Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be
GolfMagic visits Machrihanish, a remote and world-class links golf course that remains surprisingly affordable. Established in 1876 as The Kintyre Golf Club, it expanded from a 12-hole layout to 18 holes three years later when Old Tom Morris was commissioned to redesign it. This included the iconic 1st hole, known as one of the great opening holes in golf.
The most challenging part of experiencing Machrihanish is simply reaching the course. Located about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, an area known for its natural beauty and the nearby beach where Sir Paul McCartney filmed a video, the journey is part of the allure. After a scenic three-hour drive along the gentle A83, visitors find a course ranked among the top 40 in Great Britain & Ireland and in the top 20 in Scotland.
The golfing experience can be enhanced with rounds at nearby Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty courses, offering a memorable overall stay.
Historical and Design Highlights
Old Tom Morris praised the site as
“specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf.”Tom Doak reflected on its untouched character, saying it is
“the only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago.”
In 1914, JH Taylor made some modifications, with the final design touches added by Sir Guy Campbell in the 1940s. Despite these changes, the course retains a natural feel, blending perfectly with the terrain rather than feeling artificially designed.
Over recent decades, Machrihanish has gained wider recognition, attracting more golfers who appreciate its unique charm and history.
Author’s Summary
Machrihanish offers a pure, authentic golfing experience deeply connected to its natural landscape and rich history, rewarding those who venture to this remote gem.
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