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Machrihanish Golf Club is set on the west shores of the Kintyre Peninsula, backed by low lying hills and facing the unbroken expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. It is not a pretty site in the traditional sense but it does exert a powerful presence. There are few days when the weather is not ‘noticeable’ in one form or another, most usually with a wind blowing up from the southwest and racing over the unprotected links.

J.H. Taylor had much to do with this coastal layout but it was Old Tom Morris who was first contracted in 1879 and on seeing the wide expanse of links, declared that the area was "specially designed by the Almighty for playing golf". Even now, beholding the course, you would still share Old Tom's sentiments.

Golfers stand on the 1st tee of Machrihanish and wonder why they made such a gargantuan effort to get here. But the three-hour drive from Glasgow is nothing compared to the 200-yard drive that now faces them. The 1st at Machrihanish is considered the premier opening hole in Scotland. It is a dogleg Par 4 and it is all a matter of how much Atlantic and beach you dare to play over.

While the wind may assist you in these endeavours at the 1st do not rely on it always to be at your back as it will turn with the tide or just at its own whim. The course plays out into the dunes over waving fairways that pitch and roll as much as the sea behind. The 3rd flows towards the beach with the blond tips of marran grass waving towards your ball but there is generally plenty of room.

The 4th is Machrihanish’s version of the famous ‘Postage Stamp’ at Royal Troon, a delightful Par 3 to an island green set amongst a sea of long, twisting grass. The 5th is thick amongst the dunes with dead ground ahead creating a daunting, narrow tee shot. Many choose an iron off the tee making this dog leg Par 4 of 385 yards all the longer.

Blind shots are prevalent throughout Machrihanish and can make for first round frustration but all the more reason to plan two or three rounds here. Having said that, the course changes with every breath of wind but there are few finer courses with which to become aquainted with.

In case the driving distance from Edinburgh or Glasgow to the Mull of Kintyre puts you off, be aware that there is a daily flight, from Glasgow Airport direct to Machrihanish.


Photographs & text © David J Whyte 2009