Best golf resorts in Scotland

Scotland is, without a doubt, the best place in the world to play golf. Not only are you spoilt for choice with a wide range of Open Championship courses, the Home of Golf, and a plethora of hidden gems, but you can also find world-famous golf resorts.

The likes of Gleneagles, Turnberry, and Fairmont St. Andrews are, when it comes to a Scottish golf break, perfect, with everything you need located on-site.

Experience luxurious accommodation, Michelin-starred restaurants, and golf that leaves you wanting more, as we explore the very best golf resorts in Scotland…

To create this list, we selected all resorts with at least 85 reviews and ranked them based on customer feedback, ensuring a ranking that reflects public opinion.

Location: South Ayrshire | Review Rating: 4.8 | Best for: Championship golf

Trump Turnberry set along Scotland’s breathtaking west coast, is a five-star resort renowned for its luxury and golfing prestige. The hotel’s iconic hilltop setting offers stunning panoramic views over the coastline and its championship golf courses. Guests are welcomed with warm Scottish hospitality before checking into lavishly appointed rooms, featuring comfortable beds, elegant bathrooms, and state-of-the-art amenities.

Beyond the accommodation, Turnberry’s world-class spa ensures relaxation, while a variety of exceptional dining options—including the fine dining 1906 restaurant and the casual Duel in the Sun Clubhouse—cater to every taste. You’ll be talking about this golf break for years to come!

The Ailsa Course is the jewel in Turnberry’s crown, and one of Scotland's best golf courses, having hosted four Open Championships, including the legendary "Duel in the Sun" between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson in 1977. This classic Scottish links course, seamlessly blending tradition with pristine modern conditioning, takes players along the coastline with dramatic tee shots over sand dunes and the famous Lighthouse Halfway Hut providing a memorable mid-round stop.

Unveiled in 2017, Turnberry’s second golf course went through major restructuring and was renamed King Robert the Bruce, after Scotland’s famous King! It plays slightly more inland than its big brother on the clifftop, offering spectacular views, and its well-manicured condition makes it a very enjoyable golf course.

Key features:

• Home to the legendary Ailsa Course, ranked as the 2nd best course in Scotland by Top 100 Golf Courses and the 8th greatest in the world by Golf Digest!
• King Robert the Bruce Course, a masterpiece offering stunning coastal views and ranked 40th in Scotland by Top 100 Golf Courses.
• Unforgettable golfing experience, including tee shots over sand dunes, the Lighthouse Halfway Hut, and breathtaking views of Ailsa Craig.

Why stay here?

Ideal for those seeking a world-class championship golf experience in an unparalleled coastal setting, with the luxury and service that make Turnberry a bucket-list destination for golfers.

Location: Perth | Review Rating: 4.8 | Best for: Championship golf

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s breathtaking countryside, Gleneagles is one of the world’s most prestigious golf resorts. The grand French chateau-style hotel exudes elegance, offering sumptuous accommodations that have attracted celebrities and royalty alike. The resort’s five-star luxury extends beyond golf, with a world-class spa and a range of outdoor pursuits, including fishing, shooting, falconry, and horse riding, making it a haven for both golfers and leisure seekers.

Gleneagles boasts three championship golf courses, each designed by golfing legends. The PGA Centenary Course, crafted by Jack Nicklaus, has hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and 2019 Solheim Cup, both of which saw Europe secure dramatic victories. Featuring pristine fairways, undulating greens, and breathtaking views, the course is a must-play for any serious golfer.

The first courses built at Gleneagles were designed by the legendary James Braid. Now over 100 years old, The King’s and The Queen’s golf courses have stood the test of time and are favourites amongst Golfbreaks customers as they thread their way through stunning Scottish landscapes, creating a fun challenge that includes water hazards, bunkers and much more.

Key features:

• Three championship courses, including the PGA Centenary Course, host of the 2014 Ryder Cup & 2019 Solheim Cup.
• Historic James Braid designs – the King’s, ranked 16th in Scotland, & Queen’s, ranked 25th by Top 100 Golf Courses.
• Luxury five-star resort with world-class spa, fine dining, and extensive leisure facilities.
• Enjoy fishing, shooting, falconry, horse riding, and more amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.

Why stay here? Gleneagles offers an unparalleled blend of championship golf, luxury, and outdoor adventure.

Location: Ayrshire | Review Rating: 4.7 | Best for: Golfers seeking variety

Set along the shores of Cameron House is one of Scotland’s most breathtaking five-star resorts, blending historic charm with modern luxury. The 18th-century Baronial Mansion offers lavish accommodations, a world-class spa, and four exceptional restaurants, including Tamburrini & Wishart, where Michelin-starred chef Martin Wishart delivers a fine dining experience.

Beyond golf, Cameron House is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering paddle-boarding on Loch Lomond, off-road mountain biking, shooting, and falconry. The resort’s marina and private boat tours allow guests to experience the majestic loch up close, making it an idyllic retreat for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor exploration.

Cameron House has two golf courses that couldn't be more different. The Carrick championship 18-hole course meanders its way through an area of outstanding natural beauty, while The Wee Demon threads a delicate path through the estate grounds to The Boat House and Marina on the loch, offering spectacular views throughout.

Key features:

• The Carrick Championship Course, an 18-hole scenic masterpiece set amidst Loch Lomond’s breathtaking landscape.
• The Wee Demon, a challenging 9-hole course winding through the estate and marina.
• Outdoor adventures, including paddle-boarding, boating, falconry, and mountain biking on the loch and surrounding countryside.
• Michelin-star dining and a world-class spa, offering the ultimate relaxation experience.

