Golf on Speyside
Scotland is known worldwide as the spiritual home of golf, with iconic names such as St Andrews Links and Royal Dornoch often top of mind. However, Speyside quietly offers its own exceptional collection of courses, set against some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Highlands.
With seven courses within easy reach, Speyside is an ideal base for a relaxed golfing break, combining quality play with stunning surroundings and a slower pace.
Spey Valley Golf Course, Aviemore
Spey Valley Golf Course is regularly listed among Scotland’s top 100 courses. Set within the Cairngorms National Park, it offers wide fairways, mountain views, and frequent wildlife sightings, including deer. The course is relatively long, so a buggy can be a worthwhile addition for a more comfortable round.
Its location makes it particularly appealing for those staying nearby, with easy access for multiple rounds during a stay.
Designed by renowned course architect James Braid, Boat of Garten Golf Club is a classic Highland course just a short drive from Aviemore.
Set among heather and Scots pine, it offers spectacular views of the Cairngorms and a traditional layout that rewards accuracy and thoughtful play.
Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club
Another course with strong design heritage, Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club was shaped by both James Braid and Willie Park Jr. It offers a traditional parkland layout with tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens, delivering a fair but enjoyable challenge for visiting golfers.
Kingussie Golf Club
Kingussie Golf Club combines history with Highland charm. Designed by legendary figures Old Tom Morris and Harry Vardon, the course offers a varied and engaging round. The welcoming clubhouse is ideal for a post-game lunch, and the club regularly hosts competitions while also catering to visiting groups and golf societies.
Newtonmore Golf Club
Newtonmore Golf Club offers a more relaxed pace, with a peaceful course set against beautiful Highland scenery. Its manageable layout makes it ideal for an easy-going round while still enjoying the surrounding landscape.
Abernethy Golf Club, Nethy Bridge
Abernethy Golf Club is a welcoming and scenic course nestled in woodland. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting, it provides an enjoyable round for golfers of all abilities.
Carrbridge Golf Club
For those looking for a shorter but still rewarding round, Carrbridge Golf Club provides a challenging 9-hole course. Burns, ditches, and natural obstacles add character, making accuracy key despite the shorter layout.
The Perfect Highland Golf Escape
With a variety of courses ranging from championship layouts to charming 9-hole rounds, Speyside offers something for every golfer. The combination of accessibility, scenery, and quality courses makes it an excellent destination for a golfing getaway.
Whether planning a dedicated golf trip or simply adding a round or two to your holiday, Speyside provides the perfect balance of challenge and relaxation, both on and off the course.
