Golf in the Highlands of Scotland offers a truly unique and captivating experience, combining the raw beauty of the landscape with the purity of the game. This region, known for its dramatic scenery and rich history, is home to some of the most remote and breathtaking courses in the world.

Royal Dornoch, consistently ranked among the top courses globally, is the crown jewel of Highland golf. Its natural links layout, with undulating fairways and plateau greens, challenges golfers while offering stunning views of the Dornoch Firth. Playing here feels like stepping back in time, where the game remains closely tied to its origins. Beyond Royal Dornoch, the Highlands boast a variety of hidden gems, such as Brora and Tain, where the spirit of traditional Scottish golf is alive and well. These courses are often surrounded by rugged landscapes, with the mountains, lochs, and wild coastline creating a serene and inspiring backdrop.

The Highlands also offer a sense of tranquillity and escape, where golfers can enjoy the solitude and majesty of the surroundings. The region’s warm hospitality, combined with the raw, unspoiled beauty of its courses, ensures that a golf trip to the Highlands is an unforgettable experience, steeped in both challenge and charm.

The Scottish Highlands are home to some exceptional hidden gem golf courses that offer a true links experience, featuring challenging greens, dramatic coastal landscapes, and deep historical significance.

This five-day golf itinerary in the Scottish Highlands offers the perfect blend of championship courses, hidden gems, and rich golfing history. Whether you’re chasing a bucket-list round or discovering a new favourite course, this itinerary delivers an unforgettable golf experience.

Day One

Morning arrival into Inverness; settle into your room at Dornoch Station. Enjoy a stroll around Inverness, visiting landmarks like Inverness Castle and the River Ness. Play an afternoon round at Nairn Golf Club, a classic links course known for its well-maintained fairways and spectacular views over the Moray Firth. Dinner at The Classroom Bistro, located in Nairn, a restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients.

Day Two

Morning tee time at Castle Stuart Golf Links, a modern links course that has quickly become one of Scotland’s top golf courses, offering breathtaking views and a challenging layout. After your round, take a scenic drive along Loch Ness–stop at Urquhart Castle and explore the visitor centre to learn about the legendary loch. Back in Inverness, enjoy fine dining at Rocpool, known for its creative dishes and stylish setting.

Day Three

Morning tee time at Royal Dornoch (Championship Course), one of the world’s most revered golf courses. The Championship Course is known for its natural beauty, challenging holes, and true links experience. After your round, take time to explore the charming town of Dornoch–visit Dornoch Cathedral and browse the local shops. Enjoy dinner at The Golden Gorse or Bar Ross, both championing seasonal ingredients and local suppliers, for an authentic taste of the Highlands.

Day Four

Morning tee time at Brora Golf Club, a traditional links course designed by James Braid, where you might even share the fairways with local sheep. After golf, visit a nearby distillery such as Glenmorangie or Clynelish for a whisky tasting and tour, learning about the craftsmanship behind Scotland’s famous single malts.

Day Five

Conclude your trip with a round at Fortrose & Rosemarkie, a scenic links course on the Chanonry Peninsula, where you might even spot dolphins in the nearby waters. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the club, then take a drive around the Black Isle, visiting picturesque villages like Cromarty or taking in the views from the Sutors of Cromarty.