Golf in Islay

As a golfing holiday destination the Isle of Islay has many attractions. Because the island lies directly in the Gulf Stream, the weather is not so harsh and course is therefore playable all year round. Islay is a quaint little hideout, featuring whitewashed craggy buildings and beautiful shores that have been crafted with the bashing of the waves through the years.

In truth, it is a delightfully surreal setting where the pace of life is slow and the welcome is whole hearted.

Machrie Golf Course, not to be confused with Machrie Bay on the Isle of Arran, is one of Scotland's oldest and most traditional links courses. In 1901 it hosted its very own Open Championship where a trio by the name of Harry Vardon, John Taylor and James Braid competed for a £100 first prize. It was laid out in 1891 by Willie Campbell, who instantly fell in love with the course upon viewing the land before him.

The main feature of this links are the number of blind holes and blind shots that have to be negotiated from undulating, tight fairways onto wonderful, rolling greens. The views to the bay are another aspect that has made the Machrie the favourite it is today.

The hotel was built many years ago and has around 20 rooms. In the evening you can relax after enjoying the traditionally Scottish menu with a few drinks while mingling with the locals.