Shiskine The Jewel in the Isle

Shiskine Golf Club: A Delightful Gem on the Isle of Arran

My introduction to Shiskine unfolded on a scorching summer day in 2013, following a golfing retreat at Machrihanish. Could any course match the allure of Machrihanish? The answer revealed itself at Shiskine Golf Club on the Isle of Arran, where every hole resonates with a touch of magic.

A Masterpiece of Design

A short drive from Brodick, across the Isle of Arran, is the village of Blackwaterfoot. It is home to Shiskine Golf Club and offers breath-taking views of the Kilbrannan Sound to the Kintyre Peninsula. Despite boasting only 12 holes, Shiskine is a masterpiece, providing two hours of pure golfing joy. As you wrap up the final hole, a massive smile is almost mandatory, setting the perfect mood for a visit to the clubhouse that opened its doors in 2010.

Not Your Average Short Course

Shiskine is a par 65 course, with only one par 5 and the rest being short par 4s and par 3s. However, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just a pitch and putt. The course presents challenges with blind shots, uphill and downhill slopes, and greens that demand careful consideration. The par 3 third hole, “The Crow’s Nest,” is a prime example. A seemingly impossible tee shot with a cliff of rock in view, this hole is a heart-pounding experience, leaving you in awe of the clever design.

Strategic Challenges and Scenic Beauty

From the elevated 4th tee, capturing the stunning views becomes almost mandatory. The 5th hole looks out to sea, the 6th challenges with out-of-bounds along the right, and the Himalayas (the 7th) features a quirky par 3 with a unique signal system. The 9th hole, the only par 5, invites you to let loose, but beware of the blind second shot. The 10th tee offers a breathtaking panorama, setting the stage for “The Hollows” at the 11th, a blind 196-yard par 3. The finale at the 12th is a cute 120-yard par 3, leaving you eager for more.

Strategic Challenges and Scenic Beauty

Exploring Arran: Beyond the Greens

Arran isn’t just about golf; it’s a haven for enthusiasts of diverse activities. Whether it’s walking, cycling, sailing, kayaking, or water sports, the island has it all. Apart from Shiskine, there are six other golf courses to explore. Don’t forget to indulge in Arran’s local produce and, for whisky enthusiasts, a visit to the Isle of Arran Distillery is a must. For a different olfactory experience, Arran Aromatics, makers of luxury bath products, beckon.

Getting There and the Future of Golf

Arriving from Claonaig to Lochranza or Ardrossan to Brodick, the journey to Arran is as picturesque as the island itself. And as we contemplate the joy of Shiskine, it raises an intriguing prospect: shorter, more enjoyable courses. Perhaps, like in Canada, these could be the key to fostering interest in golf among the younger generation, aligning with the constraints of modern life with a shorter, more exhilarating golfing experience. Shiskine Golf Club – an epitome of golfing delight and a gem on the Isle of Arran.

Platinum Golf Scotland Testimonials

Cannot think of an aspect of our trip that could have been better. The itinerary you created was first rate, and your execution through Alan and James, was flawless. Yours and Stuart’s attention to detail than follow through, were indeed worthy of your “platinum” name. Truly a trip of a lifetime. I would serve as a reference anytime. Thank you so much again.

Best, John. J

I echo everything John said. It was a tremendous, unforgettable trip. Everything was top-notch — accommodations, food, weather, caddies, and all the beautiful courses. I miss my Scottish breakfast! A special tip of my new Scottish tweed hat to all our drivers, especially Alan. He took really good care of us, showed us some interesting local things “off itinerary” and was just a joy to travel with.

Thanks again for all work you did getting me a buggy at each course. It made it all possible for me.

Rex M

Dear Lynda, Sending a short note of thanks for all of the support organizing the trip last week. I can say with confidence this was the best golf trip I’ve ever taken! The itinerary, schedule, accommodations, restaurants and on and on were all great. Special thanks to both you and Stuart for helping to make my 50 year celebration a memorable one. I hope to be able to book another trip again in the future.
All the best,

Brian D

Dear Stuart and Lynda,

I wanted to thank you for a fabulous trip to Scotland last week. You put together the perfect golf and stay package and everything went flawlessly (including really nice weather). We also enjoyed having James as our driver. He was the best! Erick, Jim, Brian and I all had a great time.

This was the definition of a “bucket list” trip and the experience did not disappoint. The only downside is, after nearly a year of anticipation, it is hard to believe the trip is already over and we are back home.

Thank you again. I would definitely love to use you again for future travel and will be very comfortable recommending you to friends and family.

Brian L

Thanks Linda,
Great to meet you both as well.
It was a great time
We will be in touch for sure.
Cheers,

Blair

Marc and I would like to thank you for the beautiful journey you prepared. Everything was well organized, timing, convenience, réservations, etc. All the people we met were so kind to us that we felt just like home. Golf in Scotland is the best place and this east coast is just gorgeous we leave the country with the ambition and hope to be back.

Michel & Marc

It was so nice to meet you and Stuart in person as well. Clearly you take great interest in your clients’ satisfaction, and it shows. As we may have mentioned, we had never been to Scotland or the UK and this trip exceeded all of our expectations. And as lovers of golf, the experience was utterly unforgettable. Thank you again for the lovely gifts you shared with us upon arrival.

We loved our trip. If we booked it again tomorrow (we wish we could!) we wouldn’t change a thing except maybe substitute a different hotel for Loch Green. Thank you for making our “bucket list” trip so special.

Russell & Kelly

Thanks again for a fantastic trip !

We look forward to the next one !

We have had a great time in London too although it’s been a bit overwhelming! What a city!

Keith

Thank you for this wonderful experience and for helping to make this trip a dream come true for all of us. We can’t wait to come back to Scotland!

Vince

Our heartfelt thanks to you and Stuart for the holiday of our dreams and especially for Johannes. It was beyond his expectations (and mine) and we had such a beautiful time together. The true test of Johannes’ love for Scotland was his purchase of an entire kilt outfit with all the bits and bobs, I nearly fainted –I am truly living in Outlander. I almost fell over, we expect our kilts in December or January, and photos will be sent, I promise

I cannot express enough how grateful I am to you both, every detail and every moment was fabulous! We are eating shortbread with proper marmalade and relish our memories.