No places are as intrinsically linked to the history and development of golf as Scotland and Ireland.
This year Mount Lawley members and their guests as part of the annual golf trip organised by myself, Golf Professional Duncan Kegg were able to experience golf on some of the world’s most historical and unique links golf courses in the world. All whilst taking in superb landscape, rich history and ancient culture.
The experience of playing on these amazing courses was matched by the uniqueness of travelling on our very own “Floating Hotel”, the One Ocean Cruise Ship RCGS Resolute. The advanced capability and comfort of this vessel transported us in luxury from Dublin up the west coast of Scotland, passing the picturesque islands of Islay, Mull and Skye. Returning to one of the northern most points of Ireland before continuing onto to the Outer Hebrides, the Orkney Islands, Inverness, Aberdeen and finally onto Edinburgh.
Day one saw the group meet in the Spencer Hotel on Dublin’s waterfront, prior to that some of us had enjoyed a night out in the trendy Temple Bar area and then watched the first State of Origin match at a great Aussie pub. It’s true the Guinness is definitely better in Ireland! Once we were transferred to the ship, checked into our rooms and following a comprehensive safety briefing we all enjoyed welcoming drinks and a superb meal. The ship set sail during dinner and in the morning we arrived at Campbelltown home to the Machrihanish Golf Links.
To get to the course required a quick zodiac ride followed by a short bus transfer we all then prepared ourselves with some warm up swings and practice putts before getting underway. Machrihanish links is famous for having the best opening hole in the world of golf, this long par 4 requires a great drive across the beach before taking on a course that winds its way amongst the dunes. This course is naturally maintained so much so that you occasionally see the odd Hebridean black sheep wandering through the rough. A classic links course with blind shots, amazing views, pot bunkers and tricky firm greens. What a great opening experience! The first shot of a great trip on the best opening hole in the world.
CLICK HERE to read more.
