The Ultimate Scotland Golf Trip Itinerary: A Golfer’s Dream Adventure

Scotland holds a special place in my heart. As the birthplace of golf, it’s a place where the sport’s rich history comes to life with every tee shot.

But Scotland isn’t just about golf for me—it’s the culture, the whisky, the castles, and the people. Every trip offers new experiences, whether I’m savoring a dram at a whisky distillery or wandering through centuries-old castles. It’s a destination that always leaves me wanting to return.

Days 1 – 3

Fly into Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness via London and embark on a golfing adventure like no other.

If you’re looking for convenience, I’d recommend flying into Inverness—it’s just about an hour away from both the accommodations and the courses. 

Over the next three days, enjoy teeing off at three of Scotland’s most legendary courses:

Day 1: Nairn Course

If you love history and stunning views, you’ll feel right at home at Nairn. Hosting the Walker Cup and the British Amateur Championship, this legendary course, founded in 1887, is a must-play. Designed by Tom Morris and later enhanced by James Braid, Nairn sits on the shores of the Moray Firth. The combination of Highland wilderness, gorse, and heather creates a truly magical atmosphere. 

On return to Inverness, take a Jacobite cruise on Loch Ness from the northern tip of the loch, down the west side to Urquhart Castle, the semi-ruins perched on the side of the loch.

Day 2: Royal Dornoch Course

If you’ve ever seen a Monet painting, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into one at Royal Dornoch. The Championship Course is framed by lush fairways with yellow gorse in the spring and purple heather in the fall—absolutely stunning! The wild and isolated setting is pure Scottish links golf at its finest. 

For a bit more adventure, check out Dunrobin Castle, a Gothic masterpiece, and the Falls of Shin, where you can witness salmon leaping up the river.

Day 3: Castle Stuart Golf Links

Castle Stuart, opened in 2009, has quickly become a favorite for many golfers visiting Scotland, and it’s easy to see why. Just 6 miles east of Inverness, this course offers breathtaking views of the Moray Firth and features landmarks like Chanory Lighthouse, Kessock Bridge, and the Black Isle. The layout, designed by Gil Hanse and Mark Parsinen, is simply unforgettable.

Recommended Accommodation

All accommodations are about 30 minutes from Nairn Course, 1 hour from Royal Dornoch, and 20 minutes from Castle Stuart.

• The Kingsclub & Spa, Inverness (5 Star) – Oozing with luxury appointments, these special rooms are set in a building separate from the main hotel, The Kingsmills Hotel. 
• The Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness (4-Star) – Encircled by four acres of beautiful gardens, this 134-room hotel features two dining options, a spa, fully equipped gym, and swimming pool. 
• Culloden House, Inverness (4-Star) – Occupying a stunning Palladian mansion set on exquisitely maintained grounds, this 28-room hotel has common areas that include a cozy Library Bar and the Adams Lounge with an open fire and chandeliers.

Day 4: Cruden Bay and Stay at Malmaison

On your way to Aberdeen, we’ll stop at Cruden Bay—a legendary course set against the backdrop of the North Sea. Designed by Old Tom Morris and Archie Simpson in 1899, Cruden Bay features massive sand dunes, elevated tees, and punchbowl greens. It’s an unforgettable challenge that I’m sure you’ll enjoy.

If you’re a whisky lover, you can add an extra day to your itinerary to explore Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous distilleries, including Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and Glen Grant.

Recommended Accommodation (Aberdeen’s Malmaison)

Malmaison Aberdeen (4-Star) – A 79-room boutique hotel known for its huge beds, power showers and chic decor. Enhancing the appeal is the Brasserie Restaurant, which serves British dishes and Black Angus steaks.

Day 5: Trump International

Next up, you’ll head to Trump International Golf Links. Designed by Dr. Martin Hawtree, this course is set among dramatic dunes with stunning views of the North Sea. It’s a picturesque and challenging layout that I’m confident will provide a memorable day on the links.

Day 6 – 9: South to Carnoustie and The Old Course

On the way to St Andrews, you will stop and play the prestigious and challenging Carnoustie. Over the next 4 days, you will play the New Course, Kingsbarns, and the Old Course.

Carnoustie

On the way to St. Andrews you will play Carnoustie – Dating back to 1842, Carnoustie Golf Club is one of Scotland’s most famous and revered. The Championship course has hosted seven Open Championships. Bring your “A” game because the Championship course has one of the toughest stretches of closing holes anywhere.

Arrive in St. Andrews that evening. Stay 4 nights.

St Andrews Recommended Accommodation

All accommodations are about 45 minutes from Carnoustie, 3 minutes from St Andrews Links, and 20 minutes from Kingsbarns.

• Old Course Hotel St. Andrews Golf Resort & Spa (5-Star) – An exceptional luxury experience, this property features rooms and suites designed by French designer, Jacques Garcia, the Kohler Waters Spa, Jigger Inn Pub, and, of course, spectacular views of the Old Course and the village of St. Andrews.
• Fairmont St. Andrews (5-Star) – An amenity-laden property on a 520-acre estate with two on-site golf courses, an atrium lobby, and a luxurious spa.
• Macdonald Russacks Hotel (4-Star) – Originally opened in 1887, the historic property overlooks the Old Course with views of the 18th hole and St. Andrews’ West Sands in the distance.

Day 7: Play St.Andrews New Course

The New Course at St Andrews, the oldest “new” course in the world, was designed by Tom Morris in 1895. Its name was chosen to distinguish it from the renowned Old Course nearby. Featuring undulating fairways and demanding greens, the New Course offers a timeless challenge for links golf enthusiasts.

Day 8: Play Kingsbarns

Kingsbarns Golf Links, located just a few miles from St Andrews, is a stunning coastal course known for its scenic beauty and challenging layout. Opened in 2000, it quickly gained recognition as one of the top courses in Scotland. The course features breathtaking views of the North Sea, with rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast, undulating greens. Its design blends traditional links style with modern elements.

Day 9: Play St Andrews Old Course

Experience where it all started. Dating back to the 15th century, it features wide, undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and famously large, double greens. Known for its unique design and the challenging “Road Hole” (the 17th), the Old Course is a must-play for golfers seeking to experience the roots of the game. Its rich history and timeless layout make it a true test of skill and a pilgrimage for golf enthusiasts.

Alternative Course Options

Scotland offers an abundance of golf courses, with over 550 spread across the country, each one steeped in history and brimming with challenges. Explore the alternative options below.

Other Things to Do in Scotland

Though golf is a major pull, Scotland offers iconic landmarks, beautiful walking trails, and fascinating distillery tours. 

After each day of golf, there’s much to see and do in St. Andrews with choices such as:

Scotland is more than just a destination for golf—it’s a journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. From the legendary fairways of St Andrews to the rugged terrain of the Highlands, every course tells its own story.

As your expert travel specialist, I can ensure your trip is perfectly tailored to your needs. With Premier Golf handling the details—from tee times to accommodations—you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying the ultimate golf experience of a lifetime.

FAQs