Course: Moray Golf Club
Location: Lossiemouth
Brief description: These 2 courses arguably are the jewel in the Moray Firth crown. They've been there a long time and with a clubhouse that commands the views over the courses and sea, this really does deserve the accolade of 'spectacular'. Parking at the clubhouse is like hens teeth but there is a huge area by the sea front where you can park before checking in at the pro shop. The clubhouse is uphill from the Pro shop.
What to expect of the Old course: A true and demanding links course that takes you from the clubhouse over a B road to the outskirts on the RAF base where, if you're lucky you'll see the shimmer as jets take off and land. You'll certainly hear them! Back over the road and then to the beach side where, if the wind is favourable, there is a good stretch of birdie opportunities on the way home. Of course if the wind is less favourable, it's a tough finish! The 18th in any wind with its raised green, is just a delight to hit in 2 shots.
What to expect of the New course: Wander down to the 1st on the New course which starts at the 1st green/18th tee on the Old. The New is mostly inside the Old, but escapes out to the adjacent boundary with the nearby caravan park. It is shorter but has smaller greens and is tighter. It is no less of a challenge and were it here on its own, would be raved about.
What to expect of the overall visit: Go and play both courses. Use the wonderful clubhouse with its ornate features and look at its history, which adorns the hallway. If you're lucky you might even get a bay window seat and watch as golfers try and fail, or succeed to get home in 2 to the 18th on the Old. Even if they do, it's not a guaranteed 2 putts on this huge green. This is undoubtedly one of the best value venues in Scotland, which in recent years has been nudged aside by the demand for the newer trophy courses. Miss this at your peril!
Website: http://www.moraygolf.co.uk/
