Machrihanish Dunes

Machrihanish Dunes — a modern links built with minimal intervention in protected land

The course occupies a vast system of Atlantic dunes adjacent to Machrihanish Golf Club. Several tees and greens are located at the water's edge, amidst an almost entirely natural landscape.

Machrihanish Dunes opened in 2009 on a protected coastal site. David McLay Kidd, a native of the region, designed the course with Paul Kimber, severely limiting earthworks.

The architecture follows existing forms: irregular fairways, steep slopes, greens set in natural depressions, and sometimes abrupt transitions. Only a small proportion of the site has been physically altered.

The terrain can produce spectacular yet unpredictable positions. The holes do not always aim for symmetry or visual comfort.

The experience is defined by Kintyre’s isolation and the feeling of moving through an almost untouched landscape.

Opened in 2009; designed by David McLay Kidd; built on a Site of Special Scientific Interest; limited intervention on the terrain.