Join Kevin Markham on a Golf Odyssey Along Scotland’s North Coast 500

Join Kevin Markham on a Golf Odyssey Along Scotland’s North Coast 500

Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, is where the excitement begins! Have you ever dreamed of a journey that combines breathtaking scenery and incredible golf? Well, buckle up because that’s exactly what the North Coast 500 offers. Launched in 2015, this magnificent driving route takes you around 500 miles of one of the UK’s most stunning landscapes, starting from the charming city of Inverness and winding north right up to John O’Groats. It’s a trip infused with the thrill of golf and the beauty of nature!

Golfing Nirvana Awaits

The NC500 isn’t just about driving; it’s about stopping and savoring every moment along the way. Picture this: 27 glorious golf courses dotting the route. From Royal Dornoch, one of the most famous courses, to hidden gems that only seasoned golfers know about, it’s a dream come true for golf enthusiasts. Kevin Markham took it upon himself to explore all 27 of these courses within a remarkable span of 19 days.

The adventure kicks off in Inverness with a round at the parkland course before moving to Muir of Ord, where golfer’s paradise meets quirky elements like a railway track running through the course! Just imagine hitting your ball close to the track and keeping your eyes peeled for the scenic trains dashing by!

Old Tom’s Legacy

Can you believe that some of these courses have roots going back centuries? Navigating through places like Tain Golf Club, designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris himself, is like stepping back in time! Oh, and don’t forget your camera at Fortrose & Rosemarkie (F&R)—a course where the sparkling Moray Firth dances in the background.

As Kevin embarked on his journey, it wasn’t just the iconic holes that captured his heart; it was the magical transition from one course to another. At Golspie, for example, you can stride through enchanting links and heathland seamlessly. Who wouldn’t want to putt on such exquisite terrain?

Explorations Beyond Golf

What’s a road trip without some fabulous whisky? As you swing by Tain, the Glenmorangie distillery is a must-see! But don’t stop there—Kevin had heard whispers of the Balblair distillery, known for its exquisite taste, waiting for him close to Bonar Bridge.

Every golfer knows that unforgettable charm often lies in unexpected delights. From the prestigious Royal Dornoch to the lesser-known but equally spectacular Wick, there’s no reason to limit oneself to only the fancy courses. Durness, the farthest north-west point on the route, is where you’ll find an endearing nine-hole course with spectacular views from high above the sea. This is where golf meets divine aesthetics!

Lessons from the Links

If you think that the allure of a perfectly manicured golf course is what makes the game special, think again! Kevin’s run along the northern coastline opened his eyes to the genuine essence of the sport. He discovered quaint nine-hole courses like Helmsdale, where a community spirit prevails, and where grass isn’t always mown to perfection.

These hidden spots celebrate golf as it once was—a raw, honest, and fulfilling experience. Golfers at Helmsdale gathered in the enchantingly dawning light of morning, ready to embrace every measure of laughter and camaraderie.

Breathtaking Landscapes

As you drive along the rugged coast, prepare to have your jaw drop! The sharp peaks of Ben Loval and Ben Hiel that might just remind you of that terrifying land of Mordor! Every twist and turn leads you to pristine beaches, mesmerizing dunes, and views so majestic that you’ll question reality itself.

Final Thoughts

So, whether you can spare the time for a thorough 19-day exploration or just a long weekend, the North Coast 500 is beckoning. Golf buffs and nature enthusiasts alike will find something extraordinary amongst the thriving landscapes and distinct courses. After all, who wouldn’t want to discover their favorite course while basking in the unparalleled beauty of Scotland’s Highlands?

Get ready to create some unforgettable memories on this remarkable journey—you won’t regret it!