For travel professionals who specialize in golf destinations, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with partners, inspect courses and hotels, and learn about new developments across Scotland’s golf landscape.
This year was my first time attending, and it was an incredible experience.
Exploring the Scottish Highlands
Before the conference began, our group participated in a familiarization tour of the Scottish Highlands…by helicopter!
Over several days we visited remarkable courses including Cabot Highlands, Royal Dornoch, Nairn, Moray, and several others.
Each course offered something unique.
Royal Dornoch is widely considered one of the world’s great links courses, while others in the region provide equally memorable golf with stunning coastal views and rich history.
One thing that stood out immediately was the depth of quality throughout the Highlands.
There are many outstanding courses here that deserve far more attention from international golfers.
A Community Approach to Golf Tourism
Another highlight was learning about the Highland Golf Links partnership.
This initiative brings together golf courses, hotels, and tourism partners to promote the region collectively while supporting their local communities.
It reflects a philosophy that was echoed throughout the week:
A rising tide raises all ships.
That collaborative mindset is one of the reasons Scotland continues to be one of the world’s premier golf destinations.
The Business Side of Golf Travel
Beyond the courses and meetings, one of the most memorable aspects of Scottish Golf Tourism Week was the people.
Travel professionals from more than thirty countries came together to share ideas, build relationships, and celebrate the global golf community.
It was a fantastic reminder that golf travel is about more than great courses-it’s about the connections that make those experiences possible.
Why Planning Early Matters
During the conference portion of the event, I met with dozens of golf courses, hotels, and tourism organizations.
These one-to-one meetings are an essential part of how international golf trips are developed.
They allow travel professionals to stay current on course availability, hotel updates, transportation logistics, and regional developments.
For travelers, these relationships help ensure that every element of a trip-from tee times to accommodations-is carefully coordinated.
Beyond the courses and meetings, one of the most memorable aspects of Scottish Golf Tourism Week was the people.
Travel professionals from more than thirty countries came together to share ideas, build relationships, and celebrate the global golf community.
It was a fantastic reminder that golf travel is about more than great courses-it’s about the connections that make those experiences possible.
One of the key takeaways from the week is how far in advance Scotland golf trips are now planned.
Demand continues to grow, particularly for the most famous courses.
Many 2026 tee times are already being requested, and some courses have released pricing for 2027.
For golfers considering a trip to Scotland, starting the planning process early creates the most options and flexibility.
The Experience Beyond the Course
While the golf is extraordinary, Scotland offers much more than great courses.
Whisky distilleries, historic towns, coastal landscapes, and welcoming communities all contribute to the experience.
For non-golfers traveling with a group, these activities make Scotland just as rewarding off the course as it is on it.
A Memorable Week
Beyond the courses and meetings, one of the most memorable aspects of Scottish Golf Tourism Week was the people.
Travel professionals from more than thirty countries came together to share ideas, build relationships, and celebrate the global golf community.
It was a fantastic reminder that golf travel is about more than great courses—it’s about the connections that make those experiences possible.