MACRIHANISH GOLF CLUB Campbeltown Argyll Scotland

In 1876 several local dignitaries of Campbeltown visualised a golf course set amidst the spectacular sand dunes of Macrihanish. Situated on the western coast of Scotland, miles from the nearest railway station, the course at this stage was only accessible by steamboat and then carriage.

The links of Macrihanish was initially laid out by Old Tom Morris who described the setting as being "specifically designed by The Almighty for playing golf". Altered by three times Open Champion, J.H. Taylor in 1914, the final touches were applied some 30 years later by Sir Guy Campbell, the result being the course as we know it today.

Situated on the Kintyre Peninsula, 140 miles from Glasgow, Macrihanish Golf Club may be slightly off the beaten track but its remoteness is central to its abundant charm. With some of the world's most naturally undulating fairways and amazingly contoured greens, much like Royal Dornoch, this links would certainly play host to many prestigious events, if not for its relative isolation.

Renowned as a top venue, Macrihanish possesses all the traits expected by the links purist. The outward nine holes follow the hills and hollows among the sand dunes bordering the sea and each hole requires accurate tee shots and carefully thought out irons to reach the expertly maintained putting surfaces. No less demanding, the inward nine stretch home against the backdrop of the Kintyre Hills. Two par 5's and three tricky par 3's must be negotiated before the Macrihanish burn comes into play over the final two holes.

Though it may take some time to get here, you are well advised to try if for no other reason than to stand on the world-famous 1^st tee and decide how much of the bay you wish to carry on the way to negotiating this 428-yard opener. And whether successful or not, the visitor to Macrihanish is inevitably struck by the beauty of the links and the wondrous way in which the sun sets over Islay.

RECOMMENDED NEARBY ACCOMMODATION:

When playing at Macrihanish Golf Links, it is better to either stay locally or avail of golf and flight packages from Glasgow Airport.