Stay and Play in Scotland With These Two Hidden Golfing Gems

I AM biased but I have to tell you anyway - there is NOTHING to beat golf in Scotland, especially if it comes with a bit of decent weather.

Thanks to the recent performances of a certain Robert MacIntyre, who won the Canadian Open and then added the Scottish Open in sensational fashion, the sport is enjoying a boom north of the border. And don’t forget that Ewen Ferguson also won the BMW International Open.

We all know about the Open venues in Scotland but there are plenty of other courses to consider. And why not start on the west side of Scotland in Oban, the home town of MacIntyre?

If you are considering a trip, Knipoch House Hotel has a partnership with Glencruitten Golf Club, where MacIntyre learnt to play the game.  The course’s changes in elevation and tricky blind shots make it a truly memorable challenge for many and is a guaranteed hidden gem on Scotland’s West Coast – and Knipoch offers a perfect retreat after a long day on the green.

The hotel is situated on the on the banks of Loch Feochan and is the perfect getaway to spend a peaceful weekend, soaking up the countryside and exploring the beautiful surroundings. Guests visiting the newly refurbished hotel can enjoy a firelit lounge, panoramic views of the loch, a private hot tub and walking paths through nature from the hotel.

For more information visit: sonascollection.com/our-hotels/knipoch/

Glencruitten Golf Course is open to visitors all year round.  The course was designed by James Braid in the early 1900’s. His skill as a course architect is apparent from the 18 – hole layout in terrain which might well have been beyond a lesser talent. The course was almost closed and returned to agricultural use in 1916 but was retained by the then owner, Major Shelley-Bontein, as a rest and recuperation facility for service personnel based in Oban during WWI.

The military connection exists to the present day with two of the clubs’ trophies, the Isis and Stokes Cups, having been presented respectively by HMS Isis and Captain Stokes, a naval officer, stationed in Oban during WWII.

The course is superbly maintained with a huge amount of work done to improve drainage and provide greens that are generally accepted to be the best in the Argyll and Bute area.

The course may only be a par of 62 but don't let that fool you.  It is one of the most challenging courses you will play.  The topography and the changes in height between tees and greens mean that the numerous par threes are very tricky for both professionals and amateurs.  There are some blind shots and local knowledge will make your life easier, meaning you will have to keep coming back to enjoy the challenge.

As the bench up at the 13th tee says "no matter what's happening with your round, sit down and rest a while and take in the glorious scenery we are lucky to have around"

Summer opening is from 7.30 am to 8.00 pm.

TeeTimes - £40 Monday to Friday and £50 Saturday and Sunday.

For more information visit www.golfoban.com

On the other side of Scotland in idyllic Perthshire, Murrayshall Country Estate and Golf Course is well worth a visit. Guests can enjoy the 365-acre estate, surrounded by the rolling-hills of Perthshire, and enjoy the two parkland golf courses and 27-holes the club has to offer. For those looking to practice their swing, the expansive driving range on site is suitable for all whatever the weather.

Renowned for its stunning landscapes and world-class amenities, Murrayshall Country Estate offers a serene escape for guests seeking relaxation and recreation. From an innovative tasting menu at Eolas, to a round of golf on the American parkland style course, to axe throwing or a relaxing spa treatment, Murrayshall continues to set the standard for luxury and excellence in Scottish hospitality.

The Championship course has hosted many national events and in recent months a major investment has seen the course being modernised and improved further, creating a US-style parkland layout that offers a host of risk-and-reward holes. The Lyedoch is ideal for a quick game and is also perfect for juniors learning the games. There is also an extensive driving range and golf shop and plans to create a golf academy.

Stay and Play at Murrayshall Country Estate from £135 per person in a twin or double room.

To find out more and book your getaway, visit: www.murrayshall.co.uk/offers/stay-and-play/