Turnberry (Ailsa)
I was lucky enough to take part in a "Taste of Turnberry" event which resulted in a round on the wonderful Ailsa course at Turnberry.
The hotel looks magnificent as you drive in and the clubhouse is huge. There are ample practice facilities for both long game and short game as well as substantial putting greens.
The course itself was in great condition although the rough had been cut back slightly which made the course that wee bit easier. The first couple of holes are reasonably non-descript but as you reach the sea and the par 3 4th the course really starts to ramp up the difficulty and the beauty. There are some lovely dunes - maybe not as spectacular as Cruden Bay - but still deep enough to give you shelter and the feeling of being alone on one of the world's greatest golf courses. The run of holes from 3 until 11 are just beautiful and provide a stern test of links golf.
I wasnt as blowen away by the back 9 but did enjoy 16 & thought that 18 was a good finishing hole with a blind drive and bunkers and gorse awaiting an errant drive. A good drive is necessary and you will all be aiming to play a shot from the "Tom Watson plaque" to complete your own "Duel in the Sun".
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