Often a favorite of visitors because of the dramatic ocean front holes, Cruden Bay requires all clubs in the bag (2015 Golf Magazine ranked #77 in the world). Opened in 1926, Cruden Bay Golf Club lies 24 miles up the north coast from Aberdeen. The golf course is an unspoiled par-70 links par excellence, and a secluded sanctuary in the true Scottish tradition. The view from the new clubhouse is stunning; most of the holes are visible from this high vantage point, winding in and out of formidable dunes along the spectacular coastline; and between the course and the sparkling blue sea are the famous sands of Cruden Bay itself, which are allegedly as "smooth and firm as the floor of a cathedral". The course has all the requirements needed to assume cult status. Some holes are, granted, a little on the tricky side. The par-five 13th demands a blind pitch for the third shot, the 14th measures 372 yards and presents almost no view of the fairway from the tee, and absolutely no sight of the green from the fairway. This golf course epitomizes the old-fashioned style of links golf. From the course one can see the castle which Bram Stoker used as inspiration for “Dracula”.
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