The Machrie Golf Links

The Machrie Golf Links is one of the finest island golf experiences around. Set in the Dunes of Islay, this modern links golf course is a hidden gem and was originally designed in 1891 before being reborn. The golf course encompasses the very best of a traditional links, using the natural landscape and coastline defences, scoring well round here requires ingenuity and adaptability to the conditions - it is a classic links golf course.

THE MACHRIE GOLF LINKS COURSE INFORMATION

After great investment and a complete redesign by D.J. Russell, The Machrie Links reopened in 2017 to high praise and many plaudits from the golfing world. He wasn't quite finished there though and in 2020 has installed a further 34 bunkers added 250 yards to the length of the course.

The original course layout (from 1891) was often criticised for it's quirkiness and regularity of blind tee shots and approach shots. The new blueprint is much friendlier for the visiting golfer, with more visible and generous fairways, along a view of the green more readily available to at least one side of the shortly mown links turf. There are still some blind shots to be tackled, which is a nice nod to the original course design and something not seen often enough nowadays.

There are highlights all the way through your round of golf, though the ninth hole is the jewel in the crown. A short downhill par 3, with stunning views beyond the large putting surface. Take care to hit the green though, as your chances of an up and down from the surrounding areas will be slim.