Golf’s Origins in Scotland and Ireland

The modern game of golf was born in Scotland, at St. Andrews in Fife – and since then, tawny hills and green meadows all over Scotland and Ireland have been transformed into the finest golf courses in the world. Many are near the sea, most have astonishingly beautiful scenery, and some even come complete with lighthouses, castles, and spas! Whatever you want from your golf vacation, you’ve come to the perfect place. Play in Ireland, Scotland, or combine the two – the options are endless.

Golfing in Ireland
Unique as a golfing destination, Ireland is home to the highest number of true links golf courses, over 100 in total! Many of these traditional links courses are regularly featured in World Golf Course Top 100 rankings. Play courses such as the fabled Ballybunion Golf Club – the course in the heart of Kerry where pros and presidents have come to test themselves; Lahinch which is only a short distance from the Cliffs of Moher; Old Head Golf Links, which stretches two miles out over the ocean in Kinsale, County Cork; Royal County Down, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne. Top quality parkland courses such as The K-Club, Mount Juliet, and Druids Glen are dotted throughout the countryside too, perfect for those looking to add some classic parkland golf to a tour.

Golfing in Scotland
To an avid golfer, a visit to Scotland is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and every club is rich in tradition and authenticity. Beginning in Edinburgh, the Gullane Golf Club is a championship quality links course with dramatic views across the Firth of Forth to Edinburgh and Fife. Play a round at Carnoustie – dating back to 1842, it is one of the top 10 golf clubs in the world. Travel to the Highlands for a true haven of mysticism, peace, tranquility, and world-class golf at Royal Dornoch. Follow in the footsteps of great golf legends at St. Andrews.