Breath-taking scenery, but your “A” game is required if you want to truly enjoy the views! 

Summary:  Cost £40 (midweek pm).  Par 72.  Score 102.  Value (out of 5) – 4.5

140807_Spey Valley 18th Andy approach

Andy’s approach to the 18th with the Cairgorm mountains in view (note the rain on the right!)

Detail: Spey Valley, designed by the renowned architect Dave Thomas, is part of the McDonald Aviemore hotel resort.  It is a magnificent golf course that feels much more mature than its actual age and is now an established part of the European Challenge Tour, hosting the Scottish Hydro Challenge (2009-2014).  The scenery of the Cairngorm mountain range is breath-taking and Spey Valley, arguably, has the best golf views from any course in the UK.

The formidable approach shot to the 15th green

The formidable approach shot to the 15th green

The course is a significant test at over 7000 yards from the white tees with a SS of 75, versus a par of 72.  It’s a very traditional layout with 4 par 3s and 4 par 5s, with the 5th being Scotland’s longest hole at 635 yds (608 yds off Yellow!).  The par 3s are particularly challenging and I needed a wood from the tee on them all.  The heath and the heather are always close by to eat up your precious golf balls, so make sure you stock up well before starting.

Spey Valley's version of the "spectacles" on the 7th - in range with a driver.

Spey Valley’s version of the “spectacles” on the 7th – in range with a driver.

Andy Needham and Alvin Hopley of the Army GC on the 7th tee

Andy Needham and Alvin Hopley of the Army GC

I played with Alvin Hopley (8 hcp) and Andy Needham (19 hcp), both of the Army GC; we played a three-ball match play game, using the 6 points/per hole format.  Alvin and I halved, both narrowly beating Andy.  In truth the golf course soundly beat all 3 of us and this on a day blessed with sunshine and only a light highland breeze.   I scored 102, but the local assistant pro advised that many people never break 100 on this monster.

Take your A game or lots of balls - probably both!

Take your A game or lots of balls – probably both!

At a £40 green fee, which also received 20% discount because I played free using a Golfcare voucher, this course is also incredible value.  However, either ensure you take your A game, or just accept that the fee is worth it for the views alone whilst having a drink in the lovely little bar with its nice terrace area.

 

 

Key Facts

Course Type: Parkland/Heathland

Green Fees:   Variable Summer PM (not twilight): £40

Par 72 (4 par 5s, 10 par 4s, 4 par 3s)

Distance(white): 7071 yards

Moly’s Gross score: 102

Moly’s scorecard – 102 with 3 lost balls