For many golfers traveling across the pond, there’s a very real temptation to barnstorm the historic links by speeding through 36-hole days, then jumping back behind the wheel to head for the next conquest. There are plenty of golf tour operators who can craft such an international game of hopscotch, but we are not that company. As we’ve advocated for over a quarter-century, the best approach for a successful and memorable trip is simple: Divide & Conquer.
Think of Scotland, Ireland, and England as a collection of regions, each with a selection of courses which could easily fill an itinerary on their own. We believe the best trips are centered around one or two regions; perhaps even three, depending on locale. Adopting this strategy means that not every course is going to get scratched off the bucket list on the first time through. On the other hand, those looking to see and enjoy far more than a golf course and the inside of a windshield, will find it’s truly the only way to fly.
Over the coming months, Baker’s Blog will run a series of posts on these regions, highlighting some of the Golf and Good Life to be found at each. First up: The Northeast of Scotland.
The Golf
Once upon a time, Scotland’s Northeast was a quick stop-off for the traveling golfer on their way to somewhere else. But not long ago, things began to shift in a very big way, transforming Aberdeen and the Northeast into one of Scotland’s leading regions for golf.
The dramatic dunes of Trump International.
The first catalyst to the growing popularity of the Northeast was the arrival of Trump International. The highly publicized debut of the Balmedie links quickly added a second course to the must-play list in the area alongside Royal Aberdeen.
The magical and mystical Cruden Bay.
The other shift to the landscape came courtesy of Cruden Bay. Once a closely guarded secret among enlightened golf travelers and our Members of the Forces, today that “secret” is most definitely out of the bag. This enigmatic links is a truly magical place to play the game, and the cult following it once garnered has slowly but surely turned mainstream.
Combine this leading trio with any number of other great courses in the area – such as Fraserburgh, Murcar Links, and Stonehaven – and a visit to the Northeast can hold its own with any of Scotland’s outstanding golfing regions.
The Good Life
As anyone that’s traveled with H&B or followed our social media channels for some time will know, it is our firm belief that the activities and memories off the course are just as valuable as those on it. We call this the “Good Life” and in Northeast Scotland, there is an abundance of it to be found.
First and foremost, you’ll find it at the exceptional accommodations offered by our partners in the area. The Meldrum House – a 13th Century baronial mansion turned country hotel – is a brilliant example. So too is The Marcliffe – Aberdeen’s only 5-star property – which serves as one part luxury hotel and another part golf museum, thanks to the extensive collection of memorabilia proffered by proprietor, Stewart Spence. Finally, at the McLeod House, the Good Life is found just a pitch and putt away from the 1st tee at Trump International.
The newly expanded Meldrum House.
On the dining front, one doesn’t need to travel far to find the very best of the area’s cuisine. At The Meldrum House, Executive Chef David Murray sources the finest local and seasonal ingredients to craft a culinary experience without equal. Dinner is also best preceded and/or followed by a spot of whisky in their newly expanded Cave Bar. Meanwhile, at The Marcliffe, the Conservatory Restaurant serves a spectacular and varied menu alongside a wine cellar which boasts over 400 selections. But if a meal outside of the hotel is what you’re after, Number 1 in Aberdeen is sure to fit the bill with contemporary cuisine served in a casual yet sophisticated environment.
Post-Round fortification at Number 1.
Finally, whether it’s a brief stroll through Slains Castle – the inspiration of Bram Stoker’s Dracula – or a whisky tasting at the Glen Garioch distillery, the Northeast has plenty of sightseeing opportunities to pair with its Good Life offerings. Major Haversham’s personal favorite: the stunning ruins of Dunnottar Castle, where Scotland’s Crown Jewels were hidden from Oliver Cromwell’s invading army.
Dunnottar Castle
With a selection of world-class links, multiple lesser known courses worthy of play, and an abundance of the Good Life, Scotland’s Northeast has quickly climbed the must-see list of golf travelers the world over, and for very good reason.
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