornoch, 200 yards from Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Dornoch Station opened at the end of August 2023 after comprehensive renovations bringing reimagined lobby spaces, guest rooms and restaurants channelling the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands in signature Marine & Lawn style. The grounds will be updated too, with a new putting green and fire pits. The new look is inspired by the area’s rich golf history and scenic views.
royal golf HOTEL
Situated only 50 yards from the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club, many guests can enjoy views of the well-trimmed rolling green juxtaposed next to the wild Dornoch firth from their bedrooms. Rest in comfort each night and get ready for another fantastic day exploring many of the other surrounding Scottish golf clubs, including Castle Stuart Golf Club, Golspie Golf Club and more.
ROYAL MARINE hotel
A warm Highland welcome awaits you at the Royal Marine Hotel in Brora. Located only an hour from Inverness along the North Coast 500, visit this charming Highland hotel to unwind and explore the golden east coast of Scotland. Spend your days on Brora golf course, the beach or exploring the great outdoors before relaxing each night with drams of your dreams.
BOOK YOUR TOUR
with one of our recommended Golf Tour Operators
SAMPLE HIGHLAND ITINERARY
Day 1 - Arrive in Inverness & transfer to your hotel (3 nights at Dornoch Station Hotel, The Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch or The Royal Marine in Brora)
Day 2 - Play Brora
Day 3 - Play Golspie
Day 4 - Play Royal Dornoch - Transfer to Inverness (3 nights at Ness Walk Inverness)
Day 5 - Play Nairn Dunbar
Day 6 - Play Castle Stuart Golf Links and Fortrose & Rosemarkie
Day 7 - Transfer back to Inverness Airport
Transportation options: Hire a car & drive yourself, or book a luxury coach & driver
Our recommended Golf Tour Operators can create bespoke packages including other courses and accommodation providers, sightseeing, restaurants and whisky tastings as part of your package.