Whisky and golf, two of life’s great pleasures, are a perfect pairing. We’ve put together an unforgettable itinerary showcasing the wonder of the incredible courses in the Scottish Highlands as well as going right to the source where the world’s finest whisky is created.
Day One (Monday)
Arrive at the Edinburgh Airport, where you’ll be greeted by a Carr Golf representative. Travel north by private coach to the beguiling Highlands where Mother Nature has done some of her finest work. Kick off the trip with a tasting at Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery, a single malt maker since 1843. Located in Tain on the tranquil banks of the Dornoch Firth, Glenmorangie is known for its complex and exceptionally smooth whisky matured in the finest casks and perfected by “The Men of Tain.”
Make the quick trip across the Firth for dinner at The Courthouse Café in Dornoch. Save room for dessert as the restaurant’s cakes are highly regarded. Following a relaxing dinner, settle in to your five-star accommodations at the Links House at Royal Dornoch. Embrace the Highlands country house experience relaxing in your luxurious bedroom, one of just 15 at the luxurious boutique hotel.
Day Two (Tuesday)
Venture up the coast for a morning round at Brora Golf Club. Established in 1891, this joyous links course is commonly regarded as one of James Braid’s finest designs and is home to the James Braid Golfing Society. Expect a fun and challenging test of traditional golf the way the game is meant to be played.
Spend the afternoon visiting Dunrobin Castle, which dates back to the 1300s. Tour the castle, explore the gardens and museum and, depending on the season, enjoy a falconry show on the castle lawn. The spectacular display features golden eagles and peregrine falcons, both native to the Scottish Highlands. Bring your camera to capture the magic.
Freshen up at the hotel and enjoy dinner on-site at the Links House Restaurant. Chef Jon-Paul Saint trained under Albert Roux, Derek Johnstone and Glen Watson, and was awarded the Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards Rising Star award for 2016. To complement the delectable, locally-sourced cuisine, select a bottle from the extensive wine cellar, among the finest in the country. After dinner, unwind in style with a glass of single malt whisky in the library.
Day Three (Wednesday)
The Links House overlooks the first tee at Royal Dornoch, so you won’t have far to go for your morning round. Founded in 1877, Dornoch is currently second on Golf Digest’s ranking of “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.” Famed designer Donald Ross said of his beloved home course: “Modesty forbids me saying more than it is the most beautifully situated links in the world, and that no American golfer should omit to go there, where he will find the best golf, a royal welcome and no rabble.”
After the round, return to Tain for whisky tasting at Balblair Distillery. Established in 1790, Balblair’s tagline is “Vintages timed to perfection” as each year the distillery manager selects whiskies with “optimum maturation,” the peak of perfection.
For dinner, patronize Luigi Dornoch, a contemporary restaurant situated in the heart of the charming coastal town. Just a short walk from the hotel, Luigi’s features an ever-changing continental menu with an emphasis on local seafood.
Day Four (Thursday)
Begin the day with a round at the ultra-exclusive Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle. Hosting only 4,000 – 5,000 rounds annually, the prestigious private club boasts 6,833 yards of golf in a mesmerizing setting.
Lunch in the newly refurbished clubhouse is included in the green fee. The menu features everything from salads and seafood to wood-fired pizza and dessert. Following a leisurely lunch, indulge in a whisky tasting at Carnegie Courthouse. Use the knowledge ascertained from the previous tastings and put your “nosing skills” to the test with blind whisky tasting comparing two single malts and one blended whisky.
Dinner is just a quick walk down the road at the Royal Golf Hotel. The Conservatory Restaurant overlooks Royal Dornoch’s first and 18th holes and provides stunning coastal views. The Brasserie-style menu is highlighted with a delectable variety of dishes made from fresh, local and seasonal produce.
Day Five (Friday)
Depart Dornoch and stop at Castle Stuart Golf Links in Inverness. The championship links course overlooks the Moray Firth, Kessock Bridge and Chanonry Lighthouse. Opened in 2009, Castle Stuart’s infinity edged greens, natural bunkers, uneven “rumpled” fairway contours and ruggedly natural landscape make the course feel like it’s at least 100 years old. In 2011, it hosted the Scottish Open, the Highlands’ first European Tour event.
After the round, complete the journey to Edinburgh. Spend the evening unwinding at The Balmoral Hotel. Located in the city center, the historic building’s majestic clock tower holds a distinct place in Edinburgh’s skyline. With stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, warm hospitality and world-class service, the elegant hotel is known for its prestigious address – No. 1 Princes Street.
Day Six (Saturday)
The next day, make the quick trip to Edinburgh Airport and return home with incredible memories and perhaps a bottle or two of Scotland’s finest elixirs. If eager to return to the Highlands (and why wouldn’t you be!), consider playing in the 2019 Donald Ross Tournament. The memorable event features two rounds at Royal Dornoch and one round at both Castle Stuart and Brora.
If you wish to enjoy this unique and memorable Whisky & Golf Experience to Scotland, please contact our travel team today using the contact form below, or call +353 1 822 6662 or US Toll Free 1 855 617 5701. Prices start at £3,385 per person sharing.
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*Airfare not included. Offer subject to availability
