Welcome to the Isle of Colonsay Golf Club, a true gem of a links course located on the picturesque Isle of Colonsay. This members-only club boasts an 18-hole golf course that holds a rich history, dating back over 200 years. It's believed that golf was first played here in 1775, and the course has been an integral part of island life since the late 19th century.
Nestled on the west coast of the island, the course offers stunning views of the surrounding sea and the fringes of neighbouring islands. Situated on indigenous machair - short grass growing in sandy soil - it exemplifies the finest Scottish links golf courses. With two beautiful sandy Hebridean bays on its western edge and two burns crossing through, the natural beauty of the landscape truly enhances the golfing experience.
This historic course, laid out by a professional in the 1930s, has retained much of its original charm. Despite not featuring traditional bunkers, golfers will encounter sheep scrapes, which some believe to be the origin of modern-day bunkers. Local rules allow preferred lies on fairways and a free drop for balls disappearing into rabbit holes or being taken by the ravens, adding a touch of unique play to the game.
Measuring 4,752 yards, the course presents an enjoyable challenge, with four par 5s, eight par 4s, and six par 3s. The par 5s, while shorter in yardage, have been designated as such due to their level of difficulty. For instance, at the 391-yard seventh hole, The Fank, golfers must navigate around an out-of-bounds airstrip, treacherous rough, a ball-eating burn, and a fank (sheepfold), all while avoiding an out-of-bounds fence at the back of the green.
History buffs will appreciate that the Isle of Colonsay Golf Club was founded in 1930, making it a storied and cherished part of the island's heritage. Today, it continues to be a place where golfers can enjoy the game amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Hebridean landscape, with peaceful surroundings and the freedom to play at their own pace. So, if you seek a golfing experience that blends history, natural wonder, and a touch of challenge, the Isle of Colonsay Golf Club is where you belong.
