📸 The 16th hole at Dundonald Links - One of Scotland's most photogenic par-3s
Scotland's links courses represent the purest form of golf, where the game was born and where it continues to challenge and inspire golfers from around the world. These coastal gems offer a unique blend of natural beauty, strategic complexity, and historical significance that cannot be replicated anywhere else.
🏌️Understanding Links Golf
Links golf is fundamentally different from parkland or resort courses. The firm, fast-running fairways, natural hazards, and ever-changing wind conditions create a game that rewards creativity, course management, and adaptability over pure power.
⚡Key Characteristics of Links Courses
Firm, Fast Fairways
The ball runs significantly further, requiring different club selection and approach strategies.
Natural Hazards
Pot bunkers, gorse, and rough that can swallow golf balls whole.
Wind Factor
Coastal winds can change direction and intensity throughout the round.
Course Gallery
🎯Essential Strategy Tips
Success on links courses requires a different mindset and approach. Here are the key strategies our founders have learned from playing over 50 links courses across Scotland:
Read the Wind
Always check wind direction on the first tee. What plays as a driver on a calm day might be a 7-iron into a headwind.
Embrace the Ground Game
Use the firm fairways to your advantage. A well-struck 6-iron can often travel as far as a soft 4-iron.
Respect the Rough
Links rough is unforgiving. Sometimes taking your medicine and playing out sideways is the smart play.
Course Management
Play to your strengths and avoid trouble. Par is always a good score on links courses.
Pro Sherpa Tip
"I always carry an extra layer and rain gear, even on sunny days. Scottish weather can change in minutes, and being prepared keeps you focused on your game rather than the conditions."
About Steven Coutts
Founder of Golf Sherpa and links golf enthusiast with over 20 years of experience playing Scotland's finest courses.
