Scotland golf vacation 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 vacation 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 golf 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 trip:

• 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 golf trip, 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
• East Lothian – 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.

Yes. Most larger clubs and resorts offer club and push cart rentals, perfect if you’re traveling light.

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 offers some of the best golf in the world, from legendary Open Championship venues to scenic coastal links. Here's our thoughts on the best golf destinations in Scotland:

• St Andrews – Best for history and iconic golf Known as the Home of Golf, St Andrews features the famous Old Course and several top-tier layouts right in town. Nearby courses like Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, and Gleneagles make this a bucket-list destination.

• Edinburgh & East Lothian – Best for golf and a city trip Stay in Scotland’s vibrant capital and play nearby courses like Muirfield, Gullane, and North Berwick. East Lothian, known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, offers 22 courses and great weather.

• Highlands & Inverness – Best for scenic and remote courses Play dramatic, world-class courses like Royal Dornoch and Castle Stuart while exploring the stunning landscapes of northern Scotland.

• South West Scotland – Best for Open Championship venues This region is home to Turnberry, Royal Troon, and Prestwick, the original Open host. Ideal for classic links.

• Aberdeen – Best for traditional coastal links With historic courses like Royal Aberdeen and Cruden Bay, plus 165 miles of rugged coastline, Aberdeen is perfect for fans of classic beach golf.

Wherever you go, Scotland offers unforgettable courses, rich history, and incredible scenery.

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 favorite 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 Solheim Cup and 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.
• 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 vacation options to suit every type of traveller, whether you're after a stay and play trip, a luxury retreat, or a bucket-list golf tour across the country. Here’s a breakdown of some popular golf vacation experiences:

• Hidden gem golf trips - Discover secluded locations and some of Scotland's best-kept secrets on your next golf trip. Venture beyond the more congested big-name courses and uncover secluded links set against dramatic coastlines and serene Highland backdrops.
• Bucket-list Scotland & Ireland golf trips - If playing the world’s most iconic courses is on your golf bucket list, there’s nowhere like Scotland. Follow in the footsteps of legends on Open Championship venues, while soaking in the culture, history, and spirit of the game’s birthplace. A Scotland bucket-list tour is the ultimate pilgrimage for any passionate golfer.
• Scotland golf tours - Find a perfectly tailored golf tour that offers everything you could ever want from your dream trip across the pond. Tee off where legends made history at Open Championship venues, embrace the charm of centuries-old links, and uncover hidden gems along dramatic coastlines. As the world’s no.1 golf tour operator, we'll find an option that’s perfect for you.

Whether you're planning a quick trip or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Scotland has the perfect golf vacation 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 golf culture make it a spiritual home for the sport.

While Scotland is known for its 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 be booked with shorter notice, although we do recommend planning ahead for the best availability.

Check out our guide to booking a golf trip to Scotland here!

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

• Elie Golf Links – 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!
• The Machrie Links (Isle of Islay) – Remote island course with epic sea views, plus whisky tasting nearby

Discover more hidden gem golf courses in Scotland here.

With Scottish weather, 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!

If you need some inspiration for packing, look at our Top 10 items to bring on a golf vacation to Scotland article!

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

Scotland offers plenty to explore beyond the course:

• Scenic Adventures: Hike in the Highlands, explore Cairngorms or Loch Lomond, and enjoy coastal walks with stunning views.
• Historic Sites: Visit castles like Stirling, Dunnottar, or Urquhart, and explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.
• Whiskey Tours: Tour world-famous distilleries in Speyside, Islay, and the Highlands.
• Cultural Cities: Discover Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, historic sites, and museums, or enjoy Glasgow’s vibrant arts and music scene.
• Local Experiences: Take boat trips, try local cuisine, attend a ceilidh, or visit traditional Highland games.

Whether you’re into history, nature, or food and drink, Scotland delivers an unforgettable experience off the course too. Check out our article on the top 10 things to do in Scotland when you are not playing golf!

International access is best through either Edinburgh or Glasgow. From there, every region is reachable by car.

Although Scotland is a relatively small country with an abundance of wonderful golf courses, we recommend not trying to fit too much into your itinerary. Stick with one or two regions and simply come back again and again!