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Experience golf in the real Scotland
The Highlands is one of Scotland’s most captivating golf destinations, where dramatic landscapes, world-class links courses, and rich heritage come together in a truly unique setting. From the timeless fairways of Royal Dornoch and Nairn to the modern championship test of Castle Stuart, every round here is defined by breathtaking scenery and pure links golf.
Centered around Inverness, the region offers a perfect balance of remote beauty and easy accessibility. Within a short transfer from the airport, you can be teeing it up on some of the finest courses in the world, all set against rugged coastlines and iconic Scottish backdrops.
Add in welcoming accommodation, historic surroundings, and the chance to explore landmarks such as Loch Ness, and a Highlands golf trip delivers far more than just great golf.
Why book a golf package to the Scottish Highlands?
- From Royal Dornoch to Nairn, classic links courses are in abundance
- Experience one of Scotland’s most scenic and unspoilt golf regions
- Stay in a mix of charming country hotels and city center accommodation
- Enjoy a destination ideal for golf tours and group trips
- Travel easily with easy connections through Inverness
- Take in dramatic coastlines, historic landmarks, and unforgettable landscapes
What makes a golf package in the Highlands so special?
Many golfers visiting Scotland don't go beyond Edinburgh or St Andrews, but for those willing to venture further north, the rewards are immense. The Highlands is Scotland's hidden gem of golf, with the country's most spectacular scenery and revered links courses.
Known for its unspoilt beauty and authentic links experience, the Highlands offers a style of golf that is both traditional and unforgettable. Whether you are playing along remote coastlines or overlooking the Moray Firth, this is a destination that challenges your game while delivering incredible views at every turn.
Travel tips for golfers visiting the Highlands & Inverness
- Best time to visit: May to September offers the best conditions, with long daylight hours and the most favourable weather for links golf. Shoulder months can provide great value and quieter courses.
- Top tip: Links golf in the Highlands is shaped by wind and firm conditions. Keeping the ball low and playing strategically is often more effective than power alone.
- Travel time: From the Inverness airport many courses are reachable within 30 to 60 minutes.
- Transport: Car rental is highly recommended to explore the region fully and access courses along the coastline.
- Booking tip: Accommodation and tee times in peak summer months can fill quickly, especially around Royal Dornoch and Nairn, so early planning is key.
Some of the Highlands’ best golf courses include:
Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Championship Course | Dornoch Ranked as the 4th best course in Scotland by Top 100 Courses Architect: Old Tom Morris (refined over time) | Par: 70
Consistently ranked among the world’s best, Royal Dornoch is a pure links masterpiece. Elevated greens, natural dunes, and a remote coastal setting make it one of the most memorable rounds in golf.
Course highlight: The plateau greens, which demand precision and imagination on approach.
Castle Stuart Golf Links | Inverness Ranked as the 9th best course in Scotland by Top 100 Courses Architects: Gil Hanse, Mark Parsinen | Par: 72
A modern classic overlooking the Moray Firth, Castle Stuart combines wide fairways with strategic design and spectacular views. A former Scottish Open host, it offers a championship experience that is both playable and visually stunning.
Good to know: One of the most enjoyable layouts for all abilities, with generous landing areas off the tee.
Nairn Golf Club | Nairn Ranked as the 19th best course in Scotland by Top 100 Courses Architect: Old Tom Morris, James Braid | Par: 71
A traditional out-and-back links consistently ranked among Scotland’s finest, Nairn offers firm fairways, fast greens, and stunning coastal views.
Course tip: The back nine, running along the shoreline, provides some of the most scenic and challenging holes.
Brora Golf Club | Brora Ranked as the 23rd best course in Scotland by Top 100 Courses Architect: James Braid | Par: 71
A truly authentic Highland links experience, Brora is as charming as it is unique. Expect electric fences, grazing livestock, and a layout that has changed little over time.
Good to know: One of the most traditional and fun links experiences in Scotland.
Best-selling golf packages in the Scottish Highlands
World-class hospitality in the historical highlands
The Highlands offers a truly unique golf travel experience, combining world-class links courses, dramatic coastal scenery, and a relaxed pace of life. With a mix of coastal towns and the vibrant city of Inverness, this region provides the perfect base for golfers looking to explore some of Scotland’s finest and most unspoilt courses.
