For the vast majority of golfers on a Scotland golf tour, the journey reaches its northernmost point in the Royal Burgh of Dornoch. Those willing to venture a little further up the A9, however, are assured a truly singular experience at the wild and breathtaking Brora Golf Club.

Founded in 1891, the original course at Brora was laid out by John Sutherland, the meticulous Club Secretary who served at nearby Royal Dornoch for over 50 years. Some three decades later, five-time Open champion James Braid visited Brora to design the links as it is played today. While his name is firmly etched on the Claret Jug, it was Braid’s second career as prolific course designer which left an indelible mark on the game. A mark that many argue is at its very best in this sleepy town in The Highlands of Scotland.

The links at Brora is an out and back affair, with the outward nine pressed hard against the sea. The inspiring stroll begins on a relatively gentle note, with the front-9 filled with an abundance of quirk, intrigue and distracting views. Those distractions reach a crescendo at the short par-3 9th hole, where a delicate approach makes par a hard-fought number. On the inward nine the ground becomes more interesting and the test of golf more exacting. The 13th is another pint-sized one-shotter that’s sure to find a place in the memory banks. Meanwhile, a trio of demanding par-4s lead to the uphill par-3 closing hole, which is made even more difficult thanks to the many watchful eyes inside the clubhouse bistro.

On the Tee with H&B at Brora

While the course is an absolute delight to play, it’s unlikely to be the first thing mentioned in any conversation about Brora. That distinction goes to the flock of assistant greenskeepers who tirelessly roam the course tending to its fairways and rough. Of course, we’re referring to the sheep and other livestock who call the links of Brora home. Although hoofprints in your line are of no concern – the electric fences surrounding the greens see to that – it’s worth noting that a few other local rules are in effect regarding casual water.

What you won’t find at Brora is the pristine conditioning of Castle Stuart or the rich history of Royal Dornoch. What you will find, however, is an experience unlike anything else in the game of golf. From the charming but challenging links, to the wooly companions on the course, to the magnificent setting seemingly destined for golf, Brora makes those extra miles traveled on the A9 entirely worthwhile and then some.

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For more insight on planning your golf trip to Scotland, visit the pages below, read our Scotland golf trip reviews, or have a look through our Yardage Book, where you’ll find answers to many of our most frequently asked questions.

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