Carnoustie Golf Links

Even without the constant wind that Scotland is known for the Championship Carnoustie golf course often lives up to its more descriptive moniker – “Carnastie.” Considered one of the most difficult courses on the modern Open Championship rota, conquering Carnoustie Links is high on most players list for a St Andrews golf trip.

Located only 45 minutes across St Andrews Bay from the “Home of Golf”, Carnoustie golf is made up of 4 quality courses – The Championship Course, The Burnside Course, The Buddon Course and The Westie, a short course designed for juniors beginning the game and other looking to hone their short game.

Golf is in the DNA of Carnoustie residents. Like most areas of Scotland, the playing of “gowff” or “gawf” predates formal courses and in the case of Carnoustie links it can be traced back at least to the 16th century. The Carnoustie Golf Club, the oldest “Artisan” golf club in the world, was formed at Carnoustie in 1839.

Anyone that plays golf in the United States owes a debt of gratitude to the former golfers of Carnoustie. In the beginning of the 20th century over 300 proficient golfers immigrated from Angus to Australia and the United States.

It was the golfers from Carnoustie that helped establish the PGAs of both America and Australia. Their knowledge of the game was legendary, and the great Bobby Jones was taught by a Carnoustie native, Stewart Maiden at East Lake. Perhaps Carnoustie’s finest – the Smith brothers – Willie, Alex and MacDonald won three US Opens between them and contended in many others.