Why stay here?

Cameron House is perfect for those seeking stunning golf, fun adventures, and unforgettable outdoor experiences in one of Scotland’s most beautiful locations.

Location: St Andrews | Review Rating: 4.6 | Best for: Historic and championship golf

Set on the rugged Scottish coastline, just minutes from St Andrews, Fairmont St Andrews is one of our leading stay & play golf resorts in Scotland. Blending modern elegance with traditional Scottish charm, the resort offers lavish rooms, tranquil spa facilities, and world-class dining.

In addition to the elegant hotel rooms, Fairmont St Andrews offers Manor Homes, located just off The Torrance Course. These homes away from home are perfect for groups. Before you head out onto the golf course, make sure to take your time during breakfast and visit all the stations at this mouth-watering buffet.

A golf lover’s paradise, Fairmont St Andrews boasts two championship courses – The Torrance and The Kittocks. The former is the most famous of the two, having hosted prestigious events like the European Tour, however, they are both championship quality and will leave you wanting more.

These layouts offer the perfect Scottish links experience with long, thick rough, gorse, and undulating fairways - they’re certainly designed for more experienced golfers and when the coastal winds are up, it can be quite the test. However, once you finish and enjoy your post-round drink in the clubhouse with the sunset views, you’ll want to do it all over again!

Beyond golf, guests can take advantage of the resort’s complimentary shuttle into St Andrews town centre, where they can walk the legendary Old Course, visit the Golf Museum, or snap a photo on the iconic Swilcan Bridge. Whether you’re on the fairways or exploring golf’s most historic landmarks, Fairmont St Andrews is a bucket-list destination.

Key features:

• Two championship courses – The Torrance Course, a former European Tour host, and The Kittocks Course, both ranked in the top 100 golf courses in Scotland.
• Free shuttle to St Andrews, allowing guests to explore the Home of Golf and its rich history.
• World-class spa and leisure facilities, perfect for post-round relaxation.
• Exceptional dining options, including a famous Scottish breakfast buffet.

Why stay here?

Fairmont St Andrews is ideal for golfers seeking a luxury stay near St Andrews with championship golf, five-star amenities, and easy access to golf’s most historic sites.

Location: Edinburgh | Review Rating: 4.5 | Best for: Golfers seeking variety

Set within 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club is a historic four-star resort offering a blend of luxury, golf, and Scottish charm just a ‘wee’ drive from Edinburgh. The hotel features over 200 elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each combining modern comforts with traditional Scottish style.

Around the hotel you will come across a pool and spa ready to recuperate any golfers who have had a tough day on the course. And for any non-golfers in your party, a day spent relaxing is a day well spent, and this spa offers you just that! There are numerous dining options at Dalmahoy including The Brasserie which has a relaxed ambience, a great place to enjoy a post-golf dinner and drink, whilst the Pentland Restaurant offers a much more formal dining experience with beautifully prepared Scottish dishes.

There are two courses to choose from at Dalmahoy, the East and West. The former has hosted events including The Solheim Cup and Scottish Seniors Open, and is a true test for any golfer, requiring power and accuracy to navigate round the wide and undulating fairways. The West Course is a little more forgiving, and if you’re short for time, you can run round this course in no more than 2 hours.

Away from the golf course, this resort is located perfectly if you would like to venture into Edinburgh for a day’s worth of activities, including Edinburgh Zoo and a variety of history and art museums, or for perusing the many shops, cafes, and bars that this incredible city has to offer.

Key features:

• Two contrasting golf courses – The Championship East Course and the more forgiving West Course.
• World-class spa and leisure facilities, ideal for relaxation.
• Multiple dining options, from casual brasserie meals to fine Scottish cuisine.
• Close proximity to Edinburgh, perfect for sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences.

Why stay here?

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club is perfect for golfers looking for variety, with two distinct courses catering to different skill levels. Its proximity to Edinburgh also makes it an ideal choice for those wanting to mix golf and the city.

Location: Cardrona | Review Rating: 4.4 | Best for: Nature & tranquility

Macdonald Cardrona Hotel is an hour’s drive south of Edinburgh, making it easily accessible whether you’re flying into the city or driving across the country. With less than 100 guest rooms, the hotel provides a private and exclusive feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and seclusion. The spacious, modern rooms ensure comfort, while the AA Rosette-awarded restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced cuisine, giving guests a true taste of Scotland.

For those looking to unwind, the luxurious spa and wellness facilities offer the perfect escape. Whether it’s a relaxing treatment, a dip in the pool, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, the hotel is designed for total rest and rejuvenation.

The on-site Championship Golf Course is a hidden gem, stretching 7,000 yards from the back tees, yet remaining accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels. The natural Scottish countryside provides a breathtaking backdrop, with wide fairways, rolling terrain, and unique hole layouts featuring elevated greens and tees. Whether you're playing a leisurely round or testing yourself from the tips, Cardrona’s course blends beauty with a rewarding challenge.

Key features:

• Tranquil countryside setting in the Scottish Borders, perfect for relaxation.
• Challenging yet playable 7,000-yard golf course, catering to all abilities.
• Luxury spa and wellness facilities, ideal for unwinding after a round.
• AA Rosette-awarded restaurant, serving fresh, seasonal Scottish cuisine.

Why stay here?

With a scenic championship course, luxurious spa, and intimate atmosphere, Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa is perfect for those seeking a peaceful golf retreat in nature.