Golfing holidays

Scotland boasts over 550 courses of high quality and great diversity, and Scottish golf fans are already gearing up for the 'Open Championship' in the 'Home of Golf'. In 2009, the event will make a welcome return to Turnberry after a break of 15 years.  The event is staged in Scotland at least every other year, with St Andrews, Muirfield, Carnoustie, Royal Troon and Turnberry all on the list of selected venues for this annual extravaganza.

If you like history with your golfin break, then Stirling is the place to go. Set below the castle parapets is an excellent 18 hole course.

Only a short drive, will take you to many worthy tests such as Dunblane

New.Bridge of Allan Golf Course, set above this delightful town, offers a climb on several holes but the vista over the Ochil's is just a reward.

This is an area of golfing education and Stirling University even has its' own 9 hole golf course built beneath the inspiring edifice of the Wallace Monument.

For a golf outing with a difference, try the Brucefield Family Golf Centre near Bannockburn.

The Falkirk area is a distinctive golfing region in itself and offers a variety of venues.

One of the best courses in the area is undoubtedly Glenbervie, scene of several amateur championships, very much a fine parkland tract secluded with lots of trees and a tendency to undulation.

At the end of your golfing break, rather than going home a few balls lighter and a bag full of good or indifferent score cards, you'll also have the lasting memories of experiencing one of Scotland's most welcome and picturesque regions.

Of course other very famous courses - Gleneagles and St. Andrews are 30 minutes and 1 hour away by road respectively.