Golf courses, stays and culinary delights
1 September 2025
This blog is part of a Sponsored Content series.
Image: Trump International Golf Links, Scotland
Aberdeenshire isn’t just a place to play golf, it’s where sport becomes an experience. With rolling fairways framed by breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and exceptional local food, it is the perfect destination for a golf escape in Scotland.
We’ve put together what an ideal itinerary might look like, but this is just the opening drive, there’s so much more to discover in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Day 1: Arrival and warm-up
Stay: Check in at the Courtyard by Marriott for easy access and a comfortable, affordable base. With spacious rooms and early breakfasts, it’s an ideal base for golfers ready to hit the greens immediately.
Play: Begin your golfing weekend with a round at Auchmill Golf Club, just 13 minutes’ drive away from the Courtyard Aberdeen Airport hotel. This community-built club reflects the determination and passion of its members, evolving from a 9-hole course in 1975 to a well-regarded 18-hole course today. Designed with input from Ryder Cup players and renowned architects, Auchmill Golf Club offers a friendly welcome, a parkland challenge suitable for all abilities and a rich history including a thriving junior section and an inclusive approach that has welcomed all golfers.
Explore: After your round, explore Aberdeen’s Beach Esplanade, catch a show in the city centre or enjoy a drink in one of the local pubs in the heart of the city.
Image: Tarragon by Graham Mitchell
Eat: Round off your first day with a memorable dinner at Tarragon by Graham Mitchell in Rosemount, voted the Best Restaurant in Scotland at the 2023 Scottish Hospitality Awards. Led by acclaimed chef Graham Mitchell, Tarragon is best known for its seasonal menu focusing on classic flavours with a modern twist, crafted with local produce. Tarragon has quickly become one of Aberdeen’s most sought-after dining experiences, often booked weeks in advance.
Day 2: Championship links and luxury stays
Play: Make your way to Trump International Golf Links, located near Balmedie about 10 miles north of Aberdeen. Offering an award-winning links golf course, ranked among the top 50 courses in the world, set within the Great Dunes of Scotland along one of the most spectacular coastal settings in golf. Enjoy stunning views of the Aberdeenshire coastline as you play through this challenging and majestic course.
Lunch: After your round, relax with drinks and lunch at the Dunes Restaurant and Bar, known for its quality dining and welcoming atmosphere.
Image: Marcliffe Hotel
Stay: Check into the Marcliffe in Aberdeen for five-star comfort, spa facilities and elegant relaxation. Set in its own picturesque grounds on the outskirts of the city, the Marcliffe has earned worldwide recognition as a luxury destination full of warmth, ease and charm. It offers a comprehensive range of guest experiences including fine and private dining, spa treatments and individually designed suites. Whether you are visiting to play golf, relax and unwind or to explore Aberdeenshire’s rich heritage, the Marcliffe provides the perfect stay.
Travelling as a group or simply looking for more space and a pet friendly stay? Dalriada Luxury Lodges in Stonehaven offer beautifully appointed five-star lodges nestled into the rolling hillside with stunning views across Stonehaven Bay towards Dunnottar. With access to breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities and great local produce, Dalriada Lodges combine a secluded, luxurious rural setting with convenience and comfort for your golfing getaway.
Experience more: Trump International Scotland offers Stay, Play and Dine packages, providing a unique chance to pair your golfing experience with the region’s world-class attractions, from historic castles and whisky distilleries to Royal residences and coastal walks.
Dinner: In the evening, dine at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, where the focus is on fine local produce, elegant surroundings and exceptional service. Whether enjoying a relaxed meal after your round or celebrating with a special dinner, the Marcliffe offers an atmosphere of warmth and refinement, ensuring your golfing getaway remains memorable.
Day 3: Relaxed rounds at Inchmarlo
Image: Inchmarlo Golf Centre
Play: Wrap up your golfing getaway at Inchmarlo Golf Centre, nestled in the heart of picturesque Royal Deeside. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Inchmarlo is suitable for beginners to seasoned players.
The centre boasts the Queen’s Course, a delightful 9-hole layout that opened in 1997, combining a refreshing mix of par 3s and 4s. This course challenges your tee shots, tests your approaches and demands precision on well-maintained greens.
Additional facilities include putting and short-game practice areas, a golf shop for essentials and a casual lounge area where you can relax and enjoy light refreshments.
Explore: Before heading home, take time to explore the nearby charming towns of Banchory or Stonehaven. Banchory offers lovely walks along the River Dee, quaint shops and cosy cafes. Alternatively, head for Stonehaven, is a bustling seaside town where you can enjoy fresh seafood and the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle is just a short walk or drive away – an ideal spot to soak up Aberdeenshire’s coastal beauty.
A Golfer’s Paradise Awaits
Aberdeenshire offers the perfect blend of world-class golf, stunning scenery and warm Scottish hospitality. With excellent dining, charming towns to explore and breathtaking coastal and countryside views, this region is truly a golfer’s paradise.
For more information about golf in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and to plan your next trip head to www.golfabdn.com. We'd love to be part of your travels, don't forget to tag us @VisitABDN or use our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN for the chance to feature across our social channels!