The Fantastic Nairn Golf Course
The greatest charm of Nairn Golf Course is that you can see Moray Firth from every hole. It is easy to be hypnotized by the stunning views of the waters and the golden hues and changing lights of the Black Isle. Beware! Do not let it bewitch you; it is not at all difficult to strike the ball into the sea on each of the first seven holes!
Nairn is very traditional golf links course of Scotland, created on the wilderness of the highlands on the shores of Moray Firth, founded in 1887. One of the lesser known gems of Scotland it now ranks among the best courses in the country and has even hosted the prestigious Walker Cup Tournament.
It was initially designed by Andrew Simpson who later sought the advice of that Grand Old Man of golf, Old Tom Morris. He revised the course entirely and expanded it to the west, over the Earl of Cawdor’s property. Twenty years later, James Braid, five times Open Champion, made some more alterations. Small changes have been made over the decades but the essential character of James Braid’s beloved course has remained unchanged.
The course is challenging and gets progressively more difficult as you do the round. The front nine are somewhat easier, though you do still need your best game. The back nine will trouble the best of players. They can compare with the best anywhere in the world. The fairways are narrow but they are fast and firm. The greens of this undulating course are at an elevation in some parts and in hollows at others. Gorse bushes and heather add to the hazards.
The 5th hole is considered one of the best in the course. The 390yard, par 4 hole called Nets needs a strong straight drive to avoid ending up on the beach. The strong wind requires concentrated accurate drives. There is a mean streak in all the four short holes which are at difficult angles; the 14th being outstanding. Many players however believe that the challenge of the fairways at Nairn Golf Course is nothing compared to the trickery of the greens.