Chasing Fairways in the Highlands: A Golf Pilgrimage Through Scotland
If you’re a golfer with even a whisper of wanderlust, Scotland isn’t just a destination—it’s a rite of passage. This is the birthplace of golf, where wind-swept dunes meet centuries of tradition, and every round tells a story. A Scottish golf adventure is nothing short of legendary, weaving through coastlines, castles, and some of the world’s most storied fairways.
Here are some of our favourite courses from the home of golf, starting with a couple of gems near Edinburgh.
North Berwick – Where Quirks Meet Majesty
Located in the charming seaside town of North Berwick, home to one of golf’s most beloved courses: North Berwick Golf Club. Few places blend old-school charm and architectural intrigue quite like this. The famed “Redan” hole, the stone walls cutting across fairways, the punchbowl greens—this course is a masterclass in character and creativity.
Off the course, the town offers cozy pubs, fresh seafood, and stunning views of the Bass Rock, making it an ideal start to any Scottish golf tour. A place where it truly sinks in, “I’m playing golf in Scotland!”
Archerfield Links – A Modern Scottish Gem
Just down the road lies Archerfield, a modern counterpoint to North Berwick’s history. This combines classic design cues with a pristine, resort-like experience. Towering pine trees, slick greens, and a laid-back atmosphere made it feel like a relaxing intermission before diving deeper into Scotland’s more rugged offerings.
The clubhouse experience here is top-notch, with spa facilities for non-golfers and a top-tier whisky list for après-golf indulgence.
Royal Aberdeen & Cruden Bay – Northeastern Magic
Heading north from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, where the winds of the North Sea make every swing a test of nerve. At Royal Aberdeen, the front nine is perhaps the finest in links golf—tight, rolling, and relentlessly beautiful. The club’s history is palpable, and the course demands both strategy and skill.
A short drive down the road brings you to Cruden Bay, and if Royal Aberdeen was a stern teacher, Cruden Bay was the eccentric poet. With its wild elevation changes, dramatic dunes, and jaw-dropping views, it’s a course that delights as much as it disorients. You don’t just play Cruden Bay—you experience it.
Nairn – Classic Highland Hospitality
The Nairn Golf Club, tucked along the Moray Firth. Nairn is the perfect blend of playability and pedigree, with seaside holes that tempt and test. It’s a club where tradition thrives, but without the stuffy airs—expect warm welcomes and even warmer whisky.
Cabot Highlands – Scotland’s Newest Icon
The much-anticipated Cabot Highlands (formerly Castle Stuart) delivered a modern masterpiece. Built with panoramic vistas and wide fairways, this course plays more forgivingly than most—but still demands thought. The views of the Moray Firth and the Kessock Bridge are mesmerizing, and the course’s elegant routing makes for a memorable day.
It’s a fine example of how contemporary design can respect traditional roots while creating something distinctly new.
Royal Dornoch – The Crown Jewel
We saved the crown jewel for last. Royal Dornoch is spiritual, remote, and utterly spellbinding. With gorse-lined fairways and raised greens, this links has a rhythm and soul all its own. There’s a sense of serenity here, even amidst the challenge. It’s easy to see why legends like Tom Watson and Ben Crenshaw have called this their favorite course in the world.
Final Thoughts
From the classic charm of North Berwick to the spiritual heights of Royal Dornoch, this Scottish journey was a lesson in history, beauty, and the enduring magic of links golf. Whether you’re chasing scratch scores or simply chasing memories, Scotland delivers in ways you’ll remember forever.
If you want to experience real Scottish golf, away from the crowds and tourist trap resorts that charge an arm and a leg and a kilt. Check out these gems.
It just so happens that Golf & Tours will be running a tour to these same courses in May 2026. Our Ultimate Scotland Golf Tour promises to be the golf experience of a lifetime.
We would love for you to join us.
