Golf in Scotland
I’ve recently returned from hosting our Ultimate Scotland Golf Tour, and at the end of each tour, I’m in awe at what an experience it is, and the relationships that are forged between everyone in the group.
Making the pilgrimage to Scotland to play golf isn’t just about playing the Old Course, it’s about playing true links courses, Scottish Links.
The word “Links” refers to a piece of land that is between the sea and arable farming land. It’s not quite good enough for farming, and it’s not quite on the beach, it “links” the two.
Links golf is the purest form of the game, and playing it where golf was born, in Scotland, is truly the ultimate golfing experience.
People always ask me what my favourite course is in Scotland, and it’s hard to choose, but the Old Course in St Andrews (of course!) and North Berwick are both stand outs.
The West Links at North Berwick is spectacular, as it’s the 13th oldest golf club in the world, so the history is just amazing. The course itself runs along the banks of the Firth of Forth and the fairways and greens are some of the best you can play, anywhere in the world. Playing down the 18th there, with the town of North Berwick in front of you, is just breathtaking.
It’s hard to put into words the experience of playing the Old Course in St Andrews.
When we first arrive into St Andrews, one of my favourite things to do is to walk from our hotel (the Old Course Hotel), with our group up the 18th fairway. Usually by the time we arrive, and everyone has unpacked into their lavish rooms, it’s time for a drink. We walk up The Links, which is the road running alongside the 18th fairway, and everyone is so excited, to finally be in St Andrews! The atmosphere in the town is electric, because everyone in the town has made this golf pilgrimage too.
Then, on the day that we play the Old Course, there are so many emotions. Our guests are finally getting to tee off, at the 1st on the Old Course, something they’ve always wanted to do. We’ve all watched golf greatest players tee off from this exact same spot, and now we’re doing the same. It truly is amazing, and a memory that you’ll have for a lifetime. I’ve seen it all on the 1st, but the best is the natural emotion that each person has around what playing on the Old Course, means to them.
Ultra Fabulous 5 Star Accommodation
Aside from the golf in Scotland, the hotels we stay in on this tour really help to make the experience. We stay in utter 5 star luxury. We believe that the accommodation needs to match the calibre of golf courses we’re playing.
The Waldorf Astoria in Edinburgh, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, is built inside a Victorian former rail station, where no expense has been spared for luxury. When I’m in Edinburgh, I always make sure I have time to pop into Walker Slater, where you’ll find some of the best Tweed in all of Scotland. Keep some space in your suitcase!
Then we move onto Gleneagles. This grand Scottish country estate is one of the Leading hotels in the World and the top golf resort in the UK and Ireland. Aside from their stunning golf courses, which have been past hosts of The Ryder and Solheim Cups, there are a world of country pursuits to indulge in. Oh, and did I mention the breakfasts? A-MAZ-ING!
Then finally we transfer to St Andrews, where we stay in The Old Course Hotel, located on the 17th hole of The Old Course. You are literally eating your breakfast, having a drink, and making yourself at home for the duration of your stay, overlooking the Old Course. Whilst you’re in St Andrews, you have to stop in to I.J. Mellis Cheesemongers on South Street. They’re just a little hole in the wall cheese shop, but their three cheese toasted sandwich is to die for.
What some of our Past Guests have said
“Karen & I continue to rejoice in the pleasure of your companionship and life rewarding experience that you gave us.. So grateful to you for the most memorable trip. Thank you again.. there are not enough thank you’s really” Tony C
“Absolutely fantastic trip that ticks all the boxes for a golf experience of a lifetime !!” Rosie B
“The golf trip was flawless and extremely
well organized, we wouldn’t travel with another tour operator, as I doubt they could be as efficient as G&T Tours, we had an amazing golfing holiday” Paul L
“First tour we have taken with Golf & Tours and it won’t be the last. Professionally organised with the hosts going above and beyond to ensure the group were happy and enjoying the full Golf & Tour experience. Nothing was too much trouble, the hotels and courses played were outstanding.” Nikki B
“Just wanted to let you know that we really feel like we have had the trip of a lifetime. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute and really appreciated all your attention to detail which allowed the tour to flow so freely. It was a great group to share such special times with, and you and Ben are so friendly and accommodating it felt like travelling with old friends. Thank you and well done on such an amazing tour, we will be talking about it for years to come.” Annalise S
All Good Things Must Come to an End
Leaving Scotland is always a bittersweet feeling. Lucky for me, I know I’ll be returning again with another group next year, but by the end of each tour, our groups feel like old friends. We’ve had this brilliant experience together, and for some, it’s been on their bucket list ever since their mother or father first handed them a club.
It’s an absolute privilege to help set the stage for people to create unforgettable memories and experiences with their family and friends, both old and new. That truly is so special, and the very best part of my job.
For the golfing experience of a lifetime, join us and play golf in Scotland.
Ainslie Saunders is the Founder and Managing Director of Golf & Tours.
She has been working in the golf travel industry for over 12 years and has always had a deep love of travelling and the connection and friendships that are quickly forged through travelling.
Ainslie is a high handicapper, as she is more often found in the office than on the golf course, but loves nothing more than having a friendly hit, followed by a G&T at the 19th hole.