Braemar

The course lies on the floor of the valley through which Clunie Water flows north from Glenshee. 100 years old in 2002, it was resplendent for the golfing celebrations and, believe me, was packed with golfers all season. This was in spite of it, first, being the furthest west venue on Deeside from the main towns and, second, more than a thousand feet above sea level. At just under 5,000 yards the course is short; the emphasis is therefore on accuracy and solid iron play. The majority of the greens are smallish, but the putting surfaces are splendid. It is quite amazing, given the heath base and the height of the location, that green staff can create such a high standard of course presentation. There are memorable holes all around and against an almost permanent backdrop of mountains you see the flight of the ball from start to finish. It’s an experience not to be missed.