Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be
GolfMagic visits Machrihanish, a remote and world-class links course that is surprisingly affordable. Originally established in 1876 as The Kintyre Golf Club, the course expanded from 12 to 18 holes three years later when Old Tom Morris helped design the layout by adding new land.
A Legendary Opening Hole
The first hole at Machrihanish is famously known as one of the greatest opening holes in golf, often being the initial focus when discussing exceptional golf course starts.
Challenging Journey to the Course
The most demanding and rewarding part of visiting Machrihanish is the journey itself. Located about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, near the site where Sir Paul McCartney filmed a music video on a nearby beach, the drive down the scenic A83 takes around three hours.
Top-Ranked Course in Great Britain
This journey is rewarded with access to a course ranked among the top 40 in Great Britain and Ireland, and within the top 20 in Scotland. Visitors can also enjoy rounds at nearby Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty, enriching the overall golfing experience.
Design and Natural Beauty
Old Tom Morris described the land as “specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf.” Tom Doak also praised it as "the only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago."
“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
JH Taylor made some modifications in 1914, and Sir Guy Campbell completed the final changes in the 1940s, but the course has never been overly designed. Instead, it fits seamlessly into the natural terrain.
Growing Recognition
In recent decades, Machrihanish has gained more recognition among golfers worldwide, and visitors continue to appreciate its blend of history, challenge, and untouched landscape.
Author’s Summary: Machrihanish Golf Club offers an authentic, natural golfing experience steeped in history, rewarded to those willing to journey to this stunning Scottish links.