Best Value Highland Golf
Round £29 ( any day). Par 70. Value (out of 5) – 5
The Signature 9th at Grantown on Spey
Grantown-on-Spey is in the Strathspey area of The Highlands, an important location for whiskey and salmon fishing lovers, both of which benefit from the waters of the Spey river.
The difficult drive at 10th tee
This course was formed in 1890 and designed by Willie Park with assistance from James Braid. Unlike some if its neighbouring “highland” courses, Grantown is a traditional parkland course, with holes 7-12 played through some hilly woodland, without the expected broom and heather.
12th green Grantown on Spey
In many ways I think Grantown is overshadowed by the nearby Boat of Garten course, which gets so many accolades, although it is a similar length to “The Boat”, and represents a good challenge for all.
In terms of condition, it is unparalleled in the area in my view, and gives some of the prestigious more expensive courses a run for their money. One of my visiting playing partners said “the last time I saw a course so well presented was the K-Club during the Ryder Cup!” That’s high praise indeed to the small green keeping staff. Considering it has a £29 round change on any day, it scores the highest “Value for Money” rating of 5. It also has a well presented clubhouse with all the expected facilities.
The well bunkered par 3 16th
The ‘signature’ hole is the 275 yard 9th, a short downhill par 4 with a spectacular backdrop of the Cromdale Hills. There are also views of the Cairngorms. There are some difficult holes with out of bounds coming into play regularly for both “hookers” and “slicers” – no-one is safe. My favourite holes are the 3rd, 7th, 10th, 12th and 15th. The only tips I would give are take enough club at the par 3 8th and 11th, both played uphill. Also, don’t have a disaster in the middle of your round like I did (12 over for the 13th, 14th and 15th – my 32 Stableford points tells I played well otherwise).
The 17th green – Grantown on Spey
Go out of your way to play Grantown, it is amongst the best value golf anywhere in the world.
Some Facts
Course Type: Parkland
Par 70 (1 par 5, 14 par 4s, 34 par 3s)
Distance (white) 5710 yards
Moly’s Gross Score 96
Moly’s Grantown scorecard – 96