Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be
GolfMagic visits Machrihanish, a remote but world-class links course that remains surprisingly affordable.
History and Development
Machrihanish originally opened as The Kintyre Golf Club in 1876. Three years later, Old Tom Morris expanded it from a 12-hole layout to a full 18 holes after new land was acquired. The 1st hole, part of this expansion, is often hailed as one of the finest opening holes in golf.
Location and Accessibility
The course lies roughly 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre. Nearby, a beach served as the filming location for a Sir Paul McCartney video. Although getting here requires a three-hour drive along the scenic A83, the course's inclusion among the top 40 in Great Britain and Ireland and top 20 in Scotland makes the journey worthwhile.
Additional Golf Opportunities
Visitors can enhance their trip with rounds at nearby Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty courses, offering a diverse golfing experience.
Design and Natural Setting
The land is praised for its natural suitability for golf, with several key figures contributing over time:
- Old Tom Morris remarked the terrain was "specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf."
- Tom Doak called Machrihanish "the only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago."
- In 1914, JH Taylor made some modifications, and Sir Guy Campbell added final touches in the 1940s, but the course never appears overly designed, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.
Recent Popularity
In recent decades, more golfers have discovered Machrihanish, enriching the experience for everyone who visits.
"Specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf." — Old Tom Morris
"The only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago." — Tom Doak
Author’s summary: Machrihanish Golf Club offers an authentic, natural links experience with rich history and stunning surroundings, rewarding those who make the journey.