Here are some of our favorite places to stay in the Highlands & Inverness:
Best for links golf & iconic locations Perfect for golfers who want to stay close to some of Scotland’s most famous courses.
- Royal Golf Hotel | Dornoch | Customer ranking: 4.8 Overlooking the first tee at Royal Dornoch, this traditional hotel places you right at the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated links experiences. With comfortable rooms and unbeatable proximity to the Championship Course, it is ideal for a classic Highlands golf trip.
Best for city access & convenience Ideal for golfers who want a central base with easy access to multiple courses.
- Kingsmills Hotel | Inverness | Customer ranking: 4.5 Set within walking distance of Inverness city center, Kingsmills offers a blend of luxury, spa facilities, and a peaceful setting. It is perfectly located for accessing Castle Stuart, Nairn, and other nearby courses.
- Leonardo Hotel Inverness | Inverness A great value option with modern amenities and easy access to the city and surrounding golf courses. Ideal for groups or golfers planning to explore multiple venues across the region.
Want more flexibility? Book a custom Highlands golf tour
Make the most of your Highlands golf vacation by building a fully tailored golf tour. Combine coastal links like Royal Dornoch, Nairn, and Brora with a stay in Inverness or Dornoch to create a varied and unforgettable trip.
A golf tour allows you to:
- Play a collection of world-renowned links courses across the Highlands
- Stay in a mix of coastal hotels, city bases, and scenic resorts
- Customize your itinerary to suit your pace, travel style, and must-play courses
- Experience both the coastline and inland beauty of the Scottish Highlands
As the World’s no.1 rated golf tour operator, we will help craft your perfect Highlands & Inverness golf experience, whether it is a scenic golf tour, a group trip, or a bucket list journey through Scotland’s most spectacular region.
For sheer rugged beauty, a blend of lochs and mountains, and value for money when it comes to playing world-class links courses, it is hard to beat the Scottish Highlands
Head of Long Haul
The Scottish Highlands...a diamond in the rough
Beyond its world-class links courses, the Highlands & Inverness offers a captivating mix of rugged landscapes, historic landmarks, and authentic Scottish charm. From dramatic coastlines and ancient castles to wildlife encounters and lively city culture, this is a destination that delivers far more than just exceptional golf.
Popular golf vacation types in the Highlands & Inverness
- Links golf tours – Experience some of Scotland’s finest and most traditional courses, from Royal Dornoch and Nairn to Brora and Castle Stuart, all set against stunning coastal backdrops.
- Scenic golf breaks – Combine incredible golf with breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, lochs, and coastline, for a truly memorable trip.
- Group golf vacations – Ideal for groups looking to explore multiple courses, enjoy relaxed travel, and experience the Highlands at their own pace.
Check out our guide to golf in the Highlands to help plan your next trip.
Beyond the fairways in the Highlands & Inverness
- Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle – Visit one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, take in the views, and perhaps even spot Nessie while exploring the ruins of Urquhart Castle.
- Inverness city centre – Enjoy a relaxed mix of restaurants, bars, and shops, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great base for your trip.
- Highland castles & history – Discover iconic sites such as Cawdor Castle and Culloden Battlefield, offering a fascinating insight into Scotland’s past.
- Coastal scenery & beaches – Take in the rugged beauty of the Moray Firth coastline, with quiet beaches, fresh sea air, and incredible views.
- Wildlife experiences – Spot dolphins in the Moray Firth, red deer in the hills, and a variety of birdlife across the region.
- Outdoor activities – From hiking and cycling to whisky distillery tours and boat trips, there is plenty to enjoy on non-golf days.
- Dining & local culture – Experience traditional Highland hospitality, from cozy pubs to quality restaurants serving locally sourced produce and fresh seafood.
FAQs
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Value
Guaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.Service
Hassle-free golf trip planning and expert travel advice.Trust
Over 25 years’ experience and rated excellent by our customers on Trustpilot.Choice
An extensive choice of venues across the USA and worldwide.Rewards
Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.Rewards
Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.Value
Guaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.Service
Hassle-free golf trip planning and expert travel advice.Trust
Over 25 years’ experience and rated excellent by our customers on Trustpilot.Choice
An extensive choice of venues across the USA and worldwide.Rewards
Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.
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