For golf enthusiasts, Scotland is not just another destination—it’s the pilgrimage site, the birthplace of golf and home to some of the most celebrated courses in the world. From the legendary fairways of St Andrews to the dramatic coastal stretches of Turnberry, every course is steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
But visiting these iconic greens is about more than just the game. The journey itself is part of the experience. Choosing a private minibus tour with Sixstar Bespoke Tours means travelling in comfort, enjoying the flexibility of a bespoke itinerary, and immersing yourself fully in Scotland’s golfing heritage without the stress of logistics.
In this guide, we highlight the top Scottish golf courses you should visit with a private minibus tour. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer ticking courses off your bucket list or a casual player wanting to blend golf with sightseeing, this is your ultimate guide to a luxury Scottish golf adventure.
St Andrews Old Course – The Home of Golf
No golfing journey is complete without visiting St Andrews Old Course. Known as the “Home of Golf,” it is where the sport was first played more than 600 years ago. Its fairways are legendary, its bunkers notorious, and the Swilcan Bridge is one of the most photographed spots in golf.
- Highlights: The iconic Hell Bunker, the 17th Road Hole, and the town’s rich golfing heritage.
- Why visit with a private minibus: St Andrews can get crowded. With a private tour, you can arrive in comfort, explore not just the Old Course but also the R&A World Golf Museum, and enjoy the town’s historic charm without worrying about parking or schedules.
A round here is not just golf—it’s stepping into history.
Carnoustie – Scotland’s Toughest Test
Nicknamed “Car-nasty,” Carnoustie Golf Links is one of the toughest challenges in the world of golf. Its reputation comes from its demanding layout, unpredictable coastal winds, and fiendish bunkers.
- Highlights: Host to multiple Open Championships, and famous for Jean Van de Velde’s collapse at the 1999 Open.
- Why it’s a must: If you want to test yourself against the course that professionals fear, this is the place.
Travelling by private minibus means you can arrive focused and prepared, knowing you’ll return afterwards in comfort, whether triumphant or humbled.
Kingsbarns – A Modern Classic
A short drive from St Andrews lies Kingsbarns Golf Links, a course that may be relatively young (opened in 2000) but already ranks among the world’s top 100. Its sweeping sea views and natural flow through dunes make it feel as timeless as the classics.
- Highlights: The par-5 12th hole running alongside the coast is breathtaking.
- Why choose a private tour: Combine Kingsbarns with St Andrews and Carnoustie for the ultimate Fife golfing triangle—seamlessly linked by your private minibus.
Royal Troon – Championship Pedigree
Situated on the Ayrshire coast, Royal Troon is a classic links that has hosted The Open multiple times. It’s a course that combines historic prestige with some of the trickiest holes in golf.
- Highlights: The par-3 8th hole, known as the “Postage Stamp,” is one of the most famous short holes in the world.
- Why a private minibus: Ayrshire is home to several world-class courses, including Turnberry. With a private tour, you can explore the best of this golfing coast in a stress-free journey.
Turnberry Ailsa – Coastal Grandeur
Turnberry Ailsa, often described as one of the most beautiful courses in the world, is perched dramatically along the Ayrshire coastline. The views of Ailsa Craig and the iconic lighthouse make it as visually stunning as it is challenging.
- Highlights: Recently redesigned, it’s widely regarded as one of the best links experiences on the planet.
- Private tour advantage: Travel in style to this remote corner of Scotland, combining Turnberry with Royal Troon for an unforgettable Ayrshire golfing double.
Castle Stuart – Highlands Excellence
In the north of Scotland near Inverness, Castle Stuart Golf Links (now part of Cabot Highlands) offers a dramatic blend of history and modern design. Hugging the Moray Firth, its rolling fairways and panoramic views have made it a must-play since its opening.
- Highlights: A favourite among pros during the Scottish Open, and perfectly placed to combine with Highland sightseeing.
- Why private tours work here: With a minibus, you can travel comfortably from Inverness to the course and beyond—perhaps even adding a whisky distillery visit to round off the day.
Royal Aberdeen – Historic and Rugged
Dating back to 1780, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club is one of the oldest in the world. Its front nine, weaving through massive dunes along the North Sea, is considered among the best in links golf.
- Highlights: Its challenging layout, history, and wild, windswept beauty.
- Why with Sixstar: Aberdeen is a little off the main tourist trail. A private minibus tour makes it easy to combine this classic course with a wider exploration of northeast Scotland.
Loch Lomond Golf Club – Parkland Elegance
Unlike the windswept links, Loch Lomond Golf Club offers lush parkland beauty along the shores of Scotland’s most famous loch. Exclusive and private, it’s a course that blends natural beauty with golfing luxury.
- Highlights: Breathtaking Loch Lomond views and immaculate fairways.
- Why it belongs on your itinerary: It offers a completely different style of golf from the rugged coastal links, making it a refreshing addition to a golf tour.
The Carrick at Loch Lomond – Scenic Golf for All
Not far from Loch Lomond Golf Club, The Carrick provides stunning views over the loch and Ben Lomond. Its accessible design welcomes golfers of varying abilities, making it a great choice for groups.
With a private minibus, you can enjoy a full day at Loch Lomond—playing The Carrick, dining by the water, and even combining it with a whisky distillery or sightseeing tour.
Why Choose a Private Minibus Golf Tour?
Stress-Free Travel
Golf tours often involve multiple courses in different regions. Driving, parking, and navigating unfamiliar roads can detract from the enjoyment. A private minibus ensures you travel stress-free, focusing only on the game.
Comfort and Convenience
Modern minibuses offer spacious seating, climate control, and plenty of room for golf clubs and luggage. After a long day on the course, you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.
Bespoke Itineraries
With Sixstar Golf Tours, your itinerary is designed around your needs. Want to combine golf with sightseeing or whisky tasting? Prefer early tee times and luxury dining? It’s all tailored to you.
Local Knowledge
Your driver-guide adds depth to your journey, sharing insights into Scotland’s golfing history, local culture, and hidden gems along the way.
A Sample Sixstar Golf Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh
- Explore the city and enjoy dinner with live Scottish music.
Day 2: St Andrews Old Course & Kingsbarns
- Play the iconic Old Course in the morning.
- Afternoon round at Kingsbarns.
Day 3: Carnoustie
- Take on one of the toughest tests in golf.
- Evening whisky tasting en route back.
Day 4: Royal Troon & Turnberry
- Morning round at Royal Troon.
- Afternoon at the stunning Turnberry Ailsa.
Day 5: Loch Lomond & The Carrick
- Parkland perfection with a lakeside view.
- End your trip with a celebratory dinner on the shores of Loch Lomond.
This itinerary can be customised with Sixstar’s personalised tours, ensuring your golf trip is as unique as your swing.
Conclusion
Scotland is a golfer’s paradise, with courses that are as historic as they are challenging, and landscapes that take your breath away. From the sacred fairways of St Andrews to the coastal drama of Turnberry, every course tells a story.
With Sixstar Bespoke Tours, you can experience these courses in the ultimate comfort and style. Whether you book a dedicated golf tour, design your own itinerary with our personalised tours, or are ready to book today, we make every detail seamless.
For more information or to plan your dream golf adventure, visit our contact page or call us on 07999 161 852 or 01875 586 558. Let Sixstar Bespoke Tours take you on a golfing journey where luxury travel meets legendary greens.