Scotland is the birthplace of golf and perfect for the travelling
golfer; there is perhaps no more evocative journey than the traverse from the manicured,
inland majesty of Gleneagles to the wild, wind-swept dunes of Cruden Bay. This road trip
was a pilgrimage through the history of the game, taking in Ryder Cup venues, Open
Championship tests, and the quirky "hidden gems" that define the Scottish links
experience.
The journey began in the rolling hills of Perthshire, Auchterarder, a stone's throw from Gleneagles. Known as the
"The Glorious Playground," Gleneagles offers a transition from luxury to the coast's ruggedness.
• The King’s Course: A James Braid masterpiece that feels like a moorland links. It is a
test of strategy and shot-making amidst stunning mountain views.
• The PGA Centenary: The site of the Ryder Cup, offering a more modern, American-style challenge that contrasts beautifully with what lies ahead.
Pro Tip: Afternoon tea at Gleneagles is a non-negotiable ritual before you swap the forested fairways for the gorse and grass of the coast.
Next was a Coastal Drive through Dundee to Stonehaven
Leaving the highlands behind, the route takes you through the city of Dundee, where the
Tay Bridge offers a gateway to the north-east coast. This stretch of the drive is as much
about the scenery and the stops as it is about the golf.
A mandatory detour leads to the picturesque fishing village of Stonehaven. Nestled on the
coast, its harbour is a perfect place to stretch your legs and soak in the maritime
atmosphere.
• The Ship Inn: Located right on the harbour, this historic inn is a must-visit. It is here
that you will find what many consider the best Cullen Skink in Scotland, a thick,
creamy soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions that is the ultimate comfort
food for a travelling golfer.
As you drive further north toward Aberdeen, the coastline becomes more dramatic. The road offers sweeping views of the North Sea.
• Dunnottar Castle: Just south of Stonehaven, these medieval ruins perched on a cliff
edge are a spectacular detour.
• Trump International Golf Links: A modern marvel carved out of massive, prehistoric
dunes. It is a visual feast, where every tee box offers a panoramic view of the coastline.
• Royal Aberdeen: For those who prefer tradition, the front nine at Royal Aberdeen is
often cited as the finest opening stretch in all of golf.
We arrived at our Home Away from Home: Newburgh and the Udny Arms Hotel
For a truly authentic Scottish experience, base yourself in the heart of Newburgh village.
This quiet coastal settlement is perfectly positioned for exploring the northern links.
The Udny Arms Hotel is a standout choice for accommodation. This fabulous family-owned hotel offers a level of hospitality that is second to none.
• The Rooms: Expect spacious, comfortable, and well-serviced rooms that provide a
welcome retreat after a long day on the links.
• The Hospitality: The personal touches define the stay—don't be surprised to find
delicious home-baked cookies left in your room each day.
• The Food: The hotel serves tasty Scottish fayre, with the locally caught lobster being a
particular highlight for seafood lovers.
The Grand Finale: Cruden Bay
For many golfers, Cruden Bay Golf Course is a fixture at the top of their "to do" list for
years. Originally designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris (and later refined by
Tom Simpson), it is a course that truly lives up to its reputation as a "unique and
memorable experience."
The design is a masterclass in using the natural topography of the dunes. It is not about
"fairness" in the modern sense; it is about the pure, unadulterated joy of the game.
Iconic Holes of Cruden Bay
• The 4th (Port Erroll): Often cited as one of the most scenic par-3s in the world. At
nearly 196 yards, you must carry your shot over a marshy chasm with the Water of
Cruden running along the left and the old fishing village as your backdrop.
• The 9th (Hawklaw): Takes you to the highest point of the course and wow, what a fabulous view of the course, the neighbouring Moray Firth and the Cruden Bay golden beach. Look back and get a generous view of the holes you have played. A definite Kodak moment.
• The 14th (Whins): Famous for its "Bathtub" green. The green is set in a deep,
rectangular hollow, making for one of the most unique putting surfaces you will ever
encounter. A blind approach shot adds to the theatre.
• The 15th (Blin' Dunt): The signature blind par 3. You tee off over a massive dune
toward a green you cannot see, guided only by a marker post. It is a shot of pure faith
and one of the most talked-about holes in Scotland.
The experience at Cruden Bay doesn't end at the 18th green. After the final putt, the
clubhouse beckons with a warmth that matches the spirit of the course itself.
Post-Golf Reflections:
There is nothing quite like the camaraderie found in sharing a
meal and a few drinks while recounting the day's challenges. Whether you're debating
the line on the 15th or celebrating a lucky bounce on the "Bathtub" green, the
clubhouse is the perfect arena for post-round storytelling.
• Spectacular Views: As you enjoy some of the best food of the trip, the views out to the
North Sea and the ruins of Slains Castle provide a hauntingly beautiful backdrop.
• A Warm Farewell: We left Cruden Bay feeling welcomed and elated. The hospitality,
both on and off the course, is what truly elevates this from a simple round of golf to a
life-long memory.
Travel Logistics & Tips
• Best Time to Visit: May to September offers the best weather and the longest daylight
hours (you can often play until 10 PM in June).
• The "Cullen Skink": Don't leave Stonehaven without trying this local delicacy at The
Ship Inn.
• Stay Local: Choosing family-owned hotels like the Udny Arms in Newburgh adds a layer
of warmth and authenticity to your trip.
• Booking: For Gleneagles or St Andrews and Cruden Bay, book well in advance (often months) to secure prime tee times.
Cruden Bay, it is an experience that stays with you long after the final putt has dropped.
"Cruden Bay is a course that makes you feel like a child again. It’s golf as it was meant to
be: unpredictable, breathtaking, and utterly unforgettable. It is the ultimate finale to a
Scottish road trip."
