The Battery, Machrihanish; chosen by Steve Beddow
Last Updated: 12/07/16 9:15am
The course
Located on the southern tip of the Mull of Kintyre the wonderful links of the Machrihanish Golf Club lies, one of the really great treasures of Scottish golf; a course laid out on classic links land following the natural contours, parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. The course was laid out back in 1879 by the world famous golf architect Old Tom Morris and his work has comfortably stood the time ever since. This is a truly magical golfing experience and one that is sure to leave a smile on your face.
A wonderful view, an old course full of character. A golfing experience to savour.
Steve Beddow, golf commentator
The hole
The first thing you want to do in stepping onto the first tee at Machrihanish Golf Club is not reach for the driver but grab your camera such is its picturesque setting. Many believe the first hole at Machrihanish called The Battery to be the finest opening hole in golf. A teasing 423 yard par four with an elevated tee on the edge of the shore. The fairway hugs the beach which you must play across with your opening shot, as the beach is still considered in play fear not if you don't have the longest drive. Do you agree with Steve? Join Scotland's Community to share your Scottish golfing favourites.
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Golf in Argyle and the Isles
Besides the lure of the Machrihanish Golf Club and neighbouring Machrihanish Dunes, the area offers a wide range of golfing options worthy of your time. Follow the natural swales and undulations of the Kintyre terrain at Dunaverty, Carradale, Tarbert and the 9-holes of the Kyles of Bute. A little further north, in and around Oban, Glencruitten offers wonderful views while Taynuilt is a flat, parkland course on the banks of the tranquil Loch Etive. Across the Kyle lies the Isle of Bute, home to the fascinating Port Bannatyne, while at Rothesay, an 18-hole layout climbs Canada Hill to reveal a breathtaking panorama from Loch Fyne to the Firth of Clyde.
For island golf, tee up at the wonderful natural links of Colonsay Golf Club or on The Isle of Mull, the 9-hole course at Tobermory offers wonderful views of the colourful seaside town and Tobermory Bay. There's so much quality golf on offer in Argyll & The Isles; discover more here.
The 19th hole and beyond
Escape to the natural beauty of Argyll & The Isles, and discover more than 3,000 miles of coastline and 25 inhabited islands. Head to the Isle of Mull, one of the best places to spot the mighty white-tailed sea eagle and be sure to experience the famous Seafood Trail, which winds its way through the hamlets and towns bringing local fishermen and top-class restaurants together with coastal scenery which will take your breath away.
There is nothing quite like the taste of a dram after a round and there's nothing better or easier than actually enjoying it at one of the region's many malt distilleries, where the 'water of life' is inspired by each of the regions distinctive cultures - few places in the world can offer such variety.
This dramatic landscape also features more than 60 castles and ancient forts. Dunadd Fort at Kilmartin Glen is the site where ancient kings were crowned and the early Scottish nation forged. To learn more about the area's history, a visit to the award-winning Kilmartin House Museum is a must. For more on what this stunning region has to offer click here.