Looking to gift the golf lover in your life an unforgettable adventure? A trip to Scotland, the birthplace of golf, is the ultimate experience for any enthusiast. From historic courses to breathtaking landscapes, Scotland offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play on the courses where the sport was born, especially links courses. A links course, typically found along the coast, is shaped by natural terrain molded by wind, rain, and the sea over centuries. The term "links" comes from the Scottish word "hlinc," meaning "rising ground" or "ridge," and these courses offer a unique golfing challenge unlike any other.

This guide will walk you through how to gift the perfect Scottish golf experience, including the best times to travel, popular courses to visit, and how a membership to Links Golf Club can make the trip even more extraordinary.

Best Times to Travel to Scotland for Golf

Scotland's golf season typically runs from April to October, with the best months being May through September when the weather is mild and the courses are in peak condition - though you can often play year round. During these months, you'll experience long days, perfect for squeezing in a full round of golf while taking in the scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Flights from major U.S. cities to Scotland average around 7 to 8 hours, making it an accessible destination for a memorable golf getaway. 

Tour of Popular Scottish Courses

Scotland is home to some of the world's most iconic and historic golf courses. One standout is Spey Bay Golf Course, a true links-style course along the picturesque Moray coast. Designed by Ben Sayers in 1907, Spey Bay is one of only 247 true links courses globally, characterized by its coastal location, natural terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions. Links courses like Spey Bay hold a special place in golf history as they represent the sport's origins, offering players a unique and challenging experience. 

Spey Bay is a fantastic start, but Scotland offers many other prestigious courses that should be on your itinerary. St. Andrews Golf Club, often called the "Home of Golf," is a bucket-list course for any golfer. The Royal Dornoch Golf Club combines natural beauty with a challenging design, while Carnoustie Golf Links is known for testing even the most skilled players. Each of these courses offers something special, from sweeping coastal views to intricate layouts that push the boundaries of your game.

When you gift a Links Golf Club Pro membership, the recipient gains membership to Spey Bay, a historic Scottish course, along with exclusive deals at over 30 renowned courses across Scotland (view the full list here). Additionally, the membership provides access to select premier courses in the United States and worldwide, offering a truly exceptional golfing experience. 

Need Help with Travel Itineraries?

As a Links Pro member and a member of Spey Bay, you have access to our dedicated concierge team in Scotland, who will expertly craft a personalized itinerary to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable.

Gift a Links Pro Membership

Why Add a Links Golf Membership?

Not ready to join a private club? A Links Golf Club membership provides a taste of the exclusive private golf experience without the high fees. For your Scotland trip, Links can help craft the perfect itinerary, assist with booking flights and lodging, and ensure you have access to top-tier courses like Spey Bay. Links Golf members enjoy access to private and semi-private courses around the globe, along with discounts on top golf merchandise. This means the golfer in your life can enjoy private club-level play at a fraction of the cost, whether waiting to join a private club or just looking to experience private golf. 

With Pro and Starter memberships available, Links Golf makes it easier than ever to elevate your golf experience. The Pro membership gives you full access to local courses and travel opportunities, while the Starter membership offers discounts and access to an online community. Either option complements a Scottish golf trip perfectly, ensuring that your loved one can continue enjoying world-class golf long after the trip ends.