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Gleneagles boasts three superb parkland golf courses, the King's Course and Queen's Course, both designed by the legendary James Braid and the modern Monarch's Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. While the King's Course is perceived as being the jewel in Gleneagles' crown, having played all three, picking the best would be a difficult decision to make. Offering an often-welcome respite from the differing demands of links golf, Gleneagles is truly a golfer's paradise. Set among ridges and hollows; copious quantities of heather, bracken and gorse enhance the challenge. On any of the courses, if you play well and rise to the challenges imposed by the superb layouts, your round can enter the realm of dreamland but slice a shot here and miss a green there, then your only consolation may prove to be the stunning surrounding scenery. The King's Course has drawn nothing but the highest of praise from various golfing luminaries. When Lee Trevino first played here, he remarked "if Heaven is as good as this, I sure hope they have some tee times left". Braid's plan for the King's Course was to test even the most accomplished golfers' shot making skills, a goal he achieved with admirable results. One of the most exhilarating venues at which to play golf, the King's Course offers a majestic layout, springy moorland turf and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Second only in length to the King's Course, the Queen's Course has played host to many legends of the golfing fraternity including Johnny Miller, Greg Norman and Tom Watson. Meandering through the estates' many high ridges, the picturesque woodland setting offers true moorland characteristics. Though excellent holes abound, the par 4, eighth named "Auld Fauld" or "Sheep Pen" is of particular note. Aptly named, as one can imagine a sheep pen nestling in the sheltered hollow that houses the green, an array of bunkers will punish a timid approach, while an overzealous stroke will carry down the sloping green away from the hole. The most recent addition to the golfing crown of Gleneagles is the Nicklaus designed Monarch's Course and though it has only been in existence since 1993, it is already being touted as a possible Ryder Cup venue in 2007. Even for a proven architect like Nicklaus, the Monarch's Course was a real test as it had to be unique in its challenge, do justice to the existing courses and fit the landscape in a way that did no violence to the great Scottish golfing tradition. Complimenting the layout and obvious quality of the course, one of its features is the feast of spectacular views. Each course at Gleneagles thoroughly deserve their regal titles and whatever course you play or whether you play all three, you will walk away knowing that you have experienced something special. RECOMMENDED
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