Scotlands Top Golfing Destination
Scotland is a wonderful mix for visitor; it ranges from wild to gentle, isolated to touristy, but always extremely interesting.
Some years ago I toured Scotland staying at remote hostels, and came away with many happy memories.
Until recently, Scotland relied on its rugged natural attractions, and thousands visit to travel around this ancient stomping ground of ‘the Bruce’, battling clans, and big mountains. I can recommend going to the top of the Cairngorms in the snow… there was nothing but silence, broken only by a distant rush of water.
Nowadays, though, Scotland is gearing-up a notch by adding other attractions to its formidable natural beauty. In particular, golf. Scotland has over 550 golf courses, most of which have good access and low fees. Some courses host international events, so are top class venues.
The Open Championships will be held at the cliff-top Ailsa Course in Turnberry, Ayrshire, July 16th to 19th. Known as one of the most scenic courses, it is the fourth time the course has held this oldest of major golfing tournaments. This is the 138th staging of the Championships. And how many ardent golf fans remember the now legendary ‘Duel in the Sun’, between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, in 1977? The course will hold a special ‘Homecoming’ putting competition for visitors.
The Johnnie Walker Championships will be held at the famed Gleneagles, playing on the PGA Centenary Course, August 27th – 30th). The same course will host the 2014 Ryder Cup.
For those of Scottish ancestry, or who wish they had one, the North East Clan Fortnight will be held July 18th – August 3rd. This would complement a visit to the Open at Turnberry. ‘The Gathering’, when clan members all meet in Edinburgh, is just a part of the large number of events, from heritage conferences to Burns opera, Tartan Day in Aberdeen, and the Highland Games at Aboyne.
2009 is designated the ‘Year of Homecoming’ for distant Scots and families who have never seen their home country.
