Fort Augustus Golf Club

The nine-hole course sits right on the edge of Fort Augustus, where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness - and that alone makes it worth a round if you're staying nearby. It's not a championship layout by any stretch, but the setting is genuinely special. You get proper Highland views without needing to be a scratch golfer to enjoy yourself, which matters when you're on holiday.

The course works brilliantly for casual players and families who fancy getting out for a couple of hours. Nine holes means you're done in under two hours if you move at a decent pace, so it slots easily into a holiday itinerary without eating the whole day. Walkers and non-golfers won't find much here - it's golf or nothing - but if half your party wants to play while others explore the town, you're sorted for timing.

Stay at Loch Ness Highland Resort just up the road and you're perfectly placed. The golf club and the resort practically sit on top of each other, which is convenient if you fancy an early morning round before breakfast. Inver Coille, a bit further out at Loch Ness, gives you a quieter base if you want more space but still close enough for a casual game.

Practical note: you'll need to ring ahead to confirm green fees and booking - details aren't widely published online, which is typical of smaller Highland clubs. Go when the light holds longest in summer and you'll get the lochs looking their best.