Queen's Hame (18th), Queen's Course Gleneagles; chosen by Sarah Stirk
Last Updated: 12/07/16 9:17am
The course
The Queen's Course at Gleneagles, in its long history, has played host to some of the world's golfing greats. The beautiful settings and the challenge of golf have attracted top golfers, as well as great names from the entertainment and sports worlds. Threading through high ridges on the north and west sides of the estate, the Queen's offers lovely woodland settings, lochans and ditches as water hazards, as well as many moorland characteristics.
18th Queens @ Gleneagles - Maybe it's the inviting sight of the hotel in the distance sitting proudly amongst the Perthshire countryside or the dramatic elevated tee shot requiring a carry over a loch to finish your round that makes this closing hole so special.
Sarah Stirk, Sky Sports Presenter
At 3,192 yards long, the challenge of the first nine can be deceptive, with even some of the best players finding it a test to make par into a fresh south-westerly breeze. Do not be lulled into a sense of false security as you stand on the first tee. The "Trystin' Tree," or lover's meeting place, after which the hole is named, is a challenging opener and sets the tone for the rest of your round.
The hole
The 18th hole at the Queens course, Gleneagles named Queen's hame, is a challenging par four spanning 412 yards and is a fine end to any round. Beginning from the elevated tee you drive over the small loch, the Deuk Dubs.
Aim to the right with your tee shot and this should leave an open second shot to the large green. This shot may be longer than you think so take plenty of club. A large two-step green with large, but obvious borrows will challenge your putting accuracy.
Q: Do you agree with Sarah? Join Scotland's Community to share your Scottish golfing favourites.
Featured holes
Golf in Perthshire
Like many Scottish regions, Perthshire has had a strong association with the game of golf over the centuries. This beautiful region stands out from the others by giving players the chance to experience superb courses alongside spectacular scenery.
Perthshire's foremost golfing destination is Gleneagles, which will play host to the world's biggest names at the 2014 Ryder Cup. There is a stunning supporting cast including Alyth, Rosemount at Blairgowrie, Ferntower at Crieff, and Taymouth Castle at Kenmore, designed by renowned golf architect and five-time Open Champion James Braid.
Be sure to seek out some of the region's lesser-known gems such as St Fillans golf course on Loch Earn, a favourite of Open and Masters Champion Sandy Lyle, and Killin Golf Club, the 9th hole of which has been described as one of the most breathtaking in Scotland.
To get the most out of Perthshire's fantastic selection of golf courses pick up a Perthshire Green Card or Perthshire Highlands Golf Ticket giving you discounted rates on top courses and distilleries in the region. Find out more about golfing in Perthshire here.
19th hole and beyond
Whether it's on or off the course, Perthshire has so much to offer its visitors and its only an hour from Edinburgh or Glasgow. Spend an afternoon tumbling down swift currents on a white water raft or enjoy endless walking of all levels across the iconic Perthshire countryside. Discover a true flavour of the area by visiting local distilleries, farmers markets, wine makers and chocolateries. Or take in some of the local history at Blair Castle, Scone Palace or the magnificent Queen's View. Whether you are here with friends or family, you'll be on course for a great break in Perthshire!
For more ideas click here