Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be
Visiting Machrihanish Golf Club is an experience that blends history, natural beauty, and the pure essence of links golf. Situated about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, this remote gem remains one of the most authentic golfing experiences in the world.
History and Design
Founded in 1876 as The Kintyre Golf Club, Machrihanish evolved into an 18-hole layout just three years later when Old Tom Morris expanded it. One of his key additions was the famous 1st hole, often celebrated among the finest opening holes in golf.
“Specifically designed by the Almighty for playing golf.” – Old Tom Morris
Later updates by J.H. Taylor in 1914 and Sir Guy Campbell in the 1940s refined the layout but retained its organic feel. Nothing appears forced or artificial — the course seems to have grown naturally from the Kintyre coastline.
Setting and Journey
The journey to Machrihanish is part of the adventure itself. Set along the scenic A83, the three-hour drive rewards golfers with serene landscapes and a course steeped in tradition. The nearby beach, once used in a Sir Paul McCartney music video, frames the area’s timeless charm.
Modern Standing
Today, Machrihanish ranks among the top 40 courses in Great Britain and Ireland and holds a steady place in Scotland’s top 20. Visitors often pair their rounds here with games at nearby Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty for a complete coastal links experience.
“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
Enduring Appeal
Despite its remote location, the appeal of Machrihanish continues to grow. The course remains a living example of how golf, when left close to nature, can remain both challenging and profoundly beautiful.
Author’s Summary
Machrihanish Golf Club blends heritage, isolation, and unspoiled natural design, offering one of the purest and most rewarding golf experiences in Scotland.