Most people journey to Scotland to play the established traditional links courses, but the newest kid on the block is bringing them back to Scotland.

Castle Stuart opened last year to great fanfare, as it is the second ambitious project by Mark Parsinen, the visionary behind Kingsbarns near St. Andrews. Located just outside of Inverness and minutes from the airport, Castle Stuart is the latest must-play course in the Highlands.

With a decidedly American approach, Parsinen teamed up with Gil Hanse to build a course that is designed to send golfers home with a smile.

The generous fairways mean most tee shots provide an approach from the short stuff. Almost every green has the gorgeous backdrop of the Moray Firth, which often includes Fort George, the Chanonry Lighthouse or the Kessock Bridge.  Yet my favourite view is looking down 130 feet at the starting holes.

The beautiful art deco clubhouse, the service-oriented bag drop-off and conveniently located driving range together give the course a modern feel.
This is Scottish links from an American's POV, which means great seaside sandy-based terrain combined with the level of service one finds at home.

Welcome to Castle Stuart

Walking to the first tee

Hole #11, a par 3, yet another green using the Moray Firth to play tricks on the eyes

Over half the holes have greens that appear to be on the edge of the Firth

The 13th tee box for the amateur golfer at 363 yards ...

The 13th tee box for the pro golfer is above the bench and back 50 yards

The fairways may be generous, but the bunkers are punitive

A great view from the top plateau looking 130 ft down to the starting holes of each 9

The beautiful art deco clubhouse

 

Lastly, Loch Lomond declined the Barclays Scottish Open this year, opening up an opportunity for Castle Stuart to host the tournament. Traditionally held the week before The Open, the return to a links course should attract a few more North Americans looking for a warm-up before Royal St. Georges in July.  Many are curious to see how the course stands up to the pros as they tackle Scotland newest great course at 7400 yards from the championship tees.

Next up: Royal Dornoch