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. Macrihanish Links was designed by Old Tom Morris who famously described the setting as being "specially 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 we know 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. Though you can drive here; the journey would take at least three hours by road so really, visitors are better availing of daily flights, which run from Glasgow.
Measuring 6,225 yards, yet renowned as a top venue, Macrihanish possesses all the traits expected by the links purist. Comprising no less than eight par fours and just one short hole, 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. Worth the journey here alone, however, is the thrill derived from standing on the world-famous 1st tee and deciding how much of the bay you wish to carry on the way to negotiating this 428-yard opener. Being the first of the day, caution is advised here as this hole can ruin you score before you get going.
No less demanding, the inward nine stretch home against the backdrop of the Kintyre Hills and include more variety in the form of two par fives and three tricky short holes. Following the relatively straightforward par five, 10th, the 197-yard par three, 11th hole will bring you back down to earth. The key here is to take enough club and don't be afraid to do so! The 13th is a fantastic links hole, which requires a punch and run approach due to the green being none to hospitable to the aerial approach. The stretch from the 15th is tough and with the Macrihanish burn coming into play over the final two holes, you must really concentrate to hang on to a respectable return.
ONLINE GOLF TRAVEL RATING
It may be quite remote but Macrihanish is deserving of all the praise it receives. 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.
Situated just off the A83 route, approximately six miles west of Campbeltown and about 100 miles southwest of Glasgow. Best accessed by air from Glasgow Airport. The travelling times listed above are all from Glasgow Airport.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS:
Macrihanish Golf Club, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6PT
Tel: + 44 1586 810213. Fax: + 44 1586 810221.
As good as any place to have a snack after golf, the golf club offers full catering facilities and boasts a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Craigard House, Low Askomil, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6EP
Tel: + 44 1586 554242. Email: info@craigard-house.co.uk.
Set in a renovated 19th century hotel boasting a superb location, the dining room offers excellent cuisine and an extensive wine list.
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. Macrihanish Links was designed by Old Tom Morris who famously described the setting as being "specially 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 we know today.
