Scotland golf holiday FAQs

Regarded as the birthplace of golf, Scotland offers an unforgettable experience for all golfers. With its dramatic landscapes, historic championship courses, and world-renowned hospitality, it stands as one of the most iconic golf destinations in the world.

From the rugged coastlines of St Andrews to the Highlands' hidden gems, Scotland combines tradition, challenge, and breathtaking scenery in equal measure.

Whether you're chasing legendary links, cozy countryside stays, or a deep dive into golf’s rich heritage, Scotland delivers on every front.

Explore our top tips and FAQs to help you plan an unforgettable golf holiday to Scotland.

Scotland is the birthplace of golf and remains one of the most iconic and inspiring destinations in the world for the game. With legendary links courses, dramatic coastal landscapes, and a deep-rooted golfing culture, a trip to Scotland offers tradition, challenge, and beauty in equal measure.

Whether you're teeing off on Open Championship venues or discovering hidden gems in the Highlands, Scotland delivers a golf experience like no other.

Highlights of a Scotland golf break:

• Over 550 courses ranging from historic links to lush inland layouts
• Play world-famous venues like St Andrews, Carnoustie, and Royal Dornoch
• Stay in luxurious golf resorts such as Gleneagles, Trump Turnberry, and Fairmont St Andrews
• Explore castles, whisky distilleries, and stunning natural scenery
• A warm welcome, rich history, and unforgettable 19th holes

Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime golf tour or a scenic weekend getaway, Scotland is the ultimate destination for lovers of the game.

Scotland is home to over 550 golf courses, offering everything from historic links to picturesque parkland layouts. With such variety and quality, it's no wonder Scotland is considered the Home of Golf. Some of the best golf courses in Scotland include:

• St Andrews Old Course – The most famous course in the world and a must-play for any golf fan, with its iconic Swilcan Bridge and Road Hole
• Carnoustie Golf Links – One of the toughest Open Championship venues, known for its demanding finish and rich history
• Royal Dornoch Golf Club – A remote Highlands masterpiece, combining wild coastal beauty with a classic links design
• Muirfield – A historic and prestigious Open venue offering a traditional and challenging layout on Scotland’s East Lothian coast
• Trump Turnberry (Ailsa Course) – Spectacular ocean views and championship pedigree, ranked among the world’s best

From the rugged cliffs of the Highlands to the rolling dunes of the east coast, Scotland’s courses deliver unforgettable rounds in breathtaking settings.

The Old Course at St Andrews is undoubtedly the most famous. Known as the “Home of Golf,” it dates back to the 15th century and is a must-play for any serious golfer. Other world-renowned courses include Royal Dornoch, Muirfield, and Carnoustie.

Check out our top tips for getting a tee time on the Old Course.

May to September is the peak golf season, with longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. July and August offer the warmest temperatures, but May and September can be quieter and just as enjoyable.

Carnoustie Golf Links, nicknamed "Carnasty," is widely regarded as the toughest test in Scottish golf. Its deep bunkers, narrow fairways, and unpredictable weather make it a true championship challenge.

Scotland is packed with world-class golf regions, each offering a unique experience. Whether you're after legendary Open venues, scenic coastal links, or a mix of golf and culture, there's something for everyone.

• St Andrews & Fife – The Home of Golf, featuring the iconic Old Course and top tracks like Kingsbarns and Dumbarnie. A must-visit for golf history and classic links.
• Edinburgh & East Lothian – Scotland’s ‘Golf Coast’ includes Muirfield, Gullane, and North Berwick, all easily accessed from the capital for a perfect city-and-golf combo.
• Highlands & Inverness – Dramatic scenery and world-ranked courses like Royal Dornoch and Castle Stuart. Ideal for adventurous golfers seeking wild, remote beauty.
• Ayrshire & Glasgow – Home to Open venues like Turnberry and Royal Troon, paired with luxury resorts and west coast charm.
• Dundee & Perth – A great blend of city and countryside, with Carnoustie and scenic inland courses nearby.
• Aberdeen – Top coastal links like Royal Aberdeen and Trump International, plus vibrant city amenities.

Wherever you play, Scotland delivers iconic golf and unforgettable experiences

Scotland is home to a fantastic collection of stay & play golf resorts, offering world-class courses, luxury accommodation, fine dining, and traditional Scottish hospitality, all in one place. Whether you’re looking for a bucket-list trip or a relaxing countryside escape, these resorts deliver a truly memorable golf experience.

Some of our favourite golf resorts in Scotland include:

• Gleneagles Hotel – A luxury five-star resort in Perthshire featuring three championship courses, including the PGA Centenary Course (host of the 2014 Ryder Cup). Ideal for couples, groups, and spa lovers alike.
• Trump Turnberry Resort – Set on the stunning Ayrshire coast, this iconic resort boasts the Ailsa Course—an Open Championship venue—plus incredible ocean views, lavish rooms, and an award-winning spa.
• Fairmont St Andrews – Overlooking the historic town and coastline, this modern five-star resort features two excellent courses (Torrance & Kittocks), a luxurious spa, and close proximity to the Old Course.
• Macdonald Aviemore Resort – Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, this resort offers access to Spey Valley Golf Course and is perfect for families or those wanting golf and outdoor adventure in equal measure.
• Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa – Stay right beside the legendary Carnoustie Championship Course, one of the toughest Open venues, with on-site spa facilities and beautiful views over the Angus coast.

Scotland offers a wide range of golf holiday options to suit every type of traveller, whether you're after a quick weekend escape, a luxury retreat, or a bucket-list golf tour across the country. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types of golf holidays in Scotland:

• Stay & play golf holidays – Enjoy world-class golf, five-star spas, and award-winning restaurants, all in one place. Scotland’s best resorts, like Gleneagles and Turnberry, offer everything you need for the ultimate golf getaway.
• Golf tours – Immerse yourself in the full Scottish golf experience. Play Open Championship venues, historic links courses, and hidden gems with a hassle-free, custom-planned tour. As the world’s no.1 golf tour operator, we'll find an option that’s perfect for you!
• Golf weekends – Even in just a few days, you can tick legendary courses off your bucket list. With world-famous courses just a short drive from Scotland’s major cities, an unforgettable golf weekend is always within reach.
• Golf & spa breaks – The perfect combination of relaxation and sport. Unwind in a luxury spa before your next round on one of Scotland’s iconic courses.

Whether you're planning a quick trip or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Scotland has the perfect golf holiday for you

Scotland is where the game of golf originated over 600 years ago. It’s home to some of the oldest and most historic courses in the world, many of which have hosted major championships. The unique links terrain and deep-rooted golfing culture make it a spiritual home for the sport.

While Scotland is known for it's amazing golf and wild nature, you will also be able to fully unwind in one of the many spa facilities in Scotland, allowing you to recover in preparation for your next round.

Read our article on the best golf & spa resorts in Scotland.

To secure tee times at top courses like the Old Course, it’s best to book 9 to 12 months in advance, especially during peak season. More flexible or lesser-known itineraries can often be booked with shorter notice.

Absolutely. Some standout under-the-radar courses include:

Elie Golf House Club – Historic and quirky seaside links

Machrihanish Golf Club – Remote Kintyre classic with a world-famous opening hole

Brora Golf Club – Pure links golf in the far north, complete with wandering sheep!

Boat of Garten – A beautiful inland course designed by James Braid in the Cairngorms

Layers are key. Pack waterproofs, windproofs, and warm clothing, even in summer. Soft spikes are a must, and many courses require traditional golf attire (collared shirts, no jeans). Don’t forget a hat and gloves!

Yes – Scotland hosts several high-profile events:

The Open Championship – Regularly played at St Andrews, Troon, and Carnoustie

Genesis Scottish Open – Part of the Rolex Series on the DP World Tour

Alfred Dunhill Links Championship – A pro-am played over the Old Course, Kingsbarns, and Carnoustie

Explore castles like Stirling, Edinburgh, and Eilean Donan

Whisky distillery tours in Speyside or Islay

Hiking & nature in the Highlands, Loch Lomond, or Isle of Skye

City culture in Edinburgh and Glasgow – museums, galleries, shopping, and theatre