Golf
With challenging dunes links swept by North Sea breezes, northeast Scotland is known for good golf.
You can expect to pay more than £100 for a round of world-class golf at courses in and around Aberdeen.
Murcar Links Golf Club. Sea views and a variety of rugged terrain—from sand dunes to tinkling burns—are the highlights of this course, founded in 1909. It's most famous for breathtaking vistas at the 7th hole, appropriately called the Serpentine. Designer Archibald Simpson considered this course to be one of his finest. Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, Aberdeen City, AB23 88D. 01224/704354; www.murcarlinks.com. £110 weekdays, £135 weekends.
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club. This venerable club, founded in 1780, is the archetypal Scottish links course: tumbling over uneven ground, with the frequently added hazard of sea breezes. Prickly gorse is inclined to close in and form an additional hurdle. The two courses are tucked behind the rough, grassy sand dunes, and there are surprisingly few views of the sea. One historical note: in 1783 this club originated the five-minute-search rule for a lost ball. A handicap certificate and letter of introduction are required. Visitors are allowed only on weekdays. Links Rd., Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, Aberdeen City, AB23 8AT. 01224/702571; www.royalaberdeengolf.com. Balgownie, £190; Silverburn, £70. Reservations essential